Rare Facts About Kat Von D That Are Creating Serious Controversy

What do you think of when you hear the name Kat Von D? Probably tattoos! Along with being a walking, talking work of art herself, she's inked countless customers' skin — sometimes on TV. And fans have grown to love her intricate tats and the boldness of her makeup. So, you can see why some were a bit upset when Kat debuted a new look...

A controversial star

Kat has made a career out of dramatic transformations — though usually these take place on her customers' skin. In fact, in 2008 she shattered a Guinness World Record by giving 400 customers tattoos in a single day. But for such a colorful and controversial TV personality, Kat had surprisingly wholesome origins. And they may help explain her unusual new appearance.

Changed a lot

You see, Kat was brought up religious. Born Katherine Von Drachenberg, she spent her earliest years in Mexico, where her parents were missionaries for the Seventh-day Adventist Church. And while the family later moved to California, their new home was anything but luxurious.

A conservative family

Rules and piety dominated the Von Drachenberg household. Even the most obscure biblical laws applied to young Kat. She had to dress very conservatively and was forbidden from eating certain types of seafood. Before long, though, she wondered about the wider world — and began her transformation.

Finding punk music

During her tween years, Kat stumbled upon a different religion of sorts: punk music. Bands such as the Ramones and the Misfits became her new obsession, and she skipped her classical piano lessons in favor of attending local concerts. She was starting to uncover her true self.