Pete Davidson, known for his extensive collection of tattoos, is on a journey to remove many of the nearly 200 designs that cover his body. The former Saturday Night Live star has committed around $200,000 to the tattoo removal process, which he describes as a “years-long journey.” While he plans to eliminate most of his ink, Davidson has decided to retain a few tattoos that hold significant meaning for him.
In an interview with Us Weekly, Davidson shared his thoughts on the removal process, stating, “I know people who have really cool ones. It’s just, mine are literally stupid, except for like five of them that I’m keeping.” These remarks highlight his desire to distance himself from tattoos that serve as reminders of his past, including one of SpongeBob smoking a joint, which he associates with his previous struggles with addiction.
The actor has expressed that tattoos can become lasting reminders of one’s past, impacting one’s identity over time. As he works to remove them, it’s evident that Davidson is not just seeking to change his appearance but to reflect his growth and evolution as a person. He aims to keep only the tattoos that have personal meaning, including one honoring Hillary Clinton that is inked on his leg.
During his appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Davidson connected his tattoos to his identity as a “sad boy,” stating that removing them is part of his effort to embrace adulthood. He emphasized the lengthy and painful nature of the removal process, sharing that it’s not for the faint-hearted. With his arms nearly clear of tattoos, he expressed relief at the prospect of being able to wear short-sleeved shirts comfortably.
The tattoo removal involves significant physical discomfort, described by Davidson as “burning your skin,” necessitating extensive healing periods and multiple sessions. Despite the pain and effort required, Davidson is committed to this transformative process, making the value of his chosen designs even more poignant.
In retaining a select few tattoos, Davidson is not just holding onto ink; he is preserving pieces of his current self that resonate with his life today, rather than the person he was when he first got them. It’s a testament to personal growth and a conscious decision to embrace a new chapter in his life, making the challenging journey worthwhile for the actor.