Pete Davidson has long been a recognizable figure in the entertainment world, not just for his comedy but for the vast collection of tattoos that covered his body. In a surprising turn, the comedian and actor has unveiled a dramatically new look, one that involves the extensive and painful process of laser removal for nearly 200 of his signature inks. This transformation marks a significant shift for Davidson, moving from his famously inked persona toward a more streamlined image that aligns with his evolving career in Hollywood.
The decision, as Davidson explained in recent talk show appearances, was largely practical. His expanding acting career made the tattoos a logistical hurdle. He revealed that it could take up to three extra hours in the makeup chair to cover all his body art for film roles, a process he described as a major inconvenience. This professional necessity prompted him to begin the lengthy and expensive journey of removal, a project he estimates has already cost over two hundred thousand dollars.
Pete Davidson’s life in ink: From odes to his exes to tattoos of Winnie of the Pooh and Hillary Clinton https://t.co/sat7fXlajB pic.twitter.com/jhHVOON3Rz
— New York Post (@nypost) March 18, 2022
Davidson’s tattoos were a diary of his life, featuring everything from poignant tributes to his late father to more whimsical and, by his own admission, “dumb” choices. His skin featured portraits of political figures like Hillary Clinton, cartoon characters like DoodleBob from SpongeBob, and references to past high-profile relationships. He openly shared that many of these were impulsive decisions made before a period of rehab and sobriety, which gave him a new perspective.
The removal process itself is far from simple. Davidson has been candid about the ordeal, describing it as “horrible.” The laser treatment essentially burns off layers of skin, requiring a long healing period and protection from sunlight. Each tattoo needs a minimum of seven to twelve sessions to fully disappear, making it a commitment that is both painful and time-consuming. He has joked that it’s a strong deterrent for anyone considering a impulsive tattoo of their own.
Pete Davidson debuts new look for Reformation’s Valentine campaign after spending $200k on tattoo removal. pic.twitter.com/Il65OutKY1
— Buzzing Pop (@BuzzingPop) February 11, 2025
The big reveal of his new look came in a fashion campaign for Reformation, where he was dubbed the “Official Boyfriend.” In the campaign photos, Davidson appears with a seemingly ink-free torso, showcasing a clean-slate aesthetic. This visual transformation is more than skin deep; it symbolizes a man refining his image for a new chapter, proving that personal growth often involves shedding the past, one laser session at a time.
