Pete Davidson shocks fans with dramatic transformation into mobster Tommy Pitera

Pete Davidson is taking on one of his most dramatic roles yet, transforming into infamous mobster Tommy Pitera for the upcoming crime thriller Tommy Karate.

The first look from the film shows the comedian and actor nearly unrecognizable with a full head of hair, a wig and facial prosthetics designed to portray the convicted Bonanno crime family enforcer.

Based on Philip Carlo’s book The Butcher: Anatomy of a Mafia Psychopath, Tommy Karate follows the rise and capture of Tommy Pitera, a New York mob figure known for his martial arts skills and criminal activities. Pitera, who earned the nickname “Tommy Karate” because of his training, was suspected of numerous murders before being convicted in 1992 for multiple killings and involvement in a drug operation.

The upcoming crime drama will focus on DEA Agent Jim Hunt’s pursuit of Pitera, with Paul Walter Hauser portraying the federal agent. The cast also includes Camila Mendes and Simon Rex. Justin Chon is directing the movie from a screenplay he co-wrote with Davidson and Joseph Gay.

Davidson, who is also producing the project, previously described Tommy Karate as a dream role and praised the team behind the film. He said the story represents a fresh take on the gangster genre rather than a traditional crime drama.

The film marks another step in Davidson’s transition from stand-up comedy to dramatic acting. The former Saturday Night Live star has appeared in projects including The King of Staten Island, Bodies Bodies Bodies and The Dirt, continuing to expand his Hollywood career with more challenging roles.