Vincent Roy Margera, better known as “Don Vito,” was an American reality television personality, recognized for his appearances on Viva La Bam and Jackass. He gained notoriety for his eccentric behavior, slurred speech, and comedic interactions with his nephew, Bam Margera.
Early Life and Background
Vincent Roy Margera was born on July 3, 1956, in Concordville, Pennsylvania, USA. He was of Italian descent and grew up in a working-class family. Margera spent most of his early life in Pennsylvania, where he developed a close bond with his nephew Bam Margera, who later became a professional skateboarder and television personality. Bam’s rise to fame ultimately brought Vincent into the spotlight as well.
Rise to Fame
Margera first gained national recognition through his appearances on Jackass, a reality stunt show that aired on MTV in the early 2000s. However, he became a household name as “Don Vito” on Viva La Bam (2003–2005), a spin-off reality show centered around Bam Margera and his group of friends. The show featured pranks, extreme stunts, and often chaotic behavior, with Vincent serving as a frequent target of jokes and gags.
His character, “Don Vito,” was known for his garbled speech, exaggerated reactions, and inability to control situations. His interactions with Bam Margera and other cast members often resulted in comedic moments, making him a fan favorite. Despite his crude demeanor, Margera’s presence on the show contributed to its success, attracting a dedicated audience that enjoyed the wild antics of the Viva La Bam crew.
Legal Troubles and Downfall
Despite his popularity, Vincent Margera’s career came to an abrupt halt in 2006 when he was arrested for inappropriate conduct involving minors at an autograph signing event in Colorado. He was later convicted in 2007 and sentenced to 10 years of probation. As part of his sentencing, he was legally prohibited from portraying his “Don Vito” persona in any capacity. This restriction effectively ended his television career and public appearances.
His conviction tarnished his reputation, and he largely faded from public life. Once a beloved and comedic figure on television, Margera became a controversial personality due to his legal issues. His downfall was further exacerbated by declining health and personal struggles, including obesity and excessive alcohol consumption.
Later Years and Death
Following his legal troubles, Margera withdrew from the public eye. His health deteriorated over the years, reportedly due to excessive drinking and other related health issues. On November 15, 2015, Vincent Roy Margera passed away at the age of 59 in West Chester, Pennsylvania, due to complications from liver and kidney failure.
Legacy
Despite the controversies surrounding his later years, Vincent “Don Vito” Margera remains a recognizable figure in reality television history. His presence on Viva La Bam and Jackass contributed to the cultural landscape of early 2000s MTV entertainment. While his legal troubles overshadowed his career, fans of the show continue to remember his eccentric character and unique contributions to reality TV. His story serves as a cautionary tale of fame, excess, and personal downfall, highlighting both the highs and lows of celebrity life.
