“American Chopper” was a reality television series that first aired in 2003, showcasing the drama, tension, and artistry of custom motorcycle building at Orange County Choppers (OCC), based in Newburgh, New York. The show focused on the fiery relationship between Paul Teutul Sr. and his son Paul Teutul Jr., along with other family members and staff. The series was a hit, capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide, but as with all shows, it eventually came to an end. Fans have often wondered what happened to the Teutuls and the OCC crew after the cameras stopped rolling. In this article, we’ll explore where the cast of “American Chopper” is now and how their lives have evolved since the show’s conclusion.
Introduction to “American Chopper”
“American Chopper” premiered on the Discovery Channel and later moved to TLC. The series was known for its intense interpersonal drama and the creation of custom chopper-style motorcycles. The show ran for multiple seasons, with a brief cancellation in 2010 before being revived in 2018 for “American Chopper: Senior vs. Junior.” Despite the show’s popularity, it was once again canceled, leaving fans curious about the fate of its stars.
Paul Teutul Sr. – The Patriarch of OCC
Paul Teutul Sr. was the founder of Orange County Choppers and the stern father figure on the show. Known for his mustache and no-nonsense attitude, he was often at the center of the show’s most memorable conflicts. Since the show’s end, Teutul Sr. has continued to run OCC, which remains a successful business. He has also been involved in various legal and financial issues, including a bankruptcy filing in 2018. Despite these challenges, Teutul Sr. maintains an active presence on social media, sharing updates about new bike builds and OCC events.
Paul Teutul Jr. – From Apprentice to Competitor
Paul Teutul Jr. started as his father’s apprentice but eventually became a key designer at OCC. His relationship with his father was a central theme of the show, often leading to explosive arguments. After leaving OCC, Paul Jr. started his own design firm, Paul Jr. Designs. He has continued to build custom motorcycles and has expanded into designing other products. Paul Jr. has also authored a book titled “The Build,” which gives insights into his personal and professional life.
Michael Teutul – The Younger Brother
Michael Teutul, often referred to as Mikey, provided comic relief on “American Chopper.” His role in the family business was less defined, but he became a fan favorite for his lighthearted approach to the family drama. After the show, Mikey struggled with alcohol addiction but has since worked towards recovery. He has dabbled in art and pursued personal projects, occasionally making public appearances.
Vinnie DiMartino – The Trusted Mechanic
Vinnie DiMartino was a key member of the OCC team, known for his mechanical expertise and calm demeanor. After leaving OCC, Vinnie opened his own shop, DiMartino Motorsports Automotive and Truck Repair. He has remained in the custom vehicle industry and occasionally shares updates on his work through social media and personal appearances.
Rick Petko – The Metal Artist
Rick Petko, another talented fabricator from OCC, was known for his metalworking skills and dedication to craftsmanship. After many years with OCC, Rick left to join Pocono Mountain Harley-Davidson as their in-house builder. He continues to work on custom bikes and projects, sharing his passion for metalwork with a new audience.
Cody Connelly – The Young Prodigy
Cody Connelly was a young and talented bike builder who appeared on “American Chopper” during its early seasons. After leaving OCC, Cody joined Vinnie at DiMartino Motorsports for a time. He has since kept a lower profile, and less is known about his current endeavors.
Jason Pohl – The Designer
Jason Pohl was OCC’s lead designer, responsible for many of the show’s most iconic bike designs. After a long tenure at OCC, Jason announced his departure in 2020 to pursue other opportunities. He continues to work in design and remains active on social media, showcasing his creative talents.
Where Are They Now? – A Summary Table
| Name | Role on Show | Current Endeavors |
|---|---|---|
| Paul Teutul Sr. | Founder of OCC | Running OCC, social media presence |
| Paul Teutul Jr. | Designer | Paul Jr. Designs, author |
| Michael Teutul | Comic Relief | Art and personal projects |
| Vinnie DiMartino | Mechanic | DiMartino Motorsports Automotive and Truck Repair |
| Rick Petko | Fabricator | Pocono Mountain Harley-Davidson |
| Cody Connelly | Builder | Unknown |
| Jason Pohl | Designer | Independent design work |
FAQ Section
Is Orange County Choppers still in business?
Yes, Orange County Choppers is still in business and continues to build custom motorcycles under the leadership of Paul Teutul Sr.
Did Paul Teutul Jr. and Sr. reconcile?
While Paul Jr. and Sr. have had a tumultuous relationship, they have made efforts to reconcile over the years, especially after the revival of the show in 2018.
What happened to the original OCC shop?
The original OCC shop in New York was sold, and the company moved to a new location in Orange County, New York.
Can fans visit Orange County Choppers?
Yes, fans can visit Orange County Choppers. The business includes a showroom where visitors can see the custom bikes and merchandise.
Has “American Chopper” returned to television?
After its revival in 2018, “American Chopper” has not returned for additional seasons, and there are no current announcements regarding its return.
Conclusion
The legacy of “American Chopper” lives on through the continued work of its cast members. Paul Teutul Sr. remains at the helm of OCC, while Paul Jr. has found success with his own design firm. Other cast members like Vinnie DiMartino and Rick Petko have continued their passion for custom vehicles and motorcycles. The show’s impact on motorcycle culture and reality television is undeniable, and the Teutuls and their former colleagues continue to inspire with their dedication to their craft. While “American Chopper” may no longer be on the air, the spirit of the show rides on through the ongoing endeavors of its memorable cast.
