Brandon Cole Margera, better known as bam margera, is a prominent American professional skateboarder, stunt performer, and television personality. Rising to international fame through underground video projects and early reality television, he became a defining figure in extreme sports culture during the late 1990s and 2000s.
His journey from a suburban skateboarder in Pennsylvania to a global multimedia celebrity is one of the most unique stories in modern entertainment. Throughout his career, he has worn many hats, including filmmaker, musician, and gameshow host. Even as his personal life has experienced significant public turbulence, his impact on street skateboarding and alternative culture remains a permanent part of pop culture history.
| Full name | Brandon Cole Margera |
|---|---|
| Born | September 28, 1979 |
| Profession | Skateboarder, stunt performer, television personality, filmmaker, musician |
| Known for | Jackass, Viva La Bam |
| Spouse | Dannii Marie |
Early Life and CKY Video Roots
Growing up in Pennsylvania, Brandon developed a passion for skateboarding during his youth. He earned his famous nickname as a toddler because of his habit of crashing into walls while running around. During his teenage years, he began filming skateboarding tricks and comedic pranks with his friends. These independent projects formed the foundation of the CKY video series, which stands for Camp Kill Yourself.
The CKY videos showcased aggressive street skateboarding mixed with crude comedy, local sketches, and outrageous stunts. Featuring his brother Jess Margera along with close friends, the independent tapes gained a massive underground following among skateboarders. This grassroots success caught the attention of professional media creators, setting the stage for a major transition into mainstream entertainment.
Breakthrough with Jackass and MTV
The underground success of the CKY crew led directly to the creation of the television series Jackass on MTV. Alongside Johnny Knoxville, Ryan Dunn, Steve-O, and other cast members, bam margera performed dangerous stunts, pranks, and public gags. The show became a massive cultural phenomenon, running for multiple seasons and spawning several theatrical feature films that dominated the box office.
Following the success of Jackass, MTV gave Margera his own spin-off series titled Viva La Bam. The reality show focused on him playing elaborate practical jokes on his parents, Phil and April Margera, at their family home in West Chester, Pennsylvania. The series also featured his beloved uncle Vincent Margera, affectionately known as Don Vito, and helped cement his status as a recognizable pop culture icon worldwide.
Professional Skateboarding Achievements
While television brought him mainstream fame, skateboarding remained a core part of his identity. He turned professional in 1998, representing major brands and competing in street skateboarding events. His athletic career helped popularise street skating culture globally through innovative video parts, memorable tours, and signature equipment designs that fans rushed to purchase.
His distinctive style, high energy approach, and willingness to skate massive street gaps influenced an entire generation of skateboarders. Even as his television career expanded and demanded more of his time, he continued to release skateboarding footage and participate in industry projects. His enduring presence in the skateboarding community remains a defining aspect of his professional journey.
The Evolution of Alternative Media and Film Projects
Beyond his work on MTV and standard skateboard videos, Margera expanded his creative portfolio into feature length independent films. He directed and starred in projects like Minghags and Haggard: The Movie, which featured many of his longtime friends from the CKY and Jackass crews. These dark comedy films allowed him to explore narrative storytelling and showcase local Pennsylvania settings that fans of his underground work immediately recognized.
He also ventured into music, forming bands and directing music videos for various rock and alternative acts. His creative output during the peak years of his fame demonstrated a relentless drive to produce content. Whether he was designing skateboard graphics, editing video footage late into the night, or organizing music tours, his artistic vision always reflected his authentic punk rock sensibilities and DIY background.
Public Challenges and Media Scrutiny
Transitioning away from the peak years of television and film production brought significant personal hurdles. Public records and media reports have frequently highlighted his struggles with substance abuse, multiple stints in rehabilitation, and fallout with former colleagues. These challenges played out publicly across social media platforms and interview outlets, drawing concern from millions of supporters.
Disagreements regarding professional commitments also led to legal friction and strained relationships with past collaborators, including public disputes with former castmates. Despite these well-documented obstacles, he has continued to navigate personal recovery while remaining a frequent subject of public interest. Observers and fans frequently follow his updates regarding health, lifestyle changes, and his ongoing journey toward long-term wellness.
Current Status and Skateboarding Return
In recent years, public attention has focused on his return to skateboarding and efforts toward personal health. Fans and media outlets have noted his renewed focus on physical activity and spending time on a skateboard. Watching him return to landing kickflips has offered encouragement to longtime supporters observing his progress toward a healthier lifestyle.
He maintains an active presence on digital platforms, connecting with followers who remember his early career. Balancing his identity as a skateboarder, father, and husband to Dannii Marie, he continues to sell merchandise through his brand and engage with communities online. His legacy within extreme sports and early reality television remains secure as he enters a new chapter of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are Bam Margera parents?
His parents are Phil Margera and April Margera, who gained widespread recognition themselves after appearing alongside him on MTV television programs like Viva La Bam.
What was Bam Margera first television show?
His first major television project was Jackass, which premiered on MTV in the year 2000 before expanding into a successful film franchise.
Is Bam Margera still skateboarding?
Yes, recent reports and media coverage indicate that he has returned to skateboarding and continues to practice tricks and enjoy time on his board.
Who is Bam Margera married to?
He is married to Dannii Marie, following previous marriages to Missy Rothstein and Nicole Boyd.
When was Bam Margera born?
He was born on September 28, 1979, in West Chester, Pennsylvania.