Aquaman star Jason Momoa & his marvellous tattoos
In Hollywood, few stars stand out as uniquely as Jason Momoa. Known for his commanding presence on screen and his rugged charm, Momoa has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Yet, it's not just his acting prowess or magnetic personality that keeps fans captivated; it's his extensive collection of tattoos that tell a story all their own. Each inked masterpiece etched onto his skin reveals a chapter of his life, heritage, and passions.
In this article, we take you on a journey through Jason Momoa's marvellous tattoos, unravelling the meaning behind each one.
Which Aquaman is Jason Momoa?
Jason Momoa portrays Arthur Curry, also known as Aquaman, in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) films. He first appeared as Aquaman in the 2017 film "Justice League" and later reprised the role in the standalone film "Aquaman" released in 2018. Jason Momoa's portrayal of Aquaman is known for its charismatic and rugged interpretation of the character, making him one of the most recognisable versions of Aquaman in recent years within the DC cinematic universe.
Meaning behind Jason Momoa’s tattoos
1. Hawaiian heritage and family crest tattoo
One of the most recent and notable additions to Momoa's tattoo collection is the head tattoo he got in September 2022. Created by renowned artist Sulu'ape Keone Nunes, this tattoo is located on the side of his freshly shaved head. It features a striking shark-teeth pattern, a symbol representing his family crest. For Momoa, this tattoo is a profound tribute to his Hawaiian heritage and a connection to his roots.
2. "On the Roam" arm tattoo
Located on his outer right arm, Momoa's compass-like tattoo is more than just a decorative piece. It is, in fact, the logo of one of his production companies, "On the Roam." This ink, acquired in May 2019, serves as a reminder of his commitment to his creative ventures and the team that accompanies him on his journey.
3. Friendship tattoo with Zoë Kravitz
In 2016, Jason Momoa and his stepdaughter, Zoë Kravitz, decided to commemorate their close bond with matching friendship tattoos. Their chosen phrase, "etre toujours ivre," which translates to "be always drunk" in French, represents a special connection between them. These tattoos were inked during Momoa's time on the set of "Game of Thrones," further solidifying the enduring nature of their friendship.
4. Children's signatures on his chest
As a loving father to two children, Lola and Wolf, whom he shares with actress Lisa Bonet, Momoa's chest bears a touching tribute to his family. He had their signatures inked in black, symbolising the deep and enduring love he holds for his kids. Though the exact date of this tattoo's creation is uncertain, it has been a cherished part of his body art for several years.
5. The mysterious skull hand tattoo
A small but conspicuous design, the skull tattoo located just above Momoa's thumb on his hand remains an enigma. While its specific meaning is unclear, it is a consistent feature of his appearance, hinting at his fondness for skull imagery.
6. "Diablo" finger tattoo
In 2014, Momoa got a tattoo on his middle finger that reads "Diablo." This ink serves as a heartfelt tribute to a friend who passed away, emphasising the significance of their friendship in his life.
7. The elusive line finger tattoo
Also in 2014, Momoa added a minimalist line tattoo on the back of his hand, near his wrist. The meaning behind this design remains a mystery, adding an element of intrigue to his collection.
8. "Pride of Gypsies" arm tattoo
To commemorate his second production company, "Pride of Gypsies," Momoa had the company's logo and name tattooed on his inner forearm. This tattoo represents his entrepreneurial spirit and his dedication to his creative pursuits. He founded the company in 2010 and added this ink as a lasting symbol of his commitment.
9. Tribal shark-teeth tattoos
Among his most prominent tattoos are the tribal shark-tooth designs on his forearm. In a 2013 interview, Momoa revealed that these tattoos represent a shark, which serves as his family's 'aumakua—a guardian or god in Hawaiian mythology. These tattoos symbolise the removal of darkness and the welcoming of light, emphasising his connection to his Hawaiian heritage.
10. Tribal shark-teeth leg tattoo
Alongside his forearm ink, Momoa has a similar tribal shark-tooth pattern on his outer thigh and hip. This larger design complements his collection, with its significance aligned with his family's 'aumakua and Hawaiian culture.
Why is Jason Momoa's future as Aquaman in doubt?
Jason Momoa's future as Aquaman appears uncertain as he acknowledges the possibility that "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" could mark the end of his tenure as the legendary King of Atlantis. While expressing his love for the character and his desire to continue in the role, Momoa also recognises that changes in the leadership of DC film projects under James Gunn and Peter Safran may result in a new direction for the franchise.
Ultimately, the decision seems to rest on whether the audience's ongoing support for Aquaman will determine whether Momoa returns to the iconic role in the future.
Conclusion
Jason Momoa, the iconic Aquaman and versatile actor, has proven that his captivating on-screen presence is not limited to his performances alone. His body of work extends beyond Hollywood and into the realm of inked artistry. Through his extensive and meaningful collection of tattoos, Momoa has allowed us to glimpse the heritage, passions, and experiences that have shaped him.
As we explore the intricate designs and their profound significance, we discover that Jason Momoa's tattoo collection is not just decorative; they are a testament to the depth of his character and the authenticity that has endeared him to fans worldwide.
If you're inspired by Momoa's journey and looking to care for your tattoos just as meticulously as he does, consider investing in the Tattoo Goo Tattoo Care Kit (3 in 1). This kit includes Tattoo Goo Lotion, Tattoo Goo Soap, and Tattoo Goo Balm (21g), ensuring that your tattoos stay vibrant and well-maintained. Much like Momoa's commitment to his inked art, this kit provides the care and nourishment your tattoos deserve, keeping them looking their best for years to come.
- Mark Joshua Luz