For fans of raw, unfiltered comedy, Pete Davidson has become a defining voice of a generation, and Netflix serves as the primary stage for his evolving narrative. The comedian, best known for his tenure on Saturday Night Live and his high-profile personal life, has translated his chaotic charm into a variety of projects that are easily accessible through streaming. Understanding Pete Davidson’s Netflix catalog is essential for anyone looking to see the unfiltered side of modern comedy, moving from edgy stand-up to surprisingly poignant scripted drama.
From Stand-Up Specials to Sketch Dominance
Davidson’s relationship with Netflix began long before he became a household name, establishing him as a boundary-pushing comic. His early stand-up specials showcased the abrasive, darkly humorous persona that would later define his public image. These performances were less about polished jokes and more about chaotic energy, tackling topics like mental health, relationships, and his own troubled past with a shocking honesty. This raw format allowed him to build a dedicated following, proving that his appeal extended far beyond the SNL stage and paving the way for his transition into longer-form Netflix productions.
Pete Davidson: The Stand-Up Specials
Pete Davidson: Swords Live (2019): This hour-long special is a masterclass in uncomfortable comedy, filmed in a dimly lit club where Davidson tackles racism, his father's death, and his struggles with borderline personality disorder.
Pete Davidson: Alive from New York (2022): Released during the pandemic, this special feels more intimate and reflective, showcasing a slightly more mature Davidson while still delivering the vulgar, rapid-fire jokes that made him famous.
The Evolution into Scripted Comedy
While stand-up solidified his reputation, Davidson’s move into scripted Netflix shows revealed a different side of his talent. Moving from one-liners to character arcs, he demonstrated a willingness to be vulnerable and funny simultaneously. These projects allowed him to collaborate with established creators and explore genres beyond comedy, integrating his personal brand of neuroticism into narrative structures that feel both authentic and entertaining.
Broad City and the Supporting Role
Long before he was a movie star, Davidson was a breakout supporting player on the Comedy Central series Broad City. Although the show is technically a Comedy Central production, its availability and popularity on Netflix streaming catapulted him to mainstream fame. Playing the charming, somewhat dim-witted yet weirdly endearing Pete, opposite Ilana Glazer and Abbi Jacobson, provided the perfect training ground for his brand of chaotic energy.
The Feature Film Crossover
Netflix also serves as the primary home for Davidson’s feature film work, keeping his movie presence constant between major theatrical releases. His collaborations with Adam Sandler, while mixed in critical reception, have been instrumental in his box office success and are consistently available on the platform for binge-watching. These films cement his status as a bankable leading man in the streaming era, proving his drawing power extends far beyond comedy clubs.
The Uncut Gems and The King of Staten Island
The Uncut Gems (2019): A tense, anxiety-inducing thriller where Davidson plays a small but pivotal role as a jeweler, showcasing his ability to hold his own alongside Adam Sandler in a high-stakes drama.
The King of Staten Island (2020): This semi-autobiographical film directed by Judd Apatow allowed Davidson to explore deeper dramatic territory while maintaining his comedic roots, resulting in a performance that feels painfully honest.
