Taran Killam
Taran Killam
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Taran Alexander Killam is a Canadian actor, comedian, writer, and director. He is best known for his work on the popular sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live (SNL).
Birth and Death Dates
Born: September 1, 1982
Currently active in entertainment industry
Nationality and Profession(s)
Killam holds Canadian citizenship and works as an actor, comedian, writer, and director. His extensive experience spans film, television, and theater productions.
Early Life and Background
Taran Killam was born on September 1, 1982, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He began his career in the entertainment industry at a young age, initially performing as a child actor in Canadian productions. After completing high school, he moved to New York City to pursue a full-time acting career.
Major Accomplishments
Killam's breakthrough role came when he joined the cast of Saturday Night Live (SNL) in 2013. During his six-year tenure on the show, he became known for his impressive impersonations and comedic sketches. Some of his most notable performances include his impressions of actors such as Ben Affleck and Justin Timberlake.
In addition to his work on SNL, Killam has appeared in numerous films, including 12 Years a Slave, Kingsman: The Secret Service, and The Heat. He has also written for several TV shows, including the animated series Big Mouth.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Killam's notable works include:
Saturday Night Live (2013-2019): As a cast member, he participated in over 150 sketches, parodies, and musical performances.
12 Years a Slave (2013): He played the role of Jim, a slave who helps main character Solomon Northup escape from captivity.
Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014): Killam portrayed the villainous character of Charlie Hinton.
Big Mouth (TV series, 2017-2022): As an executive producer and writer, he helped create this animated coming-of-age comedy.
Impact and Legacy
Taran Killam's impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable. His versatility as a performer has allowed him to excel in various genres, from comedy to drama. His work on SNL has inspired countless young comedians and actors, and his contributions to film and television have helped shape the industry's landscape.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Killam is widely quoted and remembered for his:
Impeccable comedic timing: His ability to craft hilarious characters and situations has earned him a reputation as one of the most talented comedians of his generation.
Impressive range: From dramatic roles in films like 12 Years a Slave to comedic performances on SNL, Killam's versatility has made him a sought-after actor in Hollywood.
* Creative spirit: As a writer and director, he continues to push boundaries and innovate within the entertainment industry.
Taran Killam's dedication to his craft, combined with his undeniable talent, has solidified his position as one of the most respected figures in modern comedy.
Quotes by Taran Killam
I think that it's hard for vain people to be funny. I think you can look any way you want as long as you have a good sense of humor about yourself. People who are concerned with their looks and what they're wearing and how they present themselves tend to have less of a sense of humor about themselves.
I still have my old Nintendo 64 that works. And I hook it up, and I still play the original 'Goldeneye.' I'm that geek. I have an 'NBA Jam' arcade machine in my office at 'SNL.'
Eddie Murphy was my guy for a long time. My first exposure to SNL was his Best Of VHS, and I would watch it over and over again. He was one of the few people on the show to play with the live elements and engage with the audience.
I came from the Groundlings Theatre in L.A., and there, you're guaranteed to at least try something out in front of an audience. At 'SNL,' only the best stuff gets picked, and it's taught me a very defined language of comedy. You learn the structure of a joke, which is not something I was very good at beforehand.
There's no job like 'SNL.' There's no other job you go to where you're like, 'Oh, this is like that live, late-night sketch variety-musical show that shoots in, whatever it is, 10,000 feet of sound stage.' There's nothing like it.
Eddie Murphy was my guy for a long time. My first exposure to 'SNL' was his 'Best Of' VHS, and I would watch it over and over again. He was one of the few people on the show to play with the live elements and engage with the audience.
I've been reading titles from IDW for probably as long as they've been in existence. 'Ninja Turtles' is one of my all-time favorite properties ever. I also love, love, love 'Locke & Key.' I also love some of the things they do with pre-existing properties like 'Transformers' and 'Ghostbusters.'