In a surprising turn of events, Pete Davidson made a splash during a recent episode of “Saturday Night Live,” showcasing his ongoing tattoo removal journey. Clad in a short-sleeved graphic T-shirt, the comedian displayed his remarkably transformed forearms, indicative of his longstanding decision to shed his extensive collection of tattoos. The contrast between his old, heavily inked appearance and his current state of near-completeness was striking, illustrating a significant shift in his personal aesthetic. As he stood in front of the audience, it emphasized not only a physical transformation but also a deeper evolution in his life and career.
In addition to his tattoo removal, Davidson’s new buzzcut further marked a departure from his previous look, highlighting his willingness to embrace change. This appearance on the iconic late-night show brought together Davidson and long-time friend John Mulaney, alongside familiar co-stars like Keenan Thompson and Ego Nwodim. The comedic sketch they performed, set in a Duane Reade convenience store, cleverly incorporated Davidson’s tattoo situation into playful banter and musical numbers, showcasing his ability to find humor even in personal challenges.
Davidson has been slowly reintegrating himself into the public eye, and just before his SNL appearance, he was seen enjoying quality time with musician Machine Gun Kelly in Los Angeles. The pair posed for photographs, which offered another glimpse into Davidson’s evolving physicality. With his left arm nearly devoid of tattoos and only a few remnants on his right, the shift was evident. This transformation isn’t merely aesthetic — it’s symptomatic of a broader change in Davidson’s lifestyle and approach to relationships.
This ongoing evolution reflects a growing desire on Davidson’s part to redefine his identity, both on-screen and off. The comedian has frequently attributed a portion of this change to his pursuit of serious acting opportunities, making it essential for him to be more versatile in his roles. As he moves forward in his career, it’s evident that he values adaptability and the ability to step into various characters without his past defining him.
Tattoo removal, particularly through laser procedures, is infamously painful — a fact Davidson has openly discussed. In previous interviews, he admitted that undergoing multiple sessions of painful laser blasts can be daunting. “It’s like burning them off,” Davidson said, sharing his experiences of sitting in a chair, equipped with protective goggles, feeling vulnerable yet determined. His candidness about the discomfort associated with this process resonates with many; it strips away the glamor often associated with celebrity life, revealing the truths of personal struggles, even for those in the limelight.
Furthermore, Davidson’s journey reflects a deeper conversation about the significance and permanence of tattoos. Once celebrated as expressions of individuality or as tributes to romantic relationships — such as the ink he dedicated to former paramours like Ariana Grande and Kim Kardashian — the comedian has since reconsidered these decisions. The diverse designs he sported, from portraits of public figures like Ruth Bader Ginsburg to whimsical imagery, now seem like remnants of a past self he is willing to leave behind.
As Pete Davidson continues his journey of transformation, his willingness to confront his past and take steps toward reinvention serves as an inspiration for many. With each session marking the removal of ink, it symbolizes not just a physical change but a shedding of old layers, making way for new beginnings in both his personal life and career. In a world where societal pressure often dictates appearance and behavior, Davidson’s embrace of change reveals a commendable courage to evolve and adapt.
This journey, while personal, speaks volumes. It underscores that transformations are possible at any stage in life. Through laughter, community, and brave choices, Pete Davidson shows us that each step — no matter how painful — can lead to a renewed sense of self.