Pete Davidson Defends Saudi Comedy Festival on SNL
Pete Davidson returned to the Weekend Update segment on Saturday Night Live to respond to criticism over his appearance at the Riyadh Comedy Festival. He opened with a joke about financial losses from a Staten Island ferry he and Colin Jost bought in January 2022.
“In case you’re wondering why I had to do a show in Saudi Arabia, we’re losing millions on this ferry,” Davidson joked. “I assume that’s what the article says. I can’t spend $5 on a paywall when I got a kid on the way.”
Alongside Dave Chappelle, Bill Burr, and Louis C.K., Davidson faced backlash for performing at the festival sponsored by the Saudi Arabian government, which is currently named in a lawsuit alleging involvement in funding the 9/11 attacks.
Davidson's response drew attention because his father died responding to the World Trade Center attacks. He also referenced his own connection to tragedy while joking about Colin Jost's supposed relative:
“I understand RFK. You know, I wouldn’t be famous without my dad dying, either. Wouldn’t trade it.”
This week's segment used humor to confront the controversy surrounding the festival and the personal histories involved.
Key Points
- Pete Davidson addressed financial reasons behind his decision to perform in Riyadh.
- He faced criticism due to his personal connection to 9/11, unlike some other comedians on the lineup.
- The Saudi government’s sponsorship sparked further backlash amid ongoing lawsuits.
- Davidson acknowledged the sensitivity by bringing personal reflection into his jokes.
Summary: Pete Davidson used his SNL Weekend Update appearance to humorously defend his controversial Saudi comedy show, linking his decision to financial necessity while addressing the sensitive legacy of 9/11 personally and candidly.