Pete Davidson Reveals Why He ‘Teared Up’ Watching His “Saturday Night Live ”Audition 11 Years Later

Pete Davidson Reflects on Emotional Moment Watching His ‘Saturday Night Live’ Audition after 11 Years ​

Pete Davidson recently opened up about the emotional experience of revisiting his audition tape for ‘Saturday Night Live’ over a decade later. The 31-year-old comedian, who was just 20 when he first auditioned for the iconic late-night sketch comedy show, shared his feelings during an interview on Late Night with Seth Meyers on February 6. Davidson revealed that he was ‘forced’ to watch the audition tape for Peacock’s SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night docuseries, and the experience was unexpectedly moving for him.

During the interview, Davidson confessed that he even ‘teared up a little bit’ while watching the footage. He explained that seeing his 20-year-old self on screen reminded him of a time ‘before all the bad stuff happened.’ Though he attempted to make a joke about the situation, the emotional impact was evident. The comedian admitted that the experience of watching his younger self was a poignant reminder of the hope he had at that time.

Reflecting on the feedback he received during his audition, Davidson shared that he had his doubts about his performance. He recalled moments where the audience chuckled at his jokes, leading him to believe that his audition wasn’t up to par. The comedian revealed that he had deliberated between doing impressions or stand-up comedy for his audition, seeking advice from a friend who ultimately recommended stand-up.

Despite landing a role on ‘Saturday Night Live’ in season 40, Davidson struggled with imposter syndrome and self-doubt. He confessed to asking Lorne Michaels, the creator and executive producer of SNL, to fire him after his first year on the show. Feeling inadequate compared to his talented colleagues, Davidson felt like he didn’t belong and doubted his place on the iconic show.

Michaels’ response to Davidson’s plea for dismissal was a reassuring reminder that growth and development take time. The seasoned producer encouraged Davidson, telling him that it would take several years for him to find his footing on the show. The comedian described himself during that period as a ‘child,’ navigating the pressures of his environment and grappling with insecurities.

After dedicating eight years to ‘Saturday Night Live,’ Davidson bid farewell to the show in 2022 with a heartfelt message of gratitude. In an Instagram post shared by a friend, Davidson expressed his appreciation for the show’s support and for providing him with a platform to evolve personally and professionally. He thanked Lorne Michaels for his unwavering belief in him and for creating a space that became his home for nearly a decade.

Pete Davidson’s journey from nervous auditionee to seasoned cast member is a testament to his resilience and growth in the entertainment industry. As he continues to reflect on his past experiences, Davidson’s candid revelations offer insight into the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a career in comedy.

(Disclosure: This story is based on an interview and public statements made by Pete Davidson and has been rewritten for clarity and conciseness.)