This "SNL" Star Just Hinted They Might Be Leaving the Show

Pete Davidson hinted he may be leaving SNL.

During the season finale, which aired on May 22, quite a few stars spawned rumors they were leaving. The episode started with Kate McKinnon, Cecily Strong, Aidy Bryant, and Kenan Thompson taking center stage as they discussed the challenges of the past year, and the emotional tone set off rumors that it was their last episode of the show. Then, while on "Weekend Update," Pete Davidson gave what sounded like a heartfelt goodbye to the audience.

While discussing Mental Health Awareness Month and the effects of the pandemic on mental well-being, Davidson eventually transitioned into what seemed to be a sentimental farewell. "The pandemic has taught me that we never really know what the future holds, and it's also taught me to be grateful," said Davidson. "I'm very grateful to be here, and it's been an honor to grow up in front of you guys, so thanks."

Additionally, during The Hollywood Reporter's Comedy Actor's Roundtable, which was filmed in early May but released on May 27, Davidson threw out another hint that he may be leaving SNL. The interviewer noted that Thomspon, the longest-running cast member in SNL history, has been around for 18 seasons. Current SNL cast member Chris Redd chimed in immediately, saying he "would never do 18 seasons." Davidson then added, "Yeah, I’m good. I’m surprised I made it to seven. I’m ready to hang up the jersey."

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But Davidson also said he wanted to leave back in 2020.

Back in Feb. 2020, Davidson got candid while on Charlamagne Tha God's webseries Live Your Truth. Davidson admitted he's asked former cast member Adam Sandler about how to know when it's the right time to leave SNL. "I have a lot of conversations with people because it’s a hard thing to do," said Davidson. "You don’t ever want to pull the trigger too early. Everybody’s always been like, ‘You’ll know when you know.'"

Davidson went on to say he thinks he should leave the show sooner rather than later, "because they make fun of me on it." He explained that he felt he was treated like a punchline on SNL, leaving him feeling never really sure if he was the joke or was in on the joke.

However, it seems like Davidson somewhat changed his tune over the past year, saying the most recent season of SNL has been his favorite yet. When The Hollywood Reporter interviewer asked Davidson in May what changed to improve his experience, he said, "I was at a really different place a year or two ago. I’m not exactly proud of how I handled or was handling things a few years ago."

Davidson added that the pandemic forced him to reflect on his decisions and eventually, he said he felt "so happy" SNL started up again. "I was really excited just to work and see people and I had a different outlook for this season and moving forward," he explained. "I think I’ve been able to have a lot of fun, and I just really appreciate it."

Davidson has said multiple times that he feels like he's outgrown SNL.

When Charlamagne asked Davidson if he felt he'd outgrown the show, he said, "Yeah, I think everybody outgrows it." He went on to explain that he's often cast in the same kinds of parts or is relegated to appearing on "Weekend Update" as himself. "I feel like I’ve done 30 of those, and I just feel like, yeah, I’ve done as much as I can over there," Davidson said.

During the more recent Hollywood Reporter interview, Davidson echoed his feelings from the year prior. "I usually play very dumb characters. So, it’s very easy for me," he said. Although, that time around, Davidson did point out that he enjoyed the "randomness" of not having much of a say in what sketches he appears in.

Davidson wants his post-SNL career to be like these two alumni's.

As for what you can expect from Davidson when he does decide to leave SNL—whether that's now or later—it seems he's gunning for more time on the big screen. When The Hollywood Reporter asked Davidson about whose career he'd love to model his off of, he cited Eddie Murphy and Sandler. " I like what Sandler did where he’s like, 'These are my eight friends, we’re going to do this formula for the next 30 to 50 years.' He built this entire universe for himself, and he’s in his own lane. That’s the model," said Davidson.

Davidson also lauded the way Sandler carries himself as a person, noting that he tries to emulate that. "He’s so kind to everyone, and you never hear of a Sandler issue," said Davidson. "Any time you see that guy’s face, it’s associated with smiles and good vibes. That’s the thing I’m trying to follow."

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