Comedian Pete Davidson delivered more than just laughs during a recent stand-up performance at the Prudential Center — he also shared a deeply personal and painful chapter of his life, offering fans an unfiltered glimpse into his family struggles.
During the show, the 31-year-old Saturday Night Live alum spoke candidly about his maternal grandfather’s declining health and the emotional complexity it has stirred within him. “He was diagnosed with lung cancer, and I’m not that close with him. I’m close with my dad’s dad. I don’t like my mom’s dad,” Davidson said, drawing a sharp distinction between the two paternal figures in his life.
While the crowd may have expected a joke, Davidson’s tone shifted dramatically as he revealed a darker truth about his upbringing. “He used to abuse me, and I don’t like him very much,” he said, referring to his mother Amy Davidson’s father. The admission came as a shock to many in attendance, highlighting the emotional weight behind Davidson’s typically irreverent persona, according to the Daily Mail.
Though he made it clear that he feels little connection to his grandfather, he said his concern remains with his mother, who is deeply affected by the situation. “I want to be there for my mom. She’s sad about it,” Davidson said, emphasizing his desire to support her through a difficult time despite his own complicated feelings.
The performance follows a recent interview with People magazine, where Davidson discussed another profound loss in his life — the death of his father, Scott Davidson. A firefighter, Scott was tragically killed during the 9/11 attacks when Pete was just seven years old. In that interview, Davidson reflected on how much he cherished the time they spent together, describing his father as a constant source of joy and strength during his early years.
The comedian, known for blending humor with heartfelt personal insights, has never shied away from using his platform to address sensitive issues, from mental health to trauma. His latest set is a continuation of that tradition, offering audiences not just entertainment but a raw look at the human experiences that have shaped him.
By sharing these stories, Davidson continues to challenge taboos around family abuse and grief, making space for honest conversation, even under the spotlight of a comedy stage.