Hull Man Breaks Record with 66 Marvel Tattoos
By Darren Smith, Arts Reporter
May 12, 2026
In the quiet streets of Hull, a Marvel superfan has turned his passion into a record-breaking canvas of ink and determination. Tom Radford, 40, has officially claimed the Guinness World Record for the most Marvel comic book characters tattooed on a single body — and he shows no signs of stopping.
Radford set the benchmark in December with 63 intricate designs covering much of his torso, arms, and legs. In recent weeks, he has added three more, bringing his total to 66, including fresh additions of Deadpool and Moon Knight. The dedicated collector estimates he has invested more than £18,000 and endured approximately 350 hours under the needle.
“It was never meant to become what it turned into,” Radford told reporters. “I honestly never thought I would cover my entire body with tattoos. I think I might be addicted.” His journey began in 2016 with a striking Thanos tattoo on his thigh. That single piece, later autographed by actor Josh Brolin, ignited a decade-long quest that shattered the previous record of 31 characters.
All of Radford’s work has been meticulously executed by local Hull tattoo artist Andy Walker, whom Radford praises as working “like an artist painting on canvas.” The pair have formed a close friendship through countless sessions, some in particularly uncomfortable spots. “We’ve been in some compromising positions in the tattoo studio,” Radford joked. Walker, a Marvel fan himself, admits meeting Tom elevated his own appreciation for the universe.
The Guinness World Records recognition came as validation of Radford’s unwavering commitment. Official Guinness World Records announcement. Only his head, neck, and hands remain untouched, at his mother’s request. Yet even painful, hidden areas near his armpits and groin have not deterred him.
Looking ahead, Radford has ambitious plans to reach 80 tattoos, with Captain America, Iron Man, Hulk, and Wolverine next in line. His story resonates far beyond comic book circles, highlighting themes of dedication, personal expression, and the transformative power of art — both on skin and in spirit.
In an era where body art often sparks debate, Radford’s record stands as a bold celebration of fandom and resilience. As he continues to expand his Marvel universe one session at a time, one thing is clear: this Hull hero’s story is far from over.
Read the original BBC coverage: Hull Marvel tattoo world record holder vows to carry on
Previous record-breaking feature: Hull man breaks Marvel record
Artist spotlight and more photos: Yorkshire Post interview
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