Introduction
Keke Palmer’s career has been a vibrant tapestry woven through film, television, web series, stage, and beyond. From her early breakout in Akeelah and the Bee to her bold choices in recent years, she’s proven her versatility time and again. Today, we’ll walk through her filmography with warmth and detail—including the latest projects coming in 2026—highlighting her evolution as an actress, producer, and cultural force.
Understanding Her Career Evolution
Early Breakthrough & Nickelodeon Era
Palmer began as a precocious young talent, earning attention in Akeelah and the Bee (2006) and Madea’s Family Reunion (same year). She swiftly transitioned to Nickelodeon fame with True Jackson, VP (2008–2011), a role that solidified her as a household name among younger audiences (en.wikipedia.org).
Diversification: Film, Voice, and Stage Roles
Palmer didn’t stay boxed in. She lent her voice to animated hits like Ice Age: Continental Drift and Lightyear, and ventured into musical theater with her celebrated Broadway debut as Cinderella (en.wikipedia.org). Her presence in genre projects such as Hustlers, Pimp, the horror-comedy Scream Queens, and Jordan Peele’s Nope further showcased her adaptability (en.wikipedia.org).
Recent Highlights: 2022–2025
Embracing Dramatic Depth
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Alice (2022) — Palmer played the titular role, also serving as executive producer for this 1970s-set crime thriller inspired by real events. While critical reception was mixed, Palmer’s performance stood out (en.wikipedia.org).
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Nope (2022) and Lightyear (2022) — She played pivotal roles in these high-profile, genre-spanning films—her presence both grounded and vivid (en.wikipedia.org).
Expansion into Voice & Documentaries
- Under the Boardwalk (2023) — Voiced Ramona in this animated feature.
- This Is Me… Now: A Love Story (2024) — Featured as Scorpio in a musical-documentary hybrid (en.wikipedia.org).
Box Office and Streaming Success
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One of Them Days (2025) — A buddy comedy with SZA, produced by Issa Rae. Palmer played Dreux and co-executive produced. The film grossed around $52 million on a $14 million budget and was widely embraced (en.wikipedia.org).
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The Pickup and Good Fortune (2025) — She starred as Zoe and Elena respectively, expanding her comedic and genre range (kinocheck.com).
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Southern Fried Rice (2025) — As executive producer, she supported this YouTube-based web series exploring identity and upbringing, demonstrating her growing role behind the camera (en.wikipedia.org).
What’s New in 2026 and Beyond
Film: I Love Boosters
Palmer leads a Hollywood-savvy shoplifting crew in Boots Riley’s latest crime comedy, playing Corvette. The film premiered at SXSW on March 12, 2026, and hits theaters May 22. Its bold tone reflects both fashion satire and social commentary (sfchronicle.com).
Television: The ’Burbs (Peacock, 2026)
This dark comedic reimagining of the Tom Hanks’ cult classic features Palmer as Samira Fisher—a new mom uncovering secrets in a seemingly idyllic suburb. It debuts February 8. Palmer serves as an executive producer, nurturing both story and authenticity (ew.com).
Filmography Overview (Selected Highlights)
Feature Films
- Barbershop 2: Back in Business (2004)
- Akeelah and the Bee (2006)
- Hustlers (2019)
- Nope (2022)
- Alice (2022)
- One of Them Days (2025)
- The Pickup (2025)
- Good Fortune (2025)
- I Love Boosters (2026, upcoming)
Television & Web
- True Jackson, VP (2008–2011)
- Scream Queens (2015–2016)
- Scream (2019)
- Southern Fried Rice (Web, 2025)
- The ’Burbs (Peacock, 2026)
Voice Roles & Stage
- Ice Age films (voice roles)
- Lightyear (voice, 2022)
- Broadway’s Cinderella (2014–2015)
Expert Insight
“Keke Palmer’s trajectory—from youthful breakthrough to executive producer—is emblematic of a performer defining her own narrative. She balances charisma with meaningful choices.”
This speaks to her fearless pivot between mediums, authority in production, and consistent relevance as both actress and cultural storyteller.
Conclusion
Keke Palmer’s body of work reflects genuine growth—a promising start, bold genre choices, and a calculated step into production and voice. Her 2025 slate alone, topped with her upcoming 2026 projects (I Love Boosters and The ’Burbs), illustrates both creative agility and career momentum. Next up: dive into The ’Burbs for a fresh blend of satire and suburban mystery, then catch I Love Boosters in theaters for her latest comedic caper. What remains clear: Palmer’s voice—on-screen and off—is making a lasting, multi-faceted impact.
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