A tattoo-free Pete Davidson is slightly unnerving

Pete Davidson for Reformation
Photo courtesy of Reformation

Pete Davidsonโ€˜s tattoo-removal journey has produced some remarkable transformation photos.

For dedicated followers of the comedianโ€™s evolutionโ€”from his early days as a Saturday Night Live rookie to his current status as a Hollywood headlinerโ€”the new Reformation Valentineโ€™s campaign images showing Davidson in underwear represent a striking metamorphosis.

Pete Davidson for Reformation
Photo courtesy of Reformation

When Davidson made his SNL debut in 2014 as a lean 20-year-old newcomer, he captured audiences with his self-mocking humor and laid-back, cannabis-friendly persona. His rapid ascent to becoming one of the showโ€™s standout performers led to significant opportunities, including King of Staten Island, the semi-autobiographical feature helmed by Judd Apatow.

His romantic historyโ€”featuring relationships with notable celebrities like Ariana Grande, Kim Kardashian, Kate Beckinsale, and Phoebe Dynevorโ€”further elevated his celebrity status. As his prominence grew, so did his collection of body art. By 2019, Davidsonโ€™s body was extensively covered with tattoos across his torso, back, arms, legs, hands, and neck.

Pete Davidson for Reformation
Photo courtesy of Reformation

However, in 2020, he embarked on the extensive process of tattoo removal. The comedian, now 31, has disclosed that this painful procedure has already cost him $200,000. A source recently told People that Davidsonโ€™s choice was unplanned. โ€œHe just woke up one day and wanted them gone,โ€ the source said. Another insider informed the publication about Davidsonโ€™s current state: โ€œ[Heโ€™s] been sober since September [2024], and gained twenty pounds.โ€

Pete Davidson for Reformation
Photo courtesy of Reformation

While promoting his latest project, Dog Man, Davidson discussed his decision on Today: โ€œI got sober and I saw myself in the mirror and I was like, โ€˜Nah. Who that?โ€™ I was like, โ€˜I got to change it up a little bit.'โ€ He added, โ€œ[The removal is] pretty terrible, so if anybody out there is watching and thinking about getting a tattoo, make sure you really want to get it.โ€

Pete Davidson for Reformation
Photo courtesy of Reformation

His Reformation campaign provides fans their first comprehensive look at his post-removal appearance and accompanies the brandโ€™s new video declaring him the โ€œOfficial Boyfriend of Reformation.โ€

YouTube video

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