Black Ink Crew: Los Angeles, previously known as Black Ink Crew: Compton, continues to captivate audiences with its raw portrayal of tattoo artistry and personal drama at IAM Compton, the first-ever tattoo shop in Compton, California. As of 2025, fans are eager for updates on the cast’s net worth, marriages, dating lives, salaries, and the latest on a potential new season. This article dives deep into the lives of key cast members, offering fresh insights, updated financial data, and exclusive perspectives on their personal and professional journeys. With a focus on SEO-optimized keywords like age, net worth, married, dating, and salary, we aim to answer your search queries comprehensively.
Overview of Black Ink Crew: Los Angeles in 2025
The show, which premiered on VH1 on August 14, 2019, rebranded from Black Ink Crew: Compton to Black Ink Crew: Los Angeles in 2023 to reflect its broader appeal in the LA tattoo scene. Centered around Danny “KP” Kirkpatrick and his team at IAM Compton, the series showcases the struggles and triumphs of African American tattoo artists. As of July 2025, Season 2 has concluded, and fans are speculating about a third season, though VH1 has not confirmed a release date. The show’s focus on art, community, and personal growth sets it apart from other reality TV series.
Danny “KP” Kirkpatrick: Age, Net Worth, Married Life, and Salary
Danny “KP” Kirkpatrick, the heart of IAM Compton, is a visionary tattoo artist, rapper, and entrepreneur. Born on November 26, 1986, KP is 38 years old in 2025. His net worth is estimated at $750,000, driven by his tattoo business, music career, and TV appearances. KP is married to actress Kyla Pratt, known for her roles in The Proud Family and Dr. Dolittle. The couple, together since 2005, has two daughters, Lyric (14) and Liyah (12), and KP also supports his older son from a previous relationship. His salary per episode is rumored to be around $10,000, though exact figures remain undisclosed.
KP’s journey reflects Compton’s resilience. He shared in a 2023 interview, “I want IAM Compton to be a safe haven, a place where art transforms lives.” His commitment to community upliftment, including hosting block parties for local kids, adds depth to his public persona. Follow KP on Instagram.
Katrina “Kat Tat” Jackson: Age, Net Worth, Dating, and Salary
Katrina “Kat Tat” Jackson, a former Black Ink Crew: Chicago star, joined the LA cast to elevate her shop, Enigma Beverly Hills. At 34 years old (born October 17, 1990), Kat’s net worth is approximately $1.5 million, fueled by her tattoo empire and entrepreneurial ventures. Kat is engaged to NFL player Jamie Collins, and they welcomed their second child in 2023. Her salary from the show is estimated at $8,000 per episode, supplemented by her work as a motivational speaker and artist.
Kat’s story of balancing motherhood and business resonates with many. “Tattooing is my therapy, but family keeps me grounded,” she said on social media. Her shop’s fourth-anniversary celebration in 2023 highlighted her leadership in a male-dominated industry. Learn more about Kat on Wikipedia.
Lemeir Mitchell: Age, Net Worth, Married Status, and Salary
Lemeir Mitchell, a Philadelphia native, brings street savvy and artistic flair to IAM Compton. Born in 1989, Lemeir is 36 years old in 2025. His net worth is estimated at $400,000, derived from tattooing and his former food truck business, Happy Ice. Lemeir is married to his high school sweetheart, Danielle Emani, and they have two children, including a daughter, Summer, born in 2019. His salary is speculated to be $5,000 per episode.
Lemeir’s transformation from a troubled past to a family man and artist is inspiring. He once shared, “Tattooing saved me from the streets.” His bond with KP and his role in the shop’s success make him a fan favorite. Follow Lemeir on Instagram.
Nessie Blaze: Age, Net Worth, Dating Life, and Salary
Nessie Blaze, a multi-talented tattoo artist, muralist, and lyricist, was born on April 4, 1991, making her 34 years old. Her net worth is estimated at $300,000, reflecting her diverse creative pursuits. Nessie is currently single, with her dating life often sparking drama on the show, particularly her fallout with ex-boyfriend Ken. Her salary is estimated at $4,000 per episode.
Nessie’s biracial upbringing and move from Philadelphia to Compton add layers to her story. “I paint my truth on skin and walls,” she told fans in a 2024 mural unveiling. Her resilience in a male-dominated field is a testament to her strength. Check out Nessie’s art on Instagram.
Vudu Dahl: Age, Net Worth, Dating, and Salary
Vudu Dahl, known for her bold tattoos and modeling career, is 32 years old (born in 1993). Her net worth is around $250,000, bolstered by her work as a tattoo artist and lingerie model. Vudu is single and openly pansexual, with her dating life occasionally featured on the show. Her salary is estimated at $3,500 per episode.
Vudu’s escape from a repressive religious commune near Seattle shapes her art, which celebrates female empowerment and Asian culture. “Every tattoo is a rebellion against my past,” she shared in a 2023 podcast. Her unique perspective enriches the show’s narrative. Follow Vudu on Instagram.
Barbie (Erica Thompson): Age, Net Worth, Dating, and Salary
Barbie, born Erica Thompson, is the vibrant shop manager at Enigma, formerly the receptionist at IAM Compton. At 30 years old (born in 1995), her net worth is approximately $200,000. Barbie is single, with her dating life often stirring drama, especially her feud with Nessie. Her salary is estimated at $3,000 per episode.
Barbie’s journey from a tough Compton upbringing to a key team member showcases her strength. “I keep the shop running with style,” she posted on Instagram. Her loyalty to KP and her sassy persona make her a standout. Follow Barbie on Instagram.
New Season Update for 2025
As of July 2025, VH1 has not confirmed a third season of Black Ink Crew: Los Angeles, but the show’s inclusion in the 2023 special Black Ink Crew Secrets Unlocked suggests it remains a priority. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed Season 2 filming, but the midseason premiere in May 2023 was well-received. Fans speculate a new season could drop in late 2025 or early 2026, focusing on KP’s music career and Kat’s expanding Enigma brand. The show’s emphasis on Compton’s cultural renaissance continues to draw viewers.
Cast Biography Table
| Cast Member | Biography |
|---|---|
| Danny “KP” Kirkpatrick | Born Nov 26, 1986 (age 38), tattoo artist, rapper, married to Kyla Pratt, net worth $750,000. |
| Katrina “Kat Tat” Jackson | Born Oct 17, 1990 (age 34), Enigma owner, engaged to Jamie Collins, net worth $1.5 million. |
| Lemeir Mitchell | Born 1989 (age 36), tattoo artist, married to Danielle Emani, net worth $400,000. |
| Nessie Blaze | Born Apr 4, 1991 (age 34), tattoo artist and muralist, single, net worth $300,000. |
| Vudu Dahl | Born 1993 (age 32), tattoo artist and model, single, net worth $250,000. |
| Barbie (Erica Thompson) | Born 1995 (age 30), Enigma shop manager, single, net worth $200,000. |
| Ink Drippin | Born 1990 (age 35), Compton native, tattoo artist, single, net worth $350,000. |
| Tim Simmons | Born 1987 (age 38), shop manager, married, net worth $450,000. |
Unique Insights and Real-World Impact
The cast’s stories highlight Compton’s evolving narrative, moving beyond its reputation for gang violence to a hub of creativity. IAM Compton serves as a cultural beacon, with KP’s block parties fostering community unity. A 2024 study by the Los Angeles Arts Council noted that tattoo shops like IAM contribute to local economies by attracting tourism and supporting Black-owned businesses. The show’s raw depiction of personal struggles, like Vudu’s escape from a cult or Lemeir’s redemption, resonates with viewers seeking authentic stories.
Conclusion
Black Ink Crew: Los Angeles remains a powerful platform for showcasing Black artistry and resilience. With net worths ranging from $200,000 to $1.5 million, the cast’s financial success reflects their hustle. Their marriages, dating lives, and salaries add layers to the drama, while the anticipation for a new season keeps fans engaged. Stay tuned for updates, and follow the cast on social media for real-time glimpses into their lives.
