Keke Palmer, a dynamic figure in the entertainment industry, has managed to create a lasting impact through her multifaceted career, which includes acting, singing, and hosting. Recently, in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 33-year-old star shared her enthusiasm for upcoming projects while balancing the challenges of single motherhood.
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Currently, Palmer is gearing up for the second season of her comedy series, “The ‘Burbs,” streaming on Peacock. This show is a contemporary remake of the beloved 1989 film featuring Tom Hanks. “I’m super excited about what’s coming up soon,” Palmer remarked, expressing her eagerness as filming approaches. This role marks yet another significant milestone in her diverse career.
In addition to her acting ventures, Palmer is also passionate about her music career and her podcast, “Baby, This Is Keke Palmer.” She noted, “I love doing my podcast. There are great conversations and guests that are going to be coming there,” hinting at thrilling new content on the horizon. Music and podcasts allow her to explore different elements of self-expression, further highlighting her wide-ranging talents.
Palmer’s journey in the entertainment world began at the tender age of ten. She made her film debut in 2004 as Queen Latifah’s niece in “Barbershop 2: Back in Business.” However, it was her role as the lead character in “Akeelah and the Bee” in 2006 that propelled her into the spotlight. Following this breakthrough, she released her debut album, “So Uncool,” showcasing her musical talents.
Her career continued to flourish, leading her to headlining roles in shows such as Nickelodeon’s “True Jackson, VP” in 2008. Over the years, Palmer has appeared in a variety of well-known productions, including “Hustlers,” “Nope,” “Scream Queens,” and “Jump In!” Her versatility has carved out a unique niche for her in the industry.
In 2014, Palmer made history by becoming the first Black woman to star as Cinderella in the Broadway production of “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.” This monumental achievement marked a turning point in her career and showcased her ability to break boundaries in the entertainment sector. Her presence in various televised programmes, such as GMA3: Strahan, Sara & Keke, and “Password,” has further established her as a household name.
Alongside her thriving career, Palmer is also a dedicated mother to her three-year-old son, Leodis “Leo” Andrellton Jackson, whom she co-parents with her ex-partner Darius Jackson. Balancing the demands of motherhood with a busy professional life is no easy feat, yet Palmer manages to excel in both roles.
In her recent engagements, Palmer has partnered with Sanofi to promote Beyfortus, particularly aimed at raising awareness ahead of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) season. She expressed pride in her ability to juggle numerous responsibilities, stating, “I’m just glad to really still be able to do what I love and be excited about it when I’ve been doing it for 20-plus years.”
Despite her accomplishments, Palmer recognises the potential for her career to feel monotonous over time. However, she remains committed to infusing her work with excitement and creativity, ensuring that she continues to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.
As Palmer embarks on new projects while reflecting on her extensive career, her passion for her craft remains undiminished. She continues to inspire others through her dedication and resilience, proving that one can flourish in both personal and professional aspects of life. With many projects in the pipeline, her journey as a multi-hyphenate star is certainly one to watch in the years to come.