Pete Davidson won the hearts of SNL viewers with his drawling, heavy-lidded stoner stand-up segments on Weekend Update.
From his first appearance, Davidson displayed a wry wit and easy charm that endeared to audiences and co-stars alike, making it easy for the 20-year-old to rise through the ranks as the fourth-youngest castmember in the show’s history.
(Only Anthony Michael Hall, Robert Downey Jr., and Eddie Murphy were younger.)
Fans of the show have noted that Davidson hasn’t been receiving quite as much screen time this season, and his presence on social media has diminished considerably in recent months.
There were rumors of Davidson’s early success going to his head and causing him to clash with SNL’s more senior stars.
Now, however, it appears that Davidson’s absence was the result of a much more serious issue.
In a remarkable candid Instagram post, Davidson opened up about his struggles with substance abuse, but went on to assure fans that he’s at the happiest, healthiest point of his adult life.
“Just wanted to let you guys know I’m okay,” Davidson wrote.
“I know I’ve kinda been missing, on social media and on the show. I quit drugs and am happy and sober for the first time in 8 years.”
“It wasn’t easy, but I got a great girl, great friends and I consider myself a lucky man. I’ll always be here for you guys, I promise.”
He added:
“Remember to never give up hope because sometimes that’s all we got.
“We are a family and I appreciate all your love and support. It’s nice to be back in action.”
Davidson is currently dating Cazzie David, daughter of Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm impresario, Larry David.
Sources say Davidson credits Cazzie and the support he’s received from his family with enabling him to turn his life around.
The 23-year-old’s road to stardom has been anything but easy, as Davidson lost his father – a Staten Island firefighter – in the 9/11 terrorist attack.
Davidson suffers from Crohn’s disease and has spoken openly about using marijuana medicinally to treat the condition throughout his life.
The comic took time to pay tribute to his girlfriend yesterday, posting the above photos of himself with Cazzie.
“Couldn’t pick one so I went with two,” he captioned the pics.
“Luckiest guy in the world #babygirl.”
We wish Davidson all the best.
Here’s hoping he continues to receive the support that he needs, and keeps making us laugh for many years to come.