Kalen Allen

At 28, award-winning actor, producer, singer, and television personality Kalen Allen has captivated millions worldwide through his social media and online content. Discovered in 2018 by Ellen DeGeneres, Allen rose to fame with his witty “Kalen Reacts” videos. Ellen quickly recognized his talent, leading to a collaboration where Allen produced content and served as her correspondent, attending high-profile events like the Billboard Music Awards and the MTV VMAs. He also hosted the award-winning digital series “OMKalen,” offering unique commentary on trending topics. Recently, Allen joined former talk show host Ricki Lake as a co-host for the podcast “Raised by Ricki” for Lemonada Media.

Allen has also established himself in journalism. He covered the 2024 Democratic National Convention, served as a correspondent for CBS News discussing the 2024 election, and conducted numerous red-carpet interviews at high-profile events, notably the VMAs, Billboard Music Awards, and Streamy Awards.

Allen’s TV credits include “Holiday Baking Championship: Gingerbread Showdown”, “Buddy vs. Duff”, “Snack on This”, “Supermarket Stakeout”, “With Love” on Amazon Prime, and HBO Max’s “A Black Lady Sketch Show”. His videos have amassed billions of views, earning numerous award nominations and wins, including a Model D Award and honors at the Shorty and Webby Awards. Allen also made his Broadway debut as Store Manager in Elf The Musical in November of 2024.

In film, Allen debuted in Seth Rogen’s “An American Pickle” and also starred in the Netflix film, “Meet Me Next Christmas,” which reached number 1 on the platform in many countries. He recently became a judge on Roku’s “Celebrity Family Food Battle” and has hosted the Loveloud Music Festival since 2019. He released a holiday album, “Christmas Memories,” in November 2024.

Originally from Kansas City, Allen graduated from Temple University with degrees in Theatre and Film and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Journalism at NYU. He actively supports several charities, including Ronald McDonald House Charities and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and serves on the Board of Directors for the Loveloud Foundation.

Allen resides in the New York City area.