Sonny Hubert Barger popularly referred to as Sonny Barger was an American biker, author and actor. He was the founder of the California Chapter of the renowned outlaw motorbiking group, Hell’s Angel biking club in 1957.
Outlaw Biker gangs or clubs gained notoriety in the mid-1950s as they stood against mainstream conformity and for freedom. Most bikers drove Harleys or choppers. Though these groups were initially associated with violence and considered a nuisance, some stood for very good causes which initiated social change through demonstrations, and charities amongst other philanthropic activities. Some liken the American Biker groups to Japan’s “Yakuza” groups.
Sonny Barger gained mainstream popularity through his published books and television appearances in addition to being known as the President of the California-Oakland Chapter of the Hell’s Angel Biking Club.
Throughout his life, he faced drug possession charges and was once sentenced to a 10-year jail term out of which he served 4 between 1973 and 1989.
He was married 4 times with his last being to Zorana whom he married in 2005. He had no children.
He suffered from 3 different cancers throughout his life; throat, prostate and liver- The latter of the 3 claimed his life.
He died on the 29th of June 2022, aged 83.
What did Sonny Barger do?
Sonny Barger passed away on the 29th of June, 2022 aged 83 after a battle with Liver Cancer.