 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
NY Ink
- TLC
- Genre: Reality TV
Common Sense Media says
Tattoo reality spin-off is both sympathetic and salty.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this latest installment of the TLC Ink franchise features content here that's a bit stronger than that of its sister shows. It features lots of bickering, which leads to yelling, salty language ("s--t," "f--k" bleeped), crude sexual references, and occasional shoving matches. The show is pro-body art and offers no warnings about the risks involved. Clients share personal stories about the significance of their tattoos, including some bittersweet stories about the loss of children and other loved ones that may be too disturbing for young and/or sensitive viewers.
What's the story?
NY INK features Miami Ink body artist Ami James heading up The Wooster Street Social Club, a vintage style tattoo parlor in New York's trendy Soho district. The creative and temperamental James has hired a new team of talented artists, including Tim Hendricks and Tommy Montoya, and the young Megan Massari. James' apprentice Billy, and assistants Jessica and Robear add to the colorful clan. Included in the fray is Brooklyn tattoo artist Chris Torres. Together they use their creativity and passion for tattooing to satisfy their clients, while learning how to get along.
Is it any good?
The series focuses on the celebrity body artist -- who began tattooing in New York City at a time when it was illegal -- trying to offer a more upscale inking experience than that of the average tattoo parlor. A lot of emphasis placed on the personal histories of their clients, many of whom are choosing to get inked as a way of communicating both loss and love. The cast's response to these narratives is compassionate, and they never fail to honor them with the best artwork they can create.
Unfortunately, while their digs may be upscale and trendy, the group's behavior isn't always the classiest. Like its sisters shows, wild pranks, endless bickering, nasty exchanges, and shoving matches are all featured here. But if you look past the artists' drama, you'll still find a show that has some heart.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about tattoos. What are parents' and kids' opinions about tattoos? Are people's attitudes about tattoos (and the people who get them) changing thanks to reality shows like this one? Why is getting a piece of body art a big decision? What are some of the risks of tattooing?
Why do people agree to participate in reality shows? What is the benefit to appearing on TV? Are there any downsides?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
Just Awesome
NY Ink gives you an inside look at the lives and work ethics of the staff at the Wooster Street tattoo shop in New York City. The clients that go to get tattooed usually have heartfelt stories and share their personal experiences, and we can see that tattoos can be a good way to express yourself and that they do have meanings behind them. The staff at the shop constantly stress the fact that you should be yourself and follow your dreams. Swearing happens very frequently, and there are arguments that ensue but it's nothing too serious. In a couple of episodes the staff goes out on the town for a few drinks. Sexual content is kept to a minimum, although there is a focus on romantic relationships and there is a gay man in the show. One down side to NY Ink is that it might incline teenagers to get a tattoo at a young age.
Other than that, the show is interesting and real.
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| TV rating: | TV-PG |
| Network: | TLC |
| Cast: | Ami James, Chris Torres, Tommy Montoya |
| Genre: | Reality TV |
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