Keegan-Michael Key Says He's 'Not a Big Trash Talker,' Despite His Hardcore Love of Sports: 'I'm from the Midwest' (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

Keegan-Michael Key.Photo:Jim Beam

Jim Beam

Keegan-Michael Keyis all about friendly competition.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the actor and comedian, 53, says that he is “not a bigtrash talker,” despite being a hardcore sports fan.

“I’m from the Midwest,” Key — who has partnered withJim Beamfor their “7 Stages of Defeat” care package — jokes, referencing the reputation those in that area of the United States have for being friendly and polite.

Recalling an example of his kind sports demeanor, theDetroit Lionssupporter says, “The other day, I was on the elevator with aMinnesota Vikingsfan, and when they left the elevator, I wished them good luck.”

Still, Key explains that there are certain sports fans he undoubtedly will beef with. “I will talk trash someone fromOhio,” he says. “I’m from Michigan. I grew up a Michigan Wolverines fan and I went to Penn State, so I am from the place and went to the school that are the biggest rivals for Ohio State.”

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Keegan-Michael Key in February 2024.Christopher Polk/Variety via Getty

Christopher Polk/Variety via Getty

According to Key, he has “always loved sports” and always “loved all kinds of sports” from a young age.

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Keegan-Michael Key.Jim Beam

As a sports fan, Key knows that there are always plenty of exciting and thrilling moments, but also some rather defeating ones as well, which is where his partnership with Jim Beam comes in.

“It’s really a fun, exciting and imaginative campaign,” Key tells PEOPLE. “These kits are going to help people navigate through the seven stages of defeat after your team loses in the playoffs.”

“The kind of emotions that people go through during a football season, it just intensifies during the playoffs,” he continues. “And one of the best parts is that you can overcome these feelings with friends and family.”

The Jim Beam kit will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for consumers via a limited quantity drop schedule, with the first on Jan. 20 (post-Divisonals), the second on Jan. 27 (post-Conference Championships) and the third on Feb. 10 (post-Super Bowl).

source: people.com