Key Highlights
- Pete Davidson says he would return to “Saturday Night Live” if creator Lorne Michaels asked him.
- The comedian joined “SNL” in 2014 and was a breakout star before leaving the show in 2022.
- Davidson credits Michaels with launching his career, saying he owes everything to the producer.
Pete Davidson’s Return to Saturday Night Live: A Star’s Ambition
In a recent interview with People, comedian Pete Davidson opened up about the possibility of returning to “Saturday Night Live” (SNL). The 31-year-old, who first joined the long-running sketch show in 2014 and quickly became a breakout star, has not ruled out coming back if given the opportunity. Davidson’s potential return would be a significant moment for both the comedian and the iconic television program.
Davidson, known for his semi-autobiographical films like “The King of Staten Island” (2020) and “Bupkis” (2023), has been active in the entertainment industry since leaving SNL.
His departure from the show was marked by controversy, with some critics questioning his decision to appear at the first Riyadh Comedy Festival last year. Despite facing backlash, Davidson defended his actions, stating that he agreed to perform after seeing the payment offered.
When asked about the possibility of returning to SNL, Davidson expressed a willingness to do anything for Lorne Michaels, the show’s creator and producer. “I’d do anything for Lorne,” he told People. This sentiment underscores the significant influence Michaels has had on Davidson’s career.
The Rise of Pete Davidson at Saturday Night Live
Davidson’s time on SNL was marked by his energetic performances and memorable skits. He hosted the show in 2021, which he described as a great experience. “I had a great time hosting last time,” he said, adding that any opportunity to return would be an honor and a privilege.
The comedian also highlighted the relevance of SNL in today’s entertainment landscape. “It’s always relevant, it’s a hot show. People look forward to it, and the cast is great,” he noted. These comments suggest that Davidson sees value in staying connected with his roots on the show that launched his career.
Michaels’ Impact on Pete Davidson
In an interview with New York Magazine, Davidson revealed how much he values Michaels’ role in launching his career. “I owe that guy my life,” he admitted, crediting Michaels for jump-starting everything in his professional journey. This strong bond between the comedian and the producer is a key factor in any discussion of Davidson’s potential return to SNL.
Davidson’s financial perspective on his first paycheck from SNL provides insight into the show’s pay structure. According to him, cast members only make around $3,000 per episode.
However, reports indicate that first-year cast members earn more than double this amount, with a starting salary of $7,000 per episode for a 20-episode season.
Despite the lower pay reported by Davidson, his comments reflect the complex financial landscape of SNL. The show’s pay structure is often cited as one reason why comedians might choose to leave or stay, depending on their career goals and financial needs.
The Future of Saturday Night Live
As SNL continues to evolve, questions about its future relevance and the possibility of returning cast members like Pete Davidson remain. The show’s enduring popularity despite changes in its lineup suggests that there is still room for new talent while also honoring those who have shaped its history.
Lorne Michaels’ influence on SNL cannot be overstated. His ability to cultivate stars like Davidson has been a cornerstone of the show’s success over the years. Whether or not Davidson returns, his comments offer valuable insights into the dynamics between cast members and producers in one of television’s most prestigious comedy programs.
