Vanna White Gets First Tattoo at 68, Courtesy of Her Daughter Gigi
Vanna White, the iconic co-host of "Wheel of Fortune," has taken a surprising and heartwarming step, marking her skin with a permanent symbol of love and connection. At 68 years old, White received her first tattoo, a delicate salmon-pink heart etched onto her left wrist. What makes this moment even more special is that the artist behind the ink was none other than her talented daughter, Gigi Santo Pietro.
The beloved television personality took to social media to share the momentous occasion with her fans. On Monday, White posted a video of her tattoo session on Instagram, accompanied by a caption brimming with affection. "I finally got my first tattoo, given to me by my talented daughter @gigisantopietro!! I will think of her every time I look at it. 🩷" White wrote, her words capturing the deep bond she shares with her daughter.
The tattoo represents more than just a design; it embodies the enduring love between a mother and daughter. For White, the heart serves as a constant reminder of Gigi, a tangible representation of their special relationship. The salmon-pink hue adds a touch of sweetness and femininity to the symbol, reflecting the warmth and tenderness that characterizes their connection.
Gigi Santo Pietro, 27, is the daughter of Vanna White and her former husband, film and TV technician George Santo Pietro. The couple, who were married from 1990 to 2002, also have a son, 30-year-old Nikko. Gigi has clearly inherited artistic talent, and her mother’s decision to have her daughter create her first tattoo speaks volumes about White’s trust and admiration for Gigi’s abilities.
The news of White’s tattoo quickly spread across social media, garnering an outpouring of support and admiration from fans and fellow celebrities alike. Ryan Seacrest, White’s "Wheel of Fortune" co-star, was among the first to comment, expressing his enthusiasm for the new ink. "Love it," Seacrest wrote, adding, "Now this is making me want one…" His response highlights the impact of White’s decision, inspiring others to consider expressing themselves through body art.
The video shared by White offered a glimpse into the intimate and joyful experience of getting tattooed by her daughter. As they headed into the tattoo parlor, White playfully clarified, "She’s not making me do this. It’s my choice to do this," emphasizing her own agency and excitement about the process. The mother-daughter duo then engaged in a collaborative discussion about the design, carefully selecting the heart’s shape and the precise shade of pink for the outline. Their shared attention to detail underscored the importance of the moment and the desire to create a meaningful and beautiful symbol.
The video also captured the lighthearted and affectionate dynamic between White and Santo Pietro. As White sat down to get the tattoo, the pair giggled, creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. "I can feel you shaking. No stress, no pressure," Santo Pietro reassured her mother. White playfully responded, "I don’t know if I can watch," to which her daughter quipped, "I would prefer if you didn’t." Their banter revealed a close and supportive relationship built on laughter and understanding.
Despite her initial apprehension, White was pleasantly surprised by the painless nature of the procedure. "I didn’t feel anything," she exclaimed to the camera as Santo Pietro skillfully applied the tattoo machine. Her comment dispelled any preconceived notions about the pain associated with tattooing, further encouraging others to consider body art as a form of self-expression.
The final result exceeded White’s expectations. "It’s just what I wanted. It really is," she declared, beaming with satisfaction. Afterward, she showered Santo Pietro with affection, giving her a kiss on the forehead and expressing her gratitude. "Gigi, thank you!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with love and appreciation.
The act of receiving her first tattoo from her daughter is a powerful testament to the enduring bond between Vanna White and Gigi Santo Pietro. It’s a story about love, trust, and the celebration of family connections. The salmon-pink heart on White’s wrist will serve as a constant reminder of her daughter’s talent and the special relationship they share. It’s a beautiful symbol of a mother’s love, permanently etched onto her skin, a reminder that will undoubtedly bring a smile to her face every time she looks at it.
This heartwarming story also arrives at a pivotal time for "Wheel of Fortune." With Pat Sajak’s departure on the horizon, and Ryan Seacrest stepping into the role of host, Vanna White’s presence remains a constant, a familiar face that viewers have come to know and love for decades. This personal glimpse into her life, her relationship with her daughter, and her willingness to embrace new experiences, only strengthens her connection with her audience. It reinforces her image as not just a television personality, but as a relatable and genuine person.
The tattoo is more than just ink; it’s a symbol of a mother’s unwavering love, a daughter’s artistic talent, and the beautiful, enduring bond that connects them.