Summary (tl;dr)

Pete Davidson is trending due to his dramatic physical transformation for his role as real-life mobster Tommy Pitera, also known as "Tommy Karate," in an upcoming true-crime film he is also co-writing and producing.

Essential Background

Thomas "Tommy Karate" Pitera was a notorious hitman for the Bonanno crime family in New York City, known for his martial arts skills, which earned him his nickname. He was suspected of numerous murders and eventually convicted of six, leading to a life sentence. Actor and comedian Pete Davidson has been developing a film about Pitera's life for over three years, calling it a "dream job" and co-writing the screenplay.

The Full Story

"Pete Davidson Tommy Karate" is currently trending following the release of a first look at Pete Davidson in his role as mobster Tommy Pitera for the upcoming true-crime film, "Tommy Karate." Davidson's dramatic physical transformation for the part, featuring longer hair, bright blue colored contacts, and a notably more serious demeanor, has surprised and gone viral among fans who are accustomed to his usual comedic persona. The film, directed by Justin Chon and based on Philip Carlo's book "The Butcher: Anatomy Of A Mafia Psychopath," will chronicle the pursuit and capture of Pitera by a DEA agent.

Why It Matters

This trend signifies a notable pivot in Pete Davidson's career, showcasing his ambition to take on more serious and dramatic roles beyond his established comedic work. The intense physical transformation highlights his commitment to the role of a notorious real-life mobster, generating significant public interest and anticipation for the film. For audiences, it represents a fresh take on the gangster genre, as the director aims to present it through a contemporary lens focusing on character and real consequences.

Geographic Location

• Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, New York City, Kings County, New York, United States (filming of "Tommy Karate")
• Atlanta, Fulton County, Georgia, United States (production of "Tommy Karate")
• Brooklyn, New York City, Kings County, New York, United States (Tommy Pitera's criminal activities and residence)
• Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, New York City, Kings County, New York, United States (Tommy Pitera's kumite competition and criminal activities)
• Staten Island, New York City, Richmond County, New York, United States (location where Tommy Pitera allegedly dismembered and buried bodies)
• Tokyo, Japan (Tommy Pitera's martial arts training)
• Inez, Martin County, Kentucky, United States (Tommy Pitera's current incarceration at USP Big Sandy)