Patricia Krentcil, widely known as “Tan Mom,” first became famous in 2012 when she was charged with child endangerment for allegedly taking her young daughter to a tanning salon. Patricia’s extreme tanning habits—visiting tanning beds up to five times a week—caught media attention and led to her nickname. Her condition, sometimes called “tanorexia,” showed how her tanning obsession was harming her.
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Over the years, Patricia’s tanning addiction nearly cost her health and life. Today, she takes a much healthier approach to tanning but still enjoys visits to the salon. Her appearance has changed, affected by years of excessive tanning, yet she continues to embrace her identity without regret.
Patricia’s story began in New Jersey, where she used to tan frequently as a young woman. The incident that made her viral news began when her daughter was found with sunburns, and a school nurse overheard her say she’d been tanning with her mother. This led to public outrage, legal trouble, and a media frenzy.
Though Patricia was eventually cleared of all charges, she faced harsh criticism from the public and media alike. The nickname “Tan Mom” followed her everywhere. Overwhelmed by attention, she struggled personally and eventually moved with her family to Florida for a fresh start.
Since then, she has tried to capitalize on her fame with plans for a movie, tanning product line, and other projects. In 2019, she suffered life-threatening pneumonia and other complications but pulled through thanks to strong medical care and support.
Today, Patricia appears healthier and happier. She still uses a tanning bed but now understands and accepts her past. She calls herself both “Tan Mom” the celebrity and Patricia Marie the mom, acknowledging both parts of her life.
Patricia’s story is a reminder of how public judgment and personal struggles can collide, yet also how people can find new paths forward.
