Kenan Thompson, a celebrated figure in sketch comedy, holds the title of the longest-serving cast member on Saturday Night Live in its 50-year history. However, many fans fondly associate him with his earlier work on Nickelodeon during the 1990s and often mistakenly refer to him as his co-star Kel Mitchell.
Thompson rose to fame on the show All That, which was likened to a kid-friendly version of Saturday Night Live. He often performed alongside Kel Mitchell, and their chemistry was so impactful that fans tend to mix up their names. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Thompson expressed amusement at this mix-up, acknowledging that fans generally mean well when they call him “Kel,” recognizing him from their shared time on the show.
One of the standout sketches from All That was “Good Burger,” featuring Thompson and Mitchell as quirky fast food employees. The popularity of this sketch led to a full-length movie in 1997, and a sequel, Good Burger 2, was released in 2023 on Paramount+, reflecting the enduring nostalgia for their brand of humor.
Fans had long enjoyed the duo’s antics, which prompted Nickelodeon to create the sitcom Kenan & Kel, further solidifying their status. Despite the frequent confusion regarding their identities, Thompson views it positively, seeing it as a testament to the joy their collaboration brought to audiences. He stated that he doesn’t mind being mistaken for his partner, as it simply reflects the affection and excitement fans have for their work.
Mistakes in celebrity recognition are fairly common, especially when two personalities frequently work together. In this case, the mix-ups between Thompson and Mitchell highlight the lasting impact of their comedy on fans, illustrating that their legacy transcends the need for precise identification. Thompson’s outlook emphasizes the love behind the fans’ mistakes and a shared appreciation for the joy they provided through their performances.