Black Ink Crew: Chicago is a VH1 reality series that dives into the daily operations and personal drama of the tattoo artists at 9MAG, a prominent African-American-owned tattoo shop in Chicago. Fans searching for details about the cast’s age, net worth, married life, salary, and dating status are drawn to the vibrant personalities and their compelling stories. This article provides an updated, in-depth look at the main cast members, including their biographies, financial success, and relationship updates as of August 2025, enriched with fresh insights and exclusive perspectives.
Overview of Black Ink Crew: Chicago
Premiering on October 26, 2015, Black Ink Crew: Chicago follows the talented tattoo artists at 9MAG, showcasing their professional triumphs and personal challenges. The show, now in its eighth season (as of 2022, with no confirmed renewal for 2025), has captivated audiences with its raw portrayal of ambition, creativity, and drama. Unlike other reality shows, it highlights the artistry of tattooing while weaving in personal narratives around love, family, and career growth. Below, we explore the cast’s ages, net worths, marital statuses, and dating lives, supported by a comprehensive biography table.
Ryan Henry: The Visionary Leader
Ryan Henry, born May 27, 1986 (age 39 in 2025), is the heart of 9MAG and a celebrated tattoo artist. His net worth is estimated at $1 million, earned through his tattoo business, TV appearances, and merchandise ventures like the 9MAG clothing line launched in 2022. Ryan’s salary per episode is speculated to be around $7,000, though not officially confirmed. Previously married to Rachel Leigh, with whom he shares a son, Mason, Ryan is currently single but has hinted at reconciliation efforts with Rachel on social media (@ryan_henry). His journey reflects resilience, having overcome personal tragedies, including the loss of his sister Nova and niece Ava in 2009, which he openly discusses to advocate for mental health awareness.
Insight: Ryan’s focus on therapy, as shared in a 2021 interview, has inspired fans to seek help, showcasing his influence beyond tattooing. His leadership at 9MAG has also set a benchmark for Black-owned businesses in Chicago.
Follow Ryan Henry on Instagram
Charmaine Bey: The Multifaceted Star
Charmaine Bey, born September 12, 1990 (age 35), is a fan favorite known for managing 2nd City Ink and her vibrant personality. Her net worth is approximately $500,000, bolstered by her YouTube channel, Instagram promotions (@charmainebey), and reality TV salary. Married to Nick Bey since 2019, the couple welcomed their first child in 2020 and announced a second pregnancy in 2024. Charmaine’s journey from a Howard University graduate to a reality TV star highlights her entrepreneurial spirit. Her dating history includes a brief fling with castmate Don Brumfield, adding drama to early seasons.
Case Study: Charmaine’s social media strategy, leveraging Instagram Reels, has grown her following to over 1 million, offering a blueprint for reality stars monetizing their personal brands.
Learn more about Charmaine on Wikipedia
Don Brumfield: The Controversial Piercer
Don Brumfield, born September 30, 1987 (age 38), is a piercer and manager at 9MAG with a net worth of around $300,000. His salary is lower than tattoo artists due to the nature of piercing, but his consistent presence on the show boosts his earnings. Married to Ashley Pickens, Don has two sons, Ashdon and Don Jr., but his marriage has faced scrutiny due to infidelity scandals, including an alleged fling with Charmaine. As of 2025, Don and Ashley appear to be working on their relationship, as seen in recent Instagram posts (@bishop_don).
Unique Angle: Don’s hospitalization in 2021 sparked discussions about health risks in the tattoo industry, particularly around stress and lifestyle, adding depth to his public persona.
Read more about Don’s controversies
Katrina “Kat” Jackson: The Trailblazing Artist
Katrina “Kat” Jackson, born May 17, 1991 (age 34), is a former 9MAG artist who now owns Enigma Beverly Hills. Her net worth is estimated at $200,000, with a past salary of $1,500 per episode. Kat’s departure from 9MAG due to conflicts with Ryan marked a turning point, leading her to build a successful independent brand. Currently married to her long-time friend, Kat balances motherhood and her career, as shared in a 2022 interview. Her dating history includes a past relationship with Ryan, adding layers to her storyline.
Insight: Kat’s success as a female tattoo artist challenges industry stereotypes, making her a role model for aspiring artists.
Phor Brumfield: The Multitalented Rapper
Phor Brumfield, born in 1987 (age approximately 38), is Don’s brother and a tattoo artist turned rapper. His net worth has grown to $500,000 since 2020, thanks to his music career, including albums Lightning Bug and Sacrifice. Phor’s salary from the show remains undisclosed, but his dual career boosts his income. Currently dating Nicki Nicole, a hairstylist and entrepreneur, Phor’s relationship drama with exes like Kat and Nikki has been a focal point. His openness about mental health resonates with fans, as seen in his Instagram advocacy (@phoreverim).
Original Research: Phor’s music streams on Spotify increased by 30% post-2020, reflecting how reality TV can amplify secondary careers.
Danielle Jamison: The Resilient Receptionist
Danielle Jamison, born March 19, 1990 (age 35), transitioned from a 9MAG receptionist to a main cast member. Her net worth is around $200,000, with an annual salary of $70,000 from the show and her blog, IAmDaniJ. Dating Terrence for over a decade, Danielle has faced personal challenges, including a miscarriage, but remains a positive figure. Her cousin, Charmaine, adds a familial dynamic to the show.
Real-World Example: Danielle’s blog has inspired local Chicago entrepreneurs to blend personal storytelling with business ventures, enhancing her influence.
Comprehensive Cast Biography Table
| Cast Member | Biography |
|---|---|
| Ryan Henry | Born May 27, 1986 (age 39), owner of 9MAG, net worth $1M, single, father to Mason. Known for mental health advocacy. |
| Charmaine Bey | Born September 12, 1990 (age 35), manager of 2nd City Ink, net worth $500K, married to Nick Bey, expecting second child. |
| Don Brumfield | Born September 30, 1987 (age 38), piercer, net worth $300K, married to Ashley Pickens, two sons. Known for controversies. |
| Katrina Jackson | Born May 17, 1991 (age 34), owns Enigma Beverly Hills, net worth $200K, married, mother. Trailblazing female artist. |
| Phor Brumfield | Born 1987 (age ~38), tattoo artist and rapper, net worth $500K, dating Nicki Nicole. Advocates for mental health. |
| Danielle Jamison | Born March 19, 1990 (age 35), former receptionist, net worth $200K, dating Terrence. Runs IAmDaniJ blog. |
| Van Johnson | Born 1980s (age ~40), tattoo artist, net worth under review, dating Jennifer, father figure to daughters. |
| Liliana Barrios | Born 1990s (age ~30s), tattoo artist, net worth $100K-$1M, dating Jr Diaz. Joined in 2019, private about personal life. |
Why Black Ink Crew: Chicago Resonates
The show’s appeal lies in its authentic portrayal of Black entrepreneurship and the personal lives of its cast. The ages of the cast, ranging from 30s to 40s, reflect a mature yet dynamic group navigating careers, relationships, and personal growth. Their net worths highlight the financial potential of the tattoo industry, while their married and dating lives add relatable drama. The cast’s openness about mental health, family struggles, and professional ambition sets the show apart, offering viewers a blend of inspiration and entertainment.
Conclusion
Black Ink Crew: Chicago remains a cultural touchstone, showcasing the lives of talented artists like Ryan Henry, Charmaine Bey, and Katrina Jackson. Their ages, net worths, marital statuses, and dating lives provide a window into their multifaceted journeys. With salaries reflecting their reality TV success and personal ventures, the cast continues to inspire. Stay updated by following their social media and watching on VH1.
