Pete Davidson, known for his candid humor and relatable charm, is currently navigating a transformative journey that is both personal and physical—removing the tattoos that have defined his wild youth. On a recent episode of *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon*, Davidson opened up about his experiences with tattoo removal, describing it as “horrible” and excruciatingly more painful than the inking process itself. The 31-year-old actor and comedian admitted to having around 200 tattoos, many of which he has started to erase in pursuit of a more mature and “adult” lifestyle.
Davidson showcased his post-tattoo removal progress by rolling up his sleeves, revealing significantly clearer skin than the ink-laden arms recognized by fans. “I’ve been burning them off,” he articulated, illustrating the demanding nature of the treatment that entails numerous sessions of skin burning, healing periods, and strict avoidance of sunlight. The grueling process is expected to continue for months, if not years, as Davidson strives to keep only a select few meaningful pieces—“maybe, like, two or three,” he suggested. This commitment to a tattoo-less existence speaks volumes about Davidson’s desire for personal growth and change.
As Davidson reflects on his past—an era marked by sad emotions and impulsive decisions—the comedian revealed his motivations for getting inked in the first place. “I was a sad boy,” he confessed, suggesting that his tattoos were a way to cope with difficult emotions and external pressures. Furthermore, he humorously lamented the societal trend of tattooing that took over a few years back, saying, “Everybody was getting tattoos, like, five years ago. Remember that?” This acknowledgment of the fleeting nature of trends underscores a deeper understanding of his own journey and highlights how he has evolved as a person.
Additionally, Davidson shared that the presence of tattoos has complicated his acting career. In an earlier discussion on *Late Night With Seth Meyers*, he quipped about the long makeup process needed to cover his extensive ink for movie roles. “For some reason, people in movies don’t have them that much,” he observed, lending insight into Hollywood’s often conservative aesthetic standards. By shedding the tattoos, Davidson is actively working to align his outward appearance with his evolving self-image.
Despite this significant shift, Davidson has not completely turned his back on ink. He has received considerable media attention for some of his more poignant tattoos, including tributes to influential figures like Hillary Clinton and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, as well as sentimental nods to his past relationships with high-profile women, such as Kim Kardashian and Ariana Grande. These tattoos, unlike the others, carry weight and significance, representing bonds worth preserving as he matures.
Ultimately, Davidson’s tattoo removal saga serves as a powerful metaphor for self-discovery and reinvention. His story is a relatable reminder that everyone can rethink their choices, seeking not only to amend physical appearances but also to embrace personal growth. Through this ongoing transition, Pete Davidson brings to light a crucial lesson: It’s never too late to reevaluate one’s past and make decisions that resonate with the person one aspires to be.