Jesse James is a larger-than-life figure who has carved out an intriguing and multi-faceted career over the past three decades. Best known as the star of hit reality shows like “Monster Garage” and the founder of the custom motorcycle empire West Coast Choppers, James has also dabbled in acting, publishing, and even brushes with the law. With an estimated net worth of $50 million, this modern-day “outlaw” has managed to turn his rebellious spirit and mechanical genius into a highly profitable business.
Who is Jesse James?
Born Jesse Gregory James on April 19, 1969 in Long Beach, California, this self-described “outlaw” grew up with an affinity for motorcycles and custom vehicles. After his parents divorced, James spent much of his childhood working alongside his father in the family’s antiques business, which was housed in the same warehouse as a Harley-Davidson aftermarket parts manufacturer. This early exposure to the world of motorcycles would go on to shape his future career path.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jesse Gregory James |
| Date of Birth | April 19, 1969 |
| Place of Birth | Long Beach, California |
| Height | 6’4″ |
| Physique | Muscular, tattooed |
Age and Physique
Now in his early 50s, Jesse James cuts an imposing figure at 6’4″ tall with a muscular, tattooed physique. His rugged good looks and edgy personal style have helped cement his status as a rebellious icon, though he’s softened his image in recent years.
Despite a serious knee injury that derailed his dreams of becoming a college football player, James has maintained an athletic, active lifestyle centered around his passion for high-powered motorcycles and other adrenaline-fueled hobbies.
Personal Life and Relationships
Jesse James’ personal life has been the source of much tabloid fodder over the years. He has been married five times, including a high-profile union with Oscar-winning actress Sandra Bullock that ended in divorce after revelations of his infidelity. James has three children from previous marriages, and has been engaged to several other women, including tattoo artist Kat Von D.
In 2013, James married Alexis DeJoria, the heiress to the Patrón Spirits empire and an accomplished drag racer in her own right. However, that marriage also ended in 2020 after seven years. Most recently, in June 2022, the 53-year-old James tied the knot with 29-year-old adult film star Bonnie Rotten.
Net Worth and Salary
Jesse James’ net worth is estimated at a staggering $50 million, the vast majority of which has been amassed through his custom motorcycle business and various business ventures. At the height of his fame in the early 2000s, it’s reported that James was earning upwards of $60,000 per episode for his hit shows on the Discovery Channel.
His West Coast Choppers company, which he founded in 1992, has been the primary driver of his wealth. Each custom motorcycle built by James and his team can fetch anywhere from $60,000 to $150,000, while his custom car builds can be worth even more. In addition to the core motorcycle business, James has leveraged the brand into clothing lines, restaurants, magazines, and even a short-lived firearms company.
| Net Worth | Estimated at $50 million |
|---|---|
| Annual Earnings | Upwards of $60,000 per episode (peak) |
| Primary Income Source | Custom motorcycles and business ventures |
Professional Career
After sustaining a career-ending knee injury that dashed his hopes of playing college football, the young Jesse James set his sights on the world of custom motorcycles. He opened West Coast Choppers in 1992, initially building each bike entirely by hand before gradually expanding the operation.
Over the next decade, West Coast Choppers grew into a global brand, with James attracting a celebrity clientele that included the likes of Shaquille O’Neal, Keanu Reeves, and Kid Rock. In the early 2000s, James’ fame reached new heights when the Discovery Channel tapped him to star in the hit reality series “Monster Garage,” which ran for five seasons.
The success of “Monster Garage” and Jesse’s growing media profile spawned additional TV projects, including “Jesse James Is a Dead Man” and “Jesse James: Outlaw Garage.” He has also made appearances in several films, including “Torque” and “Machete Kills.”
Investments and Funding
In addition to the core West Coast Choppers business, Jesse James has diversified his portfolio over the years with a range of other investments and business ventures. In 2006, he opened a Cisco Burger restaurant, and he was previously a part-owner of the Austin Speed Shop. He has also launched his own line of firearms, Jesse James Fire Arms Unlimited, as well as clothing brands like Jesse’s Girl and Jesse James Industrial Workwear.
James has not been immune to legal troubles, however. In 2007, he was hit with a $271,250 fine from the California Air Resources Board for selling motorcycles that violated the state’s clean-air laws. He has also been involved in several lawsuits over breach of contract and unpaid fees to former business partners and lawyers.
Real Estate Investments
Known for his lavish lifestyle, Jesse James has invested heavily in real estate over the years. In 2010, he purchased a sprawling 9-bedroom, 7-bathroom mansion in Austin, Texas for nearly $2 million. The property features multiple swimming pools, a home gym, and a private movie theater.
James also maintains ownership of a luxurious oceanfront home in Sunset Beach, California. This 3,626-square-foot residence boasts 4 bedrooms, 4.25 bathrooms, a stone fireplace, and sweeping views of the Pacific.
Contact Details and Social Media
Fans of Jesse James can connect with him across a variety of social media platforms. He is active on Instagram (@jessegjames), where he has amassed over 310,000 followers. James is also on Twitter (@ jessegjames), though he is less active on that platform.
For business inquiries, Jesse James can be reached through the West Coast Choppers website (westcoastchoppers.com) or by email at [email protected]. The company’s headquarters is currently located in Austin, Texas.
| Platform | Handle/Link |
|---|---|
| @jessegjames | |
| @jessegjames | |
| Website | westcoastchoppers.com |
| Contact Email | [email protected] |
Conclusion
Jesse James is a true renaissance man, with a diverse resume that spans custom motorcycle building, reality TV stardom, firearms manufacturing, and even a brief foray into the restaurant industry. Through it all, he has maintained a bold, unapologetic persona that has captivated audiences and made him a household name.
Whether you view him as a fascinating character or a controversial figure, there’s no denying that Jesse James has left an indelible mark on popular culture. With a net worth of $50 million and a knack for reinventing himself, this modern-day outlaw shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
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