HOLLYWOOD, USA – Pete Davidson’s highly anticipated semi-autobiographical series, ‘Bupkis’ has finally arrived, and fans couldn’t be more excited. The 8-episode season, which premiered on Peacock, offers a glimpse into Davidson’s life as Hollywood’s most normal celebrity, blending comedy, drama, and personal introspection elements.
“It’s, I guess, a Yiddish or Jewish term meaning whatever or nothing. My grandpa used to say it all the time growing up, so we just thought it was a nice title,” Davidson told Bloomberg, on why he decided to name the show Bupkis. “He’s a big fan of TV and film, and he got a kick out of it. I also thought it looks cool on a t-shirt.”
The show takes on a pseudo-autobiographical approach, with Davidson playing a fictionalized version of himself. It’s a raw and unflinching portrayal of his life, blending real experiences with fictional elements.
The series explores the complexities of fame, family dynamics, and the challenges of forming meaningful relationships.
Davidson’s comedic genius shines through in each episode, as he infuses the show with his trademark humor and wit. ‘Bupkis’ draws inspiration from iconic shows like ‘The Sopranos’, ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’, and ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’, creating a unique blend of genres and storytelling styles.
With a star-studded cast that includes industry veterans and rising stars, ‘Bupkis’ delivers powerful performances across the board.
Edie Falco portrays Davidson’s mother, showcasing her versatility and bringing depth to the character, while Kenan Thompson, known for his work on “Saturday Night Live,” brings his comedic brilliance to the show.
Joe Pesci, who was a surprise addition, thanks to SNL creator Lorne Michaels, takes on the role of Davidson’s grandfather and mentor, infusing the series with his iconic presence.
“We had an actor attached to play this role, and he backed out at the last second and I didn’t know what to do,” Davidson recalled. “I called Lorne and Lorne’s a wizard and he was like ‘What about Pesci?’ I was like, ‘How? Why would you say it like that?’ The guys only done The Irishman in the last 30 years. He was like, ‘You know, all he’s waiting for is a good part.’ Then, I met with him and we kind of hit it off.”
In addition to the core cast, ‘Bupkis’ features an array of guest stars who make memorable appearances throughout the series.
Steve Buscemi, Simon Rex, John Stewart, Method Man, and many others lend their talents to create a rich and diverse tapestry of characters. These guest appearances not only enhance the storytelling but also highlight the show’s appeal and draw in a wider audience.
One of the most intriguing aspects of “Bupkis” is the involvement of Charlamagne Tha God, a prominent radio personality and media figure. Known for his candid and unfiltered approach, Charlamagne brings his unique charm and storytelling abilities to the series, adding an extra layer of depth and authenticity.
Beyond his radio success, Charlamagne and Pete Davidson share a genuine friendship that goes back years. Their bond began during Davidson’s early years in the industry, and Charlamagne has been a steadfast supporter of the SNL veteran ever since.
The chemistry between them is palpable, both on- and off-screen, adding an extra layer of authenticity to their dynamic in ‘Bupkis’.
The cultural architect, who is also an avid mental health advocate, also credits Davidson as one of the people who introduced him to therapy.
After exploring therapy himself, Charlamagne released a best-selling book, chronicling his struggle with anxiety and depression while also forming the Mental Wealth Alliance – an organization that aims to de-stigmatize mental health in Black communities and help make treatment more accessible.
As viewers immerse themselves in the world of “Bupkis,” they will find themselves laughing, reflecting, and connecting with the experiences depicted on screen. The series strikes a delicate balance between humour and vulnerability, showcasing Davidson’s growth as both a performer and a person.
“Bupkis” is a testament to Pete Davidson’s ability to captivate audiences with his unique brand of comedy. Through this series, he opens up about his life, tackling both the highs and lows with honesty and authenticity.
The inclusion of Charlamagne Tha God adds an extra layer of depth and charisma, making ‘Bupkis’ a truly compelling and must-watch show.
