Maintaining a level of respect and professionalism towards people who may not have held the same opinion or worked the same has be critical to Thompson’s success. The ability to remain thankful for opportunities even when they don’t work out the way you would like them to shows true character. “The best piece of advice I could tell the younger generation is to always be a professional about things, ESPECIALLY when they don’t work out,” Thompson tells BE Modern Man. “In 2012 after I left the Wendy Williams Show I was picked up by BET’s 106 & Park. Terrence J and Rocsi Diaz were moving on with their careers and the show held a nationwide contest for new hosts. I made it all the way to the end as a finalist, but never won. I was distraught, depressed, and felt pathetic. Nevertheless, I still thanked the producers for giving me an experience of a lifetime. Two years later when BET was looking for a host for a new show in their mobile app my name came up. Within 2 weeks I became the host of their show “Claim to Fame” and I’m still a part of the BET family today.”
Never one to shy away from the spotlight, Thompson personality and attitude towards career success is mirrored in his everyday walk as a leader. “I’m not afraid to take risks or embarrass myself,” says Thompson. “People can see how much fun I’m having with everything I do, and it reminds them that life is meant to be lived happily.”
Supplied with the propensity to make others smile, enjoy themselves, and live is what allows Kevin “Mr. Moviefone” Thompson to standout as a BE Modern Man. Growing up in Brooklyn, Thompson knows that the youth need to be exposed to as much as they possibly can to see that success is possible. Whether joining the Big Brothers and Sisters, or volunteering at local youth events Thompson’s message is the same. “As a successful host I’ve spoken at several Junior High Schools as well as my alma mater St. John’s,” Thompson tells BE Modern Man. “A lot of the younger kids all want to be rappers or basketball players. They see it as an easy means to escape the old neighborhood. When I tell them what I do and show them the red carpet events I cover and talent that I’m around they change their tune. They want to know who I am and how I did it. Once I’ve gained their interest I let them know how important English & Speech class was for me. Also, that without an education I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
A smile that lights the room up, charm, and a fun filled energy allows Thompson to bring happiness to faces across the world. “BE Modern Man is a balanced man,” says Thompson. “A BE Modern Man man is a man who plays off his strengths while trying to better his weaknesses.”
The BlackEnterprise.com team congratulates Kevin Thompson on all of his success and contributions as a host and Mr. Moviefone. Continue to bring your contagious energy and excitement to homes across the world in your unique way.
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