What Makes Eddie Murphy the Most Special Mentor for Pete Davidson?
Pete Davidson always considers Eddie Murphy a reliable friend. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 31-year-old comedian and actor expressed heartfelt admiration for Murphy, 64, calling him a person he can depend on and relate to deeply.
A Childhood Inspiration
Davidson shares that he has admired Eddie Murphy since he was a young child. He recalls, “I've been a fan of Eddie Murphy since I was five, six, when my mom bought me 'Delirious' from FYE,” explaining that this unexpected gift sparked his love for stand-up comedy.
Shared Journey on Saturday Night Live
Both Davidson and Murphy’s careers were shaped by their time on “Saturday Night Live” (SNL), which launched their acting and comedy careers. Davidson joined SNL at age 20 and remained for eight seasons (2014–2022), while Murphy started there at 19 and stayed for five seasons (1980–1984).
Common Experiences
Davidson highlights one key aspect that makes Murphy special: their shared experience as some of the youngest members on the SNL cast.
He adds, “We both lost our dads when we were young… and that was one of the reasons we got into comedy.” This personal connection deepens their bond and mentorship.
The Value of Shared Understanding
Davidson feels fortunate to receive guidance from someone who truly comprehends his struggles due to similar life experiences. He acknowledges the importance of having a mentor who relates to his challenges on a personal level.
“I am very lucky to have the opportunity to receive advice from someone who has gone through similar experiences and who fully understands what I am going through.”
Author’s summary: Pete Davidson’s mentorship with Eddie Murphy is profound, rooted in shared personal losses, early career parallelism, and a mutual passion for comedy that shapes a unique bond.