Keegan-Michael Key’s Family, Relationships, and Closest Friends: All the Key Facts

Keegan-Michael Key has built a career in comedy, acting, and writing. Friendship, family, and relationships have often played roles in the stories he shares, both on and off screen. He has mentioned in interviews how important support networks are, whether that’s friends, loved ones, or family.

Family in Keegan-Michael Key’s Life

Keegan-Michael Key was born in 1971 in Southfield, Michigan. He was adopted as a child by social workers and raised in Salt Lake City. His upbringing shaped his approach to the world and gave him a unique perspective on family. Growing up, he developed strong bonds with both of his adoptive parents.

Key’s adoptive parents, both working as social workers, influenced his early years and values. He credits much of his outlook on life to their guidance and the home they provided. This background played a large part in his connection to people and his comedic material.

Key’s current family of procreation centers around his marriage to Elisa Pugliese. The two met several years before their engagement. Pugliese, a producer and director, began dating Key after his split from his first wife.

They wed on June 8, 2018, in New York City. As of now, Keegan-Michael Key and Elisa Pugliese do not have any children together, either biological or adopted. Elisa continues her work in the film and TV industry while supporting Key’s career.

Key has spoken at times about how important having a supportive partner is, even without children. His family is completed by his extended relatives and close friendships.

Name	Relation	Birth Year
Elisa Pugliese	Wife	1971

Relationships and Personal Connections

Keegan-Michael Key’s relationships have been in the public eye due to his career. He first married Cynthia Blaise, a dialect coach and actress, in 1998. They met through their involvement in the entertainment industry. Blaise, who is known for her work in film and stage production, supported Key in his early television career.

Their marriage lasted seventeen years. In November 2015, the couple separated. Their divorce was finalized in 2017. Following the end of this relationship, Key met Elisa Pugliese and began a new chapter.

Key and Pugliese developed their relationship through shared creative interests and mutual friends in the entertainment world. Their partnership was marked by collaboration and public support for each other’s projects.

Key’s relationships reveal a pattern of partnering with individuals involved in art and performance. His long-term connections show commitment and mutual respect, even after separations.

Name	Relationship Type	Time Period
Cynthia Blaise	Ex-wife	1998-2017

Friends and Collaborations

Keegan-Michael Key is known for several close friendships, many of which started through his work. His most public friendship is with Jordan Peele, his longtime collaborator and partner in Key & Peele. Their connection began as cast members on MADtv.

Key and Peele’s friendship is often noted as a creative partnership built on humor and shared experience. They have supported each other’s careers and maintained a public bond long after their popular series ended.

Other close friends include colleagues from various comedy and television projects. Many of Key’s friendships are rooted in the comedy world. These ties are strengthened through ongoing professional collaborations and mutual respect.

Key’s circle has remained tight, centering around creative partners who share his commitment to comedic storytelling.

Name	Known Since	Profession
Jordan Peele	2003	Actor, Director