In 2012, Patricia Krentcil became a viral sensation when she was accused of taking her six-year-old daughter into a tanning salon, an act illegal for children under 14 in New Jersey. Known as “Tan Mom” for her tanning obsession, Patricia’s story sparked debate about tanning dangers and parenting.
Her tanning addiction was severe—Patricia used tanning booths up to five times weekly for years, paying hundreds monthly. This extreme habit led to harsh health warnings from dermatologists and put her in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
Though eventually cleared, the legal charges brought intense media attention and public criticism. Overwhelmed, Patricia’s family moved from New Jersey to Florida seeking a quieter life. The nickname “Tan Mom” stuck, but Patricia embraced it rather than run from it.
She sought ways to benefit from her fame, including plans for a movie about her life and new business ideas. In 2019, Patricia had a serious health scare with pneumonia and pancreatitis but survived after being hospitalized and cared for by loved ones.
Images today show Patricia healthier and smiling, acknowledging her past while moving forward responsibly. She still tans occasionally but moderates her habits and separates the celebrity persona from her private life as a mother.
Patricia’s journey offers insight into how quickly life can change after internet fame and how people adapt to build new chapters.
