PBS’ “Finding Your Roots” has led to shocking discoveries for the famous faces who appear on the series. One of the show’s latest guests, Tracy Morgan, experienced an emotional reveal about his family tree.
During the show, producers also reveal if guests are related to anyone who’s previously appeared. This is when the “SNL” vet found out he and the legendary rapper Nas are third cousins on Morgan’s mother’s side.
The “30 Rock” star revealed on the “Connect the Dots” podcast that he and Nas are so close that he titled one of his stand-up specials to honor the “Illmatic” rapper’s late mother.
“Me and Esco was always tight before that,” Morgan said. “I did a show years ago on Comedy Central, a special called ‘One Mic,’ that was for Nas’ mom that just passed away. I named my special ‘One Mic,’ so me and Esco always been tight.”
Telling Nas the news made them even closer, as they shared an emotional release when Morgan called the “Ether” artist.
“I called him up, and I say, ‘Yo Esco,’” he said. “He said, ‘What up, Tray?’ I said, ‘Guess what? I just did ‘Finding Your Roots,’ me and you related.’ He started crying. I started crying. And I said to him, ‘If you ever need me, I’m there, cuz.’”
The “Coming 2 America” actor did the show because he was motivated to find out who he truly is. He described the experience as emotional and insightful.
“You need to know who you come from before you leave this earth,” he said. “Know who you are and where you come from. Knowledge of self. I did a lot of crying, and no matter who you are, you’re gonna break down.”
Tracy Morgan’s episode of “Finding Your Roots” airs Feb. 20 on PBS.