Pete Davidson reveals what he treated himself to with his first paycheck: “I Think I Got Dinner!”
(Will Heath/NBC via Getty Images)
Pete Davidson is sharing a humorous yet candid look back at his early days on Saturday Night Live (SNL), revealing just how little he made with his first paycheck. In a recent video shared by New York Magazine on December 4, the 31-year-old comedian offered a reality check about the earnings he received when he first joined the iconic sketch show.
Davidson was asked about his “biggest indulgence” following his first payment for his work on SNL. His response was both cheeky and down-to-earth: “Do you guys know what they pay us? It’s like three grand an episode, so I think I got dinner!” The comedian’s lighthearted comment highlighted the humble beginnings of even the most successful stars.
Other SNL alums chimed in to share their own experiences with first paychecks from the show. Jason Sudeikis, who was a cast member for nine years and also worked as a writer for two years, gave a similar perspective. “I mean, you don’t really make enough money to make big purchases,” he said.
“So, I think New York rent was probably the biggest purchase I made after writing on SNL the first year,” he added, reminding fans of the high costs of living in New York, especially for someone starting out in comedy.
Cheri Oteri, another former SNL cast member, shared a memorable story about the first purchase she made with her paycheck: “I bought a couch.” She went on to explain that the couch had been reupholstered several times over the years. “I remember a designer coming over in tears and he goes, ‘Oh, those arms are too high. We’re going to get rid of that couch.’
I said, ‘Oh no. No, you’re not. Not today, Satan!'” Oteri joked, recalling her attachment to the piece of furniture. While the first paychecks may not have been as glamorous as fans might expect, the humor and camaraderie shared by these former SNL cast members highlight the modest beginnings of their careers and the memorable moments they’ve carried with them over the years.
