Looking Back at Nick Cannon’s Best Television, Movie Roles Ever
CR: Michael Becker / FOX Reading Time: 2 minutes
Nick Cannon has come a long way since his early days as a writer and warm-up comic for Nickelodeon in the 1990s. He first gained fame as a cast member on the hit Nickelodeon comedy All That from 1998-2000, showcasing his natural comedic talent. Yet over the years, Cannon has proven himself to be more than just the funny guy, excelling as an actor, producer, rapper, and television host.
Nick Cannon’s Best TV, Movie Roles, Ever
Drumline (2002)
Cannon’s breakout film role was in the film Drumline, where he played Devon Miles, a talented street drummer from Harlem who enrolls in a fictional Southern University marching band. Drumline showcased Cannon’s charisma and musicality while exploring themes of competition, teamwork, and the discipline it takes to succeed. With energetic marching band performances and a finale at the Atlanta Classic, Drumline has become a beloved musical drama.
Love Don’t Cost a Thing (2003)
In this early-2000s teen comedy, Cannon plays Alvin Johnson, a high school nerd who attempts to transform himself in order to date the most popular girl in school. It’s a classic teen movie premise, but Cannon makes it work with his affable screen presence.
Roll Bounce (2005)
Set in 1970s Chicago, this roller-skating coming-of-age drama featured Cannon playing the best friend of Bow Wow’s character. Cannon gets to flex both his comedic chops and his skating skills throughout the movie, even competing in an epic roller disco contest. The retro setting with funky costumes and a Motown-heavy soundtrack also completed the fun for this skating flick.
America’s Got Talent (2009–2016)
As the energetic host who shepherded contestants on and off the stage for eight seasons, Cannon was a fixture on NBC’s hit talent competition series. His charismatic presenting style, quick wit, and rapport with judges like Howard Stern certainly made the show a smashing success. During his tenure, he got to witness incredible talents, from child opera singers to dance troupes and ventriloquists.
The Masked Singer (2019–Present)
Currently the host of the celebrity singing game show in which elaborately costumed stars perform cover songs, Cannon brings all his charisma and showmanship to the stage as he introduces masked singers and also interacts with the celebrity judges. Now in its tenth season, the mystery music competition has earned strong ratings thanks to the reveals of unmasked singers shocking judges and viewers alike. Cannon’s playful yet guiding presence ties it all together.
