Every OCC Cast Member — Where They Are Now
The American Chopper cast was never just the Teutuls. Behind every jaw-dropping build was a team of fabricators, welders, and mechanics who brought the bikes to life under impossible deadlines. While Paul Sr. and Paul Jr. grabbed the headlines, the supporting cast earned their own loyal followings. Here is a full rundown of where every major cast member stands today.
Cody Connelly: From Apprentice to Expert Welder
Cody Connelly joined Orange County Choppers as a young apprentice and quickly became a fan favorite thanks to his willingness to learn and his good-natured personality. After the show, Cody pursued professional welding certifications and transitioned into industrial fabrication work in the Hudson Valley area of New York. He occasionally shares throwback photos from his OCC days on social media, and fans still ask about him regularly. Cody has said in interviews that his time on the show gave him the foundation for a lifelong career in metalwork.
Vinnie DiMartino: V-Force Customs
Vinnie DiMartino was arguably the most talented fabricator ever to work at OCC. His attention to detail and ability to turn Senior's wild concepts into rideable machines made him indispensable. After leaving the show, Vinnie opened V-Force Customs, his own shop where he builds custom motorcycles and handles fabrication projects. V-Force has built a solid reputation in the custom bike community, and Vinnie regularly attends bike shows to display his work. He remains one of the most respected builders to come out of the American Chopper era.
Rick Petko: Quiet Consistency
Rick Petko was the steady hand in the OCC shop — the guy who kept the builds on track when tempers flared. After American Chopper ended, Rick continued working in custom fabrication and metalwork in the Northeast. He maintains a relatively low profile compared to his former castmates but is known to take on private commission work for custom motorcycle parts and accessories. Fans who meet him at events describe him as one of the most genuine people from the show.
Is OCC Still in Business?
The original Orange County Choppers headquarters — the massive facility in Newburgh that served as the show's backdrop — was sold following Paul Sr.'s financial troubles. OCC as a brand still exists in a limited capacity, primarily through merchandise sales and Senior's personal builds. However, the large-scale operation with dozens of employees and corporate builds is a thing of the past. The OCC name carries nostalgia value, but the business has downsized significantly from its television heyday.
The Enduring Fanbase
What makes the American Chopper cast remarkable is the loyalty of their fans. Online forums, Facebook groups, and Reddit threads dedicated to the show remain active, with fans sharing favorite build moments, debating who was the best fabricator, and tracking down news about their favorite cast members. The show may be off the air, but its community lives on.
