Joe Gilgun is best known for his dynamic roles in TV shows like Brassic, Misfits, and Preacher. Beyond his acting talent, he is also recognized for his extensive collection of tattoos. Each tattoo on his body reflects a piece of his personal history, beliefs, and the relationships that matter most to him.
Meaning Behind the Ink
Joe Gilgun tattoos are rich with symbolism, reflecting his connections and beliefs. One of his most notable tattoos is the word “ATHAIR”, prominently inked on his neck. This Gaelic term means “father” and serves as a heartfelt tribute to his dad, underlining the importance of family in Joe’s life.
Another tattoo, the simple word “Lol”, is a meaningful dedication to Vicky McClure, his close friend and co-star from the critically acclaimed drama This Is England. Their off-screen friendship is captured in this subtle but powerful tattoo, showing how Joe values genuine bonds.
Joe also carries the memory of his grandmother with a tattoo that reads “Sweet Granny Linda.” This serves as a poignant tribute to a family member who played a significant role in his upbringing and personal development.
On his chest, Joe has a Latin phrase tattooed: “AB IMO PECTORE”. Translated, it means “from the bottom of my heart.” This tattoo expresses Joe’s sincerity and emotional depth, revealing a side of him that goes beyond his tough on-screen characters.
One intriguing tattoo is a sequence of numbers: “23456”. Fans speculate that these numbers represent the call signs of his Misfits co-stars. If true, this tattoo stands for the strong camaraderie and shared experiences he formed during the show’s filming.
Joe also has a straightforward but meaningful tattoo reading, “Mum and Dad”, a direct tribute to his parents. Another phrase he sports is “YOU’RE ALL IN IT, SO BE PROUD”, which reflects his belief in unity, pride, and perhaps the importance of standing tall regardless of circumstances.
Adding a unique flair to his collection is a tattoo quoting Bob Dylan’s song lyric: “I ain’t gonna work on Maggie’s farm no more.” This classic lyric suggests Joe’s independent streak and his desire to carve his path in life.
More recently, fans have spotted a tattoo on Joe’s neck that reads either “Hellbent” or “Little Life.” While Joe hasn’t publicly shared its meaning, the tattoo has generated curiosity and various interpretations among his followers.
Tattoos as a Form of Artistic Expression
Joe Gilgun tattoos are more than body art; they are storytelling devices that reveal his values and life journey. Outside of acting, Joe is also an artist, sharing his paintings and drawings on social media. His creativity extends beyond tattoos to other forms of visual art, offering fans a deeper insight into his artistic world.
Conclusion
Joe Gilgun tattoos offer a unique window into his life, combining personal memories, meaningful relationships, and his artistic spirit. Each tattoo carries its own story, making his body a living canvas of his experiences and emotions. For fans and followers, Joe’s ink is a reminder of the power of self-expression and the importance of staying true to one’s roots.

