American Chopper Where Are They Now?

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The world of custom motorcycles was forever changed when “American Chopper” debuted on the Discovery Channel in 2003. The reality TV series followed the lives of the Teutul family and their business, Orange County Choppers (OCC), as they created custom motorcycles. The show was known for its intense family drama as much as it was for the stunning bikes that rolled out of their shop. But since the show ended, fans have been curious about what happened to the Teutuls and their business. This article will explore where the cast of “American Chopper” is now and how their lives have evolved since the show’s conclusion.

Paul Teutul Sr.

Paul Teutul Sr., the patriarch of the Teutul family and founder of OCC, has continued his passion for motorcycle building. After the show ended, he kept the business running, overcoming various challenges including financial struggles and a brief bankruptcy filing in 2018. Despite these setbacks, Teutul Sr. has managed to keep OCC afloat, and the shop continues to produce custom bikes for clients around the world.

Paul Teutul Jr.

Paul Teutul Jr., who often clashed with his father on the show, started his own design firm, Paul Jr. Designs, after leaving OCC. His company has been successful, creating motorcycles and expanding into branding and merchandise. He also starred in a spin-off series, “American Chopper: Senior vs. Junior,” which showcased the competition between his firm and his father’s.

Michael Teutul

Michael Teutul, the youngest of the Teutul siblings, was known for his more laid-back approach to the family business. After the show, he stepped away from the spotlight to focus on his personal life. He has pursued art, a passion he often showcased on “American Chopper,” and has kept a relatively low profile compared to his father and brother.

Vinnie DiMartino

Vinnie DiMartino was a fan favorite and a key member of the OCC team. After leaving OCC, he opened his own shop, V-Force Customs, and later DiMartino Motorsports Automotive and Truck Repair. He continues to work on vehicles and has maintained a presence in the custom automotive community.

Rick Petko

Rick Petko, another beloved member of the OCC crew, left the shop to join Pocono Mountain Harley-Davidson. He remains active in the motorcycle industry, applying his fabrication skills to a variety of projects and continuing to build bikes that showcase his craftsmanship.

Cody Connelly

Cody Connelly was a young apprentice at OCC who grew up on the show. After a legal dispute with OCC over the use of his name and likeness, Connelly left the shop. He has since worked with Vinnie DiMartino at V-Force Customs and continues to be involved in motorcycle building.

Jason Pohl

Jason Pohl was the lead designer at OCC, known for his creative and sometimes outlandish designs. After “American Chopper,” Pohl continued to work at OCC for a time before venturing out on his own. He has since focused on his own design work and personal projects.

The Legacy of “American Chopper”

The impact of “American Chopper” on motorcycle culture and reality TV cannot be overstated. The show brought custom motorcycle building to a mainstream audience and inspired many to take up the craft. It also set the stage for other reality shows that focused on family businesses and the drama that can ensue.

Orange County Choppers Today

OCC continues to operate out of Newburgh, New York, and has expanded its brand to include a restaurant and retail space. The company has also embraced new technologies, including building electric motorcycles, and remains a significant player in the custom bike industry.

Television Comebacks

Despite the original “American Chopper” series ending, the Teutuls have made several attempts to return to television. They starred in “Orange County Choppers,” a CMT series that ran for one season, and “American Chopper” itself was briefly revived in 2018 before being canceled again.

Philanthropy and Public Appearances

The Teutuls have also been involved in various charitable efforts over the years, often building custom motorcycles to be auctioned for good causes. They continue to make public appearances at motorcycle events and trade shows, meeting fans and showcasing their latest work.

Despite their success, the Teutuls have faced their share of legal and financial difficulties. Paul Teutul Sr.’s bankruptcy filing and the legal disputes between Paul Jr. and OCC have been well-publicized, highlighting the challenges of running a family business in the public eye.

Personal Lives

The Teutuls have also experienced changes in their personal lives. Paul Teutul Sr. has been through a divorce, and Paul Jr. has embraced family life, becoming a father. These personal developments have occasionally been shared with the public through social media and interviews.

Future Projects

Looking to the future, the Teutuls and their former colleagues continue to pursue new projects. Whether it’s through motorcycle building, personal ventures, or exploring other creative outlets, the legacy of “American Chopper” lives on in their ongoing work.

Conclusion

The cast of “American Chopper” has taken diverse paths since the show’s conclusion. While some have stayed in the public eye, others have chosen a quieter life away from the cameras. Yet, their influence on motorcycle culture remains, and their fans continue to follow their careers with interest. The Teutuls have shown resilience and adaptability, proving that their story didn’t end with the show—it merely entered a new chapter.

FAQ Section

  • Is Orange County Choppers still in business?
    Yes, Orange County Choppers is still in business and continues to produce custom motorcycles.
  • Did Paul Teutul Jr. and Sr. ever reconcile?
    While they have had a tumultuous relationship, there have been periods of reconciliation between Paul Jr. and Sr., although the status of their relationship can vary.
  • Can fans visit the OCC shop?
    Yes, fans can visit the OCC shop in Newburgh, New York, which includes a showroom and restaurant.

In summary, the stars of “American Chopper” have each taken their fame and talents in different directions. While some continue to build bikes and appear on television, others have moved away from the limelight. Their legacy continues to influence both the custom motorcycle industry and reality TV. The Teutuls’ story is a testament to the enduring appeal of American craftsmanship and the complexities of family dynamics in business.

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