Lauren Cochrane
Updated on: October 8, 2024 5:13 am GMT
The MV John F. Kennedy, a decommissioned Staten Island Ferry, owned by comedians Pete Davidson and Colin Jost, is set to host a significant fashion event during New York Fashion Week, which runs from September 6 to September 11, 2024. The ferry, once considered a burden by its buyers, has now found a new purpose as the venue for Tommy Hilfiger’s anticipated runway show.
Details of the Event
The ferry, which was purchased at auction in 2022 for $280,000, will serve as a unique backdrop for Hilfiger’s show, a cornerstone of New York’s fashion scene. This marks a notable moment for both the ferry and its celebrity owners, turning what was becoming an expensive liability into a creative and public-facing initiative.
Hilfiger expressed enthusiasm about the venue choice, stating, “New York City is the birthplace of the American dream, and the Staten Island Ferry represents the gateway to self-expression for so many across history. By hosting this year’s show aboard the MV John F. Kennedy, a recently decommissioned ferry, we will celebrate the quintessential New York City landmark while integrating our nautical-inspired design philosophy.”
The Purchase Story
In a rather unconventional decision, Davidson and Jost, along with developer Ron Castellano and comedy club owner Paul Italia, acquired the ferry while reportedly under the influence of cannabis. Davidson later acknowledged this admission in an interview, stating, “We were very stoned” at the time of the purchase. Jost, while not denying the atmosphere surrounding the purchase, humorously reflected on the potential regret, saying, “Hopefully it turns into a Transformer and gets the f—k out of there so I can stop paying for it,” highlighting the ongoing expenses incurred while maintaining the vessel.
Upon buying the ferry, the group expressed ambitions to transform it into a $34 million entertainment complex that might feature a comedy club and restaurant, or even a boutique cruise service operating between New York and Miami. The initial plans showed promise for a versatile use of the ferry, yet logistical and financial challenges soon complicated those visions.
Fashion Meets Innovation
The upcoming runway show is not only a strategic move to repurpose the ferry but also highlights a trend in fashion where unique venues are becoming standard. Hilfiger’s vision aims to marry the nautical elements of the ferry’s design with his brand’s aesthetic, offering an innovative twist to the typical fashion show format.
As Fashion Week draws closer, the anticipation builds around the MV John F. Kennedy’s transformation from a comedic prop into a sophisticated venue. The ferry, famously known for its iconic role in New York City transit, will now serve as a canvas for creative expression and high fashion.
Community and Economic Impact
By hosting the fashion show on the ferry, Davidson and Jost also bring local attention to Staten Island, further integrating it into the broader tapestry of New York City’s culturally rich environment. The involvement of a globally recognized brand like Tommy Hilfiger may contribute not only to the ferry’s rehabilitation but also to Staten Island’s image as a hub for entertainment and culture.
Local businesses could benefit from increased foot traffic and media coverage, and the event may serve as a springboard for further economic opportunities in the area. As Davidson acknowledged, the expenses associated with the ferry’s upkeep have raised questions about its viability; the Hilfiger show might provide a much-needed financial reprieve by elevating the ferry’s profile and attractiveness.
The Future of the Ferry
As Fashion Week unfolds, the fate of the MV John F. Kennedy remains intertwined with the vision of its famous owners, who are still navigating the uncharted waters of ferry ownership. While plans for a comedy club and boutique cruise center are ambitious, the immediate success of the fashion show may dictate the future direction for the vessel.
Right now, the spotlight is on the runway, where models will strut their stuff on the deck of an old ferry. This ferry is being turned into a colorful place to show off the newest American fashion. We don’t know yet if the ferry will become a popular spot for different kinds of entertainment, but this upcoming event is the start of something exciting for the ferry that many people didn’t pay much attention to before.
