10 Essential Keegan-Michael Key Movies And TV Shows You Need To Watch (Plus His Confirmed 2024-2025 Projects)

Keegan-Michael Key has cemented his status as one of the most versatile and prolific performers in modern Hollywood, effortlessly transitioning from groundbreaking sketch comedy to dramatic roles and major blockbuster voice work. As of December 2025, his career shows no sign of slowing down, with multiple high-profile projects confirmed for 2024 and 2025, including a major animated film and a highly anticipated action-comedy. This article dives deep into the comedian's most essential work, providing a definitive list of must-watch movies and TV shows that showcase his incredible range. We also break down the most current and confirmed details on his upcoming releases, ensuring you are fully up-to-date on everything Key is working on next.

Keegan-Michael Key: Full Biography and Career Milestones

Keegan-Michael Key was born on March 22, 1971, in Southfield, Michigan. He was adopted at an early age by a mixed-race couple, which he has often cited as an influence on his comedic perspective and ability to navigate different cultural spaces. His formal education laid the groundwork for his impressive acting career. Key earned a bachelor's degree in theater from the University of Detroit Mercy and later a Master of Fine Arts from Pennsylvania State University. Key's professional career began in the rigorous world of Chicago improv. He became a member of the legendary Second City comedy troupe, where he first met his future creative partner, Jordan Peele. His television breakthrough came in 2004 when he joined the cast of the sketch comedy series *MADtv*, where he remained a cast member until 2009. However, it was the debut of *Key & Peele* on Comedy Central in 2012 that launched him into global stardom. The show, co-created and co-starred with Jordan Peele, was a cultural phenomenon, running for five seasons and winning a Peabody Award and two Primetime Emmy Awards. Key is also an accomplished stage actor, making his Broadway debut in the comic play *Meteor Shower* in 2017. His ability to switch between high-octane sketch comedy, grounded dramatic acting, and musical theater (as seen in *Schmigadoon!*) is a testament to his unique talent.

The Essential List: 10 Must-Watch Keegan-Michael Key Movies and TV Shows

Keegan-Michael Key’s filmography is marked by a seamless blend of high-concept comedy, dramatic turns, and unforgettable voice acting. These ten projects are essential viewing for any fan seeking to understand his massive topical authority in the entertainment industry.

1. Key & Peele (TV Series, 2012–2015)

The definitive work that solidified his legacy. This sketch comedy series is a masterclass in character work, social commentary, and physical comedy, featuring iconic sketches like "Substitute Teacher" and "East/West College Bowl."

2. Schmigadoon! (TV Series, 2021–2023)

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In this musical comedy series, Key shines as Josh Skinner, a skeptical doctor trapped in a magical town that operates like a Golden Age musical. His deadpan delivery and unexpected vocal talent were a highlight of the show.

3. Only Murders in the Building (TV Series, Recent Role)

Key joined the star-studded cast of the hit Hulu series, playing Mayor Tillman. This role showcases his ability to fit into an ensemble and deliver sharp, witty dialogue in a mystery-comedy format.

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4. Keanu (Film, 2016)

Key and Jordan Peele’s first feature film collaboration saw them playing two friends who infiltrate a gang to retrieve a stolen kitten. It is an action-comedy that perfectly translates the duo’s sketch dynamic to the big screen.

5. Dolemite Is My Name (Film, 2019)

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Key delivered a memorable performance as Jerry Jones, the frustrated screenwriter, opposite Eddie Murphy in this critically acclaimed biographical comedy. This role demonstrated his strength in supporting a comedic legend.

6. The Lion King (Film, 2019)

As the voice of the hyena Kamari, Key brought a fresh, comedic edge to the Disney classic's photorealistic remake, showcasing his powerful voice acting skills.

7. The Super Mario Bros. Movie (Film, 2023)

Key voiced the beloved character Toad, bringing a high-pitched, energetic performance that was a fan favorite and secured his role in the upcoming sequel.

8. Friends from College (TV Series, 2017–2019)

This Netflix series saw Key take on a more dramatic, relationship-focused role as a member of a tight-knit, dysfunctional group of Harvard friends, exploring themes of marriage and mid-life crisis.

9. Wendell & Wild (Film, 2022)

A return to his partnership with Jordan Peele, who co-wrote and co-starred. Key voiced Wendell in this stop-motion animated horror-comedy, proving his versatility in genre work.

10. Brain Games (TV Series Host, 2020)

Key hosted the reboot of the popular National Geographic series, using his comedic timing and intellectual curiosity to guide viewers through interactive experiments on the human brain.

Keegan-Michael Key’s Confirmed Upcoming Projects for 2024 and 2025

The next two years are packed with exciting new roles for Key, spanning animated blockbusters, holiday features, and major action thrillers. His upcoming slate solidifies his position as a major fixture in both film and television.

Major Film Releases: Animated and Live-Action

1. Transformers One (2024 Film)

Key is confirmed to voice the iconic Autobot Bumblebee in this highly anticipated animated origin story. The film, set on Cybertron, explores the relationship between Optimus Prime and Megatron before they became enemies, marking a significant entry into one of the biggest action franchises in the world.

2. Dear Santa (2024 Film)

A confirmed holiday comedy for 2024, *Dear Santa* features Key in a prominent role. This project aligns with his established comedic sensibilities, offering a fresh take on the Christmas movie genre.

3. Play Dirty (2025 Film)

Key is slated to appear in the 2025 action-comedy film *Play Dirty*. He joins a stellar cast including Mark Wahlberg and LaKeith Stanfield in this adaptation of the *Parker* novel series by Donald E. Westlake, signaling his continued involvement in high-octane Hollywood productions.

4. The Super Mario Bros. Movie Sequel (Future Release)

Following the massive success of the first film, Key is expected to reprise his role as the voice of Toad in the sequel. While a release date is not yet confirmed for 2025, this continuation of a major franchise is one of his most important future commitments.

The Top-Secret 2025 "Bucket List" Projects

Intriguingly, Key has revealed that he is actively working on two top-secret "bucket list" projects slated for 2025. While details are scarce, the actor described them as passion projects, suggesting they could be anything from a return to the stage to a highly personal film or television series. Fans of his early work, especially the *sketch comedy* and *improv* style of *Key & Peele*, are eagerly awaiting any announcement regarding these mysterious ventures. These projects are expected to further showcase his depth as a producer and creative force, not just as a performer. The sheer volume and diversity of Keegan-Michael Key's upcoming work—from voicing a beloved robot in *Transformers One* to starring in a hard-hitting action film like *Play Dirty*—confirm his status as a powerhouse actor. He continues to be one of the most bankable and respected *comedians* and *actors* in the industry today, with a career trajectory that promises even more essential viewing in the years to come.