Television Review: London Ink

By Melissa Camacho

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What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that, like its U.S. counterparts, this British entry in the Ink TV franchise is pro-body art, minimizing the potential downside (no real blood is shown during the inking process, and tattoo-related risks aren't discussed). Some episodes deal with mature subject matter, including one tattoo artist's anger-management issues. Strong swear words ("f--k", "bulls--t") are bleeped out and the speaker's mouth blurred, but the cast members are sometimes heard cursing under their breath. There's also some fairly strong sexual innuendo, and both men and women receive and show off tattoos that are on their buttocks and inner thighs -- which results in them being pretty scantily clad at times. Overall, the tone is edgier here than in the show's American "cousins."

Families can talk about the practice of tattooing. Are all tattooists really artists? What are parents' and kids' opinions on tattoos? If they differ, why? Why is getting a piece of body art a big decision? What are some of the health issues associated with getting them? What happens if you change your mind later?

Inspired by body art-centric American reality show Miami Ink, British series LONDON INK looks at the inner workings of a trendy London tattoo studio and the artists who work there. Narrated by British actor Max Beesley, London Ink centers on renowned tattoo artist Louis Malloy -- the man responsible for inking the now-famous guardian angel image on soccer superstar David Beckham's back. After relocating from Manchester to London, Malloy invited classic punk artist Phil Kyle, Japanese art master Nikole Lowo, and graffiti artist Dan Gold to join him in building the ultimate tattoo studio.

Viewers watch as the staff designs and inks tattoos for clients ranging from Olympic athletes to fashion models. They also get to see the tattoo artist "family" teach and initiate apprentices who are trying to learn the business. Throughout it all, Malloy politely gives his opinions about the group's sometimes-questionable customer-service skills, their inking abilities, and their need to stay focused.

London Ink includes strong language (including cursing that isn't always bleeped out) and some notable sexual innuendo. Some clients also pull down their pants and lift their skirts to show off their latest tattoos (their underwear stays on). Some of the subject matter is kind of serious, too, including Gold's ongoing anger-management struggles and his desire to become a better father. This combination makes the show entertaining but a little on the edgy side for younger viewers.