Parents' Guide to

Epic Ink

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 13+

Tattoo reality is fairly mild, except for bleeped language.

TV A&E Reality TV 2014
Epic Ink Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

Community Reviews

See all

There aren't any parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.

What's the Story?

EPIC INK is a reality series featuring the tattoo artists of Area 51, a renowned tattoo parlor located in Springfield, Oregon. Owned and operated by celebrity tattoo artist Chris 51, the series highlights the pop culture-inspired, hyperrealistic artwork they're known for. Clients come from across the country to get inked by Chris 51 and his team, including artists such as Chris Jones, Heather Maranda, and Josh Bodwell. From inking dinosaurs from Jurassic Park to tattooing detailed images of video game scenes drawn by hand, the team shows why their tattoos stand out.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

It's likely that folks interested in inking and body art will be inspired by the series, whereas others may find the enthusiasm for tattoos inspired by superheroes such as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and characters from movies such as The Goonies a little ... different. Some of the more unique images, such as a pair of horns inked into the sides of a client's head, also may raise a few eyebrows.

Nonetheless, it's a lighthearted and voyeuristic look at the antics of the likable Area 51 tattoo artists, who appear to have as much fun designing images and inking clients as they do working with each other. Some of the artwork, which is often so detailed it appears three-dimensional, is impressive, too. It won't appeal to everyone, but viewers will probably find it entertaining.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the appeal of tattoo-themed reality shows. What makes them appealing to audiences? Is it the artwork? The actual ritual of getting a tattoo? Or something else?

  • Why do people get tattoos? Is it the responsibility of TV shows to discuss the pros and cons of getting one?

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

See all recommended tv lists

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate