Pete Davidson Defends Saudi Performance, Blames Ferry for ‘Losing Millions’

Bassyonni

ago 1 month

Pete Davidson recently made headlines by discussing his performance at the Riyadh Comedy Festival during the Weekend Update segment of Saturday Night Live. He specifically addressed the financial struggles he and Colin Jost are facing after purchasing a decommissioned Staten Island ferry.

Pete Davidson Defends Saudi Performance

During the show, Davidson humorously referenced a New York Times article about their ferry purchase. He stated, “In case you’re wondering why I had to do a show in Saudi Arabia, we’re losing millions on this ferry.” This comment highlighted the financial pressures behind his decision to perform in Riyadh.

Background on the Ferry Purchase

In January 2022, Davidson and Jost bought a decommissioned Staten Island ferry.
The ferry, named John F. Kennedy, was purchased for $280,100.
The duo’s LLC, Titanic 2, is currently facing a lawsuit for $13,500 in unpaid obligations related to the ferry.
Plans to develop the ferry into a restaurant, concert venue, and movie theater have not materialized.
Davidson jokingly called the ferry purchase “the dumbest and least thought-through purchase” he made.

Controversy Surrounding the Riyadh Comedy Festival

Davidson was not the only comedian at the festival, which included prominent names like Dave Chappelle, Bill Burr, and Louis C.K. However, he drew particular criticism due to his father’s death during the 9/11 attacks at the World Trade Center. The event was sponsored by the Saudi Arabian government, which faces allegations regarding its role in the attacks.

Davidson referenced his father’s legacy during the segment, acknowledging public scrutiny for performing in Saudi Arabia. In a prior podcast, he defended his decision, stating, “I’ve been getting a little bit of flak just because my dad died [in] 9/11.” He brushed off the notions that performing in Saudi Arabia was an attempt to “comedy-wash” the country’s human rights record.

Current Status of the Ferry

As of now, the John F. Kennedy ferry is sitting unused in a Staten Island shipyard. Davidson’s financial woes related to the purchase continue to loom large as he navigates public perception of both his comedy career and personal history.

The juxtaposition of financial necessity and complex political dynamics continues to surround Davidson’s career choices. Despite challenges, he maintains a sense of humor about the situation, taking light-hearted jabs at SNL creator Lorne Michaels while addressing future changes in the show’s leadership.