Comedian and actor Kenan Thompson is remembering a meaningful moment from Saturday Night Live involving late actor Chadwick Boseman. During a panel at New York Comic Con on Sunday, October 11th, 2026, Thompson reflected on transforming into the ThunderCats character Panthro for Boseman’s memorable 2018 SNL hosting appearance.
Thompson explained that the elaborate costume and makeup transformation represented a childhood dream. The comedian recalled deliberately avoiding mirrors until the process was complete, wanting to experience the full impact of seeing himself transformed into the animated character.
The sketch featured Thompson interrupting Boseman’s opening monologue as Panthro, humorously claiming to be the original Black Panther. Thompson explained that the moment held additional cultural significance because Boseman’s portrayal of the Marvel superhero had become an important milestone in entertainment representation. He also credited the show’s makeup artists for bringing the character to life.
Thompson’s memories offer a nostalgic look at a memorable television moment while celebrating the cultural influence of Boseman’s groundbreaking portrayal of Black Panther.
