5 Surprising Facts About Keegan-Michael Key’s Wife, Elle Key: Producer, Partner, And Comedy Historian

Keegan-Michael Key, the master of sketch comedy and beloved actor from hits like Key & Peele and Schmigadoon!, has an equally impressive and professionally interwoven partner in his life: his wife, Elle Key. As of December 2025, the couple continues to redefine the term "power couple" by seamlessly blending their personal and professional lives, most recently through their joint venture into comedy history.

The woman who shares his life and his creative vision is producer, director, and writer Elle Key, formerly known as Elisa Pugliese. Their relationship, which began after Key’s high-profile divorce, is built on a foundation of shared artistic passion, making their marriage a true partnership that extends far beyond the red carpet.

The Woman Behind the Laughter: Elle Key (Elisa Pugliese) Biography

Elle Key, who was born Elisa Pugliese, is a multifaceted talent who has carved out a significant niche for herself in the entertainment industry as a producer, director, and actress. She is far more than just "Keegan-Michael Key's wife"; she is a creative force in her own right.

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• Full Name: Elisa Pugliese (now Elle Key)
• Date of Birth: April 2, 1972
• Age (as of December 2025): 53 years old
• Birthplace: The Bronx, New York, USA
• Primary Career: Film Producer, Director, Writer, and Actress
• Notable Acting/Producing Credits: She has credits in films such as School of Rock (2003) and Boy Meets Girl (2014).
• Marital Status: Married to Keegan-Michael Key since June 2018.

Elle Key's background in production and her deep appreciation for the arts laid the groundwork for the creative synergy she now shares with her famous husband. Her professional focus on the behind-the-scenes work of filmmaking and storytelling complements Keegan-Michael Key’s performance-based career perfectly.

More Than a Marriage: A Deep Dive into Their Creative Partnership

What truly sets Keegan-Michael Key and Elle Key apart is the way their professional roles have become "very much interwoven," as Keegan-Michael himself has described it. They are not just husband and wife; they are dedicated producing partners whose latest collaboration has become a major cornerstone of their life together.

The History of Sketch Comedy: A Joint Masterpiece

Their most significant and celebrated joint venture is "The History of Sketch Comedy." What began as a highly successful podcast in 2021—which went on to win a Webby Award—has since been expanded into a comprehensive book. This project showcases their shared passion for the art form that made Keegan-Michael Key a household name.

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The book and podcast delve into the world of sketch, exploring its evolution and impact on modern entertainment. This collaboration allows Elle Key to utilize her skills as a writer and director, while Keegan-Michael Key brings his firsthand knowledge and comedic expertise. The project has been a central focus for the couple, with them appearing together at book shows and interviews throughout 2023 and 2024 to promote their work.

Their ability to work so closely together on a demanding creative project—from the initial podcast concept to writing the book—is a testament to the strength and respect within their relationship. This creative partnership gives them a unique bond, allowing them to share successes and challenges in both their personal and professional spheres.

The Key Relationship Timeline: From First Wife to Creative Soulmate

Keegan-Michael Key’s journey to finding his current creative soulmate involved a previous long-term marriage that is an important part of his biography. Understanding this timeline provides context for the current chapter of his life with Elle Key.

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The First Marriage: Cynthia Blaise

Before his marriage to Elle Key, the comedian was married to actress and vocal coach Cynthia Blaise. Their marriage spanned nearly two decades, lasting from 1998 until 2017.

The couple's divorce was finalized in 2017 after 17 years together. It was considered a high-net-worth divorce, which received some media attention at the time. A key detail from this period is that Keegan-Michael Key and Cynthia Blaise did not have any children together.

The Road to Elle: Engagement and Wedding

Keegan-Michael Key and Elle Key began dating after his separation. They announced their engagement in late 2017. Their wedding took place in June 2018, an event the comedian fondly described as the "best prom I've ever been to."

The couple opted for a two-part celebration: an intimate wedding ceremony followed by a black-tie reception the next day. This elegant event marked the beginning of their life together as a married couple and professional collaborators.

Topical Authority: Key’s Family, Net Worth, and Legacy

To fully appreciate the world of Keegan-Michael Key and Elle Key, it’s helpful to understand the broader context of the comedian's life and career. His estimated net worth, largely derived from his work on *Key & Peele*, his role in *Schmigadoon!*, and numerous film appearances, is reported to be around $12 million.

A frequently asked question regarding the couple is whether they have children. As of the latest reports, Keegan-Michael Key does not have any children from either of his marriages. He is, however, known for his personal story of being adopted, a detail he has shared publicly, which is a significant part of his identity and background. He also discovered he had two biological half-siblings, one of whom was the late comic book writer Dwayne McDuffie.

The legacy of Keegan-Michael Key is no longer just about his on-screen work. It is also about the powerful creative partnership he has forged with Elle Key. By combining their talents, they are not only building a life together but are also actively contributing to the preservation and understanding of the comedy genre that has defined his career. Their interwoven personal and professional lives serve as a modern blueprint for a successful Hollywood marriage.