Patricia Krentcil, widely known as "Tan Mom," has bid farewell to her tanning days. The 55-year-old gained notoriety when she was accused of taking her 5-year-old daughter, Anna, into a tanning bed in New Jersey. However, Krentcil now claims to have undergone a complete transformation, distancing herself from excessive tanning.
In an interview with Insider, Krentcil revealed her significant change in outlook on life, stating, "I've undergone a complete transformation. I've turned my life around." She emphasized that she no longer tolerates disrespect and has abandoned her wild partying and other reckless behaviors.
It Wasn't Always Sunshine And Roses For Tan Mom
Back in 2012, Krentcil faced charges of child endangerment for allegedly exposing Anna to artificial UV rays at a salon in Nutley. However, in 2013, a grand jury decided not to indict her, and she did not lose custody of her daughter. Nevertheless, Krentcil disclosed that the incident has haunted her for the past decade, leading to severe financial struggles.
"Ever since the 'tan mom' incident, I've struggled," she shared with Insider, highlighting the exorbitant legal fees incurred during the child endangerment case, which amounted to almost the value of two houses. Unfortunately, Krentcil had to give up her controversial pastime due to the consequences of her actions.
"I was forbidden from tanning; the local salons considered me unwelcome." She openly discussed the aftermath of her highly publicized arrest, revealing the unfortunate consequence of being shunned by local tanning establishments in her area.
Tragically, She also Endured The Loss Of Her Husband, Richard, Who Passed Away Last Summer
Krentcil tearfully disclosed the health challenges her late husband Richard faced, including a diagnosis of colon cancer, COVID-19, and pneumonia. Overwhelmed with emotion, she expressed, "We had our fair share of ups and downs, but he was my closest companion." Richard was her second husband, and they had two children together, including 16-year-old Anna and 13-year-old son Addison.
During her legal turmoil, Krentcil heavily relied on the support of her late husband Richard, seeking solace amidst the intense media frenzy. Reflecting on the intrusive presence of paparazzi, she described how they drained her energy and spirit. "They took away my entire essence, sapped my energy," she recalled, reminiscing about the swarm of photographers surrounding her during that period.
Krentcil has since relocated to Boca Raton, Florida, where she has dipped her toes into the dating scene following the loss of her husband. However, she emphasized that rushing into relationships is not her priority, stating, "Finding love is not the most significant thing for me," in her conversation with the outlet.
Patricia Krentcil Loves Her Daughter Dearly
Reaffirming her commitment to motherhood, Krentcil reiterated that she has always been a devoted mom and will continue to be one. She acknowledged the challenges anyone would face in her position during those difficult moments but found the strength to stay focused even during her darkest hours.
In 2019, Krentcil encountered another health scare when she was hospitalized for pneumonia and placed in a medically induced coma. She experienced cardiac arrest and was diagnosed with pancreatitis and a lung infection. Recounting the ordeal, Krentcil, a heavy smoker, disclosed, "My entire body essentially shut down—I was declared dead. It was an incredibly sorrowful experience," as she shared her battle for survival.
Reflecting on her past of extreme tanning, Krentcil revealed to Insider that she never intended to become so dark and expressed relief at not developing skin cancer as a result. "I'm here for a reason, and I have to make sure I'm here for my kids," Krentcil said. "I'm not dark anymore. Right now, I'm very happy. It's exhausting keeping it up."
