Pete Davidson shared that during his eight-season run on Saturday Night Live from 2014 to 2022, he earned $3,000 per episode. In an interview with New York Magazine, Davidson recalled that his first paycheck barely covered a nice dinner.

Similarly, SNL alum Jason Sudeikis noted that his early earnings as a writer in 2003 primarily went toward paying rent before he eventually became a cast member.

The revelations highlight the modest beginnings for many stars on the iconic sketch comedy show, even as they later achieve major success in their careers.