In a delightful twist during his recent visit to New York City for Climate Week, Prince Harry took a spontaneous detour to a tattoo shop on the Lower East Side. This unexpected stop, shrouded in secrecy, was later revealed to be a rendezvous with country music sensation Jelly Roll, also known as Jason DeFord. The encounter, which unfolded at East Side Ink, showcased not only Harry’s adventurous spirit but also his commitment to the Invictus Games, a sporting event dedicated to wounded servicemembers and veterans.
A memorable meeting with Jelly Roll
On Tuesday, the Invictus Games organization shared a lighthearted video capturing the moment when Harry approached Jelly Roll with a unique proposition: to perform at the closing ceremony of the 2025 Invictus Games, scheduled for February in Vancouver. Jelly Roll, known for his charismatic personality, agreed to the performance under one condition—he would give Harry his very first tattoo. With a tattoo machine in hand, Jelly Roll humorously insisted, “Trust me, man, you don’t want anyone doing this but me.”
The tattoo experience
As the tattooing commenced, Harry’s reaction was a mix of excitement and apprehension. Jelly Roll, embodying the role of both artist and entertainer, quipped, “Commitment, Prince,” as he worked on the tattoo. The end result was a striking representation of the Invictus Games “I AM” logo, accompanied by Jelly Roll’s signature, etched onto Harry’s neck. This playful exchange not only highlighted the camaraderie between the two but also marked a memorable moment in Harry’s life, as he became one of the few to sport a tattoo from a renowned artist.
Invictus Games 2025: A platform for healing
The 2025 Invictus Games, set to take place from February 8 to 16 across Vancouver and Whistler, will be the seventh edition of this prestigious event. This year, the Games will introduce winter sports to its roster, providing an exciting new dimension for participants. Prince Harry, who has been a passionate advocate for the Games, emphasized their significance during a recent appearance at the Canadian Football League Gray Cup championship. He articulated the Games’ role as a vital platform for rehabilitation and support for wounded soldiers, both serving and veterans. “It’s really an opportunity for the individuals themselves and their families to heal and rehabilitate through sport,” he stated, underscoring the profound impact of the event.