

Cho has made such an impact on the community through laughter, activism, and art that she has even had a day named after her! San Francisco declared April 30th “Margaret Cho Day” in 2008. In light of her upcoming PsyCHO tour this fall, Tattoo.com was let in on some of her prized ink and upcoming pieces. Take a look at what she had to say.
How old were you when you got your first tattoo, and what was the reason behind it?
It was in 2004, and it was my huge back and ribs piece done by Ed Hardy. I grew up around people who were getting the very first big bodysuits from him, and my family sold Tattoo TIme at their bookstore, so he was a fixture in my childhood. I always knew I would grow up to be heavily tattooed and that it would be Ed Hardy.

I love my Ed Hardy tattoo as well as my horse portrait by Eddy Deutsche, which was actually a tribute to my dog Ralph, who I believe always thought himself as ‘above’ being a dog– rather more a majestic creature. Eddy understood this perfectly as his dog Hadji had just passed away. I love memorial tattoos, and this is the only one I have. I also have Washington and Lincoln on my kneecaps from the amazing Craig Jackman at American Electric in Los Angeles. These, along with the Medusa head with 13 snakes of hair on my stomach, are my real favorites.
What is the most ridiculous tattoo you have ever seen?
I think ‘couple’ tattoos are always a bad idea!
Who are some of your favorite artists?
I love Ed Hardy, Eddy Deutsche, Kim Saigh, Shawn Barber, Nate Kosctechko, Brendan Rowe, James Spencer Briggs, Mr. Cartoon, Mike Davis, Kat Von D, Cris Cleen, Chris O’Donnell– but my all time favorite is Craig Jackman.
What is the next piece of work you would like to have done?
There are lots of things yet to be finished, and I have also promised Grime my lower left leg for a sleeve– a vision of hell to match Chris O’Donnell’s vision of heaven on my left leg. Also, James Spencer Briggs has some work left to do on my back as does Mr. Cartoon. Craig Jackman has to put in some banners on my knees– the presidents need to say something, but I haven’t figured out what yet.
Have you ever gotten a tattoo that you regretted? Describe.
No regrets!!! I love them all!!
Catch Margaret Cho on her PsyCHO tour beginning in October. Visit her website for more info on upcoming dates and appearances. Cho for president!