Unveiling the Tattoo Transformation
Pete Davidson, the well-known comedian and former 'Saturday Night Live' star, has been making headlines with his ongoing tattoo removal journey. With a collection of around 200 tattoos, Davidson has been working to clear much of his ink over the past few years. However, amidst this transformation, he recently revealed that one particular piece of body art holds a special place and will remain untouched.
The tattoo in question is a portrait of Hillary Clinton, the former U.S. Secretary of State and 2016 presidential nominee, located on his leg. Davidson first showcased this tattoo in December 2017 on Instagram, captioning it with admiration for Clinton as his 'hero' and a 'badass.' Clinton herself responded playfully at the time, commenting, 'Thanks, @petedavidson, This makes it significantly less awkward that I've had a Pete Davidson tattoo for years. But seriously, I'm honored. Merry Christmas my friend.'
Hillary Tattoo: A Permanent Tribute
In a recent interview, Davidson confirmed the fate of this iconic ink, stating, 'Hillary is staying. I love that Hillary.' This decision stands out as he continues an extensive and often painful process to remove many other tattoos from his body, including those on his arms and torso. The comedian has openly discussed the challenges of tattoo removal, describing it as 'terrible' but necessary for personal and professional reasons.
The Hillary Clinton tattoo, inked as a Christmas gift tribute to his political hero, remains a symbol of Davidson's outspoken support during the 2016 election. While other designs, including tributes to pop culture figures and past relationships, are being erased, this piece continues to hold sentimental value for the 31-year-old star.
The Bigger Picture of Ink Removal
Davidson's journey to remove his tattoos began in 2020, driven by a desire for a fresh start and easier opportunities in acting roles where extensive makeup to cover tattoos wouldn't be required. Reports indicate that the process has been costly, with estimates suggesting a price tag of around $200,000 for complete removal. Despite the pain and expense, Davidson has made significant progress, with his arms nearly cleared as of early 2025.
While social media posts on X reflect a mix of curiosity and commentary about his evolving appearance, Davidson's focus seems to remain on personal growth. The retention of the Hillary Clinton tattoo amidst this overhaul speaks volumes about what he chooses to keep close, blending personal conviction with public persona in a uniquely permanent way.