Pete Davidson returns to ‘SNL,’ talks Staten Island Ferry

The air in Studio 8H crackled with an undeniable energy last Saturday night (October 14, 2023, for those keeping score, though it felt like a time warp!), a palpable buzz that only one man could bring back to the iconic stage. Yes, folks, Pete Davidson returned to ‘SNL,’ and let me tell you, it was like catching up with an old friend who’d been on an epic, slightly chaotic adventure. The crowd roared, a wave of cheers washing over the studio as the Staten Island native, known for his self-deprecating charm and unmistakable grin, stepped back into the spotlight he once called home. It felt right, almost destined, to see him there, back in the place where he truly launched his unique brand of comedy. You could feel the collective sigh of relief and excitement from fans who’ve followed his journey from a fresh-faced cast member to a bona fide movie star and tabloid magnet. His opening monologue, a tradition for any host, was absolutely everything we hoped it would be: raw, honest, and hilariously self-aware, touching on everything from his eventful personal life to the very public, very New York saga of the Staten Island Ferry. It’s hard to imagine a more fitting return for someone who embodies the city’s quirky spirit and has made his hometown an endearing, if sometimes exasperated, part of his public persona. The anticipation leading up to this night had been building for weeks, ever since the announcement first dropped, and it’s safe to say he more than delivered on the promise of a memorable evening.

His monologue, a masterclass in modern stand-up infused with that classic “Weekend Update” vibe he honed, immediately addressed the elephant in the room – or rather, the enormous ferry he co-owns. “I know what you’re thinking,” he began, a smirk playing on his lips, “Didn’t this guy leave SNL to pursue other opportunities? And now he’s back? What, did the movie roles dry up?” The self-burns came fast and furious, earning genuine laughs, not just polite chuckles. He navigated his recent experiences with a candidness that’s become his trademark, making light of paparazzi, dating rumors, and even his own mental health journey. It’s this vulnerability, wrapped in a layer of deadpan sarcasm, that truly endears him to his audience. You feel like you’re in on the joke, like he’s just talking to you, personally, from the screen. “It’s been a crazy few years, to say the least,” he mused, looking genuinely thoughtful for a moment before snapping back to his comedic rhythm. “But it’s good to be home.” And it truly felt like home, not just for him, but for us, the viewers, witnessing a favorite son’s triumphant, if slightly bewildered, return.

The energy in the studio was electric, a palpable buzz that spilled out into the streets of New York, where fans eagerly discussed his comeback. One fan, Maria Rodriguez, a 34-year-old barista from Brooklyn, told me, “I grew up watching him on SNL. He’s like the little brother who always gets into trouble but means well. Seeing him host, it just feels full circle, you know? And the ferry? Oh my god, only Pete would buy a ferry!” Her excitement was contagious, reflecting a broader sentiment that Davidson’s return wasn’t just another SNL episode; it was a cultural moment. He wasn’t just a host; he was a returning hero, albeit one with a very specific, quirky local legend attached to his name. The stage, usually bustling with quick transitions, felt more relaxed under his command, almost as if he was simply inviting us into his living room for a chat.

One of the undeniable highlights of the night, woven throughout his monologue and culminating in a hilariously absurd sketch, was the saga of the Staten Island Ferry. For those unfamiliar with this particular chapter of Davidson lore, he, along with Colin Jost and businessman Paul Italia, purchased a decommissioned Staten Island Ferry for a cool $280,100 in January 2022. It sounds like a joke, right? Because it absolutely started as one, but then it actually happened. Davidson quipped, “Yeah, we bought a ferry. It’s not like I woke up one day and thought, ‘I need a boat!’ It was an auction, and Colin was like, ‘Let’s do it!’ Next thing I know, I own a ferry. I don’t even own a car!” The sheer absurdity of the situation is peak Pete, a testament to his ability to find humor in the most unexpected places. He talked about the ambitious plans for the ferry, including turning it into an entertainment venue, but mostly focused on the current reality: “It’s just sitting there. We need to fix it up. I think it has like, 14 stories. Who needs 14 stories on a boat?”

The Staten Island Ferry: From Punchline to Project

The Staten Island Ferry isn’t just a mode of transport for millions of New Yorkers; it’s a cultural icon, a symbol of the borough it serves, and now, thanks to Davidson, a recurring punchline that’s slowly evolving into a legitimate project. During the show, Davidson dove deeper into the realities of this peculiar investment. He painted a picture of unexpected challenges and bureaucratic hurdles, all delivered with his signature shrug and bewildered expression. “You think buying a ferry is easy?” he challenged the audience. “Try getting a permit for a floating nightclub. The city doesn’t just hand those out. Apparently, there are rules about giant boats in the harbor.” It’s precisely this kind of everyday struggle, magnified by the outlandishness of the initial purchase, that resonates with his audience. We all have those moments where a good idea turns into a logistical nightmare, just perhaps not involving a 300-foot vessel.

The decision to purchase the ferry, the John F. Kennedy, specifically, was initially met with a mix of amusement and bewilderment. Many saw it as a quintessential Davidson prank, a high-stakes joke that would eventually fade. However, Jost and Davidson have maintained their commitment to the project, envisioning it as a unique performance and event space. “It’s a huge undertaking, far bigger than we anticipated,” explained Paul Italia, one of the partners in the venture, in a recent interview outside the SNL studios. He paused, adjusting his cap against the crisp autumn air. “But Pete and Colin are genuinely excited about the vision. It’s going to be something special for Staten Island, a real hub.” This ambitious plan, while seemingly out of character for two comedians, speaks to a deeper desire to give back to their roots, albeit in a spectacularly unconventional way.

The Ferry Sketch: A Star-Studded Surprise

The commitment to the ferry bit culminated in a truly memorable sketch, a star-studded affair that perfectly captured the spirit of the evening. Imagine this: Davidson, dressed in a captain’s hat that seemed a size too small, standing on a makeshift ferry deck. The sketch opened with him bemoaning the lack of progress on the ferry conversion, only to be interrupted by a parade of unexpected guests. The biggest gasp from the audience came when the legendary Jon Stewart appeared, offering Davidson some unsolicited, world-weary advice. “Pete, my boy,” Stewart began, a knowing twinkle in his eye, “You bought a boat? A whole boat? What are you gonna do, turn it into a floating Fyre Fest?” The banter between the two generations of comedic talent was sharp, heartwarming, and genuinely funny.

But the surprises didn’t stop there. Midway through the sketch, a figure emerged from the shadows, instantly recognizable to anyone who follows New York politics: Mayor Eric Adams himself. The Mayor, a frequent and often colorful presence in the city’s public life, made a surprise cameo, playfully chastising Davidson for his ferry woes. “Pete, Pete, Pete,” Mayor Adams said, shaking his head with a smile. “You need to talk to me about these things! I run this city, not some glorified cruise ship!” This unexpected appearance added another layer of authenticity and local humor, grounding the outlandish premise in a very real New York context. It was a delightful moment of self-parody for both Davidson and the city’s political landscape, proving that sometimes, the best comedy comes from embracing the absurd realities of life.

Davidson’s SNL Legacy and Future Trajectory

Pete Davidson’s return to ‘SNL’ was more than just a homecoming; it was a powerful reminder of his enduring appeal and the unique mark he left on the show. From his early days as the youngest cast member, navigating the awkwardness of adolescence and emerging adulthood on national television, to his poignant “Weekend Update” segments discussing mental health, Davidson consistently pushed boundaries. He brought a raw, unpolished authenticity that resonated with a younger demographic, something SNL has often strived for. His style was always distinctly his own: a mix of self-deprecating humor, observational comedy about his life in Staten Island, and a surprising vulnerability that could shift from a laugh to a lump in your throat in seconds.

His impact on the show, particularly during his tenure from 2014 to 2022, is undeniable. He became a breakout star, known for his ability to charm audiences even while poking fun at serious topics. Many credit him with modernizing SNL’s appeal, proving that the show could still connect with younger viewers who appreciated his irreverent, unfiltered approach. “Pete always felt like he was just being himself up there, which is rare for SNL sometimes,” commented a longtime SNL writer, who requested anonymity to speak freely about former cast members. “He’d come in with an idea, and it would just be so… Pete. He wasn’t trying to be anyone else, and that’s why he connected.”

Since leaving SNL, Davidson’s career has skyrocketed. He’s starred in numerous films, including “The King of Staten Island,” a semi-autobiographical dramedy, and “Bupkis,” a Peacock series that further explores his life with a surreal comedic lens. His personal life, often fodder for tabloids, has only added to his mystique, transforming him into a bonafide celebrity with a unique blend of relatability and high-profile allure. This return to SNL wasn’t just a gig; it was a victory lap, a chance for him to remind everyone, including himself, of where it all began and how far he’s come.

Fan and Critical Reception: A Resounding Success

The immediate aftermath of Davidson’s hosting gig saw an outpouring of positive reactions across social media and from critics. Twitter, now X, buzzed with enthusiastic comments, with many proclaiming it one of the best SNL episodes of the season, if not the year. “He just brought that energy back that SNL sometimes lacks,” tweeted one user, @SNL_Obsessed. “Funny, heartfelt, and completely unhinged in the best way. #PeteDavidson #SNL.” Another, @StatenIslanderPro, added, “Finally, someone talking sense about the ferry! And it’s Pete! This is why we love him.” The sentiment was overwhelmingly positive, underscoring the deep affection many viewers hold for Davidson.

Critics largely echoed this sentiment. Entertainment Weekly praised his “effortless charm and surprising depth,” while The New York Times highlighted how he “masterfully balanced his chaotic public image with genuine comedic talent.” The consensus was clear: Davidson’s return was not only a ratings boon but also a creative triumph, proving that some former cast members are simply meant to come back and remind everyone why they were so beloved in the first place. The episode felt fresh, energized, and deeply personal, a rare combination that only a host with such a unique connection to the show and its audience could pull off. It wasn’t just about the jokes; it was about the feeling of reconnection, of seeing a familiar face shine brightly once more.

The Cultural Significance of Staten Island in Pete Davidson’s Work

One cannot discuss Pete Davidson’s comedy without delving into the profound influence of Staten Island, his hometown. It’s more than just a backdrop; it’s a character in itself within his comedic universe. He’s often joked about the borough’s perceived isolation, its unique quirks, and the strong, sometimes eccentric, personalities that inhabit it. The Staten Island Ferry, a literal bridge to Manhattan, serves as a powerful metaphor for the borough’s relationship with the rest of New York City – connected, yet distinctly separate.

Davidson’s frequent references to Staten Island, often with a mix of affection and exasperation, have inadvertently put the borough in the cultural spotlight. While some residents might occasionally wince at his more self-deprecating jokes about their home, there’s an underlying sense of pride that one of their own has made it big while still maintaining his roots. “He talks about us like family,” said Anthony DeMarco, a lifelong Staten Islander and retired sanitation worker. He was sitting on a bench near the ferry terminal, watching the boats come and go. “He complains, sure, like any good family member. But you know he loves it. And honestly, it’s kinda cool that Pete Davidson owns a piece of the ferry now. It’s wild.” This sentiment highlights a common thread among working-class communities: a deep, often unspoken, loyalty to local heroes who haven’t forgotten where they came from. Davidson’s humor, while universal, is deeply steeped in this specific New York experience, making him an authentic voice for a particular segment of the city.

The ferry itself, a symbol of daily commute and connection for countless residents, has transcended its utilitarian purpose to become a touchstone of Davidson’s public persona. It’s a tangible link to his past, a physical embodiment of the place that shaped his distinctive brand of humor. His decision to purchase it, even as a joke that got out of hand, reinforces this connection, turning a local landmark into a global talking point. It’s a testament to how personal experiences, no matter how specific, can become universally relatable through the lens of genuine comedy.

What’s Next for Pete and the Ferry?

So, what does the future hold for Pete Davidson and his colossal maritime investment? Well, according to Davidson himself and his partners, the plan is still very much alive. The vision of transforming the decommissioned ferry into a vibrant entertainment complex, complete with multiple bars, restaurants, and a live music venue, is still the goal. It’s a massive undertaking, requiring significant capital, extensive renovations, and navigating complex maritime regulations. It’s certainly not a small feat, akin to launching a small, floating city, and the logistical challenges are immense.

However, if anyone has proven their ability to turn chaotic situations into compelling narratives, it’s Davidson. His SNL return proved that his star power is still potent, and his ability to draw attention to projects, no matter how unusual, is unparalleled. This ferry project, once a quirky footnote, now has a renewed spotlight thanks to his hosting stint. It’s entirely possible that this high-profile mention could attract new investors or partners, or at the very least, ignite public interest enough to push the project forward more rapidly. One thing is for sure: whether it becomes a functional entertainment hub or remains an eccentric celebrity anecdote, the Staten Island Ferry will forever be linked to Pete Davidson, a man who consistently defies expectations and finds humor in the most unexpected places. It’s a journey, much like his career, full of twists, turns, and unpredictable destinations.

Pete Davidson’s return to ‘SNL’ was more than just a night of laughs; it was a cultural touchstone, a moment where a beloved comedian reconnected with his roots and reminded everyone of his unique comedic genius. From his candid monologue to the brilliant, star-studded ferry sketch, he delivered an episode that resonated deeply with fans and critics alike. The Staten Island Ferry, once just a mode of transport, has officially become an integral part of the Pete Davidson legend, a symbol of his quirky humor, his connection to his hometown, and his willingness to dive headfirst into the most outlandish of ventures. It’s a fascinating blend of personal narrative, local pride, and celebrity antics, all wrapped up in a package that only Pete could deliver. And honestly, isn’t that just the kind of delightful chaos we all need?