Comedian, actor and impersonator Matt Friend will step in as the celebrity host for this year’s KC SuperStar Finals, replacing NBC’s Saturday Night Live cast member Chloe Fineman, who had to step away from the role due to an unforeseen scheduling conflict.
The finals will be held on Sunday, Aug. 25 at 7 p.m. in Yardley Hall at Johnson County Community College (12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66210).
“We are so thrilled to have Matt Friend as our celebrity host for our finals,” said Tammy Ruder, KC SuperStar producer. “Matt will be an engaging entertainment host. We are looking forward to his interviews with the finalists and are curious to see what impersonations he brings to the evening. It is sure to be an evening of laughs and music.”
Friend’s passion for comedy and entertainment has resulted in him amassing over 1 million followers on TikTok, Instagram and other social platforms. Friend is known for his repertoire of over 250 impressions, earning praise from celebrities such as Howard Stern, Jeff Goldblum, Paul Giamatti, Austin Butler, Dr. Anthony Fauci, Liev Schreiber, Sebastian Maniscalco and John Oliver for his impressions.
As host of the event, Friend will interview all 10 KC SuperStar finalists throughout the evening. He will also entertain audience members with a standup routine.
Hundreds of teen singers from across the region have participated in KC SuperStar since its inception, and several competitors have continued to perform professionally. KC SuperStar provides over $22,000 in scholarships to the Top 10 finalists who come from across the metro area.
As The J’s major fundraising event, KC SuperStar provides financial assistance to members so they can participate in its many services such as the Child Development Center, J Camp, health and fitness, the arts, as well as meals and transportation for The J’s Heritage, Lifelong Learning for Adults 55+. A portion of funds raised goes to The Reat Griffin Underwood Rising Stars Fund, which supports performing arts education and training programs for youth ages 14 to 21.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available; more information about KC SuperStar is available at kcsuperstar.org.
