Ep 4. Tragedy + Time = Comedy

In season 3 episode 4 of Finding Your Roots titled "Tragedy + Time = Comedy," host Henry Louis Gates Jr. helps three comedic talents uncover their family histories and explore how their ancestors' struggles and hardships have influenced their own lives and careers.

The episode features actress and comedian Tig Notaro, who has battled cancer and loss in her personal life, but has used humor to cope and connect with audiences. Through genealogical research, Notaro discovers the story of her great-great-grandfather, a Civil War veteran who experienced trauma and tragedy on the battlefield.

Gates also delves into the ancestry of writer and actor Keegan-Michael Key, who is known for his work on MADtv and Key & Peele. Key learns about his enslaved ancestors and the struggles they faced during and after emancipation, as well as his more recent family history with migration from Europe to America.

Finally, Gates explores the family history of comedian and writer Sarah Silverman. Silverman learns about her ancestors' experiences as Jewish immigrants to America and their involvement in the labor movement. She also confronts the tragic story of her great-great-aunt who died in the Holocaust.

Throughout the episode, Gates highlights how each comedian's family history has influenced their comedic voices and explores the connections between tragedy and comedy. By digging deep into their roots, Notaro, Key, and Silverman gain a greater understanding of their past and how it has shaped their lives and careers.