Paul Michael Teutul (born October 2, 1974) is one of the stars of the reality TV series American Chopper, alongside his father, Paul John Teutul. He served as chief designer and fabricator.
Before that, he led the rail shop at Orange County Ironworks. He later founded Paul Jr. Designs, which builds custom motorcycles and sells branded clothing. Teutul, his father, and younger brother Michael rose to fame in 2002 when American Chopper premiered on the Discovery Channel.
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Paul Teutul Jr Net Worth
Paul Teutul Jr. has a net worth of $2 million. He is best known for starring on American Chopper. In April 2010, TMZ reported that he planned to launch his own motorcycle business to compete with Orange County Choppers (OCC). He brought on former OCC employees, including Michael Teutul, Vinnie DiMartino, Joe Puliafico, and Robert “Nub” Collard.
After a one-year non-compete, he launched Paul Jr. Designs (PJD), featured on American Chopper: Senior vs. Junior. Cody Connelly later joined. PJD built bikes for World of Warcraft (2014) and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2016).
Early Life
Paul Teutul Jr., the oldest of four children, has two younger brothers: Daniel, the owner and general manager of Orange County Ironworks LLC, and Michael, who appeared on the television shows. The youngest sibling is Cristin, who works as a nurse in Rochester, New York. Their mother is Paula Teutul, the first wife of Paul Teutul Sr.
Career
On the April 9, 2009 episode of American Chopper, following a disagreement with his father and business partner, Paul Teutul Jr. was terminated from OCC. After attempts to reconcile, he returned to work at Orange County Choppers. However, on the April 30, 2009 episode, he chose to voluntarily leave his full-time role. In later episodes, Teutul returned as a consultant, assisting with motorcycle builds, especially when his father was away or when extra manpower was needed.
Personal Life
Paul Teutul Jr. married Rachael Biester on August 20, 2010, sharing their journey on the TLC reality television show “Say Yes to the Dress.” Their family grew with the birth of their son Hudson in 2015, and in 2020, they solidified their family life by purchasing a dream home on Long Beach Island.
Lawsuit
The Teutuls, including Paul John, Paul Michael, and Daniel, faced a lawsuit in 2007 from Turner Construction, alleging fraudulent transfer related to the management of OC Iron Works’ assets dating back to 2003. The accusation centered around the diversion of assets to a newly formed entity, OC Ironworks LLC, to evade debt responsibilities.
A settlement was proposed, with Orange County LLC agreeing to pay $500,000 to trustee Tom Genova for creditor distribution. In a separate familial legal battle, “Teutul v Teutul,” the dispute concluded with Paul Sr. buying out Paul Jr.’s share in Orange County Choppers, marking the end of their legal conflict as recorded in 2011. These legal challenges underscored the complex business and personal dynamics within the Teutul family, prominent figures in the American motorcycle-building scene.
Why did American Chopper get Cancelled?
“American Chopper” was renowned for the dynamic and often volatile relationship between Paul Teutul Sr. and Paul Jr., with their differing work ethics and creative visions fueling much of the show’s drama.
A pivotal and explosive argument in 2008 led to Paul Jr.’s termination and subsequent departure to form Paul Jr. Designs, a direct competitor. The internal family conflict, culminating in Paul Sr.’s buyout of Paul Jr.’s stake in OCC, played a significant role in the show’s discontinuation, marking the end of an era for the popular reality series.
Conclusion
Paul Teutul Jr’s story is one of passion turned profession, where dedication to craft meets business acumen. His journey from the rail shop at Orange County Ironworks to the pinnacle of motorcycle design embodies the American dream of turning one’s passion into a thriving business. Paul Jr.’s contribution to the motorcycle industry goes beyond his designs; it serves as an inspiration for aspiring designers and entrepreneurs.
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FAQs about Paul Teutul Jr
- What is Paul Teutul Jr known for?
- Paul Teutul Jr is renowned for his role in “American Chopper” and as the founder of Paul Jr. Designs, specializing in custom motorcycles and apparel.
- How did Paul Teutul Jr start his career?
- He began his career at Orange County Ironworks, later transitioning to motorcycle design and fabrication, which catapulted him to fame on “American Chopper.”
- What is the focus of Paul Jr. Designs?
- Paul Jr. Designs focuses on creating custom, one-of-a-kind motorcycles and a line of branded clothing.
- What legal challenges has Paul Teutul Jr faced?
- In 2007, Paul Jr., alongside his father and brother, was involved in a lawsuit with Turner Construction, alleging fraudulent transfer.
- How has “American Chopper” influenced Paul Teutul Jr’s career?
- The show not only brought him into the public eye but also showcased his skills, leading to the establishment and success of Paul Jr. Designs.
