Paul Teutul Sr. is an American motorcycle designer and builder who is the founder of Orange County Choppers, a company that produces custom motorcycles and is the focus of the reality television series American Chopper. Here is a brief biography of him:
Paul Teutul Sr. was born Paul John Teutul on May 1, 1949, in Yonkers, New York, and grew up in Pearl River, New York. He served as a member of the United States Merchant Marine during the Vietnam War. He started his career with Orange County Ironworks, a fabrication shop that he later handed over to his son Daniel.
He began building custom bikes as a hobby after being inspired by the many custom bikes appearing on the streets and in films. In 1999, he founded Orange County Choppers and hired his son Paul Jr. to work with him. He also brought his other son Michael and his daughter Cristin into the business. He became famous for his unique and innovative designs and his fiery personality.
He starred in the reality show American Chopper, which aired from 2003 to 2010 and briefly revived in 2018, showcasing his work and his family dynamics. He also appeared in other shows and movies, such as Wild Hogs, Celebrity Apprentice, Jay Leno’s Garage, and Algorithm: BLISS. He also wrote two books: Orange County Choppers: The Tale of the Teutuls and The Ride of a Lifetime.
He has been married twice: first to Paula Teutul, with whom he had four children: Paul Jr., Daniel, Michael, and Cristin; and second to Beth Dillon. He is currently in a relationship with Joan Bulger-Kay. He has seven grandchildren.
He is known for his big handlebar mustache and his numerous tattoos, which he often gets to express a feeling or to make a point. He is also an avid poker player and finished third in the World Poker Tour “American Chopper vs. Trading Spaces” special.
