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S17 E10 · Hometown Hero
Ink Master is a reality TV series that premiered on Paramount+ on January 17, 2012. It has 17 seasons and 227 episodes so far and is still airing new episodes. The latest episode, Season 17 Episode 10 "Hometown Hero", aired on December 17, 2025.
A group of the country's most creative and skilled tattoo artists compete for a hundred thousand dollars and the title of Ink Master. The stakes couldn't be higher with "living canvasses" donating their skin to be permanently marked in this adrenalized competition elimination.
Last updated
227 episodes · 17 seasons
2012 · 8 episodes · Last episode: 14 years ago
The first season of the tattoo reality competition Ink Master debuted on Spike on January 17 and concluded on March 6, 2012 with a total of 8 episodes. The show is hosted and judged by Jane's Addiction guitarist Dave Navarro, with accomplished tattoo artists Chris Núñez and Oliver Peck serving as series regular judges. The winner received a $100,000 prize, a feature in Inked Magazine and the title of Ink Master.
Ink Master Season 1 release dates →
E8
In the season finale, human canvasses blindly agree to let the remaining artists tattoo anything they want on their skin. A grueling 18 hours of tattooing with a shocking twist! Who will take home $100K & the title of Ink Master?
E7
Some of the remaining artists botch their portrait tattoos by screwing up important features, leaving their human canvasses with bad art. 4 artists remain but only 1 will take home $100K and the title of Ink Master.
E6
Tattoos are forever and so are the mistakes! The artists are plagued with massive mistakes while tattooing pinups on their canvasses. A sixth artist is eliminated from the competition and the chance to win $100K.
E5
Competition turns cut-throat when Josh calls out Shane for only doing black & grey. Shane fights to prove his color skills and impress the judges. A fifth artist is eliminated from the competition.
E4
Photo Realism tattoos turn disastrous when Bili has difficulty with muscle structure and Heather’s art goes up in flames. A fourth artist is eliminated from the competition.
E3
Naked women heat up the competition and another head tattoo sparks a fight between Al and Bili. A third artist is eliminated from the competition and the chance to win $100K
E2
A head tattoo becomes a medical emergency and tempers explode when Heather challenges the judges. Ton Jones serves as Guest Judge and a second artist is eliminated from the competition, losing the chance to win $100K.
E1
Ten of the best tattoo artists on the planet tattoo Human Canvases in a series of extreme challenges. The first Artist is eliminated on the path to determining who will earn a $100,000 prize and the title of Ink Master.
2012 · 13 episodes · Last episode: 13 years ago
Ink Master (season 2) was the second season of the Spike tattooing competition series, Ink Master. Season two follows sixteen tattoo artists competing against each other in an elimination-style competition that will leave the last person standing with the title of Ink Master, a $100,000 grand prize, and a feature in Inked Magazine. The show is hosted and judged by Jane's Addiction guitarist Dave Navarro. Other judges include former Miami Ink cast member Chris Núñez and accomplished tattoo artist Oliver Peck. The series has been renewed for a third season. For the current airing or most recent airing season, visit the Ink Master main article.
Ink Master Season 2 release dates →
E13
This season's artists and human canvases confront each other live. America's votes and insane twists are announced, master canvases are revealed, and the judges choose the next Ink Master.
E12
The artists lose control when pro-athlete canvases choose them. Tattoo pain has these NFL and MMA pros on the floor. The judges choose the final three and the unbelievable final challenge is revealed. Live finale follows.
E11
The artists tattoo head-to-head against Oliver in the Flash Challenge. The portrait challenge leaves some canvases with unrecognizable family members permanently inked on their skin. Another artist is forced to close shop.
E10
Dave Navarro ups the stakes when he gives the artists his personal guitars to paint for the Flash Challenge. One Human Canvas can't stop puking. Animal tattoos leave two artists going head to head and the judges split 50/50.
E9
The artists burn designs onto skin tight chaps worn by smokin' hot cowgirls. The pressure is on when the artists try to impress Nunez by tattooing in his style, Japanese. Another artist is forced to close shop.
E8
Alliances are made and betrayed when the artists team up to work in pairs and one team must ink priest. Tatu Baby gets a surprise advantage that angers the rest of the artists. Tattoo legend Freddy Negrete is guest judge.
E7
The artists must use their Jedi powers to ink highly critical super-fans with Star Wars tattoos. Star Wars creator, George Lucas, has a special treat for the winner of the Flash Challenge. Another artista loses their shot at $100K dollars.
E6
Guns and a hot, half naked Pinup model set the stage for one artist's plan for revenge. Some of the artists botch their Pinup Tattoos, leaving their Human Canvases scarred and the judges steaming mad. Another artist loses their shot at $100K dollars.
E5
Halloween gets freaky when the artists tattoo inside mouths. One artist reveals shocking news that lands him in in the hospital fighting for his life. Human canvases want tattoos of dismembered bodies and zombies. Another artist loses their shot at $100K dollars.
E4
A face-off leaves Sarah in tears and the artists are pushed to their limits when one canvas demands a tattoo on her private parts and another has a meltdown, which causes a fight in the loft. The NBA's Matt Barnes guest judges.
E3
A botched American flag and a backwards eagle tattoo cause veterans' patriotic tempers to flare and a third artist loses their shot at $100,000 dollars and the title of Ink Master.
E2
Semi nude women heat up the competition, a medical emergency threatens the future of one artist, and NFL Linebacker Terrell Suggs is a guest judge.
E1
A visit to the morgue launches 16 of the best tattoo artists into a brutal competition to determine who's #1 and "tattoo virgins" get their first taste of ink with one ending in a permanent disaster!
2013 · 13 episodes · Last episode: 13 years ago
Ink Master (season 3) is the third season of the Spike tattooing competition series, Ink Master. Its makeup and rules mimic those of season 2, with some changes to make it unique from the previous season, but not so extreme to make it stand out from the series. Season three follows sixteen tattoo artists competing against each other in an elimination-style competition that will leave the last person standing with the title of Ink Master, a $100,000 grand prize, and a feature in Inked Magazine. The show is hosted and judged by Jane's Addiction guitarist Dave Navarro. Other judges include former Miami Ink cast member Chris Núñez and accomplished tattoo artist Oliver Peck. Season three is the first time in the series a contestant has been brought back for another season. Katherine "Tatu Baby" Flores was eliminated in season two, but voted to return by Ink Master's Facebook voting.
Ink Master Season 3 release dates →
E13
The final 3 Artists battle it out Live on their toughest canvas yet. America’s vote on who will get a second chance to come back next season is revealed & one Artist is crowned the Ink Master, taking home the $100K grand prize.
E12
The last 4 Artists endure an epic tattoo marathon to earn a spot in the Live Finale. An insane twist has all four finalists tattooing the same Canvas at the same time. Tensions are high & one more Artist loses a shot at 100K.
E11
The Artists honor military heroes on the deck of the Intrepid aircraft carrier. Then, they must ink complex tattoos onto Canvas' heads. Oliver has a meltdown in an explosive critique and the Judges are deadlocked about who to send home. Another Artist is eliminated.
E10
Eyelid tattoos have the Artists in tears. Joshua attacks and Tatu Baby bites back. The Artists ink portraits and one Canvas gets a portrait of Dave Navarro. The Human Canvas Jury ends in tears and another Artist loses a shot at $100K grand.
E9
The Artists trade in living Canvases for dead ones when they engrave human skulls. When they ink badass DC Comic tattoos, one contestant becomes the ultimate super villain sending another talented artist packing.
E8
The competition gets personal when the Artists must tattoo each other. Then, last season's Artists become the most brutal group of Canvases yet when they return to get inked. Tatu Baby cracks and faces elimination.
E7
Tempers boil over when artists get the chance to work on Dave Navarro. An unlikely artist wins the flash challenge, turning allies into enemies & multiple canvasses are left with bad tattoos for the rest of their lives.
E6
Hot models and jungle animals make for a wild Flash Challenge. When the Artists ink Asian tattoos, a severed head and a buttcrack tattoo send the Judges reeling. Jime gives Joshua a taste of his own medicine and another Artist is eliminated.
E5
Artists tattoo over serious scars and they try to beat Tatu Baby at her own game - Day of the Dead tattoos. A Canvas wants Tatu Baby's face permanently inked on his skin.
E4
When the artists must assemble a tattoo machine from scratch, canvases end up with totally crooked bar code tattoos. The house turns on Joshua and another artist loses a shot at 100K.
E3
Skimpy lingerie heats up the flash challenge and a major twist leaves the Artists fighting for their lives. A difficult human canvas leads to the most shocking elimination in Ink Master history.
E2
Artists permanently ink human canvases with gruesome realistic tattoos of blood, guts, and organs. A betrayal leads to an explosive fight in the loft. Tennessee Titans Running Back Chris Johnson is a Guest Judge.
E1
16 new artists find themselves tattooing in prison. Tatu Baby returns and the Human Canvases vote to eliminate one artist as the battle for $100,000 & the title of Ink Master begins.
2014 · 13 episodes · Last episode: 12 years ago
E13
Artists and judges reflect on their experiences during the season, and America's votes are tallied. As a new "Ink Master" is crowned, the season three winner inks a canvas.
E12
The artists help breast cancer survivors with tattoos that help the women reclaim their bodies; the season comes full circle in a convention tattoo cover-up challenge.
E11
Artists board a yacht for a bird's eye view of the Statue of Liberty, but a surprise leaves them panicking. As the fight intensifies, one Artist uses cutthroat strategy to get ahead & top dogs end up on the chopping block.
E10
One of the biggest twists in Ink Master history has Artists depending on each other to survive. One Artist wages a full on attack. The fight for the final five is on as two Artists are forced to face off to prove themselves.
E9
The Artists make mouth grills for champion boxer Brandon Rios. A fight with a Canvas ends in disaster. Jay's plan to take out Scott results in an explosive critique as the final 6 battle it out for the title of Ink Master.
E8
Kyle can't take the heat anymore & takes it out on Nunez. The Flash Challenge gets more explosive when the Artists use Gunpowder to make Art. King of Horror Rob Zombie steps up as Guest Judge for gory tattoos of creepy Demons.
E7
Halo hears smack talk & gets revenge. Drama erupts when broken-hearted Canvases want tattoos they got for their exes covered. Kyle starts to crack & pressure is on when the Judges announce a massacre, sending 2 Artists home.
E6
The Artists are forced to work in pairs and end up at each other's throats. When a Canvas passes out, one Artist takes matters into his own hands, and another loses his marbles. The Judges make a drastic decision.
E5
The Artists ink X-Men superfans with iconic X-Men characters in the first ever color portrait challenge. The Ultimate authority chooses the winner...Hugh Jackman. A thrilling sneak peek of X-Men: Days of Future Past is revealed.
E4
The Artists get up close and awkward with naked Canvases. The game is on when one Artist screws everyone over. New York Yankees Legend CC Sabathia is Guest Judge. Another Artist loses a shot at $100K.
E3
Bikini clad twins try to endure the remaining 10 tattoo artists all drilling them at once. An injury sends one Artist to the emergency ward.
E2
One artist snaps and is determined to leave the competition. Live poisonous scorpions, tarantulas and eyeballs are tattooed.
E1
A new crop of talented and cutthroat Artists learn they must first earn an Ink Master shop by tattooing hundreds of canvases Convention Style.
2014 · 16 episodes · Last episode: 11 years ago
16 top tattoo artists from across the country will compete in extreme challenges proving their skill and grit in an epic battle for $100,000 and the title of Ink Master.
Ink Master Rivals release dates →
E16
The final 3 artists reveal their 35 hour back pieces and the sparks fly when all 18 rival artists return to give the lowdown on whose rivalries still burn.
E15
Emotional outbursts, explosive fights, incredible tattoos and epic fails. It’s the end of the line and the sparks fly as the last 4 Artists standing battle it out for a spot in the Live Finale and a shot at $100K.
E14
It's down to the wire as the artists battle for a top 4 spot - to survive they must impress 3 tattoo heavyweights criticizing their every move.
E13
Artists go head to head tattooing the same portrait on two family members. Some family members are left with jacked tattoos as the portrait subject overlooks.
E12
The artists fight for an opportunity to ink NFL star DeAngelo Williams as he honors his mother who died of breast cancer. Head tattoos send one human canvas over the edge.
E11
Josh causes a controversy that could get him kicked out of the competition for good. The Artists tattoo amputees where their limbs once were.
E10
In the flash challenge, the artists use a different kind of ink to make art... blood. Then, they go head-to-head against guest judge Tommy Montoya while Emily goes over the edge.
E9
Picky virgin canvases get inked and Jason's anxiety threatens to take him out. The artists battle head to head and Josh plays dirty, putting his opponent on the chopping block.
E8
The artists are taken out of their comfort zone when they must scrimshaw walrus penises. One artist totally loses their cool while another artist loses their shot at $100K.
E7
The pressure is on when the artists take on Oliver's specialty - and it’s tripled when they have to work in teams.
E6
In one of the craziest challenges ever, the artists must ink 12 hour gluteus maximus tattoos. A medical emergency may cost one artist the competition.
E5
The artists must make incredible art by sand blasting glass while trying to survive working in teams. Rivalries explode when they tattoo head to head.
E4
Vendettas have the artists at each others' throats. The skull pick gets personal and the pressure is on when the artists tattoo Nunez's specialty.
E3
Josh ignites rivalries while two artists receive an advantage no one in the competition has ever had and their cutthroat strategy has tension soaring.
E2
Semi-nude models bring the heat and a game changing twist is revealed. Jacked pin ups make the critique a bloodbath & rivalries flare.
E1
18 Rival Artists enter for $100k and the Ink Master title. It's their worst nightmare as they're forced to ink with their enemy.
2015 · 16 episodes · Last episode: 11 years ago
In season 6 it's not just about the rivalries the artists create during the competition, each contestant comes with their own personal tattoo rival – their master or apprentice.
Ink Master Master Vs. Apprentice release dates →
E16
The final three artists tattoo live for $100K while eliminated artists return to confront each other.
E15
The last four artists standing fight for a spot in the live finale, but first must survive a tattoo marathon.
E14
Artists fight for a spot in the top four and must tattoo portraits of active military and their loved ones before they are separated for deployment.
E13
Professional football players call the shots in the elimination tattoo, knocking artists off their game.
E12
The artists work with guests in a high stakes challenge and Chris forces an artist to prove loyalty.
E11
The artists give religious tattoo virgins their first ink - on their fingernails.
E10
The stakes soar when the artists paint their most valuable canvas and one artist's lies raise suspicions.
E9
The artists find themselves painting with fire in the Flash Challenge. A romance between a couple of the artists tests loyalties.
E8
A new tattoo style pushes the artists' limits, resulting in mind-blowing masterpieces and mistakes.
E7
In the most insane challenge yet, the artists must tattoo 4 on 1 to transform canvases into wild animals.
E6
Heads roll when artists must take on a legend in the elimination challenge.
E5
Naked models are used to create mind-blowing illusions and a cutthroat artist gets a chance at vengeance.
E4
Teams adorn sarcophaguses while an artist's vicious skull picks for Egyptian tattoos angers the rest.
E3
It's sink or swim when the artists team up to ink underwater ocean scenes on the back of canvas' hands.
E2
Oliver Peck's mentor guest judges, delivering a smack down when the artists take on his specialty.
E1
In the season premiere, apprentices battle their masters to prove they are the best.
2016 · 13 episodes · Last episode: 10 years ago
E13
The final three artists reveal two master canvases; eliminated artists return and confront each other for the first time since the competition; a winner is crowned.
E12
The tables are turned when the new artists call the shots in the elimination tattoo and get revenge.
E11
Stakes are at a competition high when the artists must ink the ultimate in-your-face tattoo.
E10
Alliances are tested as the remaining artists must tattoo in teams of three.
E9
The artists work in pairs to execute large-scale back pieces testing texture...and each other’s nerves.
E8
The final veteran artist arrives with a challenge in legibility that has the judges out for blood.
E7
Alliances are broken during a white-knuckled flash challenge.
E6
Bonds are tested and new alliances are formed during an intense Flash Challenge; a veteran joins the New Artist Alliance to take down a common enemy.
E5
The artists use plenty of color during a contortionist body painting Flash Challenge; a veteran artist returns and adds a new-school twist to an old subject.
E4
The artists face the most extreme test of detail ever attempted; a veteran artist returns and sparks old rivalries.
E3
In the Flash Challenge, working in teams of two leaves some of the Artists feeling salty and a Veteran Artist schemes to take back control. The battle continues for 100K and the title of Ink Master.
E2
Egos collide when the artists get their hands dirty in a team Flash Challenge; another veteran returns.
E1
The battle for $100,000 begins as new artists compete in the most intense Flash Challenge to date; the competition heats up when the first veteran artist returns seeking revenge.
2016 · 16 episodes · Last episode: 9 years ago
In season eight, 8 returning artists and 8 top tattoo artists from around the country will compete in extreme challenges proving their skill and grit in an epic battle for 100,000 and the title of Ink Master.
Ink Master Peck Vs. Nuñez release dates →
E16
The final 3 artists tattoo live for America's vote and the eliminated artists return for a confrontation.
E15
The battle comes to a head as the top four artists must endure a grueling tattoo marathon.
E14
Stakes are at a competition-high when the artists must work in teams to transform canvases into cyborgs.
E13
The artists must carry their own weight in a team Flash Challenge, leading to an unexpected win.
E12
Dave digs deeper into the lives and strategies of the final 6 artists from Team Peck and Team Nuñez.
E11
One artist cracks after a difficult Flash Challenge in which the artists try to rework tramp stamps.
E10
It's all in the details when the artists must create powerful designs for Dodge Chargers.
E9
No one is safe when the artists must use adaptability to tattoo an excruciatingly painful spot: the head.
E8
The battle for the skull pick heats up in the Flash Challenge when artists must manipulate metal.
E7
In a powerful Flash Challenge, the artists must tattoo former smokers who have been scarred for life.
E6
A conflicted Team Peck fights for control of the game in a Flash Challenge testing contrast. One Artist turns the tables on the girls’ alliance. The battle continues for 100K and the title of Ink Master.
E5
Team Nunez fries in an electrifying Flash Challenge testing legibility. A gendered alliance has the girls out for blood. The battle intensifies for 100K and the title of Ink Master.
E4
No Artist is safe when both Team Peck and Team Nunez must transform Canvases into Warriors in the Elimination Tattoo. The battle continues for 100K and the title of Ink Master.
E3
Team Nunez seeks revenge in the next Flash Challenge and an artist betrays Team Beck in their first Elimination Tattoo.
E2
In the first Flash Challenge, Team Peck and Team Nunez must work together in an intense tattoo challenge.
E1
The judges show no mercy as 30 artists fight to earn one of the 18 spots on teams Peck and Nunez.
2017 · 16 episodes · Last episode: 9 years ago
Season nine of Ink Master reaches new heights as tattoo shops from across the country go to war. As 19 shops enter the competition, in the end only one will be left standing, winning the title of ‘Master Shop’ and $200,000.
Ink Master Shop Wars release dates →
E16
In the live season finale, the final three shops battle it out for $200,000 and the first ever title of Master Shop.
E15
The competition is more intense than ever as the top four shops battle it out in a tattoo marathon for the three spots in the live finale, $200K and the first ever title of Master Shop.
E14
With only 5 shops left, the fight for $200K and the title of Master Shop intensifies. In a deity Elimination Tattoo, some shops reach for the heavens while one is sent packing to hell.
E13
The competition puts the old saying, "the customer is always right," to the test when the artists must sell themselves to their canvases for the chance to tattoo.
E12
A painful elimination tattoo has the artists in the pits, and a massive twist sends them reeling.
E11
With no flash challenge, the artists think they've got it all figured out until a massive twist sends them reeling; Four Horsemen tattoos bring on the end of days for one pair of artists.
E10
The final veteran shop returns to fight for the title of Master Shop. Skull picks are key to the precision strike leveled at the opposing aliance.
E9
The Artists can't find any relief in a sculptural Flash Challenge. Things only get hairier during the Elimination Tattoo when the Artists are faced with the infamous Pin-Up challenge.
E8
An emotional flash challenge brings the artists to tears, and the alliance becomes a target when a bullet-proof pair of veterans return to battle it out for the title.
E7
One of the competition's most infamous veterans returns to shake up the game.
E6
Shops crumble as the tension between teammates intensifies.
E5
Some shops lose their composure as they butt heads during a grueling elimination tattoo.
E4
The competition gets even tougher when the artists are tested on technical application with individual tattoos. Not one but two veteran artists return.
E3
A fiery veteran artist returns, taking the competition by storm; a difficult Flash Challenge exposes weaknesses in the shops.
E2
A massive twist shakes up the competition and a painstaking Flash Challenge puts relationships to the test.
E1
In the season premiere, tattooing is a team sport as artists from nine of America’s best shops arrive ready to battle it out for a massive $200K and the first ever title of Master Shop.
2018 · 16 episodes · Last episode: 8 years ago
Three of the most skilled Ink Master winners return for season 10. But this time, they won’t battle alone. Instead, they’ll be coaching teams selected from some of the top tattoo artists in the country. The artists will be put through extreme challenges proving their skill and grit in an epic battle for $100,000 and the title of Ink Master.
Ink Master Return of the Masters release dates →
E16
As the three remaining artists and their coaches compete onstage to win it all, the eliminated artists return to cast judgment on the finalists.
E15
With a spot in the final three on the line, the Artists push themselves to the limit in a grueling tattoo Challenge.
E14
One Team leaves their mark on a wood staining Flash Challenge testing contrast, and one Artist packs their machine and leaves the Competition for good. The battle continues on for $100K and the title of Ink Master.
E13
The stakes are higher than ever when the artists match the designs of their coaches; in a freehand face off, one artist falls out of the competition for good.
E12
The heat of the competition is higher than ever when the artists are tested in composition using melted wax.
E11
The smaller the tattoo, that harder the coaches may fall in a micro Masters Face Off. In the Elimination Tattoo, one artist takes a blow to the chest and is sent packing.
E10
Teamwork is the name of the game in a series of Tag Team Tattoo Challenges. A massive twist forces one Team's Artists to turn on their own.
E9
The devil is in the details when the artists must tattoo intricate Technicolor hot-air balloons. The battle is heating up for 100K and the title of Ink Master.
E8
Teamwork is essential in a glass painting Flash Challenge testing dimension; Artists create stone tattoos in the Elimination Tattoo and one cracks under the pressure; the rest keep fighting for 100K and the title of Ink Master.
E7
Team dynamics are put to the test when a tag team challenge shakes the competition to its core.
E6
The coaches must lead by example when they’re forced to tattoo the under chin in a Master’s Face off. The Artists’ adaptability is tested with undead tattoos as rivalries heat up in the battle for 100K and the title of Ink Master.
E5
Precision skills are put to the test when the Artists must create masterpieces with hole punches. Will one of the Coaches put his own skin on the line for the chance of $100K and the title of Ink Master?
E4
The coaches step in during a team-based Flash Challenge. Ingenuity is tested with mash up tattoos.
E3
The Masters face off to ensure the survival of their team; proportion skills are put to the test when the artists tattoo Greek deities.
E2
The Competition is fierce and the Masters must coach their team in season 10’s first Flash Challenge, testing fundamentals. Some artists find their way in the Elimination Tattoo, but one hits a dead end and is sent packing.
E1
Three of the most skilled Ink Masters return for a new challenge, but instead of battling alone they’ll coach teams of the top tattoo artists nationwide. The epic battle for $100K and the title of Ink Master begins.
2018 · 16 episodes · Last episode: 7 years ago
Cleen Rock One faces off against Christian Buckingham to coach the nation's best tattoo artists as they compete for a $100,000 prize and the title of Ink Master.
Ink Master Grudge Match release dates →
E16
Christian Buckingham and Cleen Rock One return to settle the grudge match once and for all; the battle concludes as the top three artists reveal their 35-hour master canvas tattoos and one artist wins the title of Ink Master.
E15
Four artists remain but only three earn a spot in the finale where they battle it out for $100,000 and the title of Ink Master; Cleen and Christian are one step closer to settling the score in the ultimate grudge match.
E14
There's nowhere to hide when the artists are tested in precision portraiture; one artist misses the mark and is sent packing; the battle continues for $100,000 and the title of Ink Master.
E13
With only six artists remaining, the power to control the game is everything; the battle for $100,000 and the title of Ink Master is more intense than ever before when the artists must collaborate to create powerful tattoos.
E12
The tools are hot but the competition is on fire as the artists battle for control in the flash challenge; the battle heats up for $100,000 and the title of Ink Master.
E11
The artists must compose an incredible work of art that's completely invisible in the flash challenge; one artist gets caught in the splash zone and is sent packing.
E10
Pitting the artists against the opposing coach, the competition puts the artists' finesse to the test; the grudge match continues for $100,000 and the title of Ink Master.
E9
The coaches face off to save their artists from elimination; mermaid tattoos take the grudge match to the sea; the battle continues for $100,000 and the title of Ink Master.
E8
The artists must scour the depths of their imagination to create mind-bending masterpieces with sidewalk chalk; the grudge match continues for $100K and the title of Ink Master.
E7
The Artists step aside and put faith in their Coaches as Cleen and Christian each tattoo four Canvases in a head-to-head marathon. The Artists must then tattoo galaxies and one is sent to outer space.
E6
It's survival of the fittest when Teams Christian and Cleen must tattoo epic battle scenes head-to-head. The grudge match continues for $100,000 and the title of Ink Master.
E5
A flash challenge using electrical tape forces the teams to test their creativity, and the artists face challenging placements on their canvases during the elimination tattoo.
E4
Cleen and Christian battle it out in their first grudge match to see whose team will have to compete in a wristband elimination tattoo challenge.
E3
The teams face off in a high-pressure challenge using dominoes, and the elimination tattoo forces the artists to think outside the box.
E2
Team Cleen and Team Christian go head to head in a flash challenge that tests their fundamentals, and time flies when the artists tackle a difficult elimination tattoo.
E1
Cleen Rock One and Christian Buckingham, two of Ink Master's most legendary rivals, return to the ring, and 22 new artists compete for spots on their teams.
2019 · 16 episodes · Last episode: 7 years ago
Teams of male and female tattoo artists face off, but only one will win $100,000, an editorial feature in Inked and the coveted Ink Master title. This season, past contestants and fan favorites return to coach the contestants.
Ink Master Battle of the Sexes release dates →
E16
Seven veteran artists battle it out in the "Clash of the Coaches Face Off"; the battle of the sexes comes to an end as the three finalists reveal their 35-hour Master Canvas tattoos and one artist wins the title of Ink Master.
E15
The last four artists remaining battle it out in a tattoo marathon to secure their spot in the season finale.
E14
It's a battle of the sexes as the men's team takes aim at the women during an illustrative portrait challenge.
E13
The artists are on their own in a test of finesse as the six remaining competitors fight for the cash prize and the title of Ink Master.
E12
The competition tests the artists' ability to market themselves when the power is in the hands of the canvases.
E11
The artists find themselves in a dicey situation with confrontational coaches Josh Payne and Nikki Simpson.
E10
The battle for the grand prize and title of Ink Master continues as the judges test the artists' adaptability.
E9
E8
The judges test the artists' understanding of color theory; two coaches take the artists to school; the battle intensifies for $100K and the title of "Ink Master."
E7
The artists go head-to-head in a test of technical application, and the losers fight for their survival in an elimination tattoo challenge dictated by the victors.
E6
In a test of consistency, the teams must engrave full suits of armor, then a cross-stitch style elimination tattoo throws all the artists for a loop.
E5
It's every man and woman for themselves when the artists tattoo any design in any style before a blind critique from the judges.
E4
Cam's arrogant behavior continues to irritate his team members during a color contrast challenge, and the gang bands together to sabotage Cam's standing in the competition.
E3
Two-time veterans Bubba Irwin and Sarah Miller return to coach the men's and women's teams, and the artists showcase their knack for legibility by inking surrealistic tattoos.
E2
The judges unveil a new twist and bring in heavy-hitting veterans Joey Hamilton and Ryan Ashley to coach the teams, whose black-and-gray shading skills are put to the test.
E1
Nine men and nine women kick off an epic battle of the sexes by going head to head in a team collaboration tattoo to prove they have what it takes to be the next Ink Master.
2020 · 15 episodes · Last episode: 6 years ago
Season 13 brings together artists from the East, South, Midwest and West regions of the United States as 20 top tattooers from around the country battle it out for the title of Ink Master, a $100,000 and of course, a feature in Inked Magazine.
Ink Master Turf War release dates →
E15
The road to the finale begins with a 13-hour tattoo marathon; the artists must prove they have the endurance and skill to outlast their competitors and are worthy of the title of Ink Master.
E14
Hosted by rock legend Dave Navarro and judged by icons of the tattoo world, Chris Núñez and Oliver Peck, a group of the country’s most creative and skilled tattoo artists compete for a hundred thousand dollars and the title of Ink Master. The stakes couldn’t be higher with “living canvasses” donating their skin to be permanently marked in this adrenalized competition elimination.
E13
The artists fight for survival in an "Ink Master" staple: portraits; a shocking skull pick threatens the team dynamic; one artist shows precisely who they're looking out for.
E12
Pressure grows as the Turf War ranks run thin and the Artists' versatility is tested when an alliance strategy backfires, putting an unexpected frontrunner on the chopping block.
E11
The Artists' shading skills are tested in a monumentally hard Elimination Tattoo.
E10
E9
The teams are put to the test in artistry with an Ink Master favorite: pin-ups.
E8
The Artists hunger for the win, now more than ever before, when they tattoo sweet full color new school food tattoos; one Artist bites off more than they can chew.
E7
A Team Challenge takes the Artists for a spin leaving them dizzied and out of control; the Turf War grows more intense than ever as the battle continues for $100K and the title of Ink Master.
E6
The Turf War is more intense than ever before and to survive the Artists must fight for every possible advantage and ally; cross-team alliance takes shape, and a glowing elimination challenge leaves one team burned.
E5
Just as the Teams think they've figured out the Turf War, a shocking twist lights the competition ablaze and burns it down to its very core.
E4
To test legibility, the teams spin intricate designs with yarn on outdoor canvases, then get technical with schematic tattoos.
E3
Ride or die, team tensions run high when the artists endure a tattoo marathon with the others from their home turf. The artists who fail to collaborate risk $100K and the title of Ink Master.
E2
The South aims to unify and rebound when the teams are tasked with a postcard mural on the side of a bus, and a compass rose elimination tattoo includes a game-changing twist.
E1
The artists tattoo their home states and face blind critiques by the judges, a competitor makes a drastic choice, and patriotic tattoos decide someone's fate in the Face Off.
2022 · 10 episodes · Last episode: 4 years ago
All-star artists return to compete in the ultimate tattoo competition. Hosted by Joel Madden, the artists will face some of the most epic challenges.
Ink Master Season 14 release dates →
E10
The top 4 Artists take on the most intense final tattoo in the history of the competition. Mind-blowing tattoos lead to a heated debate. One Artist wins $250,000 and the title of Ink Master.
E9
The final 6 Artists must take on 2 epic tattoo challenges to secure their place in the Top 4. Blind Judging shakes up the competition, and an emotional Elimination leaves the Artists feeling rattled.
E8
Sparks fly in a heavy metal Flash Challenge, and shots land in an intense skull pick. Things heat up in the race for the title when the Artists take on color portraits in the Elimination Tattoo.
E7
A layered Flash Challenge has the Artists testing their composure. The pressure is on as Japanese tattoos give the Artists a run for their money and a special Guest Judge stops by.
E6
An explosive Flash Challenge has the original Artists targeting a common enemy. Difficult throat tattoos have the artists bugging out.
E5
A game-changing turn of events elevates the competition. Insane Mash Up tattoos puts the Artists artistry skills to the test and a skull pick backfires.
E4
In an unexpected twist, 4 Ink Masters show up to keep the Artists on their toes. The Master of Chaos stops by and flips the competition on its head.
E3
The Artists must make impressive illusions in an ultraviolet Flash Challenge, and every detail counts in an epic twist on Pin Up tattoos.
E2
Alliances start to form as the first Flash Challenge pushes the Artists' creativity to the limit. Then, a Fine Art Elimination Tattoo has the artists creating museum worthy pieces.
E1
10 legends return to the Ink Master Shop and must immediately battle it out in an epic three round tattoo gauntlet for survival. The battle begins for $250,000 and the title of Ink Master.
2023 · 10 episodes · Last episode: 2 years ago
E10
It all comes down to this! The top three Artists reveal their Master Canvas tattoos and a surprise jury of Ink Master winners raise the pressure. One Artist earns $250,000 and the title of Ink Master in the epic season finale.
E9
The top four Artists call out their fellow competitors to earn their spot in the finale, but if they dish it out, they had better be able to take it, because Karma is one tricky lady.
E8
The top five Artists try not to crack under the pressure in their final Flash Challenge and a twist on portrait day puts their drawing skills to the test.
E7
The Artists try not to lose their composure when they must paint with fire in the Flash Challenge, and a Science-themed Elimination Tattoo puts their skills under a microscope.
E6
Loyalties are tested when the new teams must work together in the Flash Challenge, and every detail counts with western-themed Elimination Tattoos. Yellowstone actor Jefferson White joins as a Guest Judge.
E5
With only eight Artists left, an unexpected Team shuffle transforms the Competition. Transforming tattoos are judged blind as the battle continues for $250,000 and the title of Ink Master.
E4
The artists must use their creativity to transform an ordinary object into an intricate sculpture in the Flash Challenge; the artists show their true colours with hybrid beast Elimination Tattoos.
E3
The Artists must rely on their Coaches in the Flash Challenge to design for a very special Human Canvas. There's nowhere to hide with 360 degree Elimination Tattoos testing adaptability.
E2
An illuminating first Flash Challenge puts the new teams to the test. In the Elimination Tattoo, a seemingly straightforward Subject Matter forces some of the Artists out of their comfort zone. The battle heats up for the title of Ink Master.
E1
15 brand new Artists enter the competition and must immediately fight for a shop. A game-changing twist shakes up the competition. The battle begins for $250,000 and the title of Ink Master.
2024 · 10 episodes · Last episode: 1 year ago
E10
The 3 Finalists reveal their Master Canvas tattoos Familiar faces return in a final twist, and an unexpected surprise leaves the Artists in tears. One Artist will win $250,000 and the title of Ink Master.
E9
In the epic fight to the finale, the final five Artists battle it out with mash up tattoos. A jaw-dropping twist puts their versatility to the test. Who will be the last three artists standing in the Ink Master Finale?
E8
The Artists' loyalties become transparent in a glass painting Flash Challenge. There is nowhere to hide when the Artists must tattoo faces in a high stakes Elimination Tattoo. The battle for $250,000 continues.
E7
Artists feel the pressure when a monstrous tattoo tests loyalties. The battle heats up.
E6
Artists tattoo service dogs and face a twist battling for $250K and the title.
E5
Massive murals have the teams struggling to keep their composure in the Flash Challenge; the battle for the title of Ink Master continues with Japanese Samurai tattoos, and a backwards hand sparks a heated debate.
E4
From trash to treasure, the teams must use their ingenuity to create recycled masterpieces in the Flash Challenge; metallic tattoos have the artists struggling to shine; a shocking elimination shakes up the competition.
E3
The battle for $250,000 intensifies as the Young Guns and OGs go head to head for the first time. The team dynamics are put to the test in the first Flash Challenge and basic lettering tattoos push the Artists' creativity to the limit.
E2
With the Young Guns Team set, the OGs must now battle it out for a spot on their Team in another brutal double elimination. The battle for $250,000 and the title of Ink Master continues.
E1
16 new Artists enter the competition, divided into two teams based on how long they've been tattooing. The Artists must fight for a spot on their team. The Young Guns are up first and the battle for $250,000 and the title of Ink Master begins.
2025 · 10 episodes · Last episode: 10 months ago
15 new artists compete as “hometown heroes,” vying for a $250,000 prize in the ultimate tattoo competition, and for the opportunity to put their hometowns on the map.
Ink Master Hometown Heroes release dates →
E10
In the Season Finale, four Finalists reveal their Master Canvas tattoos. With an unexpected Guest Judge raising the stakes, only one Artist will take home $250,000 and the title of Ink Master.
E9
With a spot in the finale on the line, the remaining Artists take aim, designing tattoos meant to take each other down. A single misfire could turn triumph into tragedy and send someone packing right before the finish line.
E8
Things get sticky in the final Flash Challenge. Micro realistic postage stamp tattoos put the Artists' precision under a microscope. They'd better deliver - or their shot at the title could get lost in the mail.
E7
The Artists must transform scars into works of art in an emotional Elimination Tattoo. 3 Artists must prove their ingenuity in a Face Off for survival. The battle for $250,000 continues.
E6
A sandy Flash Challenge pushes teams to the edge and a major meltdown shakes up the competition. Melting tattoos have everyone feeling the heat in the battle for $250,000.
E5
The Artists face a brutal flash marathon, racing the clock to design and tattoo as many pieces as possible-on the body's toughest placements. With no room for error and a double elimination on the line, they must adapt to survive.
E4
The Artists try to foil the competition in the Flash Challenge. Their artistry is put to the test with transparent bottle tattoos and one Artist becomes the Canvas in a bold move to survive. The battle for the title continues.
E3
In a team Flash Challenge, the Artists must paint with smoke. Glitter tattoos on the stomach have them struggling to shine, and an unexpected twist makes winning Tattoo of the Day more important than ever.
E2
The fight for a shop continues as artists tattoo hometown animals. For some, it's back to the drawing board. The battle is just beginning.
E1
15 global tattoo artists fight to represent their hometowns, but must first earn a spot to compete for $250k and the title of Ink Master.
Hugh Jackman
Himself - Guest Judge
Ton Jones
Himself - Guest Judge
Todd Weinberger
Himself - Guest Judge
Scott Campbell
Himself - Guest Judge
Chris Andersen
Himself - Guest Judge
Jack Rudy
Himself - Guest Judge
A date for the next episode of Ink Master hasn't been announced yet. Follow Ink Master in the Streambay app and you'll be notified as soon as a new episode airs.
The most recent episode of Ink Master, Season 17 Episode 10 "Hometown Hero", aired on December 17, 2025.
Ink Master has 17 seasons with 227 episodes in total.
Ink Master first aired on Paramount+ on January 17, 2012.
Download the Streambay app, follow Ink Master, and you'll get a push notification the moment each new episode is released.
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