Pete Davidson, the charismatic comedian and star of “Saturday Night Live,” is navigating a transformative journey—one that involves shedding much of his ink for a cleaner slate. Speaking candidly on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” Davidson opened up about the arduous process of tattoo removal, underscoring his desire to present himself as a more mature individual. As he continues to evolve personally and professionally, the 31-year-old is opting for a drastic change in his appearance.
During his interview, Davidson provided a glimpse into the often underestimated reality of erasing tattoos. He revealed that he once flaunted a staggering 200 tattoos, though he now aims to retain only a handful—“maybe, like, two or three.” The comedian even shared an eye-opening piece of advice for anyone considering new ink: “really think about that ‘Game of Thrones’ tattoo you’re thinking of getting.” This statement not only highlights his regret over impulsive decisions but also serves as a cautionary tale for fans and aspiring tattoo enthusiasts.
The tattoo removal process isn’t merely a fleeting discomfort; Davidson described it as a torturous experience, even worse than the pain of getting tattooed. He explained that the process requires burning off a layer of skin, which then necessitates a lengthy healing period of six to eight weeks. This commitment involves patience, as the procedure has to be repeated several times to achieve the desired result. Davidson’s willingness to endure such hardship for the sake of self-improvement is both commendable and telling of his deeper struggles.
Reflections on the Past
But why did Davidson accumulate so much body art in the first place? He reflected on a darker chapter in his life, stating, “I was a sad boy… It was a weird time.” This sentiment resonates with many young individuals who sometimes turn to tattoos as a form of self-expression during chaotic periods. The artistic allure of tattoos seemed contagious a few years ago, and Davidson admitted to succumbing to societal pressure during that trend.
Since 2021, Davidson has embarked on this monumental task of removal, often sharing snippets of his progress in various interviews. He noted that the film industry often favors a clean aesthetic, which has compelled him to reconsider his extensive body art. With practical considerations in mind, Davidson revealed that it can take upwards of three hours in the makeup chair to cover up his tattoos for film roles, a cumbersome task that only adds to his conclusion that tattoo removal might be a wise decision.
While Davidson plans to discard most of his tattoos, he has expressed a desire to retain a few significant pieces that carry meaning, such as portraits of political figures like Hillary Clinton and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. His body also tells stories of past relationships through tributes to ex-girlfriends like Ariana Grande and Cazzie David, which adds layers of complexity to his decision-making process regarding which ink to keep.
In this era of self-reinvention, Davidson’s choices reflect not just a physical transformation but a quest for authenticity as he attempts to redefine himself in a world that often judges by appearances. In the end, the comedian’s journey represents a broader commentary on personal growth, the implications of impulsive decisions, and the courageous path toward reclaiming one’s identity.