Keke Palmer doesn’t seem to appreciate the recent social media debate comparing her career to Zendaya’s.
A Saturday tweet drew attention for claiming that the perceived popularity gap between Palmer, who is currently starring in Jordan Peele’s Nope, and Zendaya is “one of the clearest examples of how colorism plays out in Hollywood.” Palmer and Zendaya are both former child stars, according to the Twitter thread, but Nope is being referred to as Palmer’s breakout role in some circles.
Palmer tweeted on Sunday, “A great example of colorism is believing I can be compared to anyone.” I am the youngest talk show host in history. The first Black woman to star in her own Nickelodeon show, as well as the youngest and first Black Cinderella on Broadway. I have an unrivalled talent. “This is Keke Palmer, baby.”
“I’ve been a leading lady since I was 11 years old,” the 28-year-old actress continued. I have over 100 credits and am currently starring in an original screenplay that is the box office number one #NOPE. I’ve had a blessed career so far; I couldn’t ask for anything more, but God continues to amaze me.”
A great example of colorism is to believe I can be compared to anyone. I’m the youngest talk show host ever. The first Black woman to star in her own show on Nickelodeon, & the youngest & first Black Cinderella on broadway. I’m an incomparable talent. Baby, THIS, is Keke Palmer.
— Keke Palmer (@KekePalmer) July 24, 2022
Nope, which debuted in first place at the box office this weekend with an estimated $44 million, is a sci-fi horror film starring Palmer opposite Daniel Kaluuya.
Palmer was a child performer on Nickelodeon’s True Jackson, VP, which premiered in 2008 and lasted three seasons. Other films and television appearances include Akeelah and the Bee, Scream Queens, Hustlers, and a voice role in this year’s Pixar film Lightyear, as well as a stint as co-host of Good Morning America’s third hour, Strahan, Sara, and Keke.
