Pete Davidson, known for his rebellious persona and distinctive tattoo collection, has taken a dramatic step in transforming his image. The comedian, actor, and Saturday Night Live star revealed he is in the process of removing over 200 tattoos from his body, including some “dumbest tattoos” that he once loved. The tattoos, which range from portraits of his famous ex-girlfriends to quirky cartoons, have become a symbol of his past. Now, as he shifts towards a more refined Hollywood actor image, Davidson is embracing a fresh start.
Pete Davidson. Credit / Getty Images
Pete Davidson’s Tattoo Removal: The Road to Recovery
Davidson’s tattoo removal journey is no small feat. With each tattoo requiring several painful sessions, the process has been slow and challenging. “It’s horrible,” Davidson admitted in a recent interview. “They have to burn off a layer of your skin, and then it has to heal for six to eight weeks.”
The star, who began his tattoo collection in his teenage years, has over 200 pieces of ink, many of which hold personal significance. Among them are tributes to his late father, firefighter Scott Davidson, who died in the 9/11 attacks, and portraits of public figures like Hillary Clinton and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. He also has tattoos of pop culture references, including DoodleBob from SpongeBob SquarePants, a New York State driver’s license, and symbols from his favorite shows like Harry Potter.
“I made a lot of those decisions before rehab,” he shared with Jimmy Fallon. “So I have the dumbest tattoos,” he admitted, referring to some of the more bizarre pieces in his collection, such as a Muppet smoking a blunt and the Tootsie Pop owl in a similar pose.
A Growing Career and Personal Transformation
Davidson’s decision to start removing his tattoos reflects a significant personal transformation, and it’s no surprise that his career played a key role in his decision. As his acting career expands, tattoos began to pose challenges, especially when it came to covering them up for roles. “It takes like three hours to cover all your tattoos,” Davidson explained, noting that Hollywood actors often have a more polished image. The comedian’s shift from his tattooed persona to a more clean-cut look signals his growing professionalism and maturity as an actor.
Davidson, who has starred in movies like King of Staten Island and Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, sees his tattoo removal as part of his efforts to “become an adult.” As he continues to climb the ladder in Hollywood, removing tattoos has become a way for him to step into a new phase in his career.
The Painful Process of Tattoo Removal
Davidson’s tattoo removal process is no walk in the park. For someone with a large collection, the sessions are grueling, especially when dealing with color tattoos, which take longer to remove. He shared with Fallon that it can take as many as 12 sessions for some tattoos, especially those with color.
“The laser removal process is far more painful than getting the tattoo,” he said. Despite the discomfort, Davidson is committed to the process, hoping that by the time he reaches his 40s, his tattoos will be a distant memory. For many fans, this transformation signifies more than just a change in appearance. It marks a milestone in Davidson’s personal growth, moving away from his past as the edgy, tattooed comedian to a more polished and mature version of himself.
Pete Davidson’s New Look: ‘Official Boyfriend’ Campaign
Davidson’s fresh new look was recently revealed in a photo shoot for Reformation, a sustainable clothing brand. In the three-minute campaign video, Davidson is introduced as the “Official Boyfriend,” a supportive partner who waits patiently outside the fitting room while women try on clothes. The campaign emphasizes Davidson’s role as the ideal companion, and the visuals showcase him confidently embracing his new, ink-free appearance.
In the photos featured on the Reformation website, Davidson appears topless or in minimal clothing, proudly showing off his nearly ink-free torso. These images have stolen the spotlight and have generated buzz among his fans. For Davidson, this campaign represents more than just a modeling gig; it’s a chance to display his evolving identity as both an actor and an adult.
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The Symbolism Behind His Transformation
Davidson’s tattoo removal journey isn’t just about aesthetics – it reflects a deeper shift in his career and personal life. The decision to remove tattoos that once represented his rebellious youth is symbolic of his desire to leave behind his past and embrace a future in Hollywood. While tattoos are an important part of his identity, Davidson has recognized that his image must evolve as his career continues to grow.
His transformation also represents a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where image and professionalism are closely intertwined. For many actors, maintaining a polished appearance is essential for landing leading roles, and Davidson’s decision to remove his tattoos highlights his commitment to his craft. As he matures and navigates his way through Hollywood, it’s clear that Davidson is ready to embrace a new chapter.
Fans React to Davidson’s New Look
While some fans may miss Davidson’s signature tattooed look, many have expressed their admiration for his willingness to embrace change. The tattoo removal journey is undoubtedly painful, but it’s also a sign of growth and maturity. By shedding his old image, Davidson is redefining himself both personally and professionally.
Davidson’s fans have expressed mixed reactions to his new look. Some have commented on his transformation, praising his commitment to his career and growth. Others miss the familiar tattooed image that has become part of his identity. However, one thing is clear – Davidson’s decision to remove his tattoos is a bold move that reflects his ongoing journey as an actor and individual.
The Future of Pete Davidson
As Davidson continues to evolve, it’s evident that he is embracing both his career and personal growth. The tattoo removal journey symbolizes his desire for change and his willingness to step into a new phase of his life. Whether or not his fans miss his old look, there’s no denying that Pete Davidson is carving out his own path in Hollywood, and his transformation will be remembered as one of the many steps toward his future.
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