Brianna “Chickenfry” LaPaglia is standing her ground when it comes to her “How lucky are we?” tattoo. Despite her highly publicized breakup with singer Zach Bryan, and the phrase’s connection to his song, LaPaglia has declared she’s keeping the ink.
The Barstool Sports personality addressed fans directly on TikTok, responding to comments suggesting she should remove the tattoo. “One last thing,” she stated in a video. “I see a lot of people being like, ‘Well, now I have to get my ‘How lucky are we’ tattoo removed.'”
Brianna Chickenfry in car, explaining tattoo decision
She firmly clarified her position: “That was my thing. That is my tattoo. Now we’re matching, OK? I’m not getting it removed. It’s OK. This is mine. How lucky are we? That was me.” LaPaglia emphasized that the phrase and the tattoo were personal to her long before it became associated with Bryan’s music.
Close up of Brianna Chickenfry's "How lucky are we?" tattoo
The “How Lucky Are We?” Tattoo and Zach Bryan’s Song “28”
The phrase “How lucky are we?” gained wider recognition after Zach Bryan released his song “28.” Rumors initially swirled that the song was inspired by LaPaglia, referencing her Massachusetts roots in the lyrics: “You took a train to the south side of Boston / You showed me where your whole heart stayed.” The lyrics also include the line, “How lucky are we?” fueling speculation about the song’s muse.
However, Bryan himself clarified in an interview with “American Songwriter” that the song was actually about their dog, Boston. He recounted telling LaPaglia, “How lucky are we?” when their puppy was undergoing surgery, expressing gratitude for the dog’s well-being. Regardless of the song’s true inspiration, the phrase undeniably became linked to both Bryan and LaPaglia’s relationship in the public eye.
Zach Bryan performing on stage
Breakup and Aftermath: Tattoo Stays
Brianna and Zach’s breakup became public in October, with LaPaglia revealing she felt “blindsided” by Bryan’s announcement. Following the split, LaPaglia made serious allegations against Bryan, including claims of emotional abuse and an offer of $12 million to remain silent about their relationship.
Despite the tumultuous breakup and the phrase “How lucky are we?” being tied to her former relationship, Brianna’s decision to keep the tattoo is a statement of personal ownership. For her, the tattoo represents something personal and pre-dates the public association with Zach Bryan. She reclaims the phrase and the tattoo as definitively “hers,” independent of the past relationship.
Brianna Chickenfry at an event
By keeping her “How lucky are we?” tattoo, Brianna Chickenfry sends a clear message of self-possession and resilience. The tattoo, for her, is not a reminder of a failed relationship, but a personal statement she intends to keep.