For years, Pete Davidson was synonymous with his sprawling collection of tattoos. From tributes to former flames to spontaneous, quirky designs, his skin served as a living scrapbook of his life in the spotlight. However, the 32-year-old comedian has spent the better part of the last few years undergoing a rigorous, expensive, and notoriously painful process to wipe the slate clean. Now, as he steps into a new era of fatherhood and professional success, Davidson is proving that while he may be removing his past, he isn’t finished with body art entirely.
The Evolution of a Clean Slate
The journey to remove his extensive tattoo collection began in earnest back in 2021. At the time, Davidson had accumulated roughly 200 tattoos, many of which required significant time in the makeup chair to cover up for his film and television roles. The comedian famously noted that the process of concealing his ink was both time-consuming and exhausting, often taking up to three hours before he could even step on set. By choosing to undergo laser removal, he wasn’t just changing his aesthetic; he was reclaiming his time.
Reports suggest that Davidson has invested upwards of $200,000 into the removal process. It is a grueling commitment, one he has described as being far more painful than the actual tattooing process itself. Despite the physical toll, he has remained steadfast in his goal. During a 2025 appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, he clarified his long-term vision: he wanted to clear the canvas, leaving behind only a select few pieces that held deep personal significance. While he has parted ways with many designs—including those dedicated to past high-profile relationships—he has notably kept his portrait of Hillary Clinton, a quirky memento from the 2016 election cycle that remains a permanent fixture on his skin.
A New Tribute: Honoring Daughter Scottie
The most significant shift in Davidson’s life arrived in December 2025, when he and his girlfriend, model Elsie Hewitt, welcomed their daughter, Scottie. The couple, who first sparked dating rumors in March 2025, have kept much of their relationship private, though insiders have noted that Hewitt represents a different, more grounded chapter for the comedian. This new phase of life has clearly influenced his perspective on body art.
At CinemaCon 2026 in Las Vegas, Davidson made a public appearance to promote his upcoming action-comedy, How to Rob a Bank. Fans were quick to notice that while his arms were largely bare—a stark contrast to his heavily inked appearance just a few years prior—he had added a fresh, delicate piece of ink. Positioned on the side of his ear was the name “Scottie,” a permanent tribute to his four-month-old daughter. It is a subtle, meaningful choice that signals a departure from the chaotic, sprawling tattoos of his twenties toward a more intentional approach to self-expression.
The Practicality of Professional Growth
Beyond the personal sentiment, there is a clear professional motivation behind Davidson’s transformation. As he transitions into more leading roles in major motion pictures, the logistical ease of having “clean” skin cannot be overstated. By reducing his tattoo count, he is making himself more versatile for casting directors and reducing the reliance on heavy-duty makeup applications.
Key factors influencing Davidson’s tattoo journey include:
- Efficiency: Reducing the hours spent in the makeup chair for film production.
- Personal Growth: Moving away from impulsive tattoos linked to past relationships.
- Financial Investment: Committing over $200,000 to a multi-year removal process.
- New Priorities: Focusing on meaningful, permanent tributes like his daughter’s name.
The transition from a “human doodle pad” to a more minimalist aesthetic reflects a broader maturation in Davidson’s career. He is no longer the young breakout star of Saturday Night Live looking to make a statement with every inch of his skin; he is an established actor and a father, curating his appearance to match his current reality.
Looking Ahead
As Pete Davidson continues to balance his high-profile career with his private life, his evolving relationship with tattoos serves as a metaphor for his personal growth. He has successfully navigated the painful reality of laser removal to shed the “humiliating” designs of his past, yet he has left room for the things that truly matter. Whether he decides to add more ink in the future remains to be seen, but for now, the name behind his ear stands as a testament to his most important role yet: being a father.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Pete Davidson removing his tattoos?
Davidson has stated that he wants to avoid spending hours in the makeup chair to cover his tattoos for film roles. He also expressed a desire to “clean-slate” his appearance as he matures.
How much has he spent on tattoo removal?
Reports indicate that the comedian has spent over $200,000 on the multi-year laser removal process.
Which tattoos is he keeping?
While he is removing most of his 200 tattoos, he has indicated he plans to keep a few, including his portrait of Hillary Clinton.
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