KEL MITCHELL

Name, Age & Origins

Kel Johari Rice Mitchell was born on August 25, 1978, in Chicago, Illinois, and is currently 46 years old . Raised on Chicago’s South Side with two sisters, Kenyatta and Kyra, Kel attended Chicago Vocational High School and studied drama at the ETA Creative Arts Foundation during his youth .

Rise to Fame: Nickelodeon Icon

Kel began his career at just 15 on Nickelodeon’s sketch comedy All That (1994–1999), quickly becoming a standout performer alongside Kenan Thompson . His breakout came as Kel Kimble in the spin-off Kenan & Kel (1996–2000), where he charmed viewers with memorable catchphrases and comedic charm  In 1997, he reprised his iconic character “Ed” in the film Good Burger, cementing his cultural impact .

Voice Acting & Expanding Roles

From 2000 to 2003, Kel voiced the lovable dog T‑Bone in Clifford the Big Red Dog, earning two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Performer in an Animated Program . He later appeared in TV shows like One on One (2005–06), Game Shakers (as rap mogul Double G, 2015–19), and lent his voice to animated series like Da Jammies and Robot Chicken .

Music, Hosting & Return to Nickelodeon

Although not a rapper by trade, Kel frequently performed musically in his shows—such as All That and Good Burger—and appeared in Kanye West’s “All Falls Down” music video . In 2015, he made a triumphant return to Nickelodeon via Game Shakers, playing the dynamic Double G .

Reality TV, Faith & Authorship

In 2019, Kel competed on Dancing with the Stars (Season 28) and finished as runner‑up . He also emerged as a Christian leader—becoming a youth pastor in Los Angeles in 2019—and released the faith-focused self‑help book Blessed Mode: 90 Days to Level Up Your Faith in 2022 .

Family & Personal Life

Kel first married actress Tyisha Hampton (1999–2005), and they share two children: Lyric and Allure . In 2012, he married rapper Asia Lee—they have two young children together, Wisdom (born 2017) and Honor (born 2020) . The family actively participates in charitable work, including support for the Black College Expo and youth mentorship .

Legacy & Future Projects

Kel remains active in entertainment as an actor, voice actor, director, and producer. In 2025, he appeared in the Broadway-style production Anything Goes and continues to explore a revival of Kenan & Kel and future Good Burger sequels, as hinted during 90s Con panels .

From Nickelodeon stardom to voice acting, faith leadership, and live performance, Kel Mitchell has built a remarkable and multifaceted legacy. His blend of comedy, creativity, and community engagement continues to inspire.