Let’s Talk About Keke Palmer!
You know that one actor who just makes everything they touch feel special? The one who can jump between drama, comedy, and horror without missing a beat? That’s Keke Palmer. Whether you first saw her spelling her way to victory in Akeelah and the Bee or stealing scenes in Nope, you know she brings something extra to every role.
She’s been in the game since childhood, but her star power has only grown. And today, we’re diving into her top five TV shows. These films prove why Keke Palmer isn’t just talented—she’s unforgettable. Let’s go!
You know how some movies get high ratings but barely anyone has watched them? And others have a ton of votes but a middling score?
It’s not just about critics. It’s about what real audiences love. Now, let’s check out Keke Palmer’s most iconic roles!
1. Akeelah and the Bee (2006)
IMDb rating: 7.3
Remember when you were a kid, watching a movie, and suddenly felt inspired to take on the world? Akeelah and the Bee is one of those films. Keke Palmer plays Akeelah, an 11-year-old girl from South Los Angeles who has a talent for spelling but lacks confidence. With the help of a strict yet caring coach (Laurence Fishburne), she takes on the world of competitive spelling bees.
Even as a young actress, Palmer owned this role. She made Akeelah feel real—the nerves, the struggles, the triumphs. It wasn’t just a kids’ movie; it was a lesson in perseverance and self-belief. No wonder it still resonates today. This one sits high on the list because it didn’t just put Palmer on the map—it showed she was here to stay.
2. Nope (2022)
IMDb rating: 6.8
By the time Nope hit theaters, we all knew Keke Palmer was a star. But this movie? It sealed the deal. Directed by Jordan Peele, Nope is a sci-fi horror that flips the UFO genre on its head. And at the heart of it? Keke as Emerald “Em” Haywood.
Em is funny, fearless, and—let’s be honest—the kind of character you’d 100% want by your side in an alien invasion. Palmer’s energy in this role was electric. Every scene she was in? She stole it. The way she balanced humor with pure terror made this movie even more unforgettable.
Plus, Nope was a box office hit, proving that Palmer can carry a big-budget film just as well as an indie drama. If you haven’t seen it yet, do yourself a favor and fix that.
3. Pimp (2018)
IMDb rating: 7.7
If you think you’ve seen Palmer’s full range, Pimp will change your mind. This indie crime drama is gritty, raw, and unapologetic. She plays Wednesday, a young woman raised in the Bronx who hustles to survive. It’s a tough, intense role, and Palmer gives everything to it.
She disappears into the character—there’s no trace of her usual bubbly charm. Instead, we get a performance that’s fierce, heartbreaking, and unforgettable. While it didn’t get mainstream attention, Pimp is a must-watch if you want to see the full power of Keke’s acting chops.
4. Hustlers (2019)
IMDb rating: 6.3
What happens when you put Keke Palmer, Jennifer Lopez, and Cardi B in a movie about con artists? You get Hustlers—a fast-paced, stylish crime drama about former strippers who scam rich Wall Street men.
Palmer plays Mercedes, and even though she’s surrounded by big names, she holds her own. She brings humor, confidence, and charm to the role, making Mercedes one of the most fun characters in the film.
Not only was Hustlers a commercial success, but it also proved that Palmer could shine in ensemble casts without fading into the background.
5. Joyful Noise (2012)
IMDb rating: 5.7
If you ever doubted Keke Palmer’s vocal abilities, Joyful Noise shuts that down. Starring alongside Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton, Palmer plays Olivia, a talented choir singer who dreams of winning a national gospel competition.
This movie is full of feel-good energy, great music, and big emotions. Palmer’s voice is incredible, and her chemistry with the cast makes the film even more enjoyable. While it didn’t get the highest critical scores, audiences loved it—especially those who appreciate gospel music and uplifting stories.
Honorable Mentions – Because Keke’s Filmography Is Too Good
Picking just five wasn’t easy. Here are a few more films worth checking out:
A touching drama about family and ambition. A story of redemption that highlights Palmer’s emotional depth. A thought-provoking indie where Palmer plays a troubled teen in therapy.
She’s done so much, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
Final Thoughts – Why Keke Palmer Is That Girl
Some actors are good. Others are great. And then there’s Keke Palmer—someone who not only excels in every role but also makes it impossible to look away. Whether she’s playing a spelling bee champ, a horror heroine, or a street-smart hustler, she commands the screen.
If you haven’t seen these movies yet, start with one and thank me later. And if you’re already a fan, let’s talk—what’s YOUR favorite Keke Palmer movie? Drop a comment and let’s keep the conversation going!
