Pete Davidson recently disclosed the story behind a humiliating tattoo he once had, revealing why he decided to cover it up. The 31-year-old comedian has been undergoing tattoo removal since 2020, but the tattoo in question was something he wanted to hide long before starting the process.
Origin of the Tattoo Inspired by Dave Chappelle
During his second appearance on the First We Feast series Hot Ones, Pete described how, around the age of 19 or 20, he performed a stand-up set with Dave Chappelle in the audience. After the show, Chappelle complimented his performance and gave him some advice that inspired Pete to get a tattoo across his chest.
This was before [Dave] was back, so seeing him was like crazy, going ‘What the f—?’ And I got off stage and he was like, ‘I watched your whole set — it was really good,’ and I was like, ‘Oh, thanks.’ I was like, ‘You know, how do you keep coming up with new stuff? I’m working on new stuff and it’s like difficult,’ and he goes, ‘Jokes come and go, but swag is forever.’ … And guess who got that tattooed on his chest?
—Pete Davidson
Covering Up the Embarrassing Tattoo
Pete revealed that he eventually chose to cover the tattoo with a much larger design after feeling embarrassed about it.
I covered it with Jaws because I needed something huge to black it out. I just put a giant shark over it. That’s pretty bad, dude – but he was like my idol. He still is, but that’s so dumb. I could’ve just told people he said that to me.
—Pete Davidson
The Personal Impact and What’s Next for Davidson
This revelation gives insight into Pete Davidson’s personal journey with tattoos and admiration for Dave Chappelle, highlighting a moment mixing youthful idolization and later self-awareness. As Davidson continues his tattoo removal process, fans anticipate more candid stories and reflections from the comedian, especially as he embarks on new phases of life such as fatherhood.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Pete Davidson have a syndrome?
A. Davidson found out he had PTSD and borderline personality disorder (BPD) when he was 23. BPD causes strong emotions, impulsive actions, and trouble keeping good relationships. In September 2017, he shared with “WTF” podcast host Marc Maron, “This has been the worst year of my life.”
Q. What addiction does Pete Davidson have?
A. Pete Davidson has been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and struggles with marijuana addiction.
Q. What is Pete Davidson allergic to?
A. Pete Davidson has a strong allergy to dogs.
Q. What was Pete Davidson’s addiction?
A. “I stopped using drugs and feel happy and sober for the first time in eight years.” Davidson openly talked about using marijuana, but few knew it was more than that. He also battled an addiction to ketamine, using it daily for four years.
