Kenan Thompson on Pete Davidson's Low 'SNL' Salary and Pay Discrepancies

Dec 7, 2024 at 9:53 PM
In the world of television, pay discrepancies have long been a topic of discussion. One such instance that has recently come to light is Pete Davidson's salary as a cast member on "Saturday Night Live." While some may be shocked by the figure, others, like veteran Kenan Thompson, seem to have a different perspective. Kenan Thompson, who has been with the NBC comedy sketch show for two decades, recently shared his thoughts on the matter during an interview at the American Museum of Natural History gala.

Uncovering the Truth Behind Pete Davidson's "SNL" Pay

Section 1: Pete Davidson's Revelation

In a New York Magazine video posted on Wednesday, Davidson revealed that he earns a surprisingly low $3,000 per episode. This statement left many wondering about the reality of life as a cast member on the show. Some speculated that he might have been joking, while others considered the possibility that this was the rate only for the early years of his tenure. It's clear that Davidson's salary has sparked a lot of interest and debate. 2: The impact of such a low salary on a cast member's life is significant. With a salary of only $3,000 per episode, it becomes challenging to make a substantial living. As Davidson himself mentioned, he could only afford dinner with that amount. This raises questions about the financial stability of the cast and the value placed on their work.

Section 2: Kenan Thompson's Perspective

Kenan Thompson, with his two decades of experience on "Saturday Night Live," has a unique view on the pay issue. In his interview, he emphasized that it's more about having the job than getting paid immediately. "You gotta pay your dues a little bit," he said. This suggests that there is an understanding among the cast that building a career on the show is more important than immediate financial gain. 2: Thompson's perspective also highlights the long-term nature of a career in show business. While the initial pay may be low, the opportunities and exposure gained from being on a popular show like "Saturday Night Live" can lead to greater success and higher earnings in the future. It's a reminder that patience and perseverance are often rewarded in this industry.

Section 3: Jason Sudeikis' Reflection

Jason Sudeikis, a former "SNL" writer and cast member from 2005 to 2013, also shared his thoughts on the issue in the same video. He recalled how he couldn't make big purchases with his salary and joked about how "New York rent" was his big splurge during his first year as a writer. This shows that the pay issue is not unique to Pete Davidson but has affected many cast members over the years. 2: Sudeikis' experience serves as a reminder that the television industry can be tough when it comes to pay. Even for those who have been on the show for a while, the salaries may not always match the expectations. However, it also highlights the resilience and determination of the cast members who continue to pursue their careers on the show.