10 Comedy legends we know and love
1. Donald Glover
Where he started: Donald Glover began his career in comedy as a member of the improv group at Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB) in New York. He became known for his improvisational and sketch work before making a huge impact with his acting, writing, and producing Community and Atlanta. His background in improv helped him develop his quick wit and storytelling abilities.
2. Keegan-Michael Key
Where he started: Keegan-Michael Key, best known for Key & Peele, honed his comedic chops in long-form improv at The Second City in Chicago. He later co-founded the improv group The Second City Detroit. Key's improv roots are evident in his versatile comedic performances, which often involve intricate, evolving characters.
3. Jordan Peele
Where he started: Like his Key & Peele co-star Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele got his start in long-form improv at The Second City and Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB). His work in these settings, combined with his sharp writing and keen understanding of character dynamics, heavily influenced the comedy in Key & Peele, as well as his later directorial work in Get Out and Us.
4. Rachel Dratch
Where she started: Also a Second City performer, Rachel Dratch worked in long-form improv before she became a standout on SNL.
5. Horatio Sanz
Where he started: Before his SNL fame, Horatio Sanz was involved in long-form improv, particularly with the UCB theater.
6. Danielle Brooks
Where she started: Danielle Brooks, best known for Orange Is the New Black, started her comedy career in long-form improv at the National Black Theatre. Her theatrical and improvisational background helped her develop a deep understanding of both dramatic and comedic timing.
7. Jay Pharoah
Where he started: Known for his impressions and work on Saturday Night Live (SNL), Jay Pharoah began performing improv in the Boston area, before joining comedy troupes and performing in clubs. His background in improv allowed him to riff effortlessly in various sketches and helped shape his quick-witted comedic style.
8. Tina Fey
Where she started: Another Second City alum, Tina Fey was a key figure in Chicago’s improv scene and later became a major force behind Saturday Night Live. Her roots in long-form improv influenced much of her comedy writing and performing style.
9. Amy Poehler
Where she started: Amy Poehler helped found the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB), one of the most famous long-form improv theaters in New York and LA. Her work in long-form improv played a huge role in shaping her career in both TV and film.
10. Steve Carell
Where he started: Before The Office and Hollywood stardom, Steve Carell was a regular at Second City in Chicago and performed long-form improv.
These actors and comedians were trained in the long-form improv tradition, and their improvisational roots helped them develop the quick wit, character depth, and storytelling skills that have made them successful in both comedy and more serious roles. Long-form improv gives performers the ability to think on their feet, commit to characters, and create stories on the fly—skills that serve them well in all sorts of acting roles.
