Pete Davidson rose to national prominence as a unique and unfiltered voice in American comedy. Born on November 16, 1993, in Staten Island, New York, Davidson built his career on raw honesty, dark humor, and a willingness to tackle deeply personal topics. His early comedic material often reflected on childhood trauma, mental health struggles, and social awkwardness — themes that made him both relatable and controversial.
Before reaching mainstream fame, Davidson made several appearances on MTV shows such as Guy Code and Wild ‘n Out, quickly becoming a recognizable face among young audiences. His self-deprecating style and deadpan delivery stood out in an entertainment landscape filled with polished acts.
His major breakthrough came when he joined the cast of Saturday Night Live in 2014 at the age of 20, making him one of the youngest cast members in the show’s history. From that point on, Pete Davidson became a household name.
Life and Success on Saturday Night Live
Davidson’s tenure on Saturday Night Live (SNL) was a defining chapter of his career. Over the course of eight seasons, he played countless characters, impersonated celebrities, and, most notably, often played himself in brutally honest and humorous “Weekend Update” segments.
Rather than relying heavily on impressions, Davidson brought something different to the show: an intimate comedic perspective that blurred the line between performance and reality. He openly discussed personal experiences including his struggles with mental health, substance use, and the impact of losing his father, a firefighter who died during the September 11 attacks.
His time on SNL helped him earn a devoted fanbase and provided a platform to launch into other ventures, including acting and writing. However, his unconventional comedic voice also drew criticism, as some found his style too polarizing or too personal for mainstream appeal.
Transition from SNL to Film and TV Projects
In 2022, Pete Davidson officially departed Saturday Night Live to pursue broader creative opportunities. His exit marked the end of an era for fans but signaled the beginning of a new phase in his career.
Since leaving SNL, Davidson has starred in a variety of film and television projects. His semi-autobiographical film The King of Staten Island (2020), directed by Judd Apatow, was a major milestone. The film offered a fictionalized version of Davidson’s life and received critical praise for its authenticity and emotional depth. It showed that Davidson was capable of more than just stand-up and sketch comedy — he could also anchor a dramatic performance.
Following that, he appeared in movies such as Bodies Bodies Bodies and Meet Cute, both of which showcased his ability to move between comedy, horror, and romance.
In 2023, Davidson launched the Peacock series Bupkis, another loosely autobiographical project blending surreal humor and real-life reflections. The show included guest appearances by high-profile actors like Edie Falco and Joe Pesci, reinforcing Davidson’s growing credibility as a creator and actor.
Pete Davidson’s Mental Health Journey
Mental health has always been a central theme in Pete Davidson’s public narrative. He has spoken candidly about being diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD), depression, and anxiety. Rather than shying away from these topics, Davidson has used them as source material for his comedy and interviews.
He’s been vocal about attending therapy, taking medication, and actively managing his condition. His transparency has earned him praise from mental health advocates and fans who appreciate his vulnerability. By normalizing discussions about mental illness, Davidson has helped break down stigmas, particularly for young men.
Despite his openness, the struggles have been ongoing. Davidson has taken several breaks from social media, entered rehabilitation centers, and occasionally paused work to focus on his health. These moves have been widely covered in the media and have reinforced his reputation as someone committed to growth and healing.
High-Profile Relationships and Media Attention
Another significant aspect of Pete Davidson’s public life has been his highly publicized romantic relationships. He has dated several well-known figures, including Ariana Grande, Kim Kardashian, Kate Beckinsale, and Emily Ratajkowski.
His engagement to Ariana Grande in 2018 thrust him into a level of celebrity few comedians ever reach. Though the engagement was short-lived, it brought intense media scrutiny that has followed him ever since.
His relationship with Kim Kardashian in 2021–2022 drew even more attention due to the involvement of her ex-husband, Kanye West, whose social media posts frequently targeted Davidson. Throughout the ordeal, Davidson mostly remained quiet in the public eye, focusing on his work and health.
While some criticize the media’s obsession with his dating life, Davidson himself has acknowledged the attention with a mix of humor and resignation, often addressing the topic directly in his stand-up routines.
Where Is Pete Davidson Now?
As of 2025, Pete Davidson continues to work on new creative projects while prioritizing his mental health. He remains involved in film and television, both as an actor and writer. His series Bupkis has continued to receive positive feedback, and he’s rumored to be developing additional scripted content for major streaming platforms.
Davidson also continues to perform stand-up comedy, occasionally going on tour and making special appearances at comedy clubs across the country. While his public appearances are less frequent than during his SNL days, he remains an active and respected figure in the comedy world.
On the personal front, Davidson has reportedly been focused on maintaining a balanced lifestyle. He has been seen attending therapy sessions, traveling for wellness retreats, and surrounding himself with close friends and family. Unlike the turbulent public image of his earlier years, recent coverage paints a picture of someone seeking stability.
Public Image and Legacy in Comedy
Pete Davidson’s comedic legacy is still evolving, but he has already carved out a distinctive place in American pop culture. He’s not the typical polished performer — and that’s precisely why so many people connect with him. His brand of honesty, vulnerability, and dry humor speaks directly to audiences dealing with real-life challenges.
Over time, Davidson has also gained respect from industry peers. Comedians and actors alike have praised his work ethic, originality, and emotional depth. He represents a newer generation of comedians who aren’t afraid to blend pain with punchlines.
While some detractors remain skeptical of his staying power, Davidson’s ongoing projects suggest he’s committed to growth — personally and professionally.
FAQs
Who is Pete Davidson?
Pete Davidson is an American comedian, actor, and writer best known for his work on Saturday Night Live and his stand-up comedy. He has also starred in films and television shows that often draw on his real-life experiences.
Is Pete Davidson still acting?
Yes, as of 2025, Pete Davidson remains active in the entertainment industry, developing television projects and appearing in films.
What mental health issues does Pete Davidson have?
Davidson has been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety. He has openly discussed these struggles in interviews and incorporates them into his comedic work.
Did Pete Davidson leave Saturday Night Live?
Yes, Davidson left Saturday Night Live in 2022 after eight seasons to pursue other creative ventures.
What is Pete Davidson doing now?
Currently, Pete Davidson is focusing on acting, writing, and maintaining his mental health. He continues to perform stand-up comedy and work on new television projects.