Pete Davidson discloses how low his early 'SNL' paycheck was, reveals what he bought with first salary

Pete Davidson, who joined the cast of 'SNL' in 2014, retired from the show in 2022
UPDATED DEC 6, 2024
Pete Davidson reflected on his humble beginnings through 'Saturday Night Live' (Getty Images)
Pete Davidson reflected on his humble beginnings through 'Saturday Night Live' (Getty Images)

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Pete Davidson, a former 'Saturday Night Live' cast member, revealed the surprisingly modest salary he received during his early days on the iconic sketch comedy show in 2014.

Speaking to New York Magazine, Davidson disclosed, “It’s like three grand an episode,” he said, adding with a laugh, “I think I got dinner.”


 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by New York Magazine (@nymag)


 

Former cast members reveal how they spent their first 'SNL' paycheck

Pete Davidson, now 31, was part of the 'Saturday Night Live' cast for eight seasons before departing in 2022.

He recently made a guest appearance in November, teaming up with fellow comedian John Mulaney.

Davidson is not the only 'SNL' alum to reflect on his early financial choices. Several past and present cast members shared how they spent their initial earnings.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus bought a pair of shoes priced at $75, calling it “out of my budget.” Sarah Silverman, on the other hand, treated herself to a $300 cashmere sweater and Cheri Oteri purchased a couch which she has reupholstered multiple times.

American actress and comedian Julia Louis-Dreyfus, wearing a dark blue outfit with pink and light blue motifs, at a 'Saturday Night Live' publicity shoot, United States, circa 1982. (Photo by Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images)
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, wearing a dark blue outfit with pink and light blue motifs, at a 'Saturday Night Live' publicity shoot, in United States, Circa 1982 (Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Seth Meyers opted for a Crate & Barrel couch and a large TV. Rachel Dratch took a more substantial leap, buying an apartment and Jason Sudeikis used his paycheck to cover his New York rent.

Current cast members also indulged in modest luxuries as Sarah Sherman bought a “nice mattress", Bowen Yang splurged on Gucci shoes, and James Austin Johnson purchased an “uncomfortable” West Elm couch.

Pete Davidson’s life beyond 'Saturday Night Live'

Since leaving 'SNL', Pete Davidson has remained in the public eye, often for his personal life and candid discussions about mental health.

Recently, rumors surfaced that Davidson had entered rehab and ended a brief relationship with 'The Bachelor' alum Maria Georgas.


 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Maria Georgas (@maria.georgas)


 

However, Georgas quickly debunked the speculation, stating on social media, “Never dated Pete. False rumor."

"Just spoke to his sister—he’s not in rehab and has been sober for months,” she added.

She further noted that the rumors were “very insulting to his recovery and my mental health.”

(Instagram/maria.georgas)
Maria Georgas took to Instagram to dismiss rumors she has been dating Pete Davidson (Instagram/maria.georgas)

Davidson has openly shared his battles with sobriety, borderline personality disorder, and PTSD. He has sought treatment multiple times, including rehabilitation in 2017, 2019, and 2023.

Following his most recent rehabilitation stay in June 2023, a source stated, “Anyone who knows Pete knows that he will always step up and get help when he knows he needs it,” according to Page Six.

“Pete regularly goes to rehab for ‘tune-ups’ and to take a mental break, so that’s what’s happening,” a friend of the comedian told the outlet.

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