Pete Davidson Reflects on Loss and Legacy Ahead of 9/11 Anniversary
A Significant Milestone for Pete Davidson
For comedian and actor Pete Davidson, the upcoming anniversary of the September 11 attacks holds deep personal meaning. Having lost his father, firefighter Scott Matthew Davidson, during the tragic events of 2001, Davidson is approaching his 33rd birthday—the same age his father was when he died while aiding in the evacuation of civilians from the World Trade Center. This significant milestone, along with his recent journey into fatherhood, has profoundly altered his understanding of the loss he faced at just seven years old.
In a recent discussion, the Staten Island native revealed that reaching this particular age has been emotionally taxing. He reflected on how he once viewed 33 as a marker of adulthood, but now he grapples with the reality of his father's absence through the lens of his own experiences as a parent to his daughter, Scottie. Born in December with model Elsie Hewitt, Scottie’s name serves as a heartfelt tribute to his late father, a choice Davidson considers a meaningful way to preserve his father's legacy.
Finding Comfort in Generational Connections
The bond between generations seems to provide Davidson with solace. He shared a touching moment regarding his daughter, who often turns to gaze at a picture of her grandfather, even when it’s relocated within their home. While he acknowledges the emotional weight of the anniversary, he finds comfort in the idea of sharing stories, videos, and photographs of his father with Scottie, viewing it as a therapeutic process.
As he contemplates how to eventually explain the circumstances surrounding his father's death to his daughter, Davidson is concentrating on the present. He mentioned that although the anniversary is a challenging time, spending the day with his daughter adds a layer of beauty and purpose to the occasion. He believes that keeping his father's memory alive honors not just his family but also the wider community of first responders affected by the events of 2001.
Comedy as a Means to Support First Responders
In recognition of the 25th anniversary, Davidson is collaborating with his close friend and fellow comedian Jon Stewart to host a comedy benefit at Madison Square Garden on September 10. The event, titled “NYC Still Rising After 25 Years: A 9/11 Comedy Benefit,” aims to generate funds for charities that assist first responders and their families. Davidson highlighted that this event is a celebration of those who continue to uphold the legacy of that day, many of whom were friends and colleagues of his father.
This partnership with Stewart holds special significance for Davidson, who respects Stewart’s long-term commitment to advocating for the health and compensation of rescue and recovery workers. Stewart has been a prominent voice for legislation that provides medical care to those affected by toxic conditions at Ground Zero, a cause that resonates strongly with Davidson. By performing at Madison Square Garden, Davidson hopes to create a space for laughter while honoring the sacrifices made by first responders, ensuring that the stories of those lost remain integral to the city’s ongoing narrative.