Chuck Zito at a Glance
Chuck Zito’s Net Worth: A Multifaceted Career of Boxing, Acting, and the Hells Angels
Chuck Zito, a name synonymous with toughness and a life lived on the edge, has carved a unique path through the worlds of boxing, acting, and even the notorious Hells Angels. With a career spanning multiple decades and disciplines, Zito’s net worth reflects his diverse talents and experiences. This article delves into the life and times of Chuck Zito, exploring his financial standing and the various ventures that have contributed to his wealth.
Early Life and Boxing Beginnings
Born Charles Alfred Zito Jr. on March 1, 1953, in New York City, Chuck Zito’s early life was marked by the influence of his father, Charles Zito Sr., a professional welterweight boxer known as “Al LaBarba.” Growing up in the Bronx and New Rochelle, Zito was immersed in the world of boxing from a young age. His father’s tutelage instilled in him a foundation of self-defense and a passion for the sport. Zito began boxing in elementary school and quickly showed promise. However, his formal education was cut short when he dropped out of New Rochelle High School at 17 to marry his girlfriend, Kathy. After leaving school, Zito took on various jobs, including refrigerator mechanic and bouncer at Manhattan’s Café Central, providing a glimpse into the tough world he would later navigate.
Zito’s amateur boxing record of 36-5 shows he was a skilled fighter. He trained at the Southside Boys Club and White Plains’ Cage Recreation. His early exposure to boxing set the stage for his later involvement in more dangerous pursuits, including his affiliation with the Hells Angels. He also served as the boxing coach for actor Mickey Rourke. Zito’s relationship with boxing wasn’t always consistent; at one point, he admitted a lack of dedication to the sport, stating, “I tried to follow in my father’s footsteps… but didn’t have the desire and willpower to train 100 percent for the fight game. I didn’t take it serious enough… When I found out I was fighting I’d go to the gym like two days before the fight. I never trained.” Despite this, his boxing experience helped him gain contacts and develop the physical prowess that would define his later career.
The Hells Angels Chapter and Controversies
In 1974, Chuck Zito founded the New Rochelle Motorcycle Club, which later merged with the Ching-a-Ling Nomads. His path took a significant turn in 1979 when he became a member of the Hells Angels’ New York City chapter after meeting Sandy Alexander, the president of the chapter. His involvement with the Hells Angels brought him both notoriety and legal troubles. Prosecutors have alleged that joining the NYC chapter required murdering or attempting to kill someone chosen by the club. Zito was accused of attempting to kill Robert Giangarra, a pizzeria owner, but was never charged with the bombing. He was, however, convicted of weapons possession after police found a loaded gun and ammunition in his car. He was also convicted of disorderly conduct and possession of a controlled substance.
By 1984, Zito had risen within the ranks to become the founding president of the Hells Angels’ New York Nomads chapter. The mid-1980s were a turbulent time for the Hells Angels, and Zito found himself entangled in legal battles. In May 1985, over 130 Hells Angels and associates were arrested on charges related to drug trafficking and racketeering. A warrant was issued for Zito’s arrest, accusing him of selling nearly 16 ounces of methamphetamine. Zito and fellow Hells Angel Herbert Reynolds Kittel were working as bodyguards for Bon Jovi in Japan when the warrant was issued. They surrendered to the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo in July 1985 and were eventually extradited to the U.S. Zito was sentenced to 10 years in prison but was released after six years, in 1991. He left the Hells Angels in 2004, marking the end of an era in his life.
From Stunts to the Screen: Zito’s Acting Career
While his time with the Hells Angels was marked by controversy, it also provided a unique backdrop for his entry into the entertainment world. Zito’s career as a stuntman and actor began in the 1980s, allowing him to leverage his physical skills and street smarts. He served as Mickey Rourke’s stunt double in the 1985 film “Year of the Dragon,” marking the beginning of his journey into Hollywood. His work as a bodyguard also brought him into contact with numerous celebrities, including Liza Minnelli, Sean Penn, Mickey Rourke, Sylvester Stallone, and Charlie Sheen.
Zito’s acting career took off in the 1990s, with appearances in films such as “Neon City” (1991), “Carlito’s Way” (1993), and “Man on the Moon” (1999). He gained further recognition for his role as Chucky “The Enforcer” Pancamo in the HBO drama “Oz” from 1998 to 2003. In 2012, he had a recurring role as Frankie Diamonds on the FX series “Sons of Anarchy,” further solidifying his presence on the small screen. Over the years, Zito has amassed a filmography of over 60 acting credits and has worked as a stuntman or stunt coordinator on more than 70 projects. His filmography includes “Homefront” (2013) and “Vault” (2019), as well as the 2018 film “Honor Amongst Men,” which he produced and starred in. His latest appearance was in 2023’s “The Weapon.”
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His career isn’t limited to film and television; Zito has also ventured into radio, hosting shows like “Chuck Zito’s View” and “Chuck Zito’s Italian Bad Boy Hour,” showcasing his personality and opinions to a wider audience. In 2010, he sued FX for $5 million, alleging that the network stole his idea for a show about an outlaw motorcycle group; however, the judge ruled against him.
Personal Life and Family
Chuck Zito’s personal life has been as eventful as his professional one. He and his ex-wife, Kathy, have a daughter named Lisa, who became an entertainment lawyer. In 2001, during the September 11th terrorist attacks, Zito violated a protective order by contacting Kathy and Lisa in Manhattan. This led to a guilty plea and a choice between 15 days in jail or a year of violence education classes. Zito chose to serve the jail time. After being released after 12 days, Zito said, “…if I’m in a room with a bunch of guys bragging about how they beat their wives, I’m gonna smack someone.” This incident highlights Zito’s strong-willed personality and willingness to stand up for his beliefs.
Awards and Nominations
Zito’s work in film has also garnered critical acclaim, with the short film “Father and Father” receiving several awards. The film was named Best Comedy at the 2018 Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival. It won Best Comedy Scene at the Hollywood Dreamz International Film Festival and Writers’ Celebration, along with nominations for Best Villain and Best Spoof. “Father and Father” also won Best Comedy Short at the Action on Film International Film Festival, where it was nominated for Best Spoof.
Conclusion
Chuck Zito’s net worth reflects a life lived with intensity and a diverse range of experiences. From his boxing beginnings and motorcycle club affiliations to his successful acting career and radio ventures, Zito has consistently reinvented himself. Despite the controversies and challenges, his resilience and adaptability have allowed him to thrive in multiple fields. As a result, his net worth represents not just financial success but also the embodiment of a truly unique and remarkable life journey. Chuck Zito’s story is a testament to the power of reinvention and the enduring appeal of a life lived on one’s own terms.