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Podcasts Take Two
'Key & Peele' writers reflect on exploring uncomfortable social dynamics through comedy
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Sep 9, 2015
Listen • 12:57
'Key & Peele' writers reflect on exploring uncomfortable social dynamics through comedy
Writers Ian Roberts and Jay Martel share their thoughts on the show that wasn't afraid to 'go there.'
This undated image released by Comedy Central shows Keegan-Michael Key, left, and Jordan Peele from the sketch comedy series "Key & Peele." As guys who both lay claim to biracial status, they share a state of informed in-betweenness that gives their comedy extraordinary insight. Race and culture fuel much of "Key & Peele," their sketch-and-standup half-hour airing Wednesdays at 10:30 p.m. EDT on Comedy Central. Straddling the great divide between White and Black, they are poised to bring their audience a special brand of laughs. (AP Photo/Comedy Central, Ian White)
This undated image released by Comedy Central shows Keegan-Michael Key, left, and Jordan Peele from the sketch comedy series "Key & Peele." As guys who both lay claim to biracial status, they share a state of informed in-betweenness that gives their comedy extraordinary insight. (AP Photo/Comedy Central, Ian White)
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Ian White/AP
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Writers Ian Roberts and Jay Martel share their thoughts on the show that wasn't afraid to 'go there.'

Keegan Michael Key and Jordan Peele are the key players of the Comedy Central sketch show bearing their names. It ends a five-season run, with the final episode airing Wednesday.

The show pokes fun at all sorts of topics, but it often hones in on race. That means Key and Peele doesn't always make for comfortable viewing. Sometimes it's not clear if you should laugh, or cringe.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zDHSLDY0Q8

This year, the show is up for six Emmys, including Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series.

Two of those writers, Ian Roberts and

, joined host Alex Cohen to discuss how the sketches they write about race are a way to make light of a variety of social dynamics.

Press the play button above to hear the interview.