The Inside Scoop: Kenan Thompson Opens Up About His Relationship with 'Good Burger' Co-star Kel Mitchell
Kenan Thompson reveals the truth behind his strained relationship with Kel Mitchell, shedding light on their falling out before their anticipated reunion in 'Good Burger 2'
Kenan Thompson has confirmed that he and Kel Mitchell experienced a "falling out" before reuniting for Good Burger 2. He explained how they managed to rekindle their friendship both on and off screen. "It was more of a separation that eventually turned into what is traditionally called a 'falling out', which involved a lack of communication," said Thompson, 45, during an interview with Today on Monday, December 4. "Originally, we were just looking to find our own identities as individuals, taking a break from being a duo because we both entered the industry as solo acts."
Thompson and Mitchell, both 45, were a package deal after collaborating on Nickelodeon's All That and Kenan & Kel in the late 1990s. Their partnership led to the successful 1997 film, Good Burger. "We were paired up because of our great chemistry and teamwork. It's been a journey of growing up together. As time went by, it just got more and more ridiculous," Thompson commented on Monday.
Thompson and Mitchell went their separate ways to pursue their own career paths. Thompson has been a cast member of Saturday Night Live for the longest period of time since joining the show in 2003. Meanwhile, Mitchell has concentrated on television projects such as Clifford the Big Red Dog, City Guys, One on One, Wild Grinders, Game Shakers, and serving as a panelist on Deliciousness.
Kel Mitchell and Kenan Thompson Nickelodeon/Paramount+
Thompson and Mitchell later reconnected and couldn’t “even remember what it was” that caused their rift.
"After just five minutes into the phone call, it felt like we were back to the way things were. We realized that we had been waiting for this moment all along, without even knowing it. You never truly understand until you have that conversation," Thompson shared with Today. "It's also a waste of time, which I believe is one of the worst things you can do in life - just squandering time."
Since resolving their issues, Thompson and Mitchell have smoothly reunited for Good Burger 2. "It's an amazing feeling to be back working with my brother, and the movie is doing great. We're grateful and excited for what's to come," Thompson expressed. "It just felt so natural and fun to be working with my brother and laughing together all day."
Earlier this year, Mitchell shared about the strength of his friendship with Thompson, noting that it was like a brotherhood. In an exclusive interview with We in March at 90s Con, Mitchell explained, "We were praying together right before we went out to announce the Good Burger 2 news on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and we had a bunch of hugs and laughed all day. That's my bro, so this is fun to us."
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Mitchell explained that he and Thompson needed some time apart as their lives went in different directions. He emphasized the challenges of navigating adulthood in the spotlight and finding oneself in the entertainment industry. Despite going their separate ways, Mitchell highlighted that this is a common experience for many people, comparing it to friends attending different colleges after high school. He expressed gratitude for their continued friendship throughout their journey into adulthood. Good Burger 2 can now be streamed on Paramount+.
