Pete Davidson and Jimmy Fallon just changed the way we look at minivans
The comedian’s custom “stealth” van flips the family-car stigma, showing how privacy and usefulness have become modern dad status symbols.
For a long time, people have viewed the minivan as a vehicle you settle for when you have to. However, in a recent appearance on ‘The Tonight Show’ Starring Jimmy Fallon, comedian Pete Davidson argued that it’s actually the smartest move a famous dad can make. He talked about his custom “stealth” van, which lets him stay out of the spotlight and enjoy some privacy; something that fancy SUVs can’t provide. It’s a refreshing take on how to embrace a different lifestyle as a public figure.
What happened
The discussion on “The Tonight Show” kicked off with Jimmy Fallon bringing up Davidson’s surprising history with family vehicles. He asked the comedian, “But didn’t you buy a minivan years ago?” Davidson didn’t hesitate to confirm the rumor, admitting, “I did. I bought a minivan for Stealth.”
Davidson, who welcomed a babygirl recently, laughed about the timing, noting that while he bought it for privacy back then, “Now I can actually use it” for its intended family purpose.
Davidson went on to explain why he loves the vehicle so much, describing it as the ultimate cover for someone in the public eye. He told Fallon, “It’s the most un-(able) car you will ever..” emphasizing that “no one looks at you” when you are behind the wheel. In a moment of humor that had the audience roaring, he joked, “You could be doing a heroin deal on the West Side Highway. Nobody will look at you in a minivan”.
He then talked about the specific custom van he built for his new role as a father. “eBay helped me build a dad van,” Davidson said, clearly excited about the unique specs. He listed off the amenities, noting that “they put a VHS player in it and a changing table and a little fridge and have like a Baby Brezza in it and all this.”
Davidson has a well-known affection for traditional media, notably VHS tapes. He frequently shares stories about his impressive collection and how much he enjoys this format. The inclusion of a VHS in his minivan shows his passion for these tapes and will continue to do so, proving that true luxury sometimes lies in the simplest things you enjoy.
Public reactions
People went excited for Davidson’s minivan after eBay shared a video of it. Fans were thrilled, and the comments section quickly filled with support for Davidson’s new drive. One user said, “The hottest thing a man can do is drive a minivan, and eBay knew that.” These remarks show a new perspective on how we view masculinity and cars today. People are starting to value traits like being capable and dependable, what some might call “Dad Energy,” over the flashy image of sports cars.
Another fan expressed love for minivans, saying, “Nothing beats a minivan. Except maybe a minivan with VHS.” In today’s world, many people still appreciate tangible things over advanced tech gadgets, and adding a VHS player is a way to embrace something familiar and comforting.
On a lighter note, one person jokingly reminded Davidson, “New kid? That VHS player is about to have so many Cheetos and Cheerios in it.” While the concept of a custom van is sleek, the reality of parenting can be different, and the primary purpose of the van will likely be to manage the mess that comes with having a little one.
Why it matters
For a long time, minivans have been seen as vehicles that lack style, something people consider only when they need to be practical. This perception is changing as more celebrities, like Pete Davidson and Jimmy Fallon, are beginning to openly discuss them. Their positive views reflect a new mindset among some men who are prioritizing comfort and privacy over flashy designs.
Davidson has a unique car collection, mainly consisting of vehicles that have special meaning to him, like a Cadillac from ‘The Sopranos’. A few years back, he decided to get a Honda Odyssey, a popular minivan, for a different reason: he wanted a car that wouldn’t draw attention (“stealth”) when he was driving around. The plan was perfect, until it wasn’t. As Davidson explained, “I bought it because it’s a fun car to drive and it’s also stealth.” But the dealership that sold him the van “ratted him out” by posting his purchase online. He admitted, “I had to get rid of it. I was so sad”.
After becoming a father, Davidson revisited the concept, but on his own terms. Partnering with eBay Motors and builder Tony Angelo, he created a one-of-a-kind Honda Odyssey made for parenthood. The van comes with several unique and convenient features. It has a Sony portable VHS player connected to the back screen, a refrigerator, a baby bottle warmer, and a baby changing station for parenting ease, along with many other practical features.
By deliberately redesigning the minivan, Davidson points to the changing way we view automobiles at different stages of life.
