Bam Margera is a name that echoes across skateboarding, television, and reality stardom. Born Brandon Cole Margera, he transformed from a rebellious skater to a multimillionaire celebrity known for his wild stunts, signature skateboarding style, and fearless attitude on screen. This article explores Bam Margera’s journey, focusing on his net worth, bio, personal life, career achievements, and more. The tone is informative and simple, suited for readers looking to understand how a skater from Pennsylvania built a fortune through talent and hard work.
Biography Table
Field | Detail |
Full Name | Brandon Cole Margera |
Professional Name | Bam Margera |
Date of Birth | September 28, 1979 |
Age | 41 (as of 2020) |
Birthplace | West Chester, Pennsylvania, United States |
Height | 5’5 ft (165 cm) |
Weight | 73 kg |
Religion | Christianity |
Nationality | American |
Education | West Chester East High School (Dropped Out) |
Occupations | Skateboarder, stunt performer, filmmaker, actor, musician |
Early Life of Bam Margera
Bam Margera was born on September 28, 1979, to Phil and April Margera. His grandfather gave him the nickname “Bam” because he used to run into walls frequently as a child. Bam has an elder brother, Jess Margera, who is a drummer in the rock band CKY.
He studied at West Chester East High School but dropped out in 10th grade. Bam believed school was not for him. His focus was always on skateboarding. Even as a teenager, his tricks, jumps, and fearless nature showed he was meant for more than just local fame.
Career
Skateboarding Career
Bam started his professional skateboarding career in 1997 when Toy Machine sponsored him. By 2003, he was part of Team Element, one of the top skateboard teams at that time. His videos featured creative lines, park tricks, and street skating, making him a favorite among fans and sponsors alike.
Television and Film Career
MTV noticed Bam’s growing popularity and brought him into the limelight with Jackass, a reality show centered around dangerous stunts and humor. The show’s success gave Bam the chance to launch his own series, including:
- Viva La Bam
- Bam’s Unholy Union
- Nitro Circus
He also starred in several Jackass movies and independent films like Haggard, which he also directed.
Top Movies and Projects Table
Movie/Project | Year | Role |
Jackass: The Movie | 2002 | Performer |
Jackass Number Two | 2006 | Performer |
Jackass 3D | 2010 | Performer |
Viva La Bam (TV Series) | 2003–2005 | Lead/Creator |
Haggard | 2003 | Director/Actor |
Bam’s Unholy Union | 2007 | Himself |
Grind | 2003 | Actor |
CKY Video Series | Late 90s–2001 | Creator/Skater |
Bam Margera Net Worth and Income Sources
Bam Margera built his wealth through a mix of TV, skateboarding sponsorships, merchandise, and filmmaking. His projects earned millions globally.
Net Worth Table
Year | Estimated Net Worth |
2005 | $10 million |
2010 | $28 million |
2015 | $38 million |
2020 | $45 million |
Income Breakdown
- Jackass Franchise: Over $180 million grossed collectively from all appearances.
- Viva La Bam: Generated millions from MTV contracts and brand endorsements.
- Merchandise & DVD Sales: CKY DVDs are sold globally.
- Book Royalties: Serious as Dog Dirt, a personal book, added to his income.
- Real Estate: Owns a $1.2 million mansion with an indoor skate park.
- Music Ventures: Partnered with bands and contributed to soundtracks.
- Film Production: Directed and produced several indie projects.
Personal Life and Relationships
Margera’s personal life received almost as much attention as his career. Known for his wild lifestyle, he faced many ups and downs in love and relationships.
Relationship Table
Relationship Status | Partner Name | Duration | Notes |
Divorced | Melissa Rothstein | Married 2007–2012 | First wife, known from Bam’s Unholy Union |
Married | Nicole Boyd | 2013–present (2020) | Professional photographer and model |
Children | Phoenix Wolf Margera | Born 2017 | Tattooed his son’s image on his body |
Nicole Boyd and Bam share a son named Phoenix Wolf. Nicole, a creative professional, supported Bam through various challenges. Their relationship has had public highs and lows, but the family remains central to Bam’s life.
Awards and Achievements
Bam Margera may not have won traditional awards, but his achievements in skateboarding and entertainment are widely recognized.
- MTV Teen Choice Award Nominations – For Jackass and Viva La Bam
- Recognized Skateboarder – Featured in top skate videos and games
- Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater Series – Playable character
- Game Voice Acting – American Wasteland, Proving Ground
- Book Publication – Serious as Dog Dirt sold internationally
Bam also helped bring street skating to television, blending it with punk rock, art, and underground culture.
Music and Other Ventures
Bam is deeply involved in music. His connections with rock bands like HIM and Cradle of Filth influenced his creative direction.
- Directed music videos
- Created and appeared in his music albums
- Hosted events mixing skateboarding and live music
He also opened a bar in 2008, which later closed. Despite this, Margera kept pushing creative boundaries through various platforms.
Social Media Table
Platform | Handle | Followers (Approx.) |
@bam__margera | 1.2 million | |
@BAM_MARGERA | 300k+ | |
Official Bam Margera Page | 1.5 million+ | |
YouTube | Bam Margera (Unofficial) | Fan uploads mostly |
Margera uses social media to stay connected with fans and occasionally shares updates, skate clips, and art. He often reflects on personal growth and recovery.
Setbacks and Controversies
Bam faced many personal challenges, including struggles with alcohol and the sudden loss of close friends. One tragic event was the death of his best friend, Ryan Dunn, in a car crash. This deeply affected him and slowed his career momentum.
There was also a social media rumor about Bam’s death in 2015 when Hulk Hogan posted a misleading tribute. It caused panic among fans until it was clarified to be a mistake.
Legacy and Influence
Bam Margera changed how skateboarding was perceived on TV. His fusion of extreme sports, punk rock, and raw humor opened doors for new creators. He influenced young skaters to embrace authenticity and follow their creative instincts.
His work in Jackass inspired a generation of stunt performers. His fearless attitude and devotion to personal expression, even through pain and loss, make him a memorable figure in pop culture.
Conclusion
Bam Margera turned a skate deck into a global brand. From teenage skating videos to million-dollar productions, his journey is a reflection of persistence and creativity. Despite challenges, Bam continues to inspire through his art, family, and personal growth.
With a net worth of $45 million, a legendary place in skateboarding, and a loyal fan base, Bam Margera remains a symbol of what happens when raw talent meets opportunity.
Quote by Bam Margera:
“Do what you do and have fun doing it. Try not to be too miserable.”
This simple philosophy guided Bam through fame, failure, and finding himself again.