A Father's Legacy: Pete Davidson Honors Late 9/11 Hero Dad on 25th Anniversary
On the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, American comedian Pete Davidson is finding both profound sorrow and deep healing as he honors the memory of his father, New York City firefighter Scott Davidson. This year's commemoration carries a unique weight, as Davidson now stands at the same age his father was when he made the ultimate sacrifice.
How is Pete Davidson marking the 25th anniversary of 9/11?
Davidson, now 33 years old, the same age his father was when he died, shared his reflections with The New York Post. The comedian, who welcomed his daughter Scottie Rose in December with ex Elsie Hewitt, explained that becoming a parent has transformed his understanding of loss.
“I thought, 'Oh, he was an old guy. He's 33.' But now I'm there, and I have a kid, and that would be like my kid not having her dad,” Davidson said.
The anniversary has proven more challenging than in previous years. “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 admitted.
What does the name Scottie mean to Davidson?
The naming of his daughter carries deep sentimental value. Davidson's father was known as Scotty, a nickname that inspired the baby's name. “It was really cool that Elsie also wanted to name her Scottie,” Davidson said. “When she arrived, we both looked at her and were like, 'She looks like a Scottie.' It's nice to keep that name alive.”
Davidson finds comfort in believing his father's presence surrounds his young daughter. He shared a touching story about how Scottie would stare at a photo of her grandfather during bath time, and continues to turn her head toward the picture wherever it hangs in their Brooklyn home.
“I don't know what I believe in, but I like to think that his presence is somehow around,” Davidson added.
How did Davidson honor his father on this solemn anniversary?
Davidson participated in the NYC Still Rising After 25 Years: A 9/11 Comedy Benefit at Madison Square Garden on Thursday evening. The event brought together comedy luminaries including Jon Stewart, Aziz Ansari, Dave Chappelle, and Bill Burr, with proceeds supporting charities that aid first responders affected by 9/11 and their families.
Davidson praised his longtime friend Stewart as “someone who's so New York and represents the tristate area, and is just the barometer of goodwill.”
While the day carries immense emotional weight, Davidson finds strength in new beginnings. “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.
As Rwanda remembers its own heroes of resilience and reconstruction, Davidson's story resonates with the universal values of honoring sacrifice, embracing family legacy, and finding hope amid remembrance.
Frequently asked questions
Who was Pete Davidson's father?
Scott Davidson was a New York City firefighter who died on September 11, 2001, while responding to the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. He was 33 years old.
Why is this 9/11 anniversary different for Davidson?
Davidson is now the same age his father was when he died and has become a father himself to daughter Scottie Rose, born in December. This dual milestone makes the anniversary both more painful and more meaningful.
What is the NYC Still Rising comedy benefit?
It is a 9/11 comedy benefit held at Madison Square Garden featuring top comedians, with proceeds going to charities supporting first responders affected by 9/11 and their families.