Ep 2. Against All Odds

In season 7 episode 2 of Finding Your Roots titled "Against All Odds," host Henry Louis Gates Jr. takes three famous guests on a journey to discover their family history and the incredible obstacles their ancestors overcame.

The first guest is comedian and actor Jordan Peele, who is best known for his work on the sketch comedy show "Key & Peele" and the horror film "Get Out." Gates helps Peele trace his maternal ancestors, uncovering a heartbreaking story of slavery, forced migration, and a daring escape that required an extraordinary amount of courage and determination.

The second guest is musician and actor Questlove, the drummer for the Grammy-winning hip-hop band The Roots and a frequent collaborator with artists such as D'Angelo, Erykah Badu, and John Legend. Gates explores Questlove's paternal lineage, which includes a surprising connection to the Civil War and a remarkable tale of resilience in the face of adversity.

The third and final guest is actress and author Issa Rae, the creator and star of the hit HBO series "Insecure" and the author of the memoir "The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl." Gates delves into Rae's Sierra Leonean ancestry, uncovering a tragic story of brutality and survival that sheds light on the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade.

Through genealogical research, DNA testing, and interviews with experts and family members, Gates pieces together the complex histories of these three individuals, demonstrating how their ancestors' struggles, triumphs, and resilience have shaped who they are today. From the horrors of slavery to the challenges of the modern era, "Against All Odds" shows how the past continues to inform the present and how even the seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome with courage, perseverance, and the support of generations that came before us.