Pete Davidson, the comedian and actor known for his roles on Saturday Night Live and in films like The King of Staten Island, has recently made headlines for a deeply personal transformation: Pete Davidson tattoo removal. After years of sporting an extensive collection of tattoos, Davidson has embarked on a journey to erase his body art, revealing a dramatically different, tattoo-free look. This decision marks a significant turning point in his life, aligning with his sobriety and a desire for a fresh start.
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The Big Reveal: A Tattoo-Free Transformation
On February 11, 2025, Pete Davidson debuted his tattoo-free physique in a Valentine’s Day ad campaign for the sustainable fashion brand Reformation. The campaign, titled “The Perfect Boyfriend,” featured Davidson shirtless or in white underwear, showcasing the results of his tattoo removal journey. The images were a stark contrast to his previously heavily inked appearance, highlighting the effort and commitment he has invested in this transformation.
Reformation’s collaboration with Davidson is both strategic and symbolic. Known for its eco-conscious ethos, the brand has a history of partnering with unexpected ambassadors, such as Monica Lewinsky. By casting Davidson in this campaign, Reformation ties the concept of a “clean slate” to its message of sustainability and fresh beginnings. Davidson’s tattoo-free skin serves as a literal and metaphorical representation of renewal.
The Cost of Starting Over: $200,000 and Counting
Davidson’s decision to remove his tattoos has come at a significant cost—both financially and physically. Reports estimate that he has spent approximately $200,000 on laser tattoo removal. This hefty investment underscores the seriousness of his commitment to this transformation and reflects the extensive nature of his tattoo collection.
The process of tattoo removal is far from easy. Davidson has openly described it as “horrible,” sharing details on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and Today. Laser tattoo removal involves breaking down ink particles in the skin using high-intensity light beams. Each session removes a layer of skin, which then requires six to eight weeks to heal. Davidson estimates that each tattoo requires at least seven sessions, with colored tattoos taking even longer to remove than black and white ones.
A Sobering Decision: The Motivation Behind the Removal
Davidson’s tattoo removal journey is deeply intertwined with his path to sobriety. In September 2024, he decided to get sober, a decision that prompted him to reevaluate his life and appearance. Looking in the mirror, he felt the need to shed his old skin—both literally and figuratively.
“I got sober and I saw myself in the mirror, and I was like, ‘Nah. Who that?’ I was like, ‘I got to change it up a little bit,'” Davidson explained during an interview on Today.
This transformation reflects a desire for a fresh start and an effort to align his outer appearance with his inner growth. Davidson has admitted that many of his tattoos were impulsive decisions made before he entered rehab. He now considers some of them regrettable, particularly a series of cartoon characters smoking blunts, including a muppet and the Tootsie Pop owl.
Initially, Davidson revealed his plans for tattoo removal in 2020. At one point, he had nearly 200 tattoos but now intends to keep only two or three. His goal is to have all his chest and back tattoos removed by the time he turns 40.
Fan Reactions and a New Chapter
The public response to Davidson’s tattoo-free look has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans have praised his commitment to change and expressed admiration for his new, clean-cut appearance. The Reformation campaign has further amplified the buzz around his transformation, generating significant attention and conversation.
Davidson’s tattoo removal journey represents more than just a cosmetic change. It symbolizes a commitment to personal growth, sobriety, and a fresh start. As he continues down this path, it will be fascinating to see how this transformation shapes his career and public persona.
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