Parents' Guide to

NY Ink

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Tattoo reality spin-off is both sympathetic and salty.

TV TLC Reality TV 2011
NY Ink Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

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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?

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

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.

Talk to Your Kids 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?

TV Details

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