Pete Davidson Reflects on 9/11 Anniversary as a Father
On the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, comedian Pete Davidson has spoken publicly about the profound personal significance of this year's remembrance. Now a father himself, Davidson finds himself at the same age his own father was when he died, adding a new dimension to his grief and reflection.
How is this year different for Pete Davidson?
Davidson's father, New York City firefighter Scott Davidson, was 33 years old when he lost his life responding to the attacks on the World Trade Center. In an interview with The New York Post, Davidson explained how becoming a parent has changed his perspective on his father's sacrifice.
“I thought, 'Oh, he was an old guy. He's 33,'” Davidson said. “But now I'm there, and I have a kid, and that would be like my kid not having her dad.”
The comedian admitted that this anniversary has been particularly difficult. “Honestly, this year is way harder than it's been in a really long time because I have Scottie, and now I'm the age that my dad was when he died,” he said.
What is the significance of his daughter's name?
Davidson and his ex-partner Elsie Hewitt welcomed their daughter, Scottie Rose, in December. The name honours Davidson's late father, whose nickname was Scotty. Davidson expressed gratitude that Hewitt supported the choice.
“It was really cool that Elsie also wanted to name her Scottie,” he told The New York Post. “When she arrived, we both looked at her and were like, 'She looks like a Scottie.' It's nice to keep that name alive.”
Despite the difficulty of the anniversary, Davidson finds comfort in spending the day with his daughter. “This year is extra tough, but also extra beautiful because I get to spend the day with Scottie. It'll be very healing and special,” he said.
Does Davidson believe his father's presence is near?
Davidson shared a touching observation about his daughter and a photograph of his father. When Scottie was a newborn, she would stare at a picture of her grandfather placed above the sink during bath time. After moving to Brooklyn and relocating the photograph, Davidson noticed his daughter would still turn her head toward it.
“I don't know what I believe in, but I like to think that his presence is somehow around,” he added.
What event marked the 25th anniversary?
Davidson participated in the “NYC Still Rising After 25 Years: A 9/11 Comedy Benefit” held Thursday evening at Madison Square Garden. The event featured notable comedians including Jon Stewart, Aziz Ansari, Dave Chappelle, and Bill Burr. Proceeds from the evening supported charities assisting first responders affected by 9/11 and their families.
Davidson praised his longtime friend Stewart, describing him as “someone who's so New York and represents the tristate area and is just the barometer of goodwill.”
