Sabina Kelley: Reinventing the Showgirl
When you think of the timeless allure of pin-up icons blended with the boldness of modern tattoo culture, Sabina Kelley is the name that shines through. An international pin-up model, television personality, and celebrated showgirl, Kelley has carved out her own lane in an industry that often resists change. With over two decades of experience, she’s not only graced stages and screens worldwide but has also redefined what it means to be a performer in Las Vegas.
“I never set out to be a model,” Kelley admits. “I kind of fell into it, and it turns out I’m good at it. Dancing has always been my true passion—I’ve been dancing since I was two years old. But modeling opened doors, and now it’s a career I really enjoy.”
Breaking Barriers on the Las Vegas Strip
Kelley’s journey in Las Vegas has been nothing short of groundbreaking. She proudly holds the title of being the first heavily tattooed showgirl to headline on the Las Vegas Strip. From her early days in the iconic Jubilee at Bally’s Casino—where her image was plastered across marquees and billboards—to guest appearances in X Burlesque, X Country, and A Touch of Burlesque, her presence has been unforgettable.
Currently, she’s developing her own consistent show in Las Vegas, while also headlining across some of the city’s most celebrated stages. “It’s a dream come true to bring something fresh to Vegas while paying homage to its glamorous past,” she says.
Burlesque and Pin-Up Dreams
For Kelley, burlesque is more than performance—it’s an art form. “I love that burlesque is about the tease, not just showing everything. It goes hand-in-hand with my pin-up modeling,” she explains. Inspired by 1950s legends like Bettie Page, Bunny Yeager, and Sally Rand, Kelley has carried their influence into her own modern-day performances, captivating fans around the world.
From Television to Tattoos
Beyond the stage, Kelley’s career has stretched into television and film. She served as a celebrity judge on all three seasons of the tattoo competition show Best Ink on the Oxygen Network and appeared on LA Ink alongside Kat Von D. She has also ventured into film, making her feature debut in Inside Game.
Her connection to tattoo culture doesn’t stop there—together with her husband, she is working on opening a high-end tattoo shop in Las Vegas, while also developing a brand-new tattoo television project.
Surviving and Thriving Through Change
Like many performers, Kelley faced unexpected challenges during the pandemic. Instead of letting it derail her, she used the time to reset and refocus. “The pandemic was scary for everyone, especially financially. But it gave me the chance to get things done at home, re-evaluate what I really wanted in my career, and see people’s true colors,” she reflects.
Looking Ahead
With an ambitious schedule that includes a new Las Vegas residency, more modeling, merchandise through her website, and potential international shows, Kelley has her sights set on even bigger stages—including Japan. “I would love to make an official debut in Japan. I love the culture, the fashion, the energy—it would be an honor,” she says, her eyes lighting up at the thought.
As for what keeps her motivated after 20 years in the industry, Kelley’s answer is simple: dreams. “I love what I do, so it doesn’t always feel like work. I keep my head down, focus on what I want, and don’t let anyone’s opinions sway me.”
From punk rock roots to Vegas billboards, Sabina Kelley continues to prove that individuality, resilience, and passion can rewrite the rules of entertainment. And if her future plans are anything to go by, the world hasn’t seen the last of this trailblazing showgirl.
Follow Sabina Kelley’s journey on Instagram @SabinaKelley and at www.SabinaKelley.com.
