10 Surprising Facts You Didn’t Know About Pete Davidson

Pete Davidson has made a significant mark in the entertainment industry. He is known for his comedy and unique presence on Saturday Night Live. Born on November 16, 1993, in Staten Island, New York, Davidson’s rise to fame began at a young age when he joined SNL at just 20 years old.

Discovering more about Davidson can reveal many intriguing and lesser-known aspects of his life and career. His journey through personal challenges and professional achievements paints a multifaceted picture of one of contemporary comedy’s most notable figures. Readers will find themselves surprised by the breadth of experiences and facts that define Pete Davidson.

Pete’s father was a firefighter who died on 9/11

Pete Davidson’s father, Scott Davidson, was a New York City firefighter.

Scott Davidson died while responding to the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.

At the time of his death, Pete was just seven years old. The loss profoundly impacted his life and career.

Scott Davidson was more than a firefighter. He was known for his roles as a bartender, coach, and substitute teacher.

He was dedicated to serving the community in many capacities, making his loss deeply felt.

Pete Davidson has frequently spoken about his father’s heroism and the personal impact of the tragedy.

Learning about his father’s death was a traumatic experience for young Pete. He often channels it, despite the pain, into his comedy and public talks.

Scott Davidson’s bravery and dedication are significant to Pete’s narrative.

The legacy of service and sacrifice by Scott Davidson adds a layer of depth to Pete’s public persona.

Pete was the youngest SNL cast member ever hired

• Pete Davidson joined Saturday Night Live (SNL) at 20 in 2014.
• This made him one of the youngest cast members in the show’s history.

He joined the ranks of other young SNL cast members like Eddie Murphy and Anthony Michael Hall. Murphy was 19 when he started, while Hall was the youngest ever at 17.

Davidson stood out with his unique comedic style. His humor often reflected personal experiences and self-deprecation.

This young start on such a prominent platform helped him rapidly gain recognition in comedy. His age meant he brought fresh perspectives and energy to the show.

Davidson’s early entry into SNL paved the way for his ongoing career in comedy and acting. His youthfulness and talent significantly impacted the show during his tenure.

He has over 40 tattoos covering his body

Pete Davidson has over 70 tattoos adorning his body. Each tattoo tells a story and reflects significant moments or people in his life.

Several tattoos pay tribute to his late father, Scott Matthew Davidson, who was a firefighter killed during the 9/11 attacks. These include a kneeling firefighter on his left arm and an “11” behind his left ear.

Davidson’s body also showcases ink inspired by his favorite movies and past relationships. These include a ‘Gryffindor’ tattoo and a ‘Sorting Hat’ on his fingers, both nods to the Harry Potter series.

The tattoos are a blend of personal, emotional, and whimsical designs. He uses his body as a canvas to express his unique experiences and interests. The eclectic collection of tattoos makes his skin a living chronicle of his life’s journey so far.

Some of his tattoos have been covered up or removed. This includes tattoos he got during various relationships, reflecting changes in his personal life.

Overall, his tattoos capture a wide range of emotions and milestones. From family tributes to pop culture references, each piece adds depth to his public persona.

Davidson dated pop star Ariana Grande in 2018

• Dating Timeline: Pete Davidson and Ariana Grande’s relationship began in May 2018. They became a couple shortly after both had ended relationships with their respective partners.
• Whirlwind Romance: Their relationship moved quickly. Davidson proposed to Grande in June 2018, just a few weeks after they started dating. The engagement was marked by a $93,000 pear-shaped ring.
• Public Appearances: Both celebrities appeared together frequently, capturing public attention. Their romantic gestures and social media posts added to the media frenzy surrounding their relationship.
• Tattoos: Davidson got several tattoos inspired by Grande. This included a tattoo of the Playboy-esque bunny ears mask from her “Dangerous Woman” album.
• End of the Engagement: In October 2018, just under five months after their engagement, Pete Davidson and Ariana Grande called it quits. The breakup was highly publicized and shocked many fans.
• Legacy of the Relationship: Though brief, their relationship left a lasting impact on both stars. Grande’s song “thank u, next” references her past relationships, including her time with Davidson.
• Media Attention: The couple’s relationship and breakup were extensively covered in the media. Both stars continued to face questions about their brief but high-profile romance long after it ended.

He has openly discussed his struggles with mental health

• Pete Davidson has been very transparent about his mental health issues.
• He has publicly talked about his experiences with borderline personality disorder (BPD).
• The comedian has also addressed his battles with depression and anxiety.

Davidson believed that drug use, including medical marijuana for Crohn’s disease, impacted his behavior.

He started experiencing severe emotional episodes, such as anger and rage, around 2016.

These episodes occasionally left him with memory gaps.

Davidson uses his platform to raise awareness about mental health.

He has participated in candid interviews discussing his mental health journey.

By sharing his story, he aims to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

Pete appeared in a 2020 film he co-wrote called ‘The King of Staten Island’

Pete Davidson co-wrote and starred in the 2020 film “The King of Staten Island.”

The film was directed by Judd Apatow.

Davidson collaborated on the screenplay with Apatow and Dave Sirus.

The story is semi-autobiographical, drawing from Davidson’s own life experiences.

Davidson’s character, Scott, deals with issues following his firefighter father’s death.

The film showcases Davidson’s unique comedic style.

Marisa Tomei and Bill Burr also star in the movie.

Davidson’s performance received praise for its authenticity.

He used his real-life grief to enhance his portrayal.

“The King of Staten Island” blends humor and drama effectively.

Davidson has a condition called Crohn’s disease

Pete Davidson has openly discussed his battle with Crohn’s disease. Diagnosed in his teenage years, this chronic inflammatory bowel disease affects his digestive tract.

Davidson often experiences abdominal pain and fatigue. These symptoms are common for those living with Crohn’s disease.

Managing his condition involves a combination of medication, diet changes, and sometimes even surgery. Known treatments aim to reduce inflammation and improve quality of life.

Despite his condition, Davidson continues to work actively. He credits his resilience to support from family and friends.

Some of his symptoms can be severe. Yet, he remains committed to his career in comedy and acting.

He once lived with his mother in the basement

• Pete Davidson, well-known for his work on Saturday Night Live, shared a home with his mother for some time.
• In fact, he resided in the basement of the house they purchased together on Staten Island.
• This living arrangement came about two years after they bought the property.

Davidson spoke candidly about the situation on various talk shows.

• He humorously noted the experience of living in his mom’s basement as a 27-year-old.
• Despite the situation, he made the space uniquely his own.

He even built an arcade in the basement.

• This added a fun and personal touch to his living quarters.
• Davidson also hosted gatherings there, including a birthday party for Kid Cudi.

Eventually, Davidson moved out of his mom’s house.

• He found his own place, marking a new chapter in his life.
• This transition was a significant step for the comedian.

Pete has a notable collection of luxury watches

• Pete Davidson’s watch collection features several luxury timepieces.
• His collection mainly consists of Rolex watches.

Many of his Rolex watches are of the three-hand variety, indicating simplicity.

He tends to opt for models with only a date complication.

He has been photographed wearing these timepieces on multiple occasions.

Davidson’s preference for Rolex demonstrates his taste for classic luxury.

His collection is reportedly almost exclusively Rolex.

These watches are known for their precision and craftsmanship.

In addition to Rolex, he has also been seen wearing G-Shock watches.

This contrast shows his appreciation for both high-end and practical timepieces.

He starred in ‘Suicide Squad’ as Blackguard

Pete Davidson played the Blackguard in “The Suicide Squad.” His character is known for wearing a suit of heavy-duty armor and wielding an energy shield and mace.

Davidson’s decision to join the cast was influenced by learning that Blackguard’s real name is Dick Hertz. This small detail made the character stand out to him.

In the film, Blackguard is part of a team assembled by Amanda Waller, including other characters like Marauder, the General, and White Dragon.

“Suicide Squad” fans may remember Blackguard from DC Comics. In the comics, he was originally a member of a group called the 1,000. Davidson’s portrayal stayed true to some of the core aspects of the character.

Although not a major character, Blackguard’s role added to the diverse mix of personalities in the movie. The involvement of different characters brought unique dynamics to the story.

Early Life and Background

Pete Davidson, born on November 16, 1993, in Staten Island, New York, navigated a challenging and unique childhood. His early experiences shaped his path to becoming a stand-up comedian and actor.

Family and Upbringing

Pete Davidson was born to parents Amy and Scott Davidson. His father, Scott, served as a firefighter and tragically lost his life during the 9/11 attacks in 2001. Scott was last seen entering the Marriott World Trade Center, a memory significantly impacting Pete’s life and career.

Growing up, Pete faced numerous challenges, including coping with his father’s death at a young age. This loss profoundly influenced his mental health and comedic style.

Pete’s mother, Amy, played a crucial role in his upbringing. She worked as a school nurse to support Pete and his younger sister, Casey. The Davidson family remained close-knit despite their hardships, providing Pete with resilience and support.

Education and Early Career

Pete Davidson attended several high schools in Staten Island, eventually graduating from Xaverian High School in 2011.

• He faced bullying and struggled academically, which contributed to his early diagnosis of Crohn’s disease and subsequent mental health challenges.
• Despite these obstacles, Pete found solace in comedy.

He began performing stand-up at age 16, initially as a therapeutic outlet. His unique humor and raw storytelling quickly garnered attention.

After high school, Pete briefly attended St. Francis College in Brooklyn Heights. However, he left college to pursue a full-time comedy career. This decision proved pivotal as he gained recognition, leading to his eventual breakthrough on “Saturday Night Live” in 2014.

Career Highlights

Pete Davidson’s career is filled with momentous achievements and standout performances that highlight his growth as a comedian and actor. His journey includes key moments that propelled his visibility and roles that showcased his unique talents to broader audiences.

Breakthrough Moments

• Saturday Night Live (SNL): Davidson joined SNL in 2014 at 20, making him one of the youngest cast members in the show’s history. This opportunity significantly boosted his public profile. He quickly became known for his distinctive comedic style and relatable humor.
• Stand-Up Specials: His 2016 Comedy Central special, “Pete Davidson: SMD,” and his 2020 Netflix special, “Pete Davidson: Alive from New York,” earned critical acclaim. These specials allowed him to share personal stories, resonating with a wider audience.
• Film Roles: Davidson made notable moves in cinema with roles in films like “Trainwreck” (2015) and “The King of Staten Island” (2020). The latter, directed by Judd Apatow, is semi-autobiographical, drawing from Davidson’s own life experiences and providing him with a platform to display his dramatic range.

These moments collectively contributed to establishing Davidson as a significant figure in modern comedy and entertainment.

Notable Performances

• Chad on SNL: One of Davidson’s standout characters on SNL is Chad, a nonchalant and oblivious guy who finds himself in increasingly absurd situations. The sketches are celebrated for their humor and Davidson’s effortless performance.
• Guy Code and Wild ‘N Out: Before SNL, Davidson appeared on MTV shows like “Guy Code” and “Wild ‘N Out,” where he honed his comedic chops. These gigs were crucial in shaping his early career.
• The King of Staten Island: His role as Scott Carlin in “The King of Staten Island” is a cornerstone of his career. The semi-autobiographical film deeply resonated with audiences and critics.

Davidson’s range of performances, from television sketches to dramatic film roles, showcases his versatility and depth as a performer.

Personal Life and Interests

Pete Davidson’s personal life is as intriguing as his comedic career. He has been in the public eye due to his high-profile relationships, interests, and passions, which reveal his different side.

Relationships

Pete Davidson has had several high-profile relationships which have frequently made headlines.

• Ariana Grande: His engagement to pop star Ariana Grande was a major media event in 2018, even though it lasted just a few months.
• Kim Kardashian: His romance with Kim Kardashian, which began in late 2021, recently made the news.
• Previous Relationships: He has also been linked to other personalities, including actress Kate Beckinsale and comedian Carly Aquilino.
• Impact on Personal Life: These relationships often bring intense public scrutiny and media coverage, affecting his personal and professional life.

Hobbies and Passions

Aside from his relationships, Pete has several personal hobbies and passions.

• Stand-up Comedy: His first love remains stand-up comedy, which he started at 16.
• Acting and Writing: He is deeply involved in movies and writing, showcasing his versatility beyond comedy.
• Mental Health Advocacy: Pete is vocal about his struggles with mental health, including borderline personality disorder, and often uses his platform to raise awareness.
• Tattoos: Known for his numerous tattoos, each piece symbolizes personal experiences or significant moments.

His blend of humor and openness about his personal struggles endeared him to many fans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pete Davidson’s career and personal life are filled with interesting and surprising details. Here are some commonly asked questions that shed light on key aspects of his life.

What unexpected trivia can be revealed about Pete Davidson’s early life?

• Pete Davidson was born on November 16, 1993, in Staten Island, New York.
• His father, Scott Davidson, was a firefighter who tragically died during the 9/11 attacks.
• Davidson attended three different high schools.

What are some lesser-known aspects of Pete Davidson’s comedy career?

• He joined the cast of Saturday Night Live in 2014 at the age of 20, making him one of the youngest cast members ever.
• Davidson frequently incorporates personal and sometimes controversial experiences into his stand-up routines.
• He’s known for his improvisational skills and edgy humor.

How has Pete Davidson’s upbringing influenced his comedic style?

• Growing up in Staten Island significantly impacted his sense of humor.
• The loss of his father at a young age and his subsequent struggles with mental health have often found their way into his comedic material.
• His ability to tackle dark and serious subjects with humor is partly a result of his early life experiences.

What are some unique projects or roles Pete Davidson has been involved with?

• Davidson has acted in movies such as “The King of Staten Island” and “Big Time Adolescence.”
• He has made guest appearances on various TV shows, including “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “The Jim Gaffigan Show.”
• He has also ventured into voice acting, playing roles in animated series and films.

How has Pete Davidson’s cultural background shaped his public persona?

• Davidson is of Jewish and Irish descent, which he often references in his comedy.
• His cultural heritage and experiences living in a diverse community have influenced his broad appeal and relatable humor.
• He navigates fame while remaining grounded in his roots, often mentioning Staten Island pride.

What are some of the notable influences on Pete Davidson’s humor?

• He cites comedians like Bill Burr, Dave Chappelle, and Eddie Murphy as significant influences.
• His comedy is also shaped by personal challenges, including his struggle with borderline personality disorder.
• Relationships and breakups, particularly his high-profile romance with Ariana Grande, have often been material for his stand-up.