Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon, born Kathryn McKinnon Berthold, is a celebrated Hollywood actress known for her impactful role on Saturday Night Live, where she was the initial openly lesbian cast member. A Columbia University graduate, she is recognized for her versatility in both comedy and voice acting, with notable performances in films like Ghostbusters (2016) and Barbie (2023). Her advocacy for queer representation in media highlights her commitment to diverse storytelling. There’s much more to uncover about her expedition and achievements.

Early Life

Kate McKinnon, born Kathryn McKinnon Berthold, experienced a vibrant early life on Long Island. She graduated from North Shore High School in 2002, highlighting her talent and passion for the arts.

McKinnon continued her education at Columbia University, where she earned a theater degree in 2006. During her college years, she co-founded a musical improv comedy group called Tea Party and actively participated in three Varsity shows, honing her comedic skills.

She was also a member of Prangstgrüp, a student comedy group celebrated for its elaborate college pranks. The loss of her father, Michael Thomas Berthold, when she was 18, profoundly influenced her life and career path.

Family Life

Kate McKinnon is the daughter of Laura Campbell, a parent educator, and Michael Thomas Berthold, an architect.

She shares a close bond with her younger sister, Emily.

The profound impact of her father’s passing when she was just 18 years old has played a considerable role in shaping her life and career, influencing her comedic style and the characters she brings to life.

McKinnon’s family background and personal experiences have enriched her work and her advocacy for queer representation in media.

Career

Kate McKinnon is a prominent comedian and actress best known for her work on Saturday Night Live (SNL), where she joined the cast on April 7, 2012, making history as the initial openly lesbian cast member.

She quickly rose to prominence, earning a promotion to repertory status in season 39 and becoming the longest-serving female cast member after Vanessa Bayer’s departure in 2020. Throughout her tenure, McKinnon garnered ten Primetime Emmy Award nominations, winning Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series twice, in 2016 and 2017.

Beyond SNL, McKinnon displayed her talent in the 2016 Ghostbusters reboot as Dr. Jillian Holtzmann and lent her voice to diverse animated series, including Ms. Frizzle in The Magic School Bus Rides Again.

Her film career includes roles in notable projects such as Bombshell (2019), highlighting her versatility and impact in the entertainment industry.

Net Worth

Kate McKinnon’s net worth is estimated at $9 million, primarily from her successful career in television and film.

During her time on Saturday Night Live, she earned $25,000 per episode. Her roles in high-grossing films have also contributed considerably to her wealth, with reported salaries of $4.5 million for Ghostbusters (2016) and $1 million for her role in Barbie (2023).

Furthermore, her voice acting in The Magic School Bus Rides Again earned her around $300,000, and her involvement in DC League of Super-Pets brought in approximately $500,000.

These earnings have played a key role in enhancing her financial success.