Pete Davidson

Biography:

Peter Michael Davidson, known professionally as Pete Davidson, is an American comedian, actor, and writer celebrated for his candid humor and distinctive comedic style. Born on November 16, 1993, in Staten Island, New York, Pete has become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, particularly recognized for his tenure on Saturday Night Live (SNL) and his work in film and stand-up comedy.​

Early Life and Personal Background

Pete is the son of Amy Waters Davidson, a school nurse, and Scott Matthew Davidson, a New York City firefighter who tragically lost his life during the September 11, 2001 attacks. This profound loss deeply affected Pete, leading to challenges during his formative years, including struggles with mental health. He has a younger sister named Casey and was raised in a Catholic household. ​

Education and Introduction to Comedy

Davidson attended several schools, including St. Joseph by-the-Sea High School and Tottenville High School, before graduating from Xaverian High School in 2011. He briefly attended St. Francis College in Brooklyn Heights but left to pursue a career in comedy. At 16, Pete performed stand-up comedy for the first time at a Staten Island bowling alley, marking the beginning of his journey in the comedic arts. ​

Rise to Fame on Saturday Night Live

In 2014, at the age of 20, Davidson joined the cast of Saturday Night Live, making him one of the youngest cast members in the show's history and the first to be born in the 1990s. His relatable humor and willingness to address personal topics, including his father's passing and his own mental health struggles, resonated with audiences. Pete remained a key figure on SNL for eight seasons, departing in 2022. 

Film and Television Career

Beyond SNL, Pete has built a diverse acting portfolio. He starred in and co-wrote the semi-autobiographical film The King of Staten Island (2020), which received critical acclaim. His other film credits include roles in Big Time Adolescence (2019), The Suicide Squad (2021), and Bodies Bodies Bodies (2022). In 2023, he co-wrote and starred in the Peacock series Bupkis, a fictionalized portrayal of his life. ​

Stand-Up Comedy and Specials

Davidson has released several stand-up specials that showcase his raw and unfiltered comedic style. His specials include Pete Davidson: SMD (2016), Pete Davidson: Alive from New York (2020), and Pete Davidson: Turbo Fonzarelli (2024). These performances often delve into his personal experiences, offering audiences an intimate look at his life. ​

Personal Life and Public Perception

Pete's personal life has frequently attracted media attention, particularly his high-profile relationships with celebrities such as Ariana Grande and Kim Kardashian. Despite the public scrutiny, Davidson has been open about his mental health challenges, including his diagnosis of borderline personality disorder, and his efforts to destigmatize such issues. 

Recent Developments and Future Aspirations

As of early 2025, Pete has expressed a desire to transition into more dramatic acting roles, aiming to diversify his career beyond comedy. He continues to focus on personal growth and professional development, seeking to be recognized for his work rather than his personal relationships. ​

Pete Davidson's journey reflects resilience and adaptability, with his unique blend of humor and authenticity endearing him to a broad audience. His willingness to confront personal challenges publicly has not only shaped his career but also contributed to broader conversations about mental health and personal loss.