Comedian Pete Davidson, during an interview on the Today show, discussed his ambitious plans for a decommissioned Staten Island Ferry he co-owns with Saturday Night Live alumnus Colin Jost. The pair purchased the vessel in 2022 for $280,000, intending to transform it into a multifunctional entertainment hub. Despite facing financial challenges and logistical hurdles, Davidson remains optimistic about bringing their vision to life. The project has garnered attention, including a humorous plea from Jost's wife, Scarlett Johansson, for public support.
The Vision Behind the Ferry Transformation
Davidson and Jost have grand aspirations for the ferry, envisioning it as a unique venue that combines dining, entertainment, and hospitality. The comedian shared that they frequently discuss potential ideas and are close to implementing some of them. However, the sheer scale of the boat, which can accommodate up to 5,000 people, presents significant challenges. The duo aims to turn the vessel into a floating complex featuring a restaurant, concert hall, movie theater, and hotel rooms, creating an unparalleled experience for visitors.
The ferry, a massive structure designed to transport thousands, requires substantial resources to operate and maintain. Davidson acknowledged the complexity of moving such a large vessel, noting that it would need considerable manpower. Despite these obstacles, he and Jost remain committed to realizing their innovative concept. The comedian emphasized that while the project is ambitious, it represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create something extraordinary. During a podcast appearance, Davidson humorously admitted that the purchase had put him and Jost in a financial bind, yet he expressed confidence in overcoming these difficulties.
Public Reaction and Future Plans
The ferry project has sparked both curiosity and amusement among the public. A clip from the Today show featured Johansson and Jost playfully asking viewers to help fund their venture, highlighting the unconventional nature of the endeavor. This lighthearted moment underscored the couple's playful approach to addressing the financial demands of the project. Davidson found this segment entertaining but also recognized the need for serious planning to make the ferry a reality.
In a candid interview, Jost described the purchase as one of the least thought-out decisions of his life, emphasizing the unexpected challenges they encountered. He initially justified the acquisition based on its cost-effectiveness per square foot in New York City. However, the realization of the extensive work required to repurpose the ferry has since set in. Davidson reassured Guthrie and Melvin that they were welcome to broadcast the Today show from the ferry whenever they wished, signaling the potential for future collaborations and events. Despite the setbacks, Davidson and Jost continue to explore ways to bring their imaginative vision to fruition, aiming to create a landmark attraction that will captivate audiences for years to come.