It's been a rough year for Pete Davidson. The Saturday Night Live cast member had a whirlwind romance with international pop star Ariana Grande, and after only a few weeks of dating, the couple got engaged. They moved in together, got matching tattoos, and pledged their love for each other as often as they could.
However, after about six months of being together, Davidson and Grande called off their engagement. It's not really clear what caused the split, but in Grande's newest music video for her song "thank u, next" there's a clear message to Davidson that says "Pete, sorry I dipped." Most people took this as in indication that it was Grande who called off the engagement.
Since then, Davidson has taken a lot of heat about the failed relationship, with most of Grande's fans piling on him and even going so far as to send him death threats. Davidson, who has borderline personality disorder, posted about these threats on Instagram.
"I've kept my mouth shut. Never mentioned any names, never said a word about anyone or anything [...] I've been getting online bullies and in public by people for nine months [...] I just want you guys to know. No matter how hard the internet or anyone tries to make me kill myself. I won't. I'm upset I even have to say this [...]"
Grande replied to the news of people bullying Davidson by defending her former fiancee.
"I know u already know this, but I feel I need to remind my fans to please be gentler with others," she said. "I really don't endorse anything but forgiveness and positivity. I care deeply about Pete and his health. I'm asking you to please be gentler with others, even on the internet."
But it seems that even though Grande came to Davidson's defense, things still aren't getting better. The stand-up comedian posted a deeply troubling message to his Instagram account on Saturday.
"i really don't want to be on this earth anymore. i'm doing my best to stay here for you but i actually don't know how much longer i can last. all i've ever tried to do was help people. just remember i told you so â¤"
The message alarmed a lot of people, as Davidson's history of mental health issues and drug use made this seem like he was suicidal. Things were so serious, that the NYPD were called to Davidson's home to complete a welfare check.
Fans were relieved to see Davidson on Saturday Night Live that same day, though it was clear he was only there to quell any rumors about his well-being. Davidson was cut from all live sketches due to missing rehearsals, and his only live appearance was to introduce the musical guest.
Davidson has since deleted his Instagram account, but it's unclear whether he's reaching out for help to get through this rough time. The Set It Up actor hasn't had an easy life. His dad was a firefighter called to respond to 9/11 and died during the tragedy. Davidson was only eight years old at the time. Since then, he's been open about his struggles with mental health issues and drug abuse.
Grande also responded to this post from Davidson, saying she was there if he needed her. She has since deleted the tweets.
"Man i'm so sorry i told a dumb joke. i really didn't mean any harm," she tweeted. "All I want everyone to be healthy and happy. so desperately. please. my god. I'm downstairs and I'm not going anywhere if you need anyone or anything. I know u have everyone u need and that's not me, but i'm here too."
The joke she's referring to is presumably when she tweeted about Kanye West and Drake fighting, asking that everyone could "behave for just like a few hours so the girls can shine," which West took offence to. Davidson spoke out in favor of West, saying mental health is nothing to joke about.
We hope that Davidson is doing alright, and that he's receiving any help he needs.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text "help" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.