This Morning viewers were left stunned during the May 29 episode when guest Claire Hobson revealed that she had incorporated her late dog’s ashes into her semi-permanent eyeliner, creating a deeply personal and controversial memorial. Hosted by Joel Dommett and Angela Scanlon, the show took an unexpected turn as Claire opened up about the unusual tribute to her beloved dog, Patch, who passed away at the remarkable age of 20.
Claire, a professional semi-permanent makeup artist, explained that the idea arose shortly after Patch’s passing. Wanting a tangible way to “still see the world through his eyes,” she approached a colleague and asked if Patch’s ashes could be mixed into the tattoo ink for her eyeliner. “I know this is a really bonkers request,” Claire admitted, “but do you think we can put some of these ashes in the pigment?”
The emotional resonance of Claire’s decision was palpable. “Dogs are loyal, they’re consistent, they show up every single day. It’s the purest form of love. They’re happy to see you every single day, for 20 years,” she said, emphasizing the deep bond she shared with Patch. On the day she collected his ashes, she had an appointment scheduled for eyeliner tattooing. Rather than place his ashes in a suitcase while moving to Dubai, she decided to incorporate them into her makeup, a choice that surprised even her closest friends.
Angela Scanlon, visibly bemused during the segment, and Joel Dommett listened as Claire recounted the process. She explained that she was inspired by memorial tattoos, which often use ashes as a permanent tribute. Claire also highlighted the unexpected popularity of her idea, noting the number of people who have since contacted her to commission similar memorial tattoos.
Tattoo artist Luke Wintrip, who joined the conversation, addressed the technical and ethical aspects of using ashes in ink. “It’s a lot more popular than it has been in the past,” he admitted. “I’m doing at least one a week. However, in the tattoo industry, it’s very controversial. Obviously, it needs to be hygienic and sterile, and there is an argument that you’re putting foreign bodies in the ink.” He elaborated on the modern approach: companies now produce pre-sterilised tattoo ink incorporating ashes, ensuring safety during the procedure while respecting the deceased.
Despite these precautions, viewers reacted with horror online. Many were unconvinced by the concept of using a pet’s ashes in makeup. Comments ranged from incredulity to outright disgust: “Dogs are loyal and consistent. The least you can do for them is set them free to run by the sea… not put them in friggin’ eyeliner,” one viewer posted. Another questioned the safety and side effects, while a third quipped, “Makeup tip – if you run out of eyeliner, cremate your dog.”
Some viewers criticized Claire personally, calling the act “wholly disrespectful” and “disgusting.” The sentiment revealed a tension between honoring a beloved pet and societal norms about handling remains. Others tried to contextualize the memorial, acknowledging the appeal of tattoos as a remembrance but remaining skeptical about the ashes being used in eyeliner. Questions were raised about the sterilisation process, with some noting that sterilising ashes could potentially remove any remaining trace of the pet: “So there’s nothing left of the dog! So she has water mixed with her ink, not dog!” one social media user argued.
Claire’s story also highlighted a broader cultural shift in how people memorialize pets. Where previous generations might have buried a beloved animal in the garden, contemporary approaches have expanded to personal tattoos, cremation art, and other unique tributes. Claire’s decision, while controversial, resonates with a growing audience who seek creative, permanent ways to honor their animal companions.
The segment underscored the emotional depth of human-pet bonds. Claire shared how Patch had been part of her daily life for two decades, providing unwavering loyalty and companionship. Her choice to integrate his ashes into her eyeliner is a literal embodiment of keeping him close, a sentiment familiar to many pet owners who grieve intensely.
Angela Scanlon’s reactions captured the blend of shock and curiosity from the audience. While some viewers were horrified, others admired Claire’s dedication and the innovative way she preserved Patch’s memory. Joel Dommett facilitated the conversation, ensuring the discussion remained grounded while allowing Claire to explain her motives and creative process in detail.
From a professional standpoint, the discussion illuminated changes in the tattoo industry. Luke Wintrip confirmed that memorial tattoos using ashes are no longer niche and are gaining acceptance, particularly with the advent of sterilised ash-based ink products. This ensures both hygiene and legality, making the once-taboo practice more mainstream and approachable for clients wishing to memorialize loved ones.
The debate around ethics, hygiene, and sentimentality ignited social media conversation. While some condemned the act as inappropriate, others praised it as a deeply personal choice that reflects the emotional significance of pets in modern households. The segment serves as a reminder of the diversity of grief expressions, where innovative methods intersect with contemporary aesthetics.
Claire’s approach also raises questions about permanence and symbolism. Tattoos last a lifetime, creating an enduring tribute that physically embodies memory. Her choice of eyeliner, a product applied near the eyes, reinforces the symbolism of “seeing the world through Patch’s eyes,” amplifying both the intimacy and the emotional resonance of the memorial.
While reactions were polarized, the episode demonstrated how daytime television can act as a platform for unusual, emotional, and thought-provoking stories. The mix of shock, debate, and admiration highlights the power of personal narrative to engage audiences, provoke discussion, and challenge conventional ideas about memorials and mourning.
Ultimately, Claire Hobson’s story offers a fascinating lens into how modern pet owners navigate grief, memory, and creative expression. Through her tattooed eyeliner, she has immortalized Patch, keeping his presence tangible and personal. Though controversial, her choice resonates with viewers who have experienced the profound bond between humans and their animals.
This Morning’s coverage of the segment, with Angela Scanlon and Joel Dommett’s reactions, captured both the curiosity and incredulity of audiences. Social media feedback ranged from humorous critiques to heartfelt support, demonstrating the wide spectrum of public opinion when confronting unconventional memorial practices.
For viewers, the takeaway is twofold: an intimate glimpse into one woman’s mourning process and a broader cultural reflection on evolving memorial practices for pets. While Claire’s method may not appeal to all, it underscores the depth of emotion people feel for their companions and the innovative ways they seek to preserve those bonds.
Source: Entertainment Daily UK
