20 Must-Watch Keegan-Michael Key Movies And Shows: From 'Key & Peele' To His Top-Secret 2025 'Bucket List' Projects

Keegan-Michael Key has cemented his status as one of Hollywood's most versatile and in-demand performers, effortlessly navigating the worlds of sketch comedy, live-action drama, and blockbuster voice work. As of late 2024, his career continues to accelerate, with a packed slate of upcoming releases that prove his range is boundless, from voicing an iconic Transformer to starring in a dark Christmas comedy.

This article provides an up-to-the-minute look at Keegan-Michael Key’s current and upcoming projects, alongside a deep dive into the foundational movies and shows that have defined his Emmy-winning career. Get ready to explore the full spectrum of his comedic and dramatic genius, including the highly anticipated films slated for 2025 and beyond.

Keegan-Michael Key: Full Biography and Profile

Keegan-Michael Key's journey from the improv stages of Chicago to a global comedy star is a masterclass in versatility and dedication. His distinct comedic style, characterized by lightning-fast character switches and deep-seated emotional commitment, has made him a household name.

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• Full Name: Keegan-Michael Key
• Born: March 22, 1971 (Age 54 as of 2025)
• Birthplace: Southfield, Michigan, U.S.
• Occupations: Actor, Comedian, Writer, Producer
• Education: University of Detroit Mercy (B.F.A.), Pennsylvania State University (M.F.A.)
• Career Start: Improv comedy in Detroit and Chicago; member of The Second City.
• Breakthrough Role: Cast member on *MADtv* (2004–2009).
• Iconic Collaboration: Co-creator and co-star of *Key & Peele* (2012–2015) with Jordan Peele.
• Notable Awards: Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Sketch Series (*Key & Peele*).
• Spouse: Elisa Pugliese (m. 2018)

Key's early career was forged in the demanding world of improvisational comedy, notably as part of the famed Second City ensemble in Chicago, where he first met his long-time creative partner, Jordan Peele.

The Latest Releases: Key’s 2024 and 2025 Movie Slate

The current period marks one of Key's busiest and most diverse, showcasing his ability to lead both animated blockbusters and star in high-profile live-action comedies and thrillers. The second half of 2024 and all of 2025 are packed with must-see projects.

Upcoming Blockbusters and Comedy Films

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1. *Transformers One* (2024) - Voice Role as B-127 (Bumblebee)

Releasing in 2024, *Transformers One* is a highly anticipated animated origin story that explores the relationship between Optimus Prime and Megatron before they became mortal enemies. Key lends his voice to the fan-favorite character B-127, the early iteration of Bumblebee. This film marks a significant entry in the *Transformers* cinematic universe, with Key starring alongside an A-list ensemble cast including Scarlett Johansson, Chris Hemsworth, and Laurence Fishburne.

2. *Dear Santa* (2024) - Live-Action Comedy

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Key reunites with the comedic minds of the Farrelly brothers (Bobby Farrelly directs) for this dark fantasy Christmas comedy. The plot centers on a young boy who mistakenly sends his Christmas wish list to Satan instead of Santa. Key is a key member of the "comedic dream team" assembled for the film, which promises a blend of witty satire and classic Farrelly-style humor, making it a subversive holiday watch.

3. *Play Dirty* (2025) - Heist Thriller

Switching gears to action-thriller, Key is set to star in *Play Dirty*, directed by Shane Black (known for *Kiss Kiss Bang Bang* and *Iron Man 3*). Key plays Ed Mackey in this heist film, sharing the screen with Mark Wahlberg and LaKeith Stanfield. This project highlights Key's increasing willingness to take on roles outside of pure comedy, demonstrating his dramatic chops in a high-stakes narrative.

4. The Top-Secret "Bucket List" Projects (2025)

Perhaps the most intriguing entries on his slate are the two unannounced "bucket list" projects Key has teased for 2025. While details remain under wraps, Key has described them as dream roles, suggesting they could be anything from a major dramatic turn to a passion project in the vein of his earlier work. Fans and industry observers are eagerly awaiting any official announcements about these high-priority roles.

5. *The Super Mario Galaxy Movie* (2026) - Voice Role as Toad

Following the massive success of *The Super Mario Bros. Movie* (2023), Key is confirmed to reprise his role as the voice of Toad for the sequel, currently titled *The Super Mario Galaxy Movie*. His high-energy, pitch-perfect portrayal of the character was a highlight of the first film, ensuring his continued presence in one of the biggest animated franchises of the decade.

The Essential Shows and Movies That Defined His Career

While his current projects are exciting, Key's topical authority and reputation were built on a foundation of groundbreaking sketch comedy and critically acclaimed TV shows.

The Sketch Comedy Revolution: *Key & Peele*

The collaboration with Jordan Peele on the Comedy Central series *Key & Peele* (2012–2015) is arguably his most influential work. The show redefined sketch comedy with its sharp political commentary, cultural observations, and masterful character work. Key's ability to embody characters like the hyper-intense "Substitute Teacher" Mr. Garvey or his half of the "Luther, the Anger Translator" duo alongside Barack Obama, became instant cultural phenomena. His favorite sketch, a portrayal of Michael Jackson at a Halloween party, showcases his commitment to physical comedy.

Critically Acclaimed Television Roles

*Schmigadoon!* (2021–2023): This Apple TV+ musical comedy series was a significant recent role, allowing Key to showcase his singing and dancing talents alongside Cecily Strong. His performance as Josh Skinner, a skeptical doctor trapped in a golden age musical, earned him critical praise for balancing cynicism with genuine heart. The show ran for two seasons, concluding its run in 2023.

*Reboot* (2022): Key starred as Reed Sterling in this Hulu comedy series about the revival of a fictional early 2000s sitcom. His role as a pretentious actor who attended Yale School of Drama provided a brilliant, meta-commentary on the entertainment industry.

*Only Murders in the Building* (2024): Key had a recurring role as Mayor Tillman in the highly popular Hulu mystery-comedy series, adding his unique flair to the already star-studded ensemble cast.

Other Notable TV Entities: His television career also includes memorable runs on *MADtv* (where he spent five seasons), *Playing House*, and the Netflix series *Friends from College*.

Feature Film Highlights and Voice Work

Key has proven to be a powerhouse in feature films, often balancing live-action roles with extensive voice-over work for major studios.

Live-Action Comedy and Drama:

• *Keanu* (2016): Key and Jordan Peele's first feature film, an action-comedy about two friends who must infiltrate a gang to retrieve their stolen kitten.
• *Wonka* (2023): Key played the Chief of Police in the musical fantasy film, a significant role in a major box office hit.
• *Dolemite Is My Name* (2019): He starred alongside Eddie Murphy in this critically acclaimed biographical comedy.
• *The Predator* (2018): Key took on a more action-oriented role in this science fiction film.

Iconic Voice Roles:

• *The Super Mario Bros. Movie* (2023): As the voice of Toad, a role he will reprise in 2026.
• *Toy Story 4* (2019): He voiced Ducky, a carnival prize alongside Peele's Bunny.
• *The Lion King* (2019): He voiced Kamari in the live-action remake.
• *Wendell & Wild* (2022): A stop-motion animated horror-comedy where he and Peele voiced the titular demon brothers.
• *Pinocchio* (2022): Key voiced the character "Honest John" in the Disney live-action remake.

Keegan-Michael Key's career is a testament to the power of comedic talent grounded in serious acting training. His upcoming slate, from the animated world of *Transformers One* and *Super Mario Galaxy* to the live-action thrill of *Play Dirty* and the dark humor of *Dear Santa*, ensures that he will remain a dominant and compelling force in entertainment for years to come.