Miami Ink

Okay, let's start out by saying this show had the potential to be filled with much jackassosity. What do I have for proof? The other tattoo reality-show, Inked, is filled with jackasses. Don't take my word for it, just watch an episode.

Here are the reasons why this show is not stupid:

1) These guys are not full of themselves.

2) Did you see the episode where Yoji and his wife bring their newborn into the shop? You'd think they'd be assholes, but everyone was a big pushover. The biggest pushover: Mr. Needs-Anger-Management himself, Ami. He even offers, and makes good on his promise, to babysit so the new parents can have some much-needed alone-time.

3) In an upcoming episode, a woman will be added to the crew of tattoo artists in their man-filled shop. First of all, they refer to her as a woman in the previews. Second of all, Ami goes out of his way to point out that she is one of the best tattoo artists, period. He even says, "not for a woman, but for anybody." Now, that, dedicated blog readers, is anti-sexism I want to carry around with me wherever I go. In a world filled with poker-tournament commentators who consistently refer to players such as Annie Duke as the best female in the field, it's awesome to see some regular-old joes in the macho world of tattoo artistry set the standard for equality.

4) Every episode features the holistic process of tattoo. They show interviews with people about why they get tattoos, the meaning behind each piece of work, they show the tattoo as it is being done, and the final product. I cannot explain why, but it is enthralling.

So, you know, you should watch it.