Whenever The SNL Cast Goes Skating At 30 Rock, Seth Meyers Is Always Amazed By Kenan Thompson’s Skills. Clearly He Hasn’t Watched A Classic Movie As Much As I Have
As the world eagerly awaits the return of Saturday Night Live to the 2024 TV schedule, one of its longtime cast members, Kenan Thompson, has been making waves in the entertainment industry. From his recent appearances on Olympics coverage to his recent interview on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Thompson has been showcasing his versatility and talent. However, it seems that Meyers was unaware of Thompson's impressive skating skills, which he honed during his time as a child actor in the beloved Mighty Ducks franchise.
Uncovering the Surprising Skating Prowess of a Comedy Icon
During his recent appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers, the host recalled a time when he and the Saturday Night Live cast would go ice skating at Rockefeller Center every year around the holidays. Meyers was surprised to discover that Thompson was an exceptional skater, noting that he "never, ever saw it coming." This revelation led Meyers to inquire about Thompson's skating background, which turned out to be rooted in his early acting career.
Mighty Ducks: The Unexpected Skating Bootcamp
It turns out that Thompson's skating skills were honed during the making of the Mighty Ducks franchise, which was his very first film. The cast, which included Joshua Jackson, Marguerite Moreau, Elden Henson, and Vincent LaRusso, all underwent an intensive skating bootcamp to prepare for their roles. This commitment to learning the sport paid off, as the actors were able to deliver authentic and convincing performances on the ice.
The Lasting Impact of the Mighty Ducks Franchise
The Mighty Ducks movies not only showcased the cast's impressive skating abilities but also left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Years later, many of the cast members, including Kenan Thompson, have continued to use their skating skills in various projects, including their appearances on Saturday Night Live. The franchise's influence has even extended to the NHL, with the cast members maintaining a strong relationship with the league due to their involvement in the films.
The Forgotten Origin Story of a Comedy Legend
Despite his impressive skating skills, Kenan Thompson acknowledges that many people have forgotten his humble acting origins in the Mighty Ducks franchise. He notes that while some may think it was just a movie, the cast members truly learned to skate and have continued to use those skills throughout their careers. Thompson's skating prowess has allowed him to showcase his versatility and surprise his comedy peers, like Seth Meyers, who were unaware of his athletic abilities.
The Mighty Ducks Legacy Lives On
The Mighty Ducks franchise has left an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape, particularly for millennials who grew up with the films. While the recent Disney+ series, "The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers," was unfortunately canceled, the legacy of the original movies continues to be celebrated by fans. As the franchise celebrates its 30th anniversary, it serves as a reminder of the enduring power of sports-themed stories and the talented actors who brought them to life.
