Keke Palmer (born August 26, 1993, in Harvey, Illinois) is a multi-talented American actress, singer, and television host who has earned two Primetime Emmy Awards and was named one of Time magazine's most influential people in 2019. She achieved her breakthrough as a child star in the 2006 film Akeelah and the Bee and later became a Nickelodeon favorite with the sitcom True Jackson, VP (2008–2011). Palmer transitioned to more mature roles with her Broadway debut in Cinderella (2014–2015) and critically acclaimed performances in films like Nope (2022) and One of Them Days (2025). Beyond acting, she has hosted the game show Password since 2022, launched her own KeyTV Network in 2021, and published her book Master of Me in 2024. Interestingly, her nickname "Keke" came from her older sister's imaginary friend, though she personally prefers to be called by her given name, Lauren.