(PCM+) Where are they now? Kevin Kem: A Path His Own

Story by Marlys Cervantes | Staff Writer

The following article appeared in the print issue of Ponca City Monthly magazine, which includes hyperlocal stories about Ponca City. Get full access to all online articles, videos, and content by becoming a paid subscriber. We offer free and paid subscription plans. Find rack locations to pick up your free print copy here, or subscribe here to get online access plus exclusive content.

“Innovation is taking two things that already exist and putting them together in a new way.”

~ Tom Freston, American Media Financier

Having grown up in Ponca City, with a great amount of time spent at the gym—Kem’s Gym and Dance—Kevin Kem was primed for the physical work offered by the world of entertainment.

Kem’s first stunt show was in Texas, and he remembers the help he received from Banzai Vitali, who now teaches and has a school for stunt work in California. Kem said at the time Vitali was in Texas and worked with him, trading the training in stunts for work with his dad, the late Bill Kem, in gymnastics. It was a wonderful give-and-take opportunity that created a professional friendship for the men that has continued through their careers, and it certainly indicated right from the beginning how fruitful Kem’s longtime gymnastics’ work would benefit his career in the entertainment field.

Kevin Kem