In an exclusive interview, Pete Davidson, known for his work on “Saturday Night Live,” sheds light on the most common reaction he and his close friend Machine Gun Kelly receive when meeting new people. The comedian shared with PEOPLE that the typical response they hear is, “Oh, you’re actually pretty cool.” A seemingly innocuous comment that often leaves both Davidson and MGK puzzled. The two entertainers have bonded over their shared experience of being met with this backhanded compliment and find humour in discussing people’s initial perceptions.
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Davidson revealed that the same comment about being “actually pretty cool” is consistently directed towards both him and his best friend, Colson Baker, also known as Machine Gun Kelly. Reflecting on this recurring reaction, Davidson expressed genuine confusion at what others may be expecting before they meet them. Their ability to laugh off these slightly insulting remarks showcases their camaraderie and sense of humour in navigating public perceptions.
Despite their careers in the spotlight, Davidson emphasised the authenticity they strive to maintain in their interactions and performances. He highlighted the disconnect between how they are perceived externally versus their true selves, and the genuine friendship they share. Their bond, which began on the set of “Wild ‘N Out” in 2017 and strengthened during filming for “The Dirt” in 2019, is rooted in mutual respect and understanding.
When it comes to embodying characters on screen, Davidson mentioned that his roles often align closely with his own personality. However, in his stand-up routines, he is able to showcase a more exaggerated version of himself. This distinction allows him to explore different facets of his identity while staying true to his comedic roots. Davidson’s honesty about his evolving self-confidence and his recent shift in perspective towards public opinion reflects personal growth and resilience in the face of external judgement.
Acknowledging the significance of family and a few close friends, Davidson shared a liberating realisation that has guided him through challenging times. He revealed, “At the end of the day, it’s like your family matters and your two or three friends that you have matter. Everybody else can go f— themselves.” This candid expression of prioritising personal connections over external validation underscores his evolving mindset and embrace of self-acceptance.
In a candid moment, Davidson also touched on the impact of undergoing personal struggles on his public persona and how it has shaped his outlook. He conveyed a sense of detachment from external opinions, emphasising the insignificance of strangers’ viewpoints. This newfound sense of self-assurance and resilience signifies a transformative journey towards prioritising inner peace and self-worth above societal judgments.
As Pete Davidson and Machine Gun Kelly navigate the complexities of fame and public scrutiny, their unwavering friendship and shared experiences serve as a source of strength and mutual support. Their ability to find humour in the face of misunderstandings and backhanded compliments speaks to their resilience and camaraderie. Through their authentic bond and genuine camaraderie, Davidson and MGK continue to defy expectations and embrace their true selves in an industry often defined by external perceptions.