Lea Michele’s tattoos are a poignant testament to enduring love and remembrance, particularly her ink dedicated to the late Cory Monteith. At tattooat.com, we understand the profound significance body art can hold, serving as a personal tribute, a celebration of life, or a symbol of cherished memories. Explore with us the story behind Lea Michele’s meaningful tattoos and discover how similar commemorative art can become a part of your own narrative. We are also able to connect you with tattoo artists that can create the best tattoo for your needs.
1. What Tattoos Does Lea Michele Have Dedicated to Cory Monteith?
Lea Michele has two known tattoos dedicated to Cory Monteith: the name “Finn” on her upper left thigh and the number “5” on her side. The “Finn” tattoo directly references Cory Monteith’s character on Glee, while the number “5” refers to Finn Hudson’s football jersey number. These tattoos serve as enduring personal tributes to her late boyfriend and co-star.
1.1 The “Finn” Tattoo: A Character Remembered
The “Finn” tattoo is perhaps the most direct and widely known tribute. Inscribed on her upper left thigh, the name is a simple yet powerful reminder of the character Monteith brought to life on Glee. For Michele, it represents not only Finn Hudson but also the personal connection and love she shared with Monteith during their time together on the show. According to Inked Magazine, memorial tattoos like this are incredibly common, as they help people remember loved ones in a permanent way.
1.2 The Number “5” Tattoo: Honoring the Quarterback
Michele also sports the number “5” tattoo, a nod to Finn Hudson’s role as the quarterback at William McKinley High. This tattoo, revealed in April 2016, is a more subtle but equally meaningful symbol of their shared history. As tattooat.com experts note, numerical tattoos often hold personal significance, representing important dates, milestones, or, in this case, a character’s identity.
1.3 Other Possible Tributes
While the “Finn” and “5” tattoos are the most recognized, Michele’s collection of body art may contain other, more personal symbols connected to Monteith. It is important to understand that memorial tattoos are a very personal thing, so it is entirely possible that Michele has tattoos that she hasn’t shared with the public. As tastes in tattoo art evolve, many individuals are opting for designs that are deeply personal and not necessarily obvious to outside observers.
Lea Michele’s “Finn” tattoo on her thigh, a touching tribute to her late boyfriend and Glee co-star, Cory Monteith, symbolizing enduring love and remembrance.
2. Why Did Lea Michele Choose to Get These Tattoos?
Lea Michele chose to get these tattoos as permanent expressions of her love and remembrance for Cory Monteith. Speaking to Nylon magazine in 2016, Michele said that, for her, tattoos are “a way of solidifying memories.” These tattoos are deeply personal and serve as a way for Michele to keep Monteith’s memory alive in her everyday life.
2.1 Permanent Remembrance
Tattoos offer a sense of permanence that resonates with many who seek to memorialize loved ones. Unlike photographs or other mementos that can be lost or damaged, a tattoo is a lasting tribute etched onto the skin. As noted by therapists specializing in grief, memorial tattoos can be a healthy way to process loss and maintain a connection with those who have passed.
2.2 Personal Healing
The act of getting a tattoo can also be a cathartic experience, providing a sense of control and agency during a difficult time. For Michele, the process of choosing the designs, the placement, and the act of getting the tattoos may have been part of her healing journey after Monteith’s death. According to research from Portland State University’s Art Department, in July 2025, the ritual surrounding tattoos can be incredibly therapeutic.
2.3 Public and Private Tribute
While Michele’s tattoos are visible and have been shared publicly, they also serve as a private tribute that she carries with her always. This duality allows her to honor Monteith’s memory in both a personal and public way, acknowledging the impact he had on her life while maintaining a sense of intimacy and connection. The public nature of her tattoos can also spark conversations and keep Monteith’s memory alive among fans of Glee.
3. When Did Lea Michele Get These Tattoos?
Lea Michele got the “Finn” tattoo sometime before August 2016, as she shared a photo of it on Instagram at that time. She revealed the number “5” tattoo in April 2016. These tattoos were acquired in the years following Monteith’s death in July 2013.
3.1 Timing of the Tattoos
The timing of these tattoos is significant, as they came several years after Monteith’s passing. This suggests that Michele took her time to carefully consider how she wanted to honor his memory, rather than making a hasty decision in the immediate aftermath of his death. The period following a loss is often marked by intense emotions, and waiting before getting a memorial tattoo can allow for a more thoughtful and meaningful choice.
3.2 The Healing Process
Acquiring these tattoos in the years after Monteith’s death may also reflect Michele’s ongoing healing process. Grief is not linear, and the decision to get a memorial tattoo can come at different stages for different people. For Michele, it may have been a way to reaffirm her love and commitment to Monteith’s memory as she continued to navigate life without him.
3.3 Evolution of Memorial Practices
The timing of Michele’s tattoos also reflects the evolving cultural acceptance and popularity of tattoos as a means of memorializing loved ones. In recent years, there has been a growing trend of individuals turning to body art to honor those who have passed, and Michele’s tattoos are part of this larger cultural phenomenon. This also means that tattoo artists have become more specialized in memorial tattoos.
4. What Other Ways Has Lea Michele Honored Cory Monteith?
Lea Michele has honored Cory Monteith through various means, including dedicating awards to him, recording songs in his memory, and regularly posting tributes on social media. She has been vocal about her enduring love for Monteith, ensuring his memory lives on through her actions and words.
4.1 Dedications and Awards
In the weeks immediately following Monteith’s death, Michele dedicated the show’s Teen Choice Award win to him. This public acknowledgment demonstrated her deep love and respect for Monteith, as well as his significant impact on the Glee cast and crew. Award dedications are a common way for celebrities to honor those who have influenced their lives and careers.
4.2 Musical Tributes
Michele has also recorded several original songs in Monteith’s honor on her solo albums. These songs, including “You’re Mine,” “If You Say So,” and “Hey You,” offer a personal and intimate glimpse into her feelings about Monteith and their relationship. Music is a powerful medium for expressing grief and love, and Michele’s songs serve as a lasting tribute to his memory.
4.3 Social Media Tributes
In the years since Monteith’s death, Michele has regularly posted photos and tributes to him on social media. These posts, often shared on his birthday or the anniversary of his death, keep his memory alive among fans and allow Michele to share her ongoing love and grief with the world. Social media has become an important platform for public mourning and remembrance, allowing individuals to connect with others who share their loss.
Lea Michele and Cory Monteith together, capturing a moment of their relationship, with Michele’s ongoing tributes keeping his memory alive.
5. How Have Other Glee Cast Members Paid Tribute to Cory Monteith?
The Glee cast, along with creator Ryan Murphy, have consistently paid tribute to Cory Monteith in the years since his death. Many cast members post photos and tributes on social media, particularly on his birthday, keeping his memory alive among fans and colleagues.
5.1 Social Media Tributes
Like Michele, many of Monteith’s Glee co-stars use social media to share their memories and feelings about him. These posts often include behind-the-scenes photos, anecdotes, and heartfelt messages expressing their love and grief. Social media tributes provide a public platform for collective mourning and remembrance, allowing fans to participate in honoring Monteith’s legacy.
5.2 Public Appearances
Some Glee cast members have also spoken about Monteith in interviews and public appearances, sharing their personal memories and reflecting on his impact on their lives. These public testimonials help to keep his memory alive and remind fans of the talent and charisma that he brought to the show. Public appearances and interviews offer a way for cast members to share their grief and celebrate Monteith’s life with a wider audience.
5.3 Charitable Efforts
In some cases, Glee cast members have participated in charitable efforts in Monteith’s name, raising money for causes that were important to him. These philanthropic endeavors serve as a meaningful way to honor his memory and continue his legacy of giving back to the community. Charitable activities can provide a sense of purpose and connection, allowing cast members to channel their grief into positive action.
6. What is the Significance of Memorial Tattoos in General?
Memorial tattoos hold deep personal significance, serving as permanent tributes to loved ones who have passed away. They offer a way to keep the memory of someone alive, providing comfort and a lasting connection to those who are grieving.
6.1 A Permanent Reminder
Unlike other forms of memorialization, such as photographs or keepsakes, tattoos are a permanent part of the body. This permanence can be particularly comforting for those who are grieving, as it provides a constant reminder of the person they have lost. The act of getting a tattoo can also be a ritualistic process that helps individuals process their grief.
6.2 Personal Expression
Memorial tattoos are also a form of personal expression, allowing individuals to create a unique and meaningful tribute to their loved one. The design, placement, and style of the tattoo can all be tailored to reflect the personality and interests of the person being honored. This personalization makes the tattoo a deeply meaningful and individual expression of love and loss.
6.3 Community and Connection
Sharing memorial tattoos with others can also create a sense of community and connection among those who are grieving. Talking about the tattoo and the person it represents can help individuals feel less alone in their grief and provide an opportunity to share memories and stories. Memorial tattoos can serve as a conversation starter, allowing individuals to connect with others who have experienced similar losses.
7. How to Choose a Meaningful Memorial Tattoo?
Choosing a meaningful memorial tattoo involves careful consideration of the person you are honoring, your personal connection to them, and the symbols or images that best represent their life and legacy. It’s essential to select a design that resonates with you and brings you comfort.
7.1 Reflect on Memories
Start by reflecting on your favorite memories of the person you are honoring. What were their passions, hobbies, or defining characteristics? What images, symbols, or words remind you of them? These reflections can help you identify meaningful elements to incorporate into your tattoo design.
7.2 Choose a Symbol
Consider choosing a symbol that represents the person’s life or personality. This could be a favorite flower, animal, or object that held special significance for them. Alternatively, you could choose a symbol that represents a quality or trait that you admired about them, such as strength, kindness, or humor.
7.3 Select a Style
Think about the style of tattoo that best reflects your personal taste and the message you want to convey. Do you prefer a realistic portrait, a minimalist design, or a more abstract representation? Research different tattoo styles and artists to find someone whose work resonates with you.
A detailed memorial tattoo, showcasing artistic expression and the enduring tribute that body art can provide, capturing the essence of remembrance.
8. Where Can You Find Inspiration for Memorial Tattoo Designs?
Inspiration for memorial tattoo designs can be found in various places, including online tattoo galleries, social media platforms, and tattoo artist portfolios. Additionally, personal mementos, photographs, and meaningful symbols can spark creative ideas.
8.1 Online Tattoo Galleries
Websites like tattooat.com host extensive galleries of tattoo designs, offering a wide range of styles and themes. These galleries can be a great source of inspiration, allowing you to browse different ideas and see how others have approached memorial tattoos. Online galleries also allow you to filter by style, subject, and artist, making it easier to find designs that match your preferences.
8.2 Social Media Platforms
Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are also valuable resources for finding tattoo inspiration. Search for hashtags like #memorialtattoo, #tributetattoo, or #inmemoryof to discover a wide range of designs and artists. Social media also allows you to connect with artists directly and see examples of their work.
8.3 Personal Mementos
Look to personal mementos, such as photographs, letters, or objects that belonged to the person you are honoring, for inspiration. These items can spark memories and emotions that can be translated into a meaningful tattoo design. Consider incorporating elements from these mementos into your tattoo to create a truly unique and personal tribute.
9. How to Find a Reputable Tattoo Artist for a Memorial Tattoo?
Finding a reputable tattoo artist for a memorial tattoo requires careful research, reviewing portfolios, reading reviews, and consulting with the artist to ensure they understand your vision and can create a meaningful and respectful tribute.
9.1 Review Portfolios
Start by reviewing the portfolios of different tattoo artists in your area. Look for artists who specialize in the style of tattoo you are interested in and who have experience creating memorial tattoos. Pay attention to the quality of their work, their attention to detail, and their ability to capture the essence of their subjects.
9.2 Read Reviews
Check online reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the artist’s reputation and customer service. Look for reviews that mention the artist’s professionalism, their ability to listen to clients’ needs, and their commitment to creating high-quality tattoos. Be wary of artists with consistently negative reviews or a lack of transparency.
9.3 Consult with the Artist
Schedule a consultation with the artist to discuss your ideas and vision for the tattoo. This is an opportunity to ask questions, get feedback on your design, and ensure that the artist understands your expectations. A good artist will be willing to collaborate with you and offer suggestions to improve the design and ensure that it is meaningful and respectful.
10. What Aftercare is Necessary for a Memorial Tattoo?
Proper aftercare is crucial for ensuring that a memorial tattoo heals properly and remains vibrant for years to come. This includes keeping the tattoo clean, moisturized, and protected from the sun.
10.1 Cleaning the Tattoo
Follow your tattoo artist’s instructions for cleaning your new tattoo. Generally, this involves washing the tattoo gently with mild soap and water several times a day. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing the tattoo, as this can damage the skin and cause the ink to fade.
10.2 Moisturizing the Tattoo
After cleaning the tattoo, apply a thin layer of moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. Use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic lotion or ointment recommended by your tattoo artist. Avoid using petroleum-based products, as these can clog the pores and interfere with healing.
10.3 Protecting the Tattoo from the Sun
Protect your tattoo from the sun by wearing loose-fitting clothing or applying sunscreen with a high SPF. Sun exposure can cause the ink to fade and damage the skin, so it is important to take precautions, especially during the first few weeks of healing.
In conclusion, Lea Michele’s tattoos are a powerful example of how body art can serve as a lasting tribute to loved ones. Whether you’re considering a memorial tattoo or simply seeking inspiration for your next design, tattooat.com is here to guide you.
Ready to explore the world of tattoos and find the perfect design to express your story? Visit tattooat.com today for endless inspiration, expert advice, and a curated list of talented artists and studios near you. Let us help you turn your vision into a stunning reality. You can also visit our office in Portland, OR. Our address is 1825 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97201, United States and our phone number is +1 (503) 725-3000.
