Summary
Pete Davidson’s role inThe Rookiehas garnered significant attention, as the police procedural is a much different series than the films and TV shows the comedic actor normally appears in.The Rookieis going into its seventh season, and while most of the series is focused on the police work of John Nolan (Nathan Fillion), the LAPD’s oldest rookie, the show also looks into his personal life. Relationships with John’s son, ex-wife, and mother, among others, are explored, rounding out the already layered character.
Davidson first entered the pop culture conversation when he became one of the youngest cast members ofSaturday Night Livein 2014. He starred on the show for eight seasons before pursuing other movie and TV projects. Many have accusedDavidson of playing himself in his moviesand TV shows, as bothThe King of Staten IslandandBupkisfeature the actor playing lost young men dealing with mental health issues and the loss of their father. However, there’s no denying that Davidson has an endearing, captivating screen presence, which he put to good use inThe Rookie.
“We Actually Do In Real Life”: Pete Davidson’s 2020 Comedy Gets High Praise From Real Firefighter
Pete Davidson’s acclaimed 2020 comedy-drama The King of Staten Island receives high praise, and an excellent accuracy score, from a real firefighter.
Pete Davidson Played John Nolan’s Half-Brother InThe Rookie
Davidson’s Character Was Notably Absent From John’s Wedding Episode, Causing Fan Outrage
Pete Davidson made a notable appearance inThe Rookie as John Nolan’s half-brother, Pete. Introduced in season 2, episode 13, “Follow-Up Day,“Davidson’s character arrives to tell John, whom he’s never met, about their father’s passing, which creates a ripple effect that impacts both the personal and professional aspects of John’s world. Once again, Davidson is playing a young, directionless man who has lost his father, but rather than feeling like a retread of past work, Pete’s complex emotions work for the show, as does Davidson’s natural charm.
Pete Nolan shows up again for two more episodes, both in season 4. However,Davidson was notably absent fromThe Rookie’s 100th episode, which focuses on John Nolan’s wedding.This sparked fan outrage, as many viewers thought that Pete should have been at such an important event in his half-brother’s life. It’s unknown why Davidson didn’t appear, but he likely didn’t have time in his schedule. InThe Rookie, the absence was explained as Pete being apprehended by bounty hunter Skip Tracer Randy (Flula Borg) for owing $6000 in unpaid parking tickets.
Season 4, Episode 22
“Day in the Hole”
Pete Davidson’s casting inThe Rookiewas significantly influenced by his rapport with Nathan Fillion on the set of 2021’sThe Suicide Squad.Davidson played Blackguard inThe Suicide Squad, a naive mercenary role that allowed him to showcase his comedic timing and unique presence. Meanwhile, Fillion portrayed Cory Pitzner, aka “T.D.K.”. which stands for The Detachable Kid, a nod to the character’s ability to detach his arms from his body.
Fillion later shared his thoughts on Davidson’s casting inThe Rookie, admitting he initially underestimated the comedian. He toldThe Hollywood Reporter,
When I first met him, I thought, “He and I are probably not going to be best pals.” And within four minutes, I was embarrassed and ashamed because I’d judged a book by its cover. He’s an incredibly kind man. Within two or three days, I invited him to do an episode, and he graciously accepted. He’s wildly talented and always brings a flavor to the character that’s realistic. It’s been a pleasure seeing what this unlikely friend of mine can do with being an unlikely half-brother and friend to my character.
Davidson’s casting is a prime example of how surface impressions can be misleading. Despite often being judged based on his high-profile romantic relationships and public persona, Davidson has proven himself as a versatile actor capable of delivering compelling performances. His work onThe Rookiestands as evidence of his ability to transcend typecasting and bring genuine skill to his roles.
The Rookie
Cast
The Rookie follows John Nolan, a small-town man who embarks on a new career as an LAPD officer after a life-changing event. As the force’s oldest rookie, Nolan faces skepticism from superiors who view his pursuit as a midlife crisis.
The Suicide Squad
The Suicide Squad: Released in 2021, The Suicide Squad features supervillains Harley Quinn, Bloodsport, and Peacemaker, among others, as they join Task Force X. The team embarks on a mission on the enemy-held island of Corto Maltese under the direction of Amanda Waller in this entry of the DC Extended Universe.
