American Restoration captivated audiences with its compelling restorations of classic cars, vintage machines, and more. But what happened to the beloved cast after the show ended? From new business ventures to quiet retirements, discover where Rick Dale, his team, and the rest of the stars are now – some surprises await!
The Cast of American Restoration: Where Are They Now?
American Restoration premiered on The History Channel in 2010, and quickly became a beloved series for fans of reality TV. The show followed Rick Dale and his team at Rick’s Restorations in Las Vegas as they took on restoration projects, reviving everything from classic cars to vintage vending machines. The unique appeal of American Restoration lay in Rick’s ability to breathe new life into forgotten, worn-out items, which made it a standout show in the same era as Pawn Stars and Counting Cars.
With its massive success and millions of viewers, it was a shock when the show returned for its seventh season without Rick Dale. Instead, the focus shifted to five other restoration businesses. Fans were left scratching their heads, wondering what happened to the original cast and why they were suddenly removed from the show. Here’s an update on what the American Restoration cast members have been up to since the show ended.
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Curious about the American Restoration cast? See what they’re up to now in this video!
Rick Dale: Transitioning Beyond Restoration
Rick Dale was the face of American Restoration, renowned for his skills in bringing old and broken items back to life. After the show ended, Rick’s Restorations closed its doors, though it had been so popular that fans would even pay for tours of the shop. While there are rumors that the business may reopen in a new location, it will not be under Rick’s leadership.
Rick has since ventured into new business endeavors, including My Best Font Forward Creations, a laser cutting and embroidery company. In addition to his entrepreneurial efforts, Rick also authored a book titled Classic Soda Machines, available on Amazon. On a personal note, Rick enjoys spending quality time with his wife Kelly, their children, and grandchildren, living a more private and fulfilling life away from the public eye.
Tyler Dale: Still Involved in Restoration
Tyler Dale, Rick’s son, was featured on the show as a teenager and seemed to be groomed to take over the family business. Tyler has remained involved in the restoration world, working on projects such as restoring classic cars and muscle cars. Though his social media activity has slowed since 2021, his posts from that year show him working on a variety of projects, including a 1962 mini Corvette and a 50s soda fountain.
Tyler has kept a relatively low profile in terms of personal updates, but it’s known that he’s also involved with charity work, such as Vegas Shepherd Rescue and Camp PossAbility. His quiet pursuit of restoration work suggests that he is still deeply passionate about the craft, even if his life remains largely private.
Brettly Otterman: From Show’s Apprentice to Business Owner
Brettly Otterman, Rick’s stepson, became a fan favorite for his work in sandblasting and soda blasting, often taking on the tasks that others avoided. After the show wrapped up, Brettly decided to turn his talents into a business venture. He bought a failing mobile sandblasting service in Las Vegas and transformed it into a thriving business. Today, his company, Clean Works Mobile Media Blasting, operates with several blasting rigs and continues to grow.
Brettly now lives in Las Vegas with his wife, Steph, and their three children. His business has been a great success, and he is enjoying life with his family while expanding his professional horizons.
Kowboy: Living a Quiet Life
Kowboy was one of the original members of Rick’s team, known for his craftsmanship and gruff demeanor. Despite being a fan favorite, Kowboy has chosen to live a life away from the spotlight. Unlike his fellow cast members, Kowboy has no known social media presence and has avoided public appearances. Fans have speculated that he may be living a peaceful, rural life on a farm, far removed from the fame he gained on American Restoration.
While there is little information about Kowboy’s current life, it seems clear that he has embraced a quiet, solitary lifestyle.
Ron Dale: Building Custom Bicycles
Ron Dale, Rick’s younger brother, originally appeared on American Restoration as a buyer and picker, responsible for sourcing supplies and items needed for restoration projects. After the show ended, Ron transitioned to building custom bicycles, a hobby that has turned into a passion. Today, he spends his time crafting unique bikes in his home garage, showcasing his work and enjoying the creative freedom that comes with his new venture.
In a recent interview, Ron spoke fondly of his time on the show but expressed his enjoyment of the slower, more creative pace of building custom bicycles.
Kelly Dale: Successful Realtor and Family Woman
Kelly Dale, Rick’s wife, was an integral behind-the-scenes figure on American Restoration. She managed the business side of things, including customer relations, payroll, and marketing, and played a crucial role in the show’s success. After the show’s conclusion, Kelly transitioned into a successful career in real estate and has become a well-known realtor in Las Vegas.
Kelly also remains active in the car community and occasionally hosts car shows. In addition, she serves as a board member for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, continuing her dedication to community involvement. Kelly’s ability to balance a thriving real estate career with family life highlights her versatility and entrepreneurial spirit.
Kyle Astorga: A Hunter and Outfitter
Kyle Astorga, who handled disassembling and reassembling various projects on the show, has taken a completely different path since American Restoration ended. Kyle is now a hunter and outfitter, working across 45,000 acres of land in New Mexico’s Cimarron Valley. He has honed his skills in hunting and outfitting by working with rodeo circuits and wrangling bulls, using these experiences to guide others in the wilderness.
Kyle’s life is now centered around outdoor adventures, and he has embraced a quieter existence away from the world of social media and television.
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Ever wondered why American Restoration ended? Watch this video to find out the real reason!
FAQs About the Cast of American Restoration
Is Rick’s Restoration Still in Business Today?
No, Rick’s Restoration is no longer in business. The shop closed after the show ended, but there are rumors that it may reopen at a new location in the future.
What Happened to Kowboy?
Kowboy has remained out of the public eye, with no social media presence and little known about his current whereabouts. It’s assumed he is living a quiet life, possibly on a farm.
How Much Is Rick’s Restoration Worth?
Rick Dale has an estimated net worth of $2 million, thanks to his appearances on American Restoration and other shows like Pawn Stars and American Pickers.
Who Is Kelly on American Restoration?
Kelly Dale is Rick’s wife, who played an essential role in managing the business side of Rick’s Restorations. She is now a successful realtor and continues to be involved in the car community.
The journey of the American Restoration cast members after the show’s end has been diverse and full of new opportunities. Whether they’ve stayed in the restoration world, started new businesses, or embraced quieter lives, each member has continued to follow their passion. Their legacy from the show, however, continues to live on in the hearts of fans around the world.