For Pete Davidson (32), September 11 is not just another date. His father was among the New York firefighters who lost their lives in the 2001 terror attacks. Almost 25 years later, the comedian is assembling a star-studded lineup at Madison Square Garden: Together with Jon Stewart (63) and concert promoter Live Nation, he announced the benefit evening NYC Still Rising After 25 Years - A 9/11 Charities Comedy Benefit. Variety reports.
The event is scheduled for Thursday, September 10, one day before the anniversary. It will be a single evening, with no tour planned. Proceeds will go to various charitable organizations that address the aftermath of the attacks.
A lineup spanning the US comedy scene
In addition to Davidson and Stewart, performers include Aziz Ansari, Bill Burr, Dave Chappelle, Ronny Chieng, Nikki Glaser, and Josh Johnson. More names are expected to be announced, according to the announcement.
"We are excited to once again celebrate the tenacity, resilience, and winning spirit of this great city - and by that we don't just mean our New York Knicks," Stewart and Davidson explained in a joint statement. Presale begins Wednesday, July 29, at 10 a.m. local time. General sales start Friday, July 31, at 10 a.m. local time.
The organizers emphasized one requirement in advance: Phones, smartwatches, and accessories will not be permitted in the audience. The comedians will apparently be able to perform their material without recordings and without viral clips.
The idea originated from Davidson and Stewart themselves. In 2021, for the 20th anniversary, they brought the format to the stage for the first time, then under the title NYC Still Rising After 20 Years: A Comedy Celebration.
Two comedians with personal connections
Davidson's father Scott Davidson lost his life in the September 11, 2001 terror attacks when the comedian was just seven years old. His daughter's name, Scottie, is a loving tribute to his late father.
Stewart also has a personal connection to the subject. The Daily Show host has been advocating for years on behalf of September 11 first responders. Many of them became ill after being exposed to toxic dust following the collapse of the World Trade Center. Additionally, Stewart is considered an important advocate for US veterans who inhaled pollutants from open burn pits in Afghanistan and Iraq.
