JEFF WITTEK

Introduction

Jeffrey R. Wittek, born on December 15, 1989, in Staten Island, New York, is an American YouTuber, podcaster, and professional barber. He gained prominence through his engaging content, combining humor, hairstyling, and candid discussions about his life experiences. Wittek is best known for his YouTube series "Jeff's Barbershop" and his podcast "Jeff FM".

Early Life and Background

Raised in Staten Island, Wittek attended Susan E. Wagner High School. During his teenage years, he worked at local barbershops and also engaged in illicit activities, including drug dealing. In 2011, at the age of 21, he was arrested in Miami for possession of marijuana, cocaine, and a controlled substance, as well as illegal drug trafficking. However, the charges were dismissed due to a lack of a proper search warrant. Following this, he relocated to Los Angeles to pursue a fresh start. 

YouTube Career and Rise to Fame

Wittek began his online career by sharing hairstyling content on Tumblr under the blog "BehindTheCuts", showcasing his work with celebrities like Mac Miller and Pauly D. He later transitioned to Vine, gaining popularity as "American Jeff". In 2011, he launched his self-titled YouTube channel, which now boasts over 3 million subscribers and 348 million views. His content includes comedic sketches, hairstyling tutorials, and interviews with various personalities.

Jeff's Barbershop and Jeff FM

In 2019, Wittek introduced "Jeff's Barbershop", a YouTube series where he gives haircuts to celebrities while engaging in humorous and candid conversations. The show has featured guests like Tana Mongeau, Casey Neistat, and Jason Nash. Additionally, he hosts the podcast "Jeff FM", where he discusses topics ranging from pop culture to personal anecdotes, attracting over 2.4 million listeners monthly.

2020 Accident and Aftermath

In June 2020, while filming a stunt with David Dobrik's Vlog Squad, Wittek suffered severe injuries. The incident involved an excavator operated by Dobrik, from which Wittek was swinging on a rope. A sudden stop caused him to collide with the machinery, resulting in a fractured skull, broken hip and foot, and torn ligaments. He documented his recovery in a five-part YouTube series titled "Don't Try This at Home", which won the Best Documentary award at the 2021 Streamy Awards.

Legal Actions and Public Disputes

Following the accident, Wittek filed a $10 million lawsuit against Dobrik in June 2022, citing general negligence and intentional tort. He alleged that Dobrik's actions led to his life-threatening injuries and significant financial losses due to medical expenses and lost earnings. The lawsuit highlighted the emotional and physical toll the incident had on Wittek, as well as the deterioration of his friendship with Dobrik. 

Personal Life and Ventures

Wittek is known for his charismatic personality and entrepreneurial spirit. He has collaborated with brands like Old Spice and has expanded his reach through live shows and merchandise. In 2024, he participated in the third season of the H3 Podcast series "The Bach3lor", seeking a romantic partner among contestants. He ultimately chose Verica from Brisbane, Australia.

Online Presence

• YouTube: Jeff Wittek's channel features a mix of comedic content, interviews, and personal vlogs.

• Podcast: "Jeff FM" offers listeners insights into Wittek's life and conversations with various guests. 

• Instagram: He shares glimpses of his daily life and professional endeavors.

Jeff Wittek's journey from a troubled past to a successful digital creator exemplifies resilience and reinvention. Through his engaging content and candid storytelling, he has built a loyal fanbase and continues to influence the online entertainment landscape.