Pete Davidson Reflects on His Friendship with the ‘Insanely Talented’ Eddie Murphy: He’s ‘the G.O.A.T.’ (Exclusive)

Pete Davidson Shares Heartfelt Words on Friendship and Common Ground with Eddie Murphy

Comedian and actor Pete Davidson recently sat down for an exclusive interview with PEOPLE to reflect on his enduring friendship with the legendary Eddie Murphy. Davidson, 31, expressed his deep admiration for Murphy, 64, describing him as the “G.O.A.T.” (Greatest of All Time) and emphasising the significance of their bond. Both stars kick-started their careers at a young age through their involvement in the iconic show, ‘Saturday Night Live’.

In the interview, Davidson revealed his long-standing admiration for Murphy, dating back to his childhood. He shared a nostalgic anecdote about how his love for stand-up comedy was sparked when his mother mistakenly bought him Murphy’s stand-up special, ‘Delirious’, at a young age. This early exposure to Murphy’s work left a lasting impression on Davidson, shaping his comedic aspirations.

The parallel journeys of Davidson and Murphy converged when they both graced the stage of ‘Saturday Night Live’, propelling them towards stardom in the world of acting and comedy. Davidson joined the cast at the age of 20, featuring on the show for eight seasons from 2014 to 2022. Similarly, Murphy began his tenure on the show at 19, captivating audiences for five seasons from 1980 to 1984.

Davidson acknowledged the striking similarities between himself and Murphy, not only in their professional trajectories but also in their personal lives. Both comedians experienced the loss of their fathers at a young age, a shared tragedy that served as a catalyst for their comedic pursuits. Davidson expressed gratitude for Murphy’s mentorship and understanding, noting that Murphy’s guidance resonated deeply with him due to their shared experiences.

The duo recently collaborated on the action-comedy film ‘The Pickup’, where they portrayed two armored truck drivers entangled in a high-stakes chase with criminals. Davidson shared his excitement about working alongside his idol, describing the experience as surreal and exhilarating. He expressed unwavering admiration for Murphy, hailing him as a trailblazer in the industry and crediting him with inspiring countless performers.

‘The Pickup’ is now available for purchase and streaming on Prime Video, showcasing the dynamic chemistry between Davidson and Murphy on screen. Davidson’s praise for Murphy serves as a testament to the enduring impact of mentorship and camaraderie in the entertainment industry, highlighting the profound influence that seasoned veterans can have on emerging talents.

As Davidson continues to navigate his own path in Hollywood, his bond with Murphy remains a steadfast source of support and inspiration. Their shared journey from ‘Saturday Night Live’ to the silver screen symbolises the enduring legacy of comedic excellence and camaraderie in the entertainment realm. Through his reflections on friendship and shared experiences with Murphy, Davidson offers a glimpse into the profound connections that shape and sustain creative pursuits in the ever-evolving landscape of show business.