This spring, comedian Jerrod Carmichael released his latest Emmy-nominated stand-up special, “Rothaniel” on HBO Max. In the new act, Carmichael comes out as gay, but the special is an exploration both of his own secrets as well as the ones held by previous generations of men in his family.

It’s part of an exciting new chapter in Carmichael’s career that also includes his directorial debut “On the Count of Three,” and his Emmy-nominated performance guest hosting SNL earlier this year. The Takeaway speaks with Carmichael about embracing honesty in his work.