Brief Introduction of Pete Davidson
Pete Davidson is an American comedian, actor, and writer, widely recognized for his distinctive comedic style and his eight-season tenure as a cast member on the NBC late-night sketch comedy series Saturday Night Live. Born Peter Michael Davidson, he has carved out a significant career in both stand-up comedy and acting, starring in and co-writing semi-autobiographical projects like the film The King of Staten Island and the Peacock series Bupkis. Davidson is known for his candid and often self-deprecating humor, frequently drawing from his personal experiences with mental health, relationships, and the profound impact of losing his firefighter father during the September 11 attacks. His public persona and high-profile relationships have also contributed to his widespread recognition, establishing him as a prominent figure in contemporary entertainment.
Pete Davidson Overview
| Full Name | Peter Michael Davidson |
|---|---|
| Born | November 16, 1993 |
| Birthplace | Staten Island, New York City, U.S. |
| Height | 6’3″ (190 cm) |
| Profession | Comedian, Actor, Writer, Producer |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (Ashkenazi Jewish, Irish, German, Scottish, Italian, English) |
| Parents | Amy Waters Davidson (mother), Scott Matthew Davidson (father, deceased) |
| Siblings | Casey Davidson (younger sister) |
| Alma Mater | St. Francis College (dropped out) |
| Years Active | 2010–present |
| Net Worth | Estimated $4 million (as of latest reports) |
Early Life and Education of Pete Davidson
Peter Michael Davidson was born on November 16, 1993, in Staten Island, New York City, to parents Amy Waters Davidson and Scott Matthew Davidson. His early childhood was marked by a profound tragedy when his father, a New York City firefighter with Ladder 118, died in service during the September 11 attacks. Scott Davidson was last seen ascending the stairs of the Marriott World Trade Center just before the Twin Towers collapsed, and his death deeply affected a then seven-year-old Pete. This traumatic loss would later become a recurring theme in Davidson’s stand-up comedy, where he often uses humor as a coping mechanism.
Growing up in Staten Island, Davidson attended St. Joseph by-the-Sea High School, then Tottenville High School, before eventually graduating from Xaverian High School in Brooklyn in 2011. After completing high school, he briefly enrolled at St. Francis College in Brooklyn Heights, attending for just one semester before deciding to pursue a full-time career in comedy. His passion for comedy ignited at an early age; Davidson first attempted stand-up at sixteen in a Staten Island bowling alley, spurred on by friends who were aware of his comedic aspirations. During his formative years, Davidson faced personal challenges, including struggling with suicidal thoughts as a child, an experience he credits the music of rapper Kid Cudi for helping him overcome. He has openly described being monitored by a group of psychologists for several years to study the psychological effects of the 9/11 attacks, referring to himself as a “lab rat” during this period.
Pete Davidson’s Career
Early Career and Breakthrough
Pete Davidson’s journey into professional comedy began in the early 2010s. His earliest on-screen appearances include the MTV comedy series Failosophy in 2013, followed by roles in MTV2’s reality TV comedy series Guy Code and a guest spot on Nick Cannon Presents: Wild ‘N Out. His televised stand-up debut aired in 2013 as part of Comedy Central’s Gotham Comedy Live, where he showcased his emerging talent at the Gotham Comedy Club in New York City. These early performances caught the attention of comedian and actor Nick Cannon, who became an early mentor, booking Davidson for his “Fresh Faces of Comedy Showcase” and inviting him to co-host a morning radio show.
In 2014, Davidson garnered further recognition when he was named one of Variety’s “Top 10 Comics to Watch.” This period also saw him make an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and secure a small part in Amy Schumer and Bill Hader’s 2015 feature film comedy Trainwreck. It was through Hader, who was impressed by Davidson’s talent during their time on Trainwreck, that an opportunity arose for Davidson to audition for Saturday Night Live.
Saturday Night Live and Rising Stardom
Davidson joined the cast of Saturday Night Live for its 40th season premiere in 2014. At just 20 years old, he became the first SNL cast member born in the 1990s and one of the youngest in the show’s history. His tenure on SNL, which lasted for eight seasons until 2022, saw him become a breakout star known for his appearances on the “Weekend Update” segment, where he often delivered personal and self-deprecating monologues. He created memorable characters, most notably “Chad,” a clueless teenager, and frequently utilized aspects of his own life—including his mental health struggles and relationships—as material for his sketches and commentary.
Film, Television, and Stand-Up
While still on SNL, Davidson began expanding his film and television career. He starred in and executive produced the 2019 comedy film Big Time Adolescence. A significant milestone was the 2020 semi-autobiographical comedy-drama film The King of Staten Island, which he co-wrote and starred in, alongside director Judd Apatow. The film delves into the life of a character inspired by Davidson’s own experiences, particularly grappling with the loss of a firefighter father. His film credits also include roles in the DC Comics film The Suicide Squad (2021), the horror-comedy Bodies Bodies Bodies (2022), and the romantic comedy Meet Cute (2022).
In 2023, Davidson co-created, wrote, and starred in the Peacock series Bupkis, another semi-autobiographical comedy-drama reflecting on his life and family. He also appeared in the 2023 film Dumb Money. Looking ahead, Davidson has several projects slated for release, including the films The Home, Riff Raff, and lending his voice to the animated film Dog Man, all anticipated for release in 2025.
As a stand-up comedian, Davidson has released several specials. His first hour-long special, Pete Davidson: SMD, aired on Comedy Central in 2016. This was followed by Pete Davidson: Alive from New York on Netflix in 2020, and most recently, Pete Davidson: Turbo Fonzarelli, released in 2024. Through these specials, he continues to connect with audiences through his raw honesty and distinctive comedic voice.
Pete Davidson Personal Life & Family
Pete Davidson was raised in Staten Island, New York, by his mother, Amy Waters Davidson, after the tragic death of his father, Scott Matthew Davidson, during the September 11 attacks. He shares a close bond with his mother and has a younger sister named Casey. Davidson has openly credited his family as his primary support system, particularly his mother, whom he has described as his “hero,” especially during his struggles with mental health.
Relationships
Davidson’s relationships have frequently attracted significant media attention. His notable romantic history includes comedian Carly Aquilino (2014-2015) and writer Cazzie David (2016-2018). He gained widespread public recognition for his brief engagement to pop superstar Ariana Grande in 2018. Following this, he was linked to several high-profile actresses and models, including Kate Beckinsale (2019), Margaret Qualley (2019), and Kaia Gerber (2019-2020).
One of his most publicized relationships was with reality television personality Kim Kardashian, which spanned from October 2021 to August 2022. More recently, Davidson was in a relationship with actress Chase Sui Wonders (2022-2023), followed by model Emily Ratajkowski (2022), and then actress Madelyn Cline (2023-2024). As of the latest reports, Davidson is in a relationship with Elsie Hewitt, and it was confirmed that they are expecting their first child.
Health and Well-being
Davidson has been very open about his health challenges. He was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease during his teenage years and uses medical marijuana to help manage its symptoms. In 2017, he publicly revealed his diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), explaining that he had previously misattributed his symptoms to mental breakdowns caused by excessive marijuana use. Davidson has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, often incorporating his experiences into his comedy and using his platform to encourage open discussions about such issues.
Awards and Achievements of Pete Davidson
Pete Davidson has received various accolades and recognitions throughout his career in comedy and acting. In 2014, he was recognized by Variety as one of their “Top 10 Comics to Watch.” His talent was further acknowledged when he was included in Forbes’ prestigious “30 Under 30” list in 2016.
For his work in the semi-autobiographical film The King of Staten Island (2020) and his stand-up special Pete Davidson: Alive from New York (2020), Davidson received several nominations. He was nominated for the People’s Choice Award for “Favorite Comedy Movie Star” and “Comedy Act” in 2020. He also earned nominations for the HCA Award for Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay in the same year. In 2021, Davidson received a CinEuphoria Award, winning “Best Actor – International Competition,” and was also nominated for “Best Ensemble” and “Best Screenplay – International Competition” for The King of Staten Island. While demonstrating his wide range, he has also received nominations for the Golden Raspberry Awards (Razzies) for Worst Actor in Marmaduke (2022) and Worst Supporting Actor in Good Mourning (2022).
Pete Davidson Net Worth and Income
Pete Davidson’s net worth has seen fluctuations, reflecting his dynamic career in comedy, film, and television. As of the latest reports, his estimated net worth is $4 million. This figure is noted to be a decrease from a reported $8 million in 2024. His earnings stem from a diverse range of income streams, including his long-standing role on Saturday Night Live, stand-up comedy tours, film and television projects, and various endorsement deals.
During his tenure on Saturday Night Live, Davidson’s salary grew significantly. In his initial seasons as a cast member, he reportedly earned $3,000 per episode. At the peak of his involvement with the show, his per-episode pay reached $15,000. This translated to annual earnings of approximately $315,000 from SNL alone, with top-tier cast members potentially earning up to $500,000 per year.
Beyond SNL, Davidson has commanded substantial income from his acting roles in films such as The King of Staten Island, The Suicide Squad, and Bodies Bodies Bodies, as well as his executive producer role in the Peacock series Bupkis. His stand-up specials, including Pete Davidson: Alive from New York and Pete Davidson: Turbo Fonzarelli, also contribute to his wealth through streaming deals and performance fees. Furthermore, Davidson has leveraged his public profile through lucrative endorsement deals with major brands such as Taco Bell, Manscaped, Smartwater, Totino’s, and Hellmann’s.
Davidson has also made notable investments in real estate. In 2016, he purchased a $1.3 million home for his mother on Staten Island. In 2020, he acquired his own $1.2 million condo, also on Staten Island, which he later listed for sale in 2022 before moving into a loft in Brooklyn. In a unique venture, Davidson, along with fellow SNL alum Colin Jost and comedy club owner Paul Italia, purchased a decommissioned Staten Island ferry boat for $280,000. The trio reportedly has ambitious plans to transform the vessel into an entertainment venue featuring restaurants, bars, and lodging, though Davidson has playfully described the purchase as a result of being “stoned.”
Legacy and Influence
Pete Davidson has cultivated a significant legacy through his unique and often controversial approach to comedy. His distinctive style is characterized by a blend of brutal honesty, self-deprecation, and candid confessions, often delving into deeply personal subjects such as his childhood trauma, mental health struggles, and past relationships. This willingness to lay bare his vulnerabilities has resonated with audiences, making him highly relatable and fostering a loyal fan base.
Davidson’s work on Saturday Night Live established him as a comedic voice for his generation, and his subsequent semi-autobiographical projects, including The King of Staten Island and Bupkis, have further cemented his influence. These works provide raw and unfiltered insights into his life, challenging traditional narratives of celebrity and mental health. By openly discussing his diagnoses of Crohn’s disease and Borderline Personality Disorder, Davidson has become an inadvertent advocate for mental health awareness, contributing to a more open dialogue about these issues in popular culture.
His impact extends beyond the stage and screen, influencing public perception through his high-profile personal life and his consistent ability to remain relevant in the fast-paced entertainment industry. Davidson’s career journey showcases a comedic talent that transforms personal pain and awkwardness into poignant and hilarious material, leaving a mark on how public figures engage with their personal stories and connect with their audience.
Interesting Facts about Pete Davidson
- Davidson has a tattoo of his father’s badge number, “8418,” on his left arm, a tribute to his firefighter father who died on September 11.
- He credits rapper Kid Cudi with saving his life, stating that he “would’ve killed myself if I didn’t have Kid Cudi” and his music.
- In 2022, Pete Davidson, alongside Saturday Night Live co-star Colin Jost and comedy club owner Paul Italia, purchased a decommissioned Staten Island ferry for $280,000, with plans to convert it into an entertainment venue.
- The term “BDE” (Big Dick Energy) became widely associated with Pete Davidson during his high-profile relationship with Ariana Grande, contributing to his unique public image.
- Davidson is a known fan of the Harry Potter series and even has a tattoo of the Deathly Hallows symbol.
- He has been open about using medical marijuana as a pain reliever for his Crohn’s disease diagnosis.
- He once made headlines for controversially joking about his own father’s death during the 9/11 attacks at the Comedy Central Roast of Justin Bieber.
Controversies
Pete Davidson’s candid and often edgy comedic style, coupled with his high-profile personal life, has occasionally led to public controversies. One notable instance involved a segment on Saturday Night Live where he made a joke about then-congressional candidate Dan Crenshaw, a former Navy SEAL who lost an eye in Afghanistan. Davidson later publicly apologized and appeared with Crenshaw on SNL, where they made amends, transforming the incident into a moment of bipartisan understanding.
His raw comedic approach has also touched on deeply sensitive subjects, including jokes about his firefighter father’s death during the September 11 attacks, particularly during the Comedy Central Roast of Justin Bieber. While some found it shocking, others saw it as a reflection of his dark, therapeutic humor. Davidson has also alluded to conflicts with other comedians, such as Louis C.K. attempting to get him fired from SNL for smoking marijuana, a story he shared in his stand-up special Alive from New York.
In his stand-up, Davidson has also been noted for anti-clerical jokes, comparing the Catholic Church’s scandals to those involving figures like R. Kelly, which drew some criticism. In early 2023, Davidson was involved in a car crash incident where he was charged with a reckless driving misdemeanor after crashing his car into a house. No one was injured in the incident. These instances underscore Davidson’s tendency to push boundaries and use his personal experiences, even contentious ones, as material for his comedic expression.
Social Media Presence
Pete Davidson maintains a notable, albeit sometimes intermittent, presence across social media platforms. While specific follower counts can fluctuate rapidly and official individual accounts are not always consistently active due to his personal preferences and past periods of withdrawal, his public image and career are heavily discussed and followed online. He generally does not maintain a highly active personal social media profile but his work, appearances, and personal life are widely covered and shared across platforms like Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube by fans and media outlets. His projects, such as Bupkis and his stand-up specials, are promoted through official channels and network accounts, where his content garners significant engagement. His public persona and highly visible relationships ensure that he remains a constant topic of conversation and interest across the digital landscape, despite often opting for a more private online presence.
Final Words about Pete Davidson
Pete Davidson continues to evolve as a prominent and influential figure in entertainment. With a career spanning over a decade, he has transitioned from a breakout star on Saturday Night Live to a multifaceted comedian, actor, and writer. His unique brand of confessional, self-aware humor, deeply rooted in his personal experiences, including coping with loss and mental health challenges, has resonated with a broad audience and redefined contemporary comedy.
Davidson remains actively involved in diverse projects. Beyond his acclaimed stand-up specials like Pete Davidson: Turbo Fonzarelli, he is continuously pursuing new acting roles in both film and television, with several projects anticipated for release. His semi-autobiographical works, such as The King of Staten Island and Bupkis, stand as significant contributions, offering unfiltered glimpses into his life and solidifying his legacy as an artist who bravely transforms personal vulnerabilities into compelling narratives. As he navigates upcoming ventures, including the unique project of transforming a Staten Island ferry into an entertainment hub, Pete Davidson’s career trajectory underscores a commitment to authentic storytelling and a persistent impact on the landscape of popular culture.