Sonny Barger was a complex and controversial character who played an enduring role in American outlaw biker culture. He was a pivotal figure in shaping the notorious image of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club.
RELATED: Who is Stepfanie Kramer? Actress, Writer & Singer
RELATED: Mel Robbins: The 5-Second Rule & Secrets to Success
As a founding member of the Oakland chapter and a charismatic leader, he became the club’s public face, a status both self-built and reinforced by media portrayals.
Table of Contents
Who is Sonny Barger?
Ralph Hubert “Sonny” Barger Jr. was born in Modesto, California, on October 8, 1938. He was a founding member of the Oakland Hells Angels and a dominating presence within the club for decades.
His troubled youth led him to enlist in the US Army underage, a stint which ended in dishonorable discharge. Barger found a sense of belonging and identity within the world of motorcycle clubs, particularly the Hells Angels.
How old is Sonny Barger?
Sonny Barger passed away on June 29, 2022, at the age of 83. He lived a long and eventful life, much of it on the fringes of law and social acceptability.
Career
Barger’s “career” was inextricably tied to his leadership of the Hells Angels. Under his guidance, the Oakland chapter rose to prominence, and he forged alliances that unified other Hells Angels chapters across the country. His actions, and those of the club he represented, played a significant role in solidifying the outlaw biker image that persists today.
RELATED: Who is Liz Cambage? WNBA Star, Record-Breaker & Olympian
RELATED: Who is Brandon Spikes? NFL Star to Gators Legend
How did Sonny Barger get famous?
Barger’s notoriety came from several factors:
- Media Portrayals: He actively engaged with the media, at times fostering the rebellious biker image. His role in Hunter S. Thompson’s influential book Hell’s Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs brought mainstream attention to him and his club.
- Hells Angels Leader: As a charismatic and forceful personality, he was the de facto spokesperson for the Hells Angels during their turbulent rise to prominence in the 1960s and ’70s.
- Criminal Activity: Barger’s frequent run-ins with the law, including several prison terms, kept him in the public eye as the embodiment of the outlaw lifestyle.
Do Sonny Barger have kids?
Yes, Sonny Barger had children, though the exact number is a source of some speculation.
Sonny Barger Net Worth
Estimates of Sonny Barger’s net worth at the time of his death vary, but likely fell within the range of $500,000 to $1 million. His income sources included book royalties, media appearances, and merchandise associated with the Hells Angels.
Why was Sonny Barger kicked out of the army?
Sonny Barger was dishonorably discharged from the Army after it was discovered he had forged his birth certificate to enlist while underage.
Who is the most famous Hells Angel?
Sonny Barger is undoubtedly the most famous Hells Angels member, thanks to his long tenure as a figurehead, his media savvy, and his larger-than-life personality.
Did Sonny Barger believe in God?
Barger’s beliefs about God were not publicly documented in detail. However, some accounts suggest he maintained a measure of spirituality.
Who was Sonny Barger second wife?
Sonny Barger’s second wife was Noel. He was married a total of four times.
Conclusion
Sonny Barger remains one of the most legendary and controversial figures in American motorcycle history. His influence on the formation and image of the Hells Angels is undeniable, solidifying his presence within broader counterculture. As a symbol of rebellion and the outlaw biker lifestyle, his legacy will undoubtedly continue.
RELATED: Todd Nepola: Real Estate Broker ‧ Alexia Nepola’s Husband
RELATED: Who is Blaine Gabbert? Stats, Career Highlights & Biography
FAQs about Who is Sonny Barger? Hells Angels Founder & Motorcycle Legend
- What did Sonny Barger die from? Sonny Barger died from complications of liver cancer.
- Is Sonny Barger still alive? No, Sonny Barger passed away in 2022.
- How many times did Sonny Barger go to jail? Barger spent a significant amount of time in prison, including a 13-year stint on various convictions.
- Where is Sonny Barger buried? Sonny Barger’s resting place is not publicly known.
- Did Sonny Barger appear in Sons of Anarchy? Yes, Barger had a recurring role in the popular TV series Sons of Anarchy.
