Who Are Pete Davidson’s Parents? Everything to Know About Amy Waters and Scott Davidson

Reflecting upon Pete Davidson’s career trajectory, I find myself deeply moved by his extraordinary ability to weave his personal experiences into his professional endeavors. His poignant portrayal of Scott in “The King of Staten Island” was not merely a film for him; it was a cathartic journey through the labyrinth of grief and healing, mirroring his real-life struggles with his father’s untimely demise.


Scott Davidson, hailing from Staten Island, served as a courageous firefighter in New York City. On a fateful day during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, he tragically lost his life in the line of duty. Prior to his heroic service with Ladder Company 118, Scott obtained a bachelor’s degree in history and captained the basketball team at the College of Staten Island. Known for his dedication as a father, an athlete, and a teacher, Scott left an indelible mark on his family, particularly his young son Pete, who was 7, and his sister Casey, then only 4 years old. His loss resonated deeply within their lives.

The absence of Scott significantly impacted Pete on both personal and professional levels. It shaped a significant part of who he is today and his career path. As described by his mother, young Pete grappled profoundly with the distress, exhibiting behavioral problems at school and even self-harm like pulling out his hair. Comedy served as a refuge for Pete, providing an avenue to express his grief and find common ground with others dealing with similar pain. Over time, Scott’s memory has emerged as a recurring motif in Pete’s performances, offering emotional support and consistency in his narratives.

Davidson Lived with Amy as an Adult

Following Scott’s demise, Pete grew up under the care of his mom, Amy Waters Davidson. Amy, who gave birth to Pete in 1993, has been a consistent influence in his life, both personally and professionally. After Pete’s dad’s departure, Amy had to deal with the task of nurturing two young children single-handedly. Despite the hardships, she turned out to be a pillar of support during Pete’s emerging comedy career. In his formative years, Amy would chauffeur him to comedy clubs in Manhattan and remains a frequent attendee at many of his performances today.

In Pete’s life, the bond with Amy was so profound that he resided with his mom even during his adulthood. In 2019, they jointly purchased a $1.3 million house on Staten Island, sharing the space as roommates. This unconventional living situation was frequently humorously addressed in Pete’s stand-up acts, with jokes about dwelling in his mom’s basement. It wasn’t until 2021 that Pete decided to move out and buy a place of his own, marking a shift in their relationship dynamics. However, despite the relocation, Pete continues to maintain a strong connection with his mother, frequently incorporating her into his work.

Davidson and Amy Have Appeared Together on Screen

Amy Waters doesn’t work as a performer, but she’s appeared on screen alongside her son. In 2019, she teamed up with Pete for the Weekend Update segment on “Saturday Night Live” for a special Mother’s Day episode. During this segment, Pete playfully talked about their shared living arrangement, joking about their life together and setting up Amy with Jon Hamm. This humorous exchange highlighted their strong bond and demonstrated Amy’s openness to being involved in Pete’s career.

Apart from their work together, Amy has joined Pete in various media projects, such as a 2023 Smartwater commercial where they enjoyed an extravagant meal prepared by a chef. Despite not having a formal background in entertainment, Amy seems at ease on camera, lending a genuine touch to Pete’s public image. Their screen collaborations provide fans with a glimpse of their friendly and nurturing relationship dynamic.

Davidson Continues to Honor His Dad’s Memory

In a unique manner, Pete honors his father by finding several means to preserve his memory. His physical self is decorated with tattoos symbolizing Scott, such as a kneeling firefighter, the firefighter’s prayer, and initials SMD. The number 11 can be seen tattooed behind Pete’s ear, possibly commemorating September 11. By inking these symbols on his body, Pete carries his father’s legacy wherever he goes, transforming himself into a living narrative of loss and remembrance.

Every year, I openly reflect on how the loss has molded me and my family. In interviews, I’ve been honest about the emotional strain it caused and how it drove me towards comedy. On the 15th anniversary of a significant event, I shared a heartfelt tribute to my father on social media, expressing both my sorrow and my enduring admiration. My relationship with his memory is intricate, marked by moments of anguish but also love and respect. This ongoing homage finds expression in my comedy, where humor serves as a means for me to cope with my grief and pay tribute to my father’s courage.

They Inspired Davidson’s 2020 Film “The King of Staten Island”

In 2020, I collaborated on the script and took on a leading role in “The King of Staten Island,” a film that holds strong connections to my own life experiences. Under the guidance of director Judd Apatow, this semi-autobiographical work delves into poignant themes such as loss, family bonds, and overcoming the aftermath of a heart-wrenching catastrophe. My character, Scott, grapples with the loss of his firefighter father, echoing my personal journey. This film afforded me an opportunity to share candidly how my father’s passing has influenced me, using both humor and emotional depth to narrate a deeply heartfelt story from within my own life.

For Peter, “The King of Staten Island” wasn’t merely a film; it was a means to face his past and start healing. He referred to it as a heartfelt letter to his mother, Amy, and a method to move on from a part of his life. The movie struck a chord with viewers, many of whom saw the candid portrayal of grief and healing as reflective of their own experiences. It further demonstrated the profound impact his parents have had on his life and career, embodying the blend of humor and sorrow that is characteristic of much of Peter’s artistic output.

Edie Falco Will Play Davidson’s Mom in His New Series “Bupkis”

In 2023, my personal experiences and family life served as the foundation for my creative endeavor, “Bupkis,” a semi-autobiographical series on Peacock. Edie Falco, renowned for her roles in “The Sopranos” and “Nurse Jackie,” brings Amy Waters to life, a character inspired by someone close to me. This show offers a heightened, fictionalized account of my life, skillfully combining real-life events with imaginative storytelling. Joe Pesci joins the cast as my grandfather, enriching the series’ examination of family dynamics and adding another layer to this captivating narrative.

Bupkis” has been likened to Larry David’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm” due to its uncensored, adult-oriented humor. The series offers Pete a platform to delve deeper into his relationship with his mother and the effects of his father’s demise in a comical yet thoughtful manner. By enlisting actors like Falco and Pesci, the show presents a new angle on Pete’s narrative while preserving the authenticity of his distinctive family background.

Amy Often Shares Childhood Photos of Davidson on Instagram

Amy Waters Davidson frequently uses Instagram to give fans a peek into Pete’s childhood memories. On his 29th birthday, she uploaded a set of nostalgic photos, displaying various stages from Pete’s early life, such as playing the guitar and riding in a wagon. These posts not only reflect her affection for Pete but also provide fans with an unusual glimpse into the comedian’s life prior to his fame.

Through her social media posts, Amy vividly illustrates her long-term backing for Pete and Casey, his sister. By reposting these recollections, she keeps highlighting the ups and downs of their family’s odyssey, commemorating moments that are both blissful and tough. It seems evident that Amy’s impact transcends her personal advocacy; she is an essential pillar in Pete’s public persona, offering a stable foundation amid his swift ascent to stardom.

The evolution of Pete Davidson from a Staten Island teen to a comedy sensation has been profoundly influenced by his parents, particularly his father’s untimely demise and mother’s steadfast support. These life events have played a significant role in shaping both his personal life and career, making them pivotal figures in his narrative. By using comedy, film, and television as mediums, Pete has found meaningful ways to remember his father and cherish the strong bond he shares with his mother. As he delves deeper into projects like “Bupkis” and “The King of Staten Island,” it’s evident that the influence of Scott and Amy Davidson will continue to be a defining aspect of Pete, as an individual and entertainer.

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2024-09-17 11:53