The shock going through the tattoo community of the death of “Miami Ink’s” Japanese Legend Yoji Harada who died on March 26, 2019, remains. The cause of death has not been revealed leaving many to wonder, what took the life of the legendary 46-year-old.
Harada did something that very few could have. He brought the tattoo world to middle America and made it acceptable. Thanks to his role on “Miami Ink,” people who did not understand the culture now did.
The stigma that many who have tattoos often feel began to be lifted.
This was in part of Harada’s outlook on life, infectious smile, and most importantly, his sense of humor.
People who live a more conservative lifestyle could look at Harada and feel safe. He was a person who they could relate to.
Although many did not know Harada personally, he was considered a friend by his millions of fans who regularly watched “Miami Ink.” The TLC show lasted from July 19, 2005 – Aug. 21, 2008.
Despite having only 80 episodes, the popularity of the characters of the show remains. This was in part because of Harada.
Yoji Harada may be gone, but thanks to the “Miami Ink” DVD’s he will not be forgotten and will be introduced to a new audience. Harada’s legion of fans will also keep his name alive, and his memory.
Harada’s death came one day after Lyle Tuttle, San Francisco’s “father of modern tattooing” died at the age of 87.
Harada was born in Japan on Aug. 6, 1972, was a musician and apprenticed under Ami James for five years. Working at Love-Hate Tatoo’s, he honed his craft and became a household name with “Miami Ink.”
Written by Barbara Sobel
Sources:
Inked: Take a look back at the life of this talented tattoo artist
Electric Ink Tattoo: Yoji Harada
Lipstick Alley: Yoji Death: Tattoo Artist And Miami Ink Star Dead At 46
Featured and Top Image Courtesy of Mercedes Bugarin’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
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