The Build: Designing My Life of Choppers, Family, and Faith

A behind-the-scenes look at reality series American Chopper from Paul Teute Jr., including a photos from his life, as well as spectacular shots and the backstory of his most famous bikes. 

Paul Teutul Jr. may be the world’s most creative builder of custom “chopper” motorcycles. His talents wowed millions during the ten-year run of the popular TV series American Chopper and American Chopper: Senior vs. Junior. So did painful battles with his father, which culminated in 2008 when Paul’s father fired him.

Told with “Paulie’s” plainspoken candor, The Build reveals his life behind the scenes in a reality show made famous by incredible bikes, hilarious pranks, and memorable arguments. You’ll also learn the details of his youth growing up in a conflicted family, the tensions at Orange County Choppers, his relationship with brother Mikey and other employees at OCC, and his courtship and marriage to his wife, Rachael. And for the first time, Paul explains the role God has played in his life and how faith has kept him steady in the rocky relationship with his father.

In The Build are Paul’s insights on how he created some of his more memorable designs, including the Black Widow, 9/11 Memorial, Cadillac, and build-off bikes. Paul also reveals the one feature he determines first that drives the distinctive look of each of his creations. Whether you’re a fan of American Chopper or just someone who loves motorcycles, the visual arts, or an inside look into a memorable story, you’ll be inspired by Paul’s intriguing journey.

PAUL TEUTUL JR was just 27 when American Chopper: Jet Bike premiered on the Discovery Channel, featuring “Paulie” and his father, Paul Sr., building a custom chopper for 2002's Laconia Bike Week. Part of Bike Weekend, the one-off special and the intrinsic family dynamics so captivated audiences that a full series following the Teutuls and their business, Orange County Choppers, soon followed in 2003. Six years of family ups and downs ensued, culminating in 2009 with Senior firing Junior, who waited out his one-year non-compete clause before establishing his own business, Paul Jr. Designs. Today, Paul Jr. Designs continues to thrive, producing custom bikes for a variety of individual and corporate clients. There have been TV commercials and personal appearances since 2012 as well, but the most important development in Paul's life occurred when his wife, Rachael, gave birth to their son Hudson Seven Teutul in February 2015.