Pete Davidson's Best Movies & TV Shows

Hey guys! If you're a fan of comedy, a bit of absurdity, and genuinely heartfelt moments, then you've probably stumbled across the one and only Pete Davidson. This dude has made a serious splash in Hollywood, going from Saturday Night Live's youngest cast member to starring in and producing his own projects. We're talking movies, TV shows, stand-up specials – the whole shebang! So, buckle up as we dive deep into some of the absolute best Pete Davidson films and TV series that you absolutely need to check out. Get ready for some laughs, some tears, and maybe a few moments where you say, "Wow, Pete really went there!"

The King of Staten Island: Pete Davidson's Autobiographical Masterpiece

Let's kick things off with The King of Staten Island, a film that is as deeply personal as it gets for Pete Davidson. Seriously, guys, this movie is practically Pete's life story, and it's a must-watch if you want to understand where he's coming from. Directed by the legendary Judd Apatow, this 2020 gem sees Pete playing Scott Carlin, a young man struggling with grief, addiction, and the general confusion of figuring out life in his early twenties after his firefighter father died when he was a kid. Scott lives at home with his mom, works a part-time gig at a pizza place, and dreams of becoming a tattoo artist – sound familiar? It should, because it mirrors Pete's own experiences growing up on Staten Island and dealing with the loss of his dad in the 9/11 attacks. The film brilliantly balances humor and heartbreak, showcasing Pete's undeniable talent for both. You'll find yourself laughing at his signature deadpan delivery and awkward charm, but you'll also feel the weight of his character's pain and struggles. Marisa Tomei is phenomenal as his mother, and Bill Burr brings the laughs as her new boyfriend. The supporting cast, including Steve Buscemi and Bel Powley, adds so much depth. What makes this movie truly special is its raw honesty. Pete doesn't shy away from his vulnerabilities, and that's what makes the audience connect with him so powerfully. It's more than just a comedy; it's a coming-of-age story about loss, healing, and finding your place in the world, all wrapped up in that signature Staten Island vibe. If you've ever felt lost or like you're not living up to your potential, Scott's journey will resonate with you. It’s a testament to Pete’s growth as an actor and a storyteller, proving he’s way more than just a funny guy from SNL.

The Suicide Squad: Davidson's Blockbuster Breakout

Now, let's talk about something a little more... explosive! The Suicide Squad (the 2021 James Gunn version, not the 2016 one, okay guys?) features Pete Davidson in a role that allowed him to flex his comedic muscles in a completely different, super-powered way. He plays Richard "Dick" Hertz, better known as the somewhat unlucky, wisecracking member of the Suicide Squad, Blackguard. While his character might not be the main event, Pete absolutely steals every scene he's in with his signature blend of irreverent humor and surprisingly effective moments of genuine character. You know how sometimes a movie has this huge ensemble cast, and then there’s that one guy who just shines? Yeah, that's Pete here. His interactions with the rest of the ragtag group, especially John Cena's Peacemaker and Joel Kinnaman's Rick Flag, are pure gold. Blackguard is the kind of character that seems destined for a quick, brutal end in a Suicide Squad movie, and Pete plays into that expectation with such a hilarious, almost self-aware performance. He delivers his lines with that perfect, slightly bewildered tone that makes you think he knows exactly how ridiculous the whole situation is, but he's going to roll with it anyway. The film itself is a wild, gory, and incredibly fun ride, thanks to James Gunn's unique vision. It's packed with over-the-top action, bizarre characters, and a dark sense of humor that Pete Davidson fits into like a glove. His presence adds another layer of unpredictability to an already chaotic team. If you're looking for a superhero movie that doesn't take itself too seriously but still delivers on the action and the laughs, this is it. Pete’s performance proves he can hold his own alongside Hollywood heavyweights and big-name characters, bringing his unique comedic voice to the mainstream blockbuster scene. It's a fantastic showcase of his versatility and why he's become such a sought-after talent.

Big Time Adolescence: A Coming-of-Age Story with a Twist

Alright, let's switch gears back to something a bit more grounded, but still full of laughs and heart. Big Time Adolescence, released in 2019, is a film where Pete Davidson plays a character who is, ironically, not the adolescent himself, but the older influence on one. He stars as Zeke, a charismatic, slightly wild college dropout who becomes the best friend and mentor figure to high school junior Mo (played by Griffin Gluck). Think of it as a coming-of-age story where the coming-of-age isn't just happening to the teenager, but also to the guy who thinks he's already done with his own. Pete brings such a cool, laid-back vibe to Zeke, making him instantly likable despite his questionable life choices. He's the guy Mo looks up to – the one who seems to have all the answers, lives life without a care, and introduces Mo to parties, girls, and a generally more exciting world. But as Mo starts to mimic Zeke's lifestyle, he begins to see the downsides, and so does Zeke, realizing he might be holding Mo back rather than helping him grow. The chemistry between Pete and Griffin Gluck is fantastic; you really believe their unlikely friendship. Pete’s performance here is a masterclass in understated comedy and genuine emotion. He’s not just playing the funny older dude; he’s showing vulnerability and the struggles of someone who hasn’t quite figured out their own path, even though they project an image of having it all together. It’s a story about the messy transition from adolescence to adulthood, the impact we have on each other, and the importance of finding your own way. The film’s humor is sharp and relatable, often stemming from the awkwardness and impulsiveness of youth and early adulthood. It’s a charming and thoughtful movie that highlights Pete's ability to play characters with depth, balancing his comedic timing with a sincere portrayal of a flawed but ultimately good-hearted individual. If you appreciate indie comedies with a strong emotional core, Big Time Adolescence is definitely one to add to your watchlist, guys.

Pete Davidson's Stand-Up Specials: Raw, Real, and Hilarious

While movies and TV shows are awesome, we can't talk about Pete Davidson without mentioning his stand-up comedy. His specials are where you get the unfiltered Pete, and they are an absolute riot. We're talking about specials like Alive from New York (2020) and Pete Davidson: TurboFonzarelli (2016). These aren't just collections of jokes; they are windows into his mind, his experiences, and his unique perspective on life. Pete's style is incredibly personal and conversational. He talks about everything – his childhood, his struggles with mental health and addiction, his relationships, his fame, and just the general absurdity of being Pete Davidson. What makes his stand-up so compelling is its raw honesty. He's not afraid to be vulnerable, to admit his flaws, or to make fun of himself. This vulnerability, combined with his sharp wit and often surprising punchlines, creates a comedic experience that's both hilarious and deeply relatable. In Alive from New York, filmed at the prestigious Town Hall in New York City, he delves into his life post-SNL fame, his dating life, and his observations about the world around him. It's packed with his signature observational humor, delivered with his characteristic laid-back, almost mumbled style that somehow makes every joke land perfectly. You’ll find yourself cackling at his takes on everything from Kanye West to breakups. These specials are essential viewing because they show the foundation of his comedic talent. Before the blockbuster roles and the big-budget productions, there was Pete on stage, just a guy with a microphone, sharing his truth. If you want to truly get Pete Davidson, you have to watch his stand-up. It's the purest form of his comedic genius and a testament to his courage as an artist. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to laugh your socks off, guys!

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent: Davidson in a Meta-Comedy Gem

Okay, this one is pure, unadulterated fun, and Pete Davidson is a vital part of the mix! The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent (2022) stars Nicolas Cage as a fictionalized version of himself, Nick Cage, who is struggling with his career and finances. To make ends meet, he reluctantly accepts a $1 million offer to attend the birthday party of a billionaire superfan named Javi Gutierrez (played by Pedro Pascal) in Mallorca. What follows is a hilarious, action-packed, and surprisingly meta meta-comedy that plays with Nic Cage's iconic career and persona. Now, where does Pete fit in? He plays David Gordon Green, a director who has made films with Cage in the past and is somewhat of a friend and collaborator to Nick Cage within the movie's universe. While his role isn't massive in terms of screen time, Pete absolutely makes an impression. He brings his unique comedic timing and a grounded, almost deadpan delivery that contrasts perfectly with the heightened reality of the film. David Gordon Green is essentially a stand-in for real-life directors who have worked with Cage, and Pete plays this role with a subtle intelligence and charm. His interactions, though brief, add to the meta-commentary of the film. It’s a movie that revels in the absurdity of Hollywood, celebrity, and fandom, and Pete’s presence fits perfectly into this self-aware narrative. The film is a love letter to Nicolas Cage, but it’s also incredibly funny, action-packed, and unexpectedly heartfelt, thanks to the bromance that develops between Cage and Pascal. Pete’s contribution, however small, adds another layer of authenticity and humor to this already brilliant ensemble. If you love meta-humor, action, and Nic Cage at his finest, this movie is a winner, and Pete Davidson’s performance is a delightful cherry on top. It shows his ability to pop up in unexpected places and deliver memorable moments, even in a star-studded cast.

Saturday Night Live: Where It All Began

We absolutely cannot talk about Pete Davidson's career without giving a massive shout-out to Saturday Night Live. This iconic sketch comedy show is where most of us first got to know Pete, and he was a fixture there for quite a while! Joining the cast in 2014 at the tender age of 20, he became one of the youngest cast members in the show's history. Over his eight seasons on SNL, Pete grew from a shy, awkward young comedian into a bona fide star. His sketches often leaned into his unique persona – the relatable, slightly off-kilter guy dealing with everyday life, dating, and the weirdness of fame. Think of his recurring bits like "Weekend Update," where he’d deliver hilarious and often surprisingly poignant monologues, or his various characters in sketches that ranged from heartfelt to downright bizarre. His authenticity was his superpower; he brought a level of vulnerability and honesty to SNL that resonated with audiences. He wasn't afraid to tackle sensitive topics, use self-deprecating humor, and just be himself, which was incredibly refreshing. SNL gave him the platform to develop his comedic voice, hone his acting skills, and gain national recognition. While he’s gone on to conquer movies and TV, his time on SNL is foundational to understanding his rise. Watching his SNL clips or full episodes is like looking back at the early days of a star, seeing the raw talent and charisma that would eventually lead him to bigger and better things. For any fan, revisiting his SNL tenure is a must to appreciate the journey. It’s where the legend of Pete Davidson truly began, guys!

The Available Options: A Look at Other Notable Projects

Beyond these highlights, Pete Davidson has a pretty extensive resume, and there are other projects worth mentioning for the super-fans out there. He had a significant role in the 2019 comedy Changeland, directed by Seth Green, which explores themes of friendship and self-discovery. While it might not have received the widespread acclaim of some of his other work, it’s another example of him taking on characters with a bit of heart. He also lent his voice to the animated film The Angry Birds Movie 2 (2019) as the character Jerry. And of course, let's not forget his guest appearances and cameos! He's popped up in shows like Brooklyn Nine-Nine, adding his unique comedic flavor to an already hilarious series. He also had a memorable role in the hilarious Netflix movie Set It Up (2018), playing a quirky, conspiracy-theory-loving intern. Keep an eye out for these smaller roles and projects, as they often showcase different facets of his talent and his willingness to experiment. Each appearance adds another layer to the diverse career of this comedy superstar.

So there you have it, guys! From deeply personal dramas to explosive blockbusters and hilarious stand-up specials, Pete Davidson has cemented his place in Hollywood. He's a unique voice, a talented performer, and someone who continues to surprise and entertain us. Which of his movies or shows is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!