Variety Celebrates Pete Davidson and New York’s Cultural Moment at Exclusive Party

New York City is currently experiencing a significant cultural surge, a sentiment that Variety captured during its recent gathering. The inspiration for this renewed energy stems partly from the New York Knicks’ historic NBA championship victory in June, ending a 53-year title drought and electrifying the metropolitan area.

Nicky Campbell, a fashion TikTok personality and one of Variety’s inaugural Creators to Watch, described the spontaneous celebrations that followed the win. “I was at my friend Justin’s house with a bunch of straight people, which was fun,” Campbell recalled. He noted that the group eventually rushed to Times Square, where they remained for hours amid chaotic street festivities. Having lived in the city for twelve years, Campbell remarked that the public reaction was unlike any he had previously experienced, noting, “It was wild. People were on cars! I might have jumped on one at one point, too.”

To honor this vibrant period, Variety held The New York Party on Thursday evening at the Living Room Bar & Lounge in Manhattan’s Flatiron District. The event primarily celebrated Staten Island native Pete Davidson, who was featured on the cover of the publication’s New York issue. During the evening, Davidson participated in an in-depth interview with Variety chief correspondent Marlow Stern, discussing his departure from “Saturday Night Live,” his high-profile past relationships, and a concussion sustained during the filming of “Tommy Karate.”

Still recuperating from his on-set injury, Davidson arrived at the venue driving himself while wearing dark sunglasses and a oversized chocolate-brown leather jacket. Upon arrival, he posed on the red carpet and greeted Variety co-presidents Ramin Setoodeh and Dea Lawrence. Inside, the comedian mingled with notable guests including comedian Matt Friend, television personality Gayle King, “The View” contributor Ana Navarro, and “Subway Takes” host Kareem Rahma.

The grand lounge provided an atmosphere blending classic glamour with contemporary city nightlife. Guests enjoyed champagne, lobster rolls, and tuna tartare while celebrating the metropolis. Friend reflected on his roots in the area, stating, “It all started for me with these interviews I did on the streets of New York and doing impressions. There’s nothing like this city.”