Keke Palmer Says Her Career Evolved from Child Star to a ‘Meme’ — and That’s Just the Start (Exclusive)

**Keke Palmer’s Journey from Child Star to Memorable Career Evolution**

Keke Palmer, the multi-talented actress, reflects on her remarkable career evolution in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. Palmer, currently starring in Prime Video’s ‘The Pickup,’ delves into her transition from a child star to becoming a prominent figure with a plethora of viral memes circulating the internet. Her breakthrough role dates back to 2006 when she starred in ‘Akeelah and the Bee.’

At 31 years old, Palmer has traversed a diverse career path. She reminisces about her early days in the industry, particularly her role in ‘True Jackson, VP,’ a Nickelodeon show that catapulted her to stardom. Despite being hailed as the “hottest thing in town” and experiencing success in booking roles and securing record deals, Palmer found herself at a crossroads, unsure of what the future held. This phase marked a pivotal moment for her as she navigated the shift from being a child star to redefining her artistic identity.

Embracing the power of social media and content creation, Palmer found her voice through reinvention, eventually delving into producing while maintaining a sense of control over her trajectory. In ‘The Pickup,’ she showcases her versatility by portraying a character on a quest for justice, alongside Pete Davidson and Eddie Murphy. Palmer’s journey underscores the importance of adaptability and self-discovery in the entertainment industry.

Social media played a significant role in reshaping Palmer’s career trajectory and personal identity. A noteworthy moment that stands out for her is a video from a 2019 Vanity Fair lie detector test, where she famously stated, “I don’t know who this man is. Sorry to this man,” upon being shown a picture of former Vice President Dick Cheney. This incident marked the beginning of Palmer’s transformation into a viral meme sensation and set the stage for unforeseen opportunities in her career.

Reflecting on the ebbs and flows of the industry, Palmer acknowledges the transient nature of fame and the importance of following one’s creative instincts. Despite the unpredictable nature of Hollywood, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of meaningful storytelling and artistic expression. In ‘The Pickup,’ Palmer’s character embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, mirroring her own quest for authenticity and growth in the industry.

Palmer’s dedication to paving the way for aspiring talents echoes her commitment to nurturing the next generation of stars. Beyond her individual success, she aims to establish a legacy that fosters inclusivity and opportunity for future artists. By leveraging her experiences and insights, Palmer endeavours to create a foundation that supports emerging talents and promotes a diverse and vibrant entertainment landscape.

As ‘The Pickup’ graces screens on Prime Video, Palmer’s transformative journey serves as a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the enduring power of storytelling. Through her unwavering determination and creative prowess, she continues to inspire audiences and aspiring artists alike, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and paving the way for a new era of creativity and representation.