When Was Pete Davidson On Snl? Pete Davidson’s tenure on Saturday Night Live is a significant chapter in his career, and at PETS.EDU.VN we understand that many fans and comedy enthusiasts are curious about the details. Discover the evolution of this comedian’s time, what made his performances special, and explore how his career has blossomed since then.
1. Pete Davidson’s Start on SNL The Beginning of a Comedy Star
Pete Davidson started on Saturday Night Live in 2014, making him one of the youngest cast members in the show’s history at just 20 years old. Davidson’s debut marked a fresh, youthful energy injected into the long-running sketch comedy show, and he quickly became known for his unique brand of humor, often drawing from personal experiences and observations.
1.1 How Pete Davidson joined SNL
Pete Davidson’s journey to Saturday Night Live is a testament to his talent and perseverance. Before landing his spot on SNL, he honed his comedy skills through stand-up performances in various venues across New York City.
His early stand-up material, often characterized by its raw honesty and self-deprecating humor, caught the attention of comedy insiders. One of the pivotal moments in his career was his appearance on Guy Code, an MTV series that features comedians and celebrities discussing various aspects of male culture. This exposure helped him gain a broader audience and further refine his comedic voice.
Around the same time, Davidson made a brief appearance on Brooklyn Nine-Nine, showcasing his acting abilities and versatility as a performer. However, it was his connection with Bill Hader that ultimately paved the way for his Saturday Night Live audition. Hader, a former SNL cast member, recognized Davidson’s potential and encouraged him to try out for the show.
With Hader’s support and his growing confidence, Davidson auditioned for Saturday Night Live in 2014. His audition was a success, and he was hired as a cast member for the show’s 40th season.
- Early Stand-Up: Honed his comedy skills in various NYC venues.
- Guy Code Appearance: Gained broader audience exposure.
- Brooklyn Nine-Nine Role: Showcased his acting abilities.
- Bill Hader’s Support: Encouraged him to audition for SNL.
- Successful Audition: Landed a spot on Saturday Night Live in 2014.
1.2 Initial Impressions and Early Roles
Davidson’s early appearances on SNL were marked by his “Weekend Update” segments, where he quickly became a fan favorite for his candid and often self-deprecating commentary on current events and his own life. His youthful perspective and willingness to discuss personal struggles resonated with audiences, setting him apart from other cast members.
Besides Weekend Update, Davidson also took on various roles in the show’s sketch comedy segments. While he initially played smaller parts, his comedic timing and ability to embody quirky characters allowed him to gradually take on more prominent roles. He showcased his versatility, whether he was portraying a clueless teenager or a satirical version of a celebrity.
- Weekend Update: Candid commentary on current events and personal life.
- Sketch Comedy: Gradual shift from smaller to more prominent roles.
- Character Variety: Showcased versatility in portraying diverse characters.
- Youthful Perspective: Brought a fresh, relatable energy to the show.
2. Pete Davidson’s Time on SNL Key Moments and Characters
During his eight seasons on Saturday Night Live, Pete Davidson created several memorable moments and characters that solidified his status as a comedic force. His willingness to push boundaries, combined with his unique comedic timing, made him a standout performer.
2.1 Memorable Characters and Sketches
Davidson was known for his recurring characters, often based on exaggerated versions of himself or archetypal figures. One of his most popular characters was Chad, a perpetually nonchalant and monosyllabic young man who finds himself in increasingly absurd situations. Chad’s deadpan delivery and indifference in the face of chaos became a signature of Davidson’s comedy.
He also gained recognition for his impersonations of celebrities, including his portrayal of former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, which was widely praised for its accuracy and comedic timing. These impersonations showcased his range as a performer and his ability to capture the essence of public figures.
Beyond recurring characters and impersonations, Davidson was also a key player in numerous memorable sketches. Whether he was playing a supporting role or taking the lead, his comedic instincts and ability to play off other cast members contributed to the success of many of the show’s most popular segments.
- Chad: A nonchalant character in absurd situations.
- Celebrity Impersonations: Including Andrew Cuomo.
- Sketch Comedy: Key player in numerous popular segments.
2.2 Weekend Update Appearances
Pete Davidson’s appearances on “Weekend Update” were a consistent highlight of his time on Saturday Night Live. The segment provided him with a platform to deliver sharp, often self-deprecating commentary on current events, pop culture, and his own personal life.
His “Weekend Update” segments were known for their honesty and vulnerability. Davidson often spoke openly about his struggles with mental health, substance abuse, and his experiences with fame. This level of transparency resonated with audiences, who appreciated his willingness to be authentic and relatable.
Davidson also used “Weekend Update” to address controversies and rumors surrounding his personal life. Rather than shying away from these topics, he confronted them head-on with humor and wit. This approach allowed him to control the narrative and connect with viewers on a deeper level.
- Sharp Commentary: On current events and pop culture.
- Honesty and Vulnerability: Discussed mental health and personal struggles.
- Addressing Controversies: Confronted rumors with humor and wit.
2.3 Collaborations and Chemistry with Other Cast Members
Pete Davidson’s success on Saturday Night Live was also due to his strong collaborations and chemistry with other cast members. He formed close working relationships with several of his colleagues, often appearing alongside them in sketches and segments.
One of his most notable collaborations was with Kate McKinnon, with whom he shared a natural comedic rapport. Their scenes together were often marked by improvisation and playful banter, creating memorable and hilarious moments.
Davidson also developed a close friendship with Colin Jost and Michael Che, the co-anchors of “Weekend Update.” Their camaraderie was evident on screen, and they often incorporated each other into their jokes and commentary.
- Kate McKinnon: Shared a natural comedic rapport.
- Colin Jost and Michael Che: Close friendship and on-screen camaraderie.
- Improvisation and Banter: Created memorable and hilarious moments.
- Collaborative Segments: Appeared alongside colleagues in sketches and segments.
3. Pete Davidson’s Departure from SNL Saying Goodbye to Studio 8H
Pete Davidson left Saturday Night Live in 2022, marking the end of an era for both the comedian and the show. His departure came after eight seasons, during which he had become one of the show’s most recognizable and popular faces.
3.1 Reasons for Leaving
Davidson’s decision to leave Saturday Night Live was influenced by several factors. After eight seasons, he felt that it was time for him to move on to new challenges and opportunities.
One of the primary reasons for his departure was his desire to focus on his burgeoning film and television career. Davidson had already begun to explore acting roles outside of SNL, appearing in movies like The King of Staten Island and The Suicide Squad. He wanted to dedicate more time to pursuing these projects and further developing his acting skills.
Another factor was his growing recognition and fame, which had made it increasingly difficult for him to maintain a sense of normalcy. He felt that leaving SNL would allow him to step out of the spotlight and focus on his personal well-being.
- New Challenges: Wanted to pursue new opportunities.
- Film and Television Career: Focus on acting roles outside of SNL.
- Growing Fame: Difficult to maintain a sense of normalcy.
- Personal Well-being: Stepping out of the spotlight.
3.2 Farewell Message and Final Appearances
In his farewell message, Davidson expressed his gratitude to Lorne Michaels and everyone at Saturday Night Live for their support and guidance over the years. He acknowledged that the show had been instrumental in his personal and professional growth, and that he would always cherish his time there.
His final appearances on SNL were emotional and celebratory. He participated in several sketches that paid tribute to his time on the show, and he received a warm send-off from his fellow cast members and the audience.
- Gratitude: Expressed thanks to Lorne Michaels and SNL staff.
- Instrumental Growth: Acknowledged the show’s impact on his career.
- Emotional Finale: Sketches paying tribute to his time on the show.
- Warm Send-Off: Received from cast members and audience.
3.3 Impact on SNL
Pete Davidson’s departure undoubtedly left a void on Saturday Night Live. His unique comedic voice and his ability to connect with audiences had made him a valuable asset to the show.
His absence was felt in the “Weekend Update” segment, where his candid commentary and self-deprecating humor had become a staple. The show’s writers and performers had to find new ways to fill that space and maintain the segment’s appeal.
However, Davidson’s departure also created opportunities for other cast members to step up and showcase their talents. The show has a long history of adapting to changes in its cast, and it has continued to evolve and reinvent itself over the years.
- Unique Comedic Voice: His departure left a void on SNL.
- Weekend Update: New ways were needed to maintain the segment’s appeal.
- Opportunities for Others: Created space for other cast members.
- Show Evolution: SNL has a history of adapting to changes.
4. Pete Davidson’s Career After SNL A Look at His Projects
Since leaving Saturday Night Live, Pete Davidson has continued to pursue a variety of projects in film, television, and comedy. His career has expanded beyond the sketch comedy show, allowing him to explore new creative avenues and showcase his versatility as a performer.
4.1 Film Roles
Davidson has taken on several film roles since leaving SNL, ranging from comedies to dramas. His performance in The King of Staten Island, a semi-autobiographical film directed by Judd Apatow, was widely praised for its authenticity and vulnerability.
He has also appeared in films like The Suicide Squad and Bodies Bodies Bodies, showcasing his ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles. These film projects have allowed him to reach a wider audience and establish himself as a versatile actor.
- *The King of Staten Island: Widely praised for authenticity.
- The Suicide Squad and Bodies Bodies Bodies: Showcasing versatility.
- Broader Audience: Established himself as a versatile actor.
4.2 Television Shows
In addition to his film work, Davidson has also been involved in several television projects. He created and starred in Bupkis, a semi-autobiographical comedy series that premiered in 2023. The show, which also features Edie Falco and Joe Pesci, has been praised for its raw honesty and comedic storytelling.
Davidson has also made guest appearances on other television shows, further expanding his presence in the entertainment industry. These projects have allowed him to collaborate with other talented actors and writers, and to continue to hone his skills as a performer.
- *Bupkis: A semi-autobiographical comedy series.
- Edie Falco and Joe Pesci: Also featured in the show.
- Guest Appearances: Expanded his presence in television.
- Talented Collaborators: Honing his skills as a performer.
4.3 Stand-Up Comedy
Despite his success in film and television, Davidson has remained committed to his roots in stand-up comedy. He has continued to tour as a stand-up comedian, performing for live audiences across the country.
His stand-up shows are known for their raw honesty and self-deprecating humor. Davidson often talks about his personal struggles, his relationships, and his experiences with fame. This level of vulnerability has made him a relatable and beloved figure in the comedy world.
- Touring Comedian: Performing for live audiences.
- Raw Honesty: Talking about personal struggles.
- Self-Deprecating Humor: A relatable and beloved figure.
- Commitment to Roots: Remained committed to stand-up comedy.
5. Pete Davidson’s Hosting Return to SNL
In October 2023, Pete Davidson made a triumphant return to Saturday Night Live, this time as the host. His hosting gig marked a full-circle moment for the comedian, as he returned to the show that had launched his career.
5.1 Hosting Monologue
Davidson’s hosting monologue was one of the highlights of the episode. He used the opportunity to reflect on his time on SNL, to poke fun at himself, and to address some of the controversies that had surrounded him in recent years.
His monologue was praised for its honesty and humor. He spoke openly about his mental health struggles, his relationships, and his experiences with fame. This level of transparency resonated with the audience, who appreciated his willingness to be vulnerable and authentic.
- Reflecting on SNL: Poking fun at himself.
- Addressing Controversies: With honesty and humor.
- Mental Health Struggles: Speaking openly.
- Vulnerable and Authentic: Resonated with the audience.
5.2 Sketches and Performances
As host, Davidson participated in several sketches throughout the episode. He showcased his versatility as a performer, taking on a variety of different characters and roles.
His sketches were praised for their creativity and humor. He collaborated with the show’s current cast members, creating memorable and hilarious moments.
- Versatile Performer: Taking on different characters and roles.
- Creative and Humorous: Sketches were praised.
- Collaborations: With current cast members.
- Memorable Moments: Hilarious moments were created.
5.3 Reception and Reviews
Davidson’s hosting gig was generally well-received by critics and audiences alike. Many praised his monologue, his sketches, and his overall performance.
Some critics noted that Davidson brought a fresh energy to the show, while others appreciated his willingness to take risks and push boundaries. Overall, his return to SNL was seen as a success, solidifying his status as a comedic force.
- Well-Received: By critics and audiences.
- Fresh Energy: Davidson brought to the show.
- Willingness to Take Risks: Pushing boundaries.
- Success: Solidifying his status as a comedic force.
6. The Evolution of Pete Davidson’s Comedy Style Development and Growth
Pete Davidson’s comedy style has evolved significantly throughout his career. From his early days as a stand-up comedian to his time on Saturday Night Live and beyond, he has continually refined his comedic voice and explored new avenues of expression.
6.1 Early Influences
Davidson’s early comedy was influenced by a variety of sources, including stand-up comedians like Bill Burr and Patrice O’Neal. He also drew inspiration from his own life experiences, particularly his struggles with mental health and substance abuse.
These early influences helped to shape his raw, honest, and self-deprecating style of comedy. He was never afraid to talk about his personal struggles on stage, and this willingness to be vulnerable resonated with audiences.
- Bill Burr and Patrice O’Neal: Influenced his comedy.
- Life Experiences: Struggles with mental health.
- Raw, Honest, and Self-Deprecating: His early style.
- Willingness to Be Vulnerable: Resonated with audiences.
6.2 Impact of SNL
Saturday Night Live had a profound impact on Davidson’s comedy style. The show provided him with a platform to experiment with different characters, sketch formats, and comedic techniques.
He learned to write and perform under pressure, to collaborate with other talented comedians, and to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of comedy. These experiences helped him to hone his skills and to develop a more versatile and nuanced comedic voice.
- Experimentation: With different characters and formats.
- Writing and Performing: Under pressure.
- Collaboration: With other talented comedians.
- Versatile Voice: Developing a more nuanced voice.
6.3 Current Style and Themes
Davidson’s current comedy style is characterized by its raw honesty, its self-deprecating humor, and its willingness to tackle difficult and controversial topics. He often talks about his mental health struggles, his relationships, and his experiences with fame.
He is also known for his observational humor, his sharp wit, and his ability to find the funny in everyday situations. His comedy is often thought-provoking, challenging, and deeply personal.
- Raw Honesty: Addressing difficult topics.
- Self-Deprecating Humor: Addressing his struggles.
- Observational Humor: Finding the funny in everyday situations.
- Thought-Provoking: Challenging and deeply personal.
7. Pete Davidson’s Personal Life and Public Persona Balancing Fame and Privacy
Pete Davidson’s personal life has often been the subject of public scrutiny. His high-profile relationships, his struggles with mental health, and his experiences with fame have all been widely reported in the media.
7.1 Relationships
Davidson has been linked to several high-profile celebrities, including Ariana Grande, Kate Beckinsale, and Kim Kardashian. These relationships have often generated a great deal of media attention, with paparazzi following his every move.
Davidson has spoken openly about the challenges of dating in the public eye. He has noted that it can be difficult to maintain a sense of privacy and to protect his relationships from unwanted scrutiny.
- High-Profile Celebrities: Relationships generated media attention.
- Challenges of Dating: Difficult to maintain privacy.
- Unwanted Scrutiny: Protecting his relationships.
- Public Eye: His every move was followed.
7.2 Mental Health
Davidson has been candid about his struggles with mental health, particularly his battle with borderline personality disorder. He has spoken openly about his experiences with therapy, medication, and self-care.
His willingness to discuss his mental health has helped to raise awareness of mental health issues and to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. He has become an advocate for mental health, encouraging others to seek help when they need it.
- Borderline Personality Disorder: Spoken about his struggles.
- Therapy and Medication: Discussing his experiences.
- Raising Awareness: Reducing the stigma.
- Advocate for Mental Health: Encouraging others to seek help.
7.3 Dealing with Fame
Davidson has also spoken about the challenges of dealing with fame. He has noted that it can be difficult to maintain a sense of normalcy and to avoid the pressures of celebrity culture.
He has developed coping mechanisms for dealing with fame, including spending time with friends and family, engaging in hobbies, and seeking therapy. He has also learned to set boundaries and to protect his privacy.
- Maintaining Normality: Avoiding the pressures of celebrity culture.
- Coping Mechanisms: Spending time with loved ones.
- Setting Boundaries: Protecting his privacy.
- Challenges of Fame: Maintaining a sense of normalcy.
8. Pete Davidson’s Future Projects What’s Next for the Comedian
Pete Davidson has a bright future ahead of him. With his talent, his work ethic, and his growing fan base, he is poised to achieve even greater success in the years to come.
8.1 Upcoming Films
Davidson has several upcoming film projects in the works. He is currently filming Wizards!, a comedy directed by David Michôd. He is also attached to star in Meet Cute, a romantic comedy co-starring Kaley Cuoco.
These film projects will allow him to continue to showcase his versatility as an actor and to reach a wider audience.
- *Wizards!: A comedy directed by David Michôd.
- *Meet Cute: A romantic comedy co-starring Kaley Cuoco.
- Versatile Actor: Showcasing his versatility.
- Wider Audience: Reaching a broader audience.
8.2 Television Endeavors
In addition to his film work, Davidson is also developing new television projects. He is reportedly working on a new comedy series for Peacock, the streaming service owned by NBCUniversal.
The details of the show are currently under wraps, but it is expected to be a semi-autobiographical comedy similar to Bupkis.
- New Comedy Series: For Peacock.
- Semi-Autobiographical: Similar to Bupkis.
- Television Projects: Developing new projects.
- NBCUniversal: Streaming service owned by NBCUniversal.
8.3 Continued Stand-Up
Davidson is expected to continue touring as a stand-up comedian. He has a loyal following of fans who appreciate his raw honesty, his self-deprecating humor, and his willingness to tackle difficult and controversial topics.
His stand-up shows are always a hot ticket, and he is sure to continue selling out venues across the country.
- Touring Comedian: Continuing to tour.
- Loyal Following: Appreciating his raw honesty.
- Hot Ticket: Shows are always a hot ticket.
- Selling Out Venues: Across the country.
9. Pete Davidson’s Influence on Comedy and Culture Impact and Legacy
Pete Davidson has had a significant influence on comedy and culture. His raw honesty, his self-deprecating humor, and his willingness to tackle difficult and controversial topics have resonated with audiences around the world.
9.1 Representation of Mental Health
Davidson has helped to normalize conversations about mental health. His willingness to speak openly about his struggles with borderline personality disorder has encouraged others to seek help when they need it.
He has also challenged the stigma associated with mental illness, showing that it is possible to live a full and productive life even with a mental health condition.
- Normalizing Conversations: About mental health.
- Borderline Personality Disorder: Speaking openly about his struggles.
- Challenging Stigma: Associated with mental illness.
- Full and Productive Life: Living with a mental health condition.
9.2 Authenticity and Relatability
Davidson is known for his authenticity and relatability. He is not afraid to be himself, even when that means being vulnerable and imperfect.
His willingness to be honest about his struggles and his imperfections has made him a relatable figure for many people. He has shown that it is okay to be yourself, even if you are not perfect.
- Authenticity and Relatability: Known for being himself.
- Vulnerable and Imperfect: Not afraid to be.
- Honest About Struggles: A relatable figure.
- Okay to Be Yourself: Even if you are not perfect.
9.3 Impact on Younger Comedians
Davidson has inspired a new generation of comedians. His success has shown that it is possible to be successful in comedy by being yourself and by speaking your truth.
He has also encouraged younger comedians to be more open and honest about their struggles and their imperfections. He has shown that vulnerability can be a strength, not a weakness.
- Inspired a New Generation: Of comedians.
- Being Yourself: Successful by being yourself.
- Open and Honest: About their struggles.
- Vulnerability Can Be a Strength: Not a weakness.
10. FAQs About Pete Davidson’s SNL Career
Here are some frequently asked questions about Pete Davidson’s career on Saturday Night Live:
10.1 When did Pete Davidson join SNL?
Pete Davidson joined Saturday Night Live in 2014 at the age of 20, making him one of the youngest cast members in the show’s history.
10.2 How long was Pete Davidson on SNL?
Pete Davidson was on Saturday Night Live for eight seasons, from 2014 to 2022.
10.3 What was Pete Davidson known for on SNL?
Pete Davidson was known for his “Weekend Update” segments, his recurring characters, his celebrity impersonations, and his collaborations with other cast members.
10.4 Why did Pete Davidson leave SNL?
Pete Davidson left Saturday Night Live to pursue new challenges and opportunities in film, television, and comedy. He also wanted to focus on his personal well-being.
10.5 Has Pete Davidson hosted SNL after leaving?
Yes, Pete Davidson hosted Saturday Night Live in October 2023.
10.6 What is Pete Davidson doing now?
Since leaving SNL, Pete Davidson has been involved in various film, television, and comedy projects. He has starred in movies like The King of Staten Island and The Suicide Squad, and he has created and starred in the comedy series Bupkis.
10.7 What is Pete Davidson’s comedy style?
Pete Davidson’s comedy style is characterized by its raw honesty, its self-deprecating humor, and its willingness to tackle difficult and controversial topics.
10.8 How has Pete Davidson influenced comedy?
Pete Davidson has helped to normalize conversations about mental health, he has shown the importance of authenticity and relatability, and he has inspired a new generation of comedians.
10.9 What is Pete Davidson’s most famous SNL character?
One of Pete Davidson’s most famous SNL characters is Chad, a nonchalant and monosyllabic young man who finds himself in absurd situations.
10.10 Where can I watch Pete Davidson’s SNL performances?
You can watch Pete Davidson’s SNL performances on Peacock, the streaming service owned by NBCUniversal, and on YouTube.
Conclusion
Pete Davidson’s time on Saturday Night Live was a formative period in his career. From his debut as one of the youngest cast members to his memorable characters and “Weekend Update” appearances, he left an indelible mark on the show.
His departure marked the end of an era, but it also opened up new opportunities for him to explore his talents in film, television, and stand-up comedy. And his return to SNL as a host in 2023 was a testament to his enduring popularity and comedic prowess.
As Pete Davidson continues to evolve as a performer, it’s clear that his impact on comedy and culture will continue to be felt for years to come. Stay updated with the latest insights and news on your favorite comedians and their careers at PETS.EDU.VN.
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