Most tattoo shows (and make-up effects shows) are the same with little to no real variance episode after episode. I expected the same when I decided to turn this on. While the formula is redundant (not a complaint), the episodes actually aren't. The tattoo artists each have individual styles that show through on their cover ups. The people there to receive tattoos (& whomever they are with) come across genuine and not like actors (like one person commented on in another review). The host is actually a comedian and good at helping everyone relax and enjoy the ride.
Viewers should remember a few things though.
1. The show is edited to create suspense. Not scripted, EDITED. It isn't that kind of reality show.
2. The process of getting a heavily saturated tattoo (most cover ups have to be) is long. Very long. Hours long. It isn't five minutes. These people spend ALL DAY in the warehouse shop to get them.
3. It isn't some random person picking tattoos. The artist consults with the person who accompanied the one getting the work. It ranges from friend to relative to partner but it is always someone close who actually knows the person. They edit out most of the consult which can last easily a couple of hours as this isn't a process that is taken lightly.
If you enjoy looking at tattoos good and bad, it is worth giving it a try. If you are expecting something crazy, try How Far is Tattoo Far. If you want just tattoos and not the people, the competition Ink Master might be better suited.
