Jon Stewart and Pete Davidson are doing a 9/11 anniversary comedy show for charity
Two New York City comedians and several of their famous friends are holding a show to raise money for charities benefitting victims of 911
[August 10, 2021: RACHEL TREISMAN]
Two New York City comedy icons — and several of their famous friends — are holding a show to raise money for charities benefitting victims of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and their families.
Jon Stewart and Pete Davidson will host "NYC Still Rising After 20 Years: A Comedy Celebration" at Madison Square Garden on Sept. 12, a day after the attacks' 20th anniversary. The special aims to honor the city's resilience, the comedians said in a joint statement.
Its star-studded roster also includes the likes of Dave Chappelle, Amy Schumer, Jimmy Fallon, Colin Jost, Michael Che, Bill Burr, John Mulaney and Wanda Sykes.
Tickets go on pre-sale starting Wednesday, with general tickets available starting at noon on Friday. Proof of vaccination is required.
The tragedy is personal for both comedians
The event honors a cause close to both headliners' hearts.
Davidson was 7 when his dad, a firefighter, died while responding to the attack on the World Trade Center.
That loss is a recurring theme in Davidson's work, including his 2020 movie, The King Of Staten Island.
In his mind, comedy has helped him process tragedy, describing it as "healing."
"It really just frees my mind from focusing on things that might be upsetting to me," Davidson said. "And I think it really helped me grow as a person. And I'm really grateful for comedy and having it in my life."
Stewart has long advocated for 9/11 victims and first responders, and frequently appeared on Capitol Hill to push for more financial support for those who suffered illnesses and injuries as a result of the attack.
He memorably confronted lawmakers at a House Judiciary subcommittee hearing on funding for the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund in June 2019, criticizing them for not extending the program and the poor turnout at the hearing.
"They responded in five seconds. They did their jobs with courage, grace, tenacity, humility," he said, his voice breaking. "Eighteen years later, do yours."
The committee unanimously voted to approve the funds the next day.
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Science News Writer, Editor-At-Large and Publisher
Joseph Shavit, based in Los Angeles, is a seasoned science journalist, editor and co-founder of The Brighter Side of News, where he transforms complex discoveries into clear, engaging stories for general readers. With experience at major media groups like Times Mirror and Tribune, he writes with both authority and curiosity. His work spans astronomy, physics, quantum mechanics, climate change, artificial intelligence, health, and medicine. Known for linking breakthroughs to real-world markets, he highlights how research transitions into products and industries that shape daily life.