Drive north up the Ventura Freeway from Los Angeles, and just beyond Thousand Oaks, you’ll find yourself in Newbury Park. Nestled on a frontage road is a storefront filled with unique vintage cars, proudly displaying the sign “Carroll O’Connor’s Classics.” Yes, it’s that Carroll O’Connor, the legendary actor who brought Archie Bunker to life on “All in the Family” and its spinoff “Archie Bunker’s Place,” a role he played for an incredible 12 years starting in 1971.
Actor and comedian, certainly. But who knew Carroll O’Connor was also a “car guy”? Carroll O’Connor’s Classics is more than just a business; it’s a thriving restoration shop. Behind the showroom, a hive of activity buzzes, with experts working on everything from American land yachts of the ’50s to British sports cars of the ’60s, reflecting the passion of Hugh O’Connor, Carroll’s late son. Hugh’s tragic suicide in 1995, after battling drug addiction, deeply affected Carroll, and the love he had for his adopted son is the driving force behind the enterprise.
After wrapping up eight seasons as star, producer, and often writer of the “In the Heat of the Night” television series in 1995, Carroll immersed himself in writing books, screenplays, and a theatrical play. He also made guest appearances on shows like “Mad About You” and remained active in social causes and charities with his wife of 46 years, Nancy. Despite undergoing sextuple heart bypass surgery in 1989, Carroll, now 72, shows no signs of slowing down. We caught up with him at his shop to discuss his automotive passions and the legacy of his son.
Motor Trend: Is there any car here you have a particular affection for?
Carroll O’Connor: A ’62 Maserati 3500 GT. I bought it from a doctor who was tired of it in ’63. He said, “Take it off my hands. I’m going to get a Mercedes.” So he got a Mercedes.
Q: Is there any car you regret selling?
A: I gave one away that I wish I hadn’t. It was a ’62 Studebaker Gran Turismo.
Q: Is there a special car you’d like to own? Another sports car?
A: No, not at my age. But I think an Aston Martin. I never owned one.
Q: When “All in The Family” was going strong, what were you getting around in?
A: A variety of cars. I had the Maserati, but it needed frequent repairs. During the first season, I needed a reliable car, so I bought an orange Dodge Challenger with a 440 engine on a whim. I didn’t realize it was a popular car with young speed enthusiasts. I eventually gave it to a nephew. Later, while headlining at Bill Harrah’s club in ’72, Bill Harrah sold me a ’73 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow at cost. I still have it today, with about 43,000 miles on it.
Q: Cars were a passion you shared with your son Hugh?
A: Absolutely. We had a storage space in Westlake for our cars and personal items. Hugh suggested opening a shop, but we were busy with “In the Heat of the Night.” Eventually, we partnered with Gene O’Hara and James Drury, former Hill & Vaughn employees, and moved to our current location.
Q: How involved in the business are you?
A: I’m the boss. I make the decisions but don’t do the physical work. I’m here at least twice a week and stay in touch by phone. My business office handles the administrative side.
Q: Did you have an interest in cars before Hugh got involved?
A: Yes, I always loved cars and usually had a few. Now I have around ten or eleven. Cars were something Hugh grew up with, and he loved them too. When he was recovering from a cancer operation at 16, I bought him a BMW 3.0 CSi. He adored it but wrecked it soon after. Later, I bought him a Triumph TR6, which he restored. That car now holds a special place in my heart because of its connection to him. I miss him dearly.
Q: Even during his struggles with addiction, you shared this automotive bond?
A: Yes, we did. After his death, I considered letting go of the business, but I could hear Hugh’s voice encouraging me to continue. So, I did. This place is a tribute to him, and he would love what we have here now.
Carroll O’Connor’s Classics is not just a restoration shop; it’s a living testament to a father’s enduring love for his son and a passion that transcends generations.