On a lively evening at the Cinema Society screening of “Riff Raff,” Pete Davidson candidly revealed his ongoing journey of tattoo removal. The former “SNL” star shared with Page Six that he is nearing the end of erasing the inkings from his arms and has now shifted his focus to removing tattoos from his torso. Once adorned with 200 tattoos, Davidson described the process as excruciatingly painful, likening it to having your skin burned off and repeated tenfold.
In a moment of raw vulnerability, Davidson humorously suggested investing in the tattoo removal business as a wise financial move. Reflecting on the discomfort of the procedure, he expressed, “It’s terrible. They burn off your skin and then you’ve got to do it 10 more times.” Despite the agony, he found solace in the moments of anesthesia-induced sleep during the process. Whether engaged in conversation with nurses or listening to music, Davidson navigated the discomfort with his trademark humor and resilience.
During his appearance at the screening, Davidson showcased his ink-free body in an ad campaign for Reformation, sporting a simple white T-shirt and boxer shorts. The comedian’s authenticity and humor shone through as he discussed the challenges and triumphs of tattoo removal, offering audiences a glimpse into his personal journey of transformation.
A Reflective Journey
Reflecting on his early days as an “SNL” cast member at the tender age of 20, Davidson acknowledged the surreal nature of his rapid rise to fame. He candidly admitted that in retrospect, the experience seemed “ridiculous,” underscoring the contrast between his youthful exuberance and the weight of expectations thrust upon him. Despite the initial shock of being catapulted into the world of sketch comedy, Davidson expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of his colleagues and creator Lorne Michaels, who served as a guiding light during his formative years on the show.
As the celebration of “SNL50” unfolded, Davidson found himself in the company of legendary actress Meryl Streep, a moment he described with equal parts awe and nervousness. Recounting their interaction, he shared, “I was just so nervous because I didn’t want to bother her. She was so nice.” The exchange with Streep served as a poignant reminder of the shared camaraderie and reverence among the show’s diverse cast and guests, underscoring the profound impact of the iconic program on generations of viewers and performers.
Embracing New Horizons
While navigating the challenging process of tattoo removal, Davidson immersed himself in the role of a hitman in the film “Riff Raff,” co-starring alongside the legendary Bill Murray. Embracing the opportunity to step into a different persona, he quipped, “I usually don’t get to do stuff like that — put on a suit and be a mobster, that’s the dream!” The experience of embodying a hitman marked a departure from his comedic roots, offering a glimpse into his versatility as an actor.
In a testament to his resilience and growth, Davidson shared that he is currently in a “good” place, emphasizing the gradual process of self-discovery and healing. With a sense of optimism for the future, he reflected on the evolving nature of life, noting, “As I get older, things just get better… so I’m doing better.” Davidson’s journey, marked by vulnerability, humor, and authenticity, serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and self-acceptance in the face of life’s challenges.
As Pete Davidson continues on his path of personal and professional growth, his story resonates as a testament to the transformative power of self-reflection, humor, and resilience. In the midst of tattoo removal sessions and film projects, Davidson’s journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the importance of embracing change, facing adversity with humor, and finding strength in vulnerability.
