Pete Davidson’s SNL Return Spotlights Troubled Staten Island Ferry Investment

Comedian Pete Davidson made a surprise return to Saturday Night Live’s Weekend Update desk. He joined co-anchor Colin Jost to discuss their controversial purchase of a decommissioned Staten Island Ferry. The segment turned their financial misadventure into a viral comedy moment.

The appearance highlighted a New York Times report labeling the ferry a “money-losing fiasco.” Davidson and Jost used self-deprecating humor to address the project’s mounting losses and uncertain future.

The High Cost of a Floating Dream

Davidson and Jost purchased the retired ferry boat in 2022. They paid $280,100 at a government auction alongside investor Paul Italia. Their initial plan was to transform the vessel into a unique entertainment venue.

The project has since faced significant financial hurdles. During the SNL segment, Davidson joked he performed in Saudi Arabia to help cover the ferry’s massive losses. The bit resonated with audiences familiar with overambitious projects.

From Public Service to Public Spectacle

The ferry, named the “Titanic 2” as a joke, became a central character in their comedy routine. Davidson suggested disenchanted Staten Islanders could live on the boat. He called the floating community “New Staten Island.”

Jost claimed the venture was “actually going very well.” He mentioned a sponsorship deal with Nike for the New York City Marathon. The authenticity of this claim remains unclear, adding to the segment’s humorous ambiguity.

Comedy as a Shield for Commercial Struggle

The duo’s willingness to publicly joke about failure is a modern celebrity strategy. It transforms potential embarrassment into relatable content. This approach builds audience connection through shared vulnerability.

Davidson also paid tribute to SNL creator Lorne Michaels. He credited Michaels for teaching him to “never, ever give up.” This sentiment applied equally to comedy careers and troubled ferry investments.

The ferry saga continues to provide material for both comedians. Its ultimate fate remains uncertain, but its value as a comedy premise is assured. For Davidson and Jost, the journey itself has become the destination.

Their Staten Island ferry investment demonstrates how public figures can leverage commercial missteps for creative gain. The story blends local history, celebrity culture, and financial reality into a uniquely modern narrative.

Thought you’d like to know

How much did Pete Davidson and Colin Jost pay for the ferry?

They paid $280,100 for the decommissioned vessel in 2022. The purchase occurred through a government auction. They bought it with investor Paul Italia.

What was the original plan for the Staten Island Ferry?

The comedians intended to convert it into a floating entertainment venue. Specific details about the planned renovations were never fully disclosed. The project has faced significant operational challenges.

Why did Pete Davidson reference a show in Saudi Arabia?

He joked that he needed the income from the international performance. The earnings were to help offset the ferry’s substantial financial losses. The comment highlighted the project’s monetary struggles.

What did the New York Times report say about the ferry?

The publication described the venture as a “money-losing fiasco.” This characterization became a central joke during the SNL segment. Davidson and Jost openly referenced the critical assessment.

Have other celebrities invested in unusual transportation?

Yes, various celebrities have purchased unique vehicles and vessels. These investments often blend personal interest with business opportunity. Outcomes vary widely between commercial success and humorous failure.