There’s a certain stigma regarding the appeal and perception of news anchors. A sense of familiarity with these personalities in their clean-cut suits and monochromatic attires hints at the sophistication of their work.
The Noli de Castros and Ted Failons of the world might be the staples, but a more colorful and expression-centric movement is happening in media. Exhibit A: former University of the Philippines Fighting Maroon cager Mikee Reyes proudly flaunted his tattoos on live TV.
According to “Tito Mikee,” the viral moment to showcase his tatts was TV5’s desire for a more “casual” and expressive personality on air.
“I was told to come in something a little more casual, so I could be the one to cater to the younger market,” said Reyes in a chat with Complex Philippines.
That’s when they brought it up that I didn’t need to “hide” my tattoos. Dun ako medyo nagulat na “talaga? Aakyat ko tong sleeves ko ah.” recalls the ‘Shoot First’ host, adding that the studio assured and even encouraged him to be his “true self.”
Reyes didn’t initially think that his stint was a big deal, as it was his tattoo artist who shared the milestone.
It’s not the first time that TV5 broke ground in its broadcast. Filipino actress Kaladkaren also became the first transgender news anchor for TV5’s “Frontline Pilipinas.”
Reyes hopes his moment serves as an eye-opener for the industry towards fellow fully-tatted individuals.
“Kung may tattoos yung tao, pero magaling naman and could do his job well, then so be it. I don’t see how tattoos can affect my work. Sana mawala na yung stigma,” he says.
