In the realm of comedy, few figures are as universally beloved as Kenan Thompson and Anthony Anderson. But long before they became household names, the two comedic powerhouses were young, ambitious actors vying for the same roles in Hollywood’s bustling entertainment scene. This competitive overlap forged a professional rivalry that not only shaped their respective careers but also developed into a lasting mutual admiration.
Thompson recently shared details about this shared history on an episode of the PEOPLE in the ’90s podcast. Reflecting on the frequent audition encounters, he shed light on how these moments defined his early career. Despite the cutthroat nature of Hollywood, their shared experiences created a bond that has persisted through the decades.
The story of Thompson and Anderson is not just one of rivalry; it is one of resilience and camaraderie. It’s a reminder of how Hollywood’s competitive landscape can also foster friendships and respect, as both comedians cheered each other on while carving their unique paths to fame.
Competing for Roles: A Friendly Rivalry in the ’90s
Kenan Thompson fondly recalls the days when he and Anthony Anderson would cross paths during auditions. For nearly every role he sought in the 1990s, Anderson’s name was invariably on the list. Although the competition was stiff, it was never bitter. Instead, the two actors developed a friendly rivalry rooted in mutual admiration.
“Anthony Anderson, I would always see his name on the list,” Thompson shared. “Whether I would see him at the actual audition or not, he was always in the running.” This dynamic underscored their shared journey through the entertainment industry, a journey that shaped their careers in significant ways.
Thompson noted that their competition was a recurring theme throughout the ’90s. Despite often being in contention for the same roles, the two actors respected one another’s talents and accomplishments. For Thompson, Anderson wasn’t just a rival; he was a peer whose success added fuel to his own ambitions.
Anthony Anderson’s Breakout Moment: From Comic Relief to Leading Roles
While Anthony Anderson’s early career was defined by comedic roles in films like Barbershop, his big break came with the Martin Scorsese-directed film The Departed. The critically acclaimed movie showcased Anderson’s range as an actor and marked a turning point in his career.
Kenan Thompson, a longtime admirer of Anderson’s work, spoke about the significance of The Departed. “I know what that movie did for his career,” Thompson said. “Before that, he was the go-to guy for Barbershop and comic relief roles. But The Departed was like, ‘Oh s—, this guy’s in a [Martin] Scorsese movie.’”
Following The Departed, Anderson’s career soared to new heights. He took on dramatic roles in Law & Order and eventually became the star of the hit sitcom Black-ish. His transformation from comic relief to leading man serves as an inspiration, not just to Thompson but to countless aspiring actors who look up to him.
Kenan’s Journey: From Nickelodeon to SNL Legend
Kenan Thompson’s rise to fame began with his roles in iconic Nickelodeon productions like Kenan & Kel and Good Burger. However, his early success was gradual and far from the overnight fame many might imagine. As Thompson reflected, his popularity among younger audiences didn’t immediately translate to widespread recognition.
“Nickelodeon just took a while because it was cable, it was a smaller show,” he explained. “I was famous early-ish if I would go to Chuck E. Cheese. It was little kids at the time, and the show was out and fresh.” Despite this, Thompson’s commitment to his craft never wavered, and his efforts eventually paid off.
In 2003, Thompson joined Saturday Night Live (SNL), where he quickly became a fan favorite. Today, he holds the distinction of being the longest-tenured cast member in the show’s history. His journey from a Nickelodeon star to an SNL legend is a testament to his perseverance, talent, and unwavering dedication to comedy.
Nostalgia and Keepsakes: Cherishing the Journey
As Kenan Thompson reflects on his storied career, he finds joy in the keepsakes and memorabilia from his early roles. These items serve as tangible reminders of the work that laid the foundation for his success and the iconic moments that defined his career.
“Our original T-shirts of the logo were very special,” Thompson shared, reminiscing about his time on All That. “I think we got backpacks too, or something else that had the logo on it.” These small tokens carry significant sentimental value, representing the early days of his journey in showbiz.
Thompson also kept a few hats from Good Burger, though they weren’t the exact ones he wore on set. These cherished items highlight his deep appreciation for the opportunities and experiences that helped shape his career. Looking back, Thompson’s nostalgia is not just for the items themselves but for the memories and milestones they represent.
