Pete Davidson nearly quit 'Saturday Night Live' after just one season, struggling with imposter syndrome and self-doubt, but Lorne Michaels' support led him to thrive for eight more seasons.
- January 20, 2025
AceShowbiz - Pete Davidson has become a household name, but his start on "Saturday Night Live" (SNL) was anything but smooth. Revealed in the new docuseries "SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night", Davidson shared that he felt out of place and wanted to leave after his first year on the show.
Taking a trip down memory lane, he recalled a pivotal conversation with "SNL" mastermind, Lorne Michaels. "After my first year, I actually called for a meeting with Lorne. I was like, 'Please fire me,' " Davidson confessed. "Everybody here is so talented and they don't want to be my friend."
Michaels, however, was not swayed, instead offering the young comic some sage advice. "You don't figure it out until your third or fourth year. It's just going to suck for like three or four years," Michaels told Davidson.
Despite the initial struggles, Davidson took Michaels' advice to heart and stayed on the show. His resilience paid off. Over the course of eight seasons, he grew from a young comedian into a seasoned performer and beloved cast member.
Reflecting on his journey, Davidson shared how this period contributed immensely to his personal and professional growth. He elaborated in a farewell message upon leaving in 2022, "I owe Lorne Michaels and everyone at SNL my life. I'm so grateful and I wouldn't be here without them."
The docuseries captures more of Davidson's experience, including a nostalgic look at his audition tape that he famously questioned, "How the f*** did I get this show?" His story, filled with both comedic and heartfelt moments, provides a backstage glimpse into "SNL" rigorous environment and the immense pressure faced by its cast members.
Davidson's journey on "SNL" didn't just end with his departure in 2022. He returned in October 2023 to host the show, bringing his career full circle and underscoring his lasting connection with the iconic sketch series.
Davidson's evolution is further highlighted by his burgeoning career, including notable roles in "The King of Staten Island" and his television show "Bupkis." His initial struggles and eventual success on SNL serve as an inspirational tale to young people dealing with self-doubt, reinforcing the importance of perseverance and mentorship.
"SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night" is currently streaming on Peacock, and it dives deeper into the behind-the-scenes of the beloved sketch comedy show, from the audition process to the writers' room, and more.
