ink master

Ink Master is a competitive reality show that debuted in 2012 on Spike TV (now known as Paramount Network), showcasing talented tattoo artists from around the world. The artists compete in challenges that test their tattooing skills and ability to execute tattoos under pressure. The contestants compete for a grand prize of $250,000 and the prestigious title of Ink Master. The show was originally hosted by Jane’s Addiction guitarist Dave Navarro, who also served as a judge alongside Oliver Peck and Chris Núñez.

Notable winners from the series are Shane O’Neill (season 1), Ryan Ashley Malarkey (season 8), Anthony Michaels (season 7) and Bubba Irwin and DJ Tambe (season 9).

The series has spawned several spinoffs, including Ink Master: Redemption and Grudge Match. Though it was canceled after 14 season in 2020, streaming platform Paramount+ revived the show in 2022 with Joel Madden of Good Charlotte as the host, introducing new challenges. Madden also serves as a judge alongside alums Ryan Ashley and Nikko Hurtado.