John Wick's Tattoo: Explanations and Inspirations

John Wick, the character played by Keanu Reeves, has fascinated fans not only with his skills as a hitman but also with his tattoos. Here, you’ll find an explanation of each of them, as well as tattoo ideas linked to the character.

The meaning of John Wick's tattoos

“Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat” tattoo

This is probably the character's most emblematic tattoo. “Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat,” a Latin term translated as "fortune smiles on the bold," is a strong symbol of John Wick's philosophy. It highlights his courage, determination, and ability to take risks. It's also a mantra used by U.S. Marines, underscoring the character's military background.

Hands in Prayer and the Cross

Beneath the Latin inscription, this tattoo is filled with meaning. It symbolizes John Wick's quest for redemption, directly linked to his work as a contract killer. This tattoo also reflects the character's spiritual and religious dimension.

The Wolf and the Flame

John Wick's shoulders feature a wolf and a flame. These tattoos represent his personality traits. The wolf symbolizes tenacity and loyalty, while the flame represents his thirst for vengeance, the feeling that burns within him.

Why are his tattoos so fascinating?

John Wick's tattoos are fascinating because they reveal much about this mysterious character and help fuel his charisma. This is true for all tattoos: whether for John Wick or for yourself, a tattoo is an act that represents a part of your personality and past.