Pete Davidson has established himself as one of the most recognizable comedians of his generation. From his early beginnings in stand-up to his eight-season tenure on Saturday Night Live (SNL), Davidson has become a household name. His sharp humor, candid personal anecdotes, and ability to navigate controversial topics have earned him widespread recognition in comedy and acting. As of 2024, Pete Davidson has an estimated net worth of $4 million, built through his television, film, and writing endeavors.
Early Life and Background
Peter Michael Davidson was born on November 16, 1993, in Staten Island, New York. Raised by his mother, Amy Davidson, and father, Scott Davidson, Pete had a challenging childhood. His father, a firefighter, tragically passed away during the September 11 attacks when Pete was just seven years old. Scott was last seen entering the Marriott World Trade Center before it collapsed, an event that left a lasting impact on Pete’s mental health.
Following this tragedy, Davidson struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts throughout his youth. He later credited the music of Kid Cudi as a source of emotional support during difficult times. Pete attended Xaverian High School and briefly enrolled at St. Francis College but dropped out after one semester to pursue a career in comedy.
Career Beginnings and Rise to Fame
Davidson first performed stand-up comedy at the age of 16 at a Staten Island bowling alley. His early television debut came in 2013 when he appeared on MTV’s Failosophy. He soon landed roles on other reality programs, and his first televised stand-up gig was on Gotham Comedy Live, a Comedy Central showcase for emerging comedians.
His breakthrough came after a small role in the 2015 film Trainwreck, where he met comedian Bill Hader. Hader recommended Davidson for an audition at Saturday Night Live, and in 2014, at just 20 years old, he became one of the youngest cast members in the show’s history. His fresh perspective and ability to tackle difficult topics with humor made him an instant favorite. By the time he left SNL in 2022, Davidson had cemented his legacy as one of the standout stars of his generation.
Saturday Night Live Earnings
Davidson’s salary at SNL evolved over time. As a first-year cast member, he reportedly earned around $3,000 per episode. At his peak, his earnings increased to approximately $15,000 per episode, with an estimated annual salary of $315,000 if he appeared in all episodes of the season. The highest-paid cast members of SNL typically earn around $25,000 per episode, roughly $500,000 per year.
Acting and Film Career
Beyond SNL, Davidson has built an impressive film career. In 2020, he co-wrote and starred in The King of Staten Island, a semi-autobiographical film directed by Judd Apatow. The movie received critical acclaim and showcased Davidson’s ability to blend humor with heartfelt storytelling.
In 2023, he created, wrote, and starred in Bupkis, a Peacock original series inspired by his own life. The show added another successful venture to his growing resume. Additionally, Davidson made cameo appearances in major films such as Fast X and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
Personal Life and High-Profile Relationships
Davidson’s romantic life has frequently been the subject of media attention. He has dated several high-profile women, including:
- Comedian Carly Aquilino (2014–2015)
- Actress Cazzie David (2016–2018)
- Singer Ariana Grande, to whom he was briefly engaged in 2018
- Actress Kate Beckinsale (2019)
- Reality star Kim Kardashian (2021–2022)
- Actress Chase Sui Wonders (2022–2023)
Despite the intense public scrutiny, Davidson has maintained a lighthearted approach to discussing his personal life in interviews and stand-up routines.
Mental Health Advocacy
Davidson has been open about his struggles with mental health. He has been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, which he manages with medical marijuana, and borderline personality disorder (BPD), for which he has sought therapy. In December 2018, the NYPD conducted a wellness check on him after he posted concerning messages on social media. He later reassured fans that he was safe and continued to be vocal about mental health awareness.
Real Estate Investments
Davidson has made significant real estate moves in recent years. In 2016, he purchased a $1.3 million home in Staten Island for his mother. Later, in December 2020, he bought a $1.2 million waterfront condo in the same area. By late 2022, he put the condo on the market for $1.3 million but later reduced the price to $1.1 million in April 2023. In recent years, he transitioned to a luxurious $30,000-per-month loft in Brooklyn, marking a shift away from his Staten Island roots.
Pete Davidson’s Net Worth and Financial Standing
As of 2024, Pete Davidson’s estimated net worth stands at $4 million. His wealth comes from multiple sources, including:
- SNL salaries over eight seasons
- Stand-up comedy tours and specials
- Acting roles in films and TV series
- Writing and executive producing Bupkis
Despite not being among the wealthiest comedians, Davidson has successfully leveraged his fame into a variety of lucrative opportunities.
The Future for Pete Davidson
With his departure from SNL, Pete Davidson has continued to focus on his stand-up career, acting, and production ventures. His unique comedic style, combined with his ability to address personal struggles with humor, ensures that he remains a relevant figure in entertainment. Whether through his writing, performances, or entrepreneurial ventures, Davidson’s career is poised for continued success in the coming years.
Davidson’s ability to turn personal pain into comedy has resonated with audiences worldwide, making him one of the most compelling figures in modern entertainment. As he continues to evolve in his career, fans can expect more boundary-pushing comedy and impactful storytelling from this Staten Island native