The REAL Reason I Quit Motor Trend's Hot Rod Garage Show!!

When I left Motor Trend's Hot Rod Garage at the end of 2021, after 6 seasons hosting the hit TV show, I heard a million wild theories and accusations about what happened. Here's the real honest truth about why I quit my dream job, and started my next dream job, hosting Stay Tuned! Hope you like it, and it felt really good to get this info out there once and for all!
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[@Dartagn]

Tony, I had no idea. I don't know you, but my heart hurts that you went through all of that, stayed a total professional and just made life work without publicly complaining. You are a beast emotionally and I'm even more proud to be a fan than I was before. Thanks for sharing.

[@DeagleBingo]

renal artery dissection (any major arterial dissection) is truly not a joke either. complications, especially from blood clots kill ppl every single day at every single major hospital around the nation... beast is ... understatement. hey everyone reading this: do you know the signs and symptoms of stroke? and what to do? everyone is familiar with basic heart attack stuff... but ppl should familiarize themselves with early signs and non-typical signs of heart attack and stroke .. especially in women bc many times its not as quickly recognized.

[@TheCrackerman1981]

I was going to do my own comment but this here says what I feel for sure!

[@mygtprobe]

Well, said. Life is certainly a balance! Thank you for sharing with us!

[@9874123654aa]

I do miss the Lucky / Tony dynamic duo.

[@jasonblack8639]

Yes sir. Not the same. Had to move on to faster with Newbern and Cotton

[@justinrobertson5493]

Lucky did get a Typhoon on his channel, maybe something will happen?

[@thomasrounds3337]

Thanks for sharing Tony. I'm glad you're still friends with your ex wife. My daughter's Mom and I weren't good as a couple but became best friends raising our daughter together after splitting up. 30 years later we're still family. I'm happy your daughter is doing better too

[@michaelblacktree]

Same here, but I totally understand why Tony left. I would have done the same. I'm just glad he's here on youtube.

[@danmyers9372]

Lucky and Alex are both super talented, knowledgeable plus is just hilarious. But their chemistry together just doesn’t work. Could be the age difference but not sure.

[@deanavitch]

Anyone can be a dad but takes a real man to be a fully devoted father. You sacrificed a lot to suit your children’s needs not just a pay check in the post. Hats off to you sir

[@User0000000000000004]

what are you on about? if he is divorsed because he was abusive, you don't know. Shut up.

[@deanavitch]

@@User0000000000000004 hahaha you jumped up prik if was true he wouldn’t be happy co parent and associating with his ex plus over clear factors if you have any life experience but either way it’s non of our concern or business. The man’s just expressing himself and I cast my own opinion simple. Don’t need numpties like you having a dig

[@christopherreiser1975]

agree with the sentiment, but it's the other way around. anyone can be a father. it just comes down to sperm production. being a dad is an entirely different ball game. There are a lot of men who are dads to kids who they are not biological fathers of, and there are plenty of fathers who aren't dads.

[@DylanMcCoolVideo]

I haven’t even watched the video yet I’m just glad you’re here on KZbin!

[@StayTunedTA]

Thanks bud! Glad to be here!

[@atbgaming8342]

Well, two of my favorite car tubers in the same place... Life is good.

[@hejmuesli]

A 30 minute talk-to-camera-no-wrenching episode, and I did not feel cheated at all. Thanks for sharing the story, Tony. Work-life balance is really important. I'm really happy for you and the other stay tuners that the channel is working out so well and that you are able to - as I've commented before - to churn out such high quality content.

[@FlatBedLife717]

schill episode, pointless. You have been duped!!!

[@matt_queso]

15:30 You benchpressing that trans back into the Blasphemi is the greatest moment of Motortrend TV, any show. Not only was it just cool AF, real guts and grit kinda moment.

[@mattkiwi]

Hi Tony, hearing about your daughter bought me to tears as I know what you have been through. In 2018 having just turned 4 my daughter was diagnosed with Bone cancer. After a whole year in hospital, multiple surgeries, and a spinal fusion I thank the lord everyday that she is still with us. She is my warrior princess. Family First! Much love to your daughter and the rest of your family from New Zealand.

[@jackperry9369]

Prayers for healing for your daughter sir believe God's in control ❤

[@Ahelm12]

Prayers for your sweet warrior princess! I have a 10 year old daughter myself, and I cannot imagine what it was like seeing your baby girl go through that. Stay strong!

[@87aeromonte]

Tons of respect for airing "the laundry" to all of us. I love how it feels like youre just building cool stuff with the boys. Keep it up man!

[@StayTunedTA]

Thanks for watching! Just wanted to hopefully get the story straight.

[@danmyers9372]

@@StayTunedTA - I know how you feel Tony. My wife and I were super involved (upfront on stage) in a large church in our city. For our own personal reasons we left and the rumors as to why we left flew fast and rampant. People are people and part of that is feeling a deep need to know inside stuff and to start rumors about what they think they know. 🤷

[@dakotasclassiccars7246]

In like 2018 you helped me locate my old 66Cutlass after seeing it in the background of the El Camino Ice drag episode then Fast forward to March 4, 2020 like 2 days before Covid went crazy you offered to meet me at the Motortrend office and even after the filming manager guy kicked me out you came out and grabbed me and invited me in. That moment will be one of the coolest car moments of my life and really cemented in my mind how cool of a person you are. You are just one of the most genuine people I think I’ve ever met. Since then I’ve seen lucky at Summits car show in McDonough GA then went back to my hotel that night (because I was traveling for work) (which my work had nothing to do with Power Tour) and there he is at my hotel with his truck parked right out front under the canopy). Super greatful to have met you!

[@whatta7793]

Oh wow, thanks for sharing that. Sounds like an awesome story just from that short bit. Glad you found the Cutlass, and not just finding it, but finding it in that manner/story as well. That's double the cool factor lol

[@brandonwalters9437]

Covid didn’t go crazy. People in positions of power went crazy.

[@vincedibona4687]

How was it like 2018? In what ways???

[@weeumh2]

​@@vincedibona4687he never said it was like 2018.

[@rorynewton1228]

"WE'RE GONNA LOSE THE SHOP!!!" Never gets old.

[@eggbertreviews1477]

I say it constantly in my everyday life

[@stephenmidkiff]

Being a father is your ultimate job and you did that! Respect...

[@AtZero138]

Not a single wasted second,, Best Job Ever!!.. Cheers from Orange County California...

[@User0000000000000004]

Did he? Proof?

[@RumblesBettr]

Oprah says being a mom is the ultimate job. Cant be both!!!

[@999torino]

Sorry to hear of your personal troubles. I didn't quite know what to make of you at first, but by the time you and Finn won Drag Week I had decided that you were truly the real deal. I wish you success in the future.

[@ChrisHessert]

That was gracious: you didn't owe an explanation to anyone. Another reason I love this channel: your honesty and personal courage. Wishing you and your family the very best of health and happiness!

[@brooziebee9507]

From a single dad of 15 years, mine are 17 & 19 today, you're killing it. Keep up the good work. I love your content, Power Kraut especially.

[@nesbittiain]

Single dads unite my dude. 15 and 18 over here. You are the man.

[@ckthompson7928]

When I watch Tony and Lucky ..... I feel like I'm in MY shop at home... Pure comedy and badassery... I'm glad you're still kicking em out for us to watch.

[@Sonny_V]

HRG with You & Lucky was Lightning in a Bottle. My Favorite Car-Show Ever

[@danmyers9372]

100%. They had a uniquely chemistry for sure. I’m thinking Lucky must miss it. He and Alex flat just don’t seem to jell. Alex seems to be trying too hard to be someone or something that she just isn’t.

[@MrStacy1974]

I'm warming up to Alex , but I wasn"t sure at first. Her and Lucky have the niece and crazy uncle vibe going on that's kinda fun to watch.

[@blomie9548]

Haven't watched an episode of hrg since Tony left

[@DM-wp9vq]

You guys obviously have zero idea how to read people's mannerisms. They're getting along very well, and have stated as much. She's more like his little sister, or a granddaughter dynamic if anything.

[@mightymikethebear]

@@MrStacy1974 I can see the crazy uncle dynamic too. Alex is representing the younger generation of hot rodders.

[@deathcab4booty]

My father had made it pretty high up in his company when my brother and I were born. Brought in a decent salary, but he was gone for 3 weeks out of the month on the road or overseas. He gave it up and took on a consulting role instead when my brother and I were 6 and 3. It didn't bring in his upper mgmt salary, but we were still comfortable. When I asked him about that years later, he told me that nobody is going to remember the extra hours you put in at the office, but your kids will remember you not being there for them. That has stuck with me since. Good to see you recognizing that early on and prioritizing the time with your family. You're all doing an incredible job with the channel, Tony & Gang.

[@josteincarlsen2905]

You have a great dad!! Say hallo to him from me in Norway 🫡🫡🫡

[@D4VE26]

In my own way I am doing this.. I am 36 and trying to swap to part time work whilst my kids grow up.. seen too many people work for big money to enjoy it later in life...when they then get sick and the kids are all grown? Don't make sense to me... ❤

[@nukedogger86]

This is why my mom quit management. The 50+ hours a week, missing dinner every night, not getting home til we were in bed wore on her. Then having to stay super late on Christmas Eve, that was the final straw. I still remember that night, I think I was 5 or 6, I'm 37 now. Long time ago now my parents told me, most companies you are a just a replaceable number to them, your extra time won't be noticed for long, but missing out on life with family and friends, they will not forget.

[@bowlkiller1975]

I'm so glad your daughter is doing well! I have become disabled with health problems and watching videos made by down to earth good people gives me a welcome distraction from the hell my life has become. I'm truly thankful for people like you and I wish you all the success and happiness. I would enjoy seeing more driving content. Drift EVERYTHING lol

[@AaronHardinPhoto]

Tony, its been a blast to watch you grow as an on camera talent. Your charisma and humor compliment the wrenching skills. Thanks for making great shows for us to enjoy!

[@StayTunedTA]

I appreciate that! Really, a lot! I'll keep making them if you keep watching.

[@ryandunn5362]

Tony is the best! I took a dream job AFTER getting divorced. Six years later, traveling 2-3 weeks a month... I left and moved back to Idaho, 2.5 miles from my kids. Probably the best choice I ever made. Don't lose the Shop! : )

[@ll4133]

Always wondered why the departure from HRG. Thanks for explaining and thank you for your time on HRG! It was because of your budget builds that I realized my quest for an affordable 67 Nova was totally unrealistic on my income. I'm 70 yrs. old, a mechanic, and decided to follow your lead to start my own project. I found a nice affordable stock 98 Camaro SS that I've been maintaining and modifying since last July. I get as much joy working on it as I do driving it! Still watch past episodes for your and Lucky's tips and tricks. Good luck with your family and new endeavors! I'll be watching "Stay Tuned" for sure!

[@SouthernMotorwerks]

Awesome...Fridays aren't complete at our house without some stay tuned! My son and I love ur show bro🤙

[@StayTunedTA]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@bradmathisen]

This has to be my favorite channel now, please try to keep it the three of you working in the garage together on reasonable priced builds.

[@enriquemartinez435]

I love how you've always been open and honest. Just a genuine dude that is a gear head.

[@jaybrown4246]

What an absolute humble, unselfish and empathetic human being !! You give a first hand account on what having an open mind and willingness to do whatever it takes to learn, craft and enjoy your passion - while having a blast doing it !! You raised the bar on how integrity is practiced ! Not once during your explanation did you complain about anything or anyone. Will you succeed in whatever you do- that's a given, but to put your homelife first and be the best dad you can, speaks volumes !! Congrats on remaining teachable ! Besides, Alex Taylor is very hot in my eyes and don't even know what she's saying or building when she's on the show 😂 ( I kid ) Godspeed Tony !

[@GrandPitoVic]

If you hadn't made that call before heading home, most of us wouldn't know who you are. That would have sucked. I'm glad you did. Years of awesome content. Thank you

[@scottimusgarrett15]

Crazy how life turns on a dime...

[@larrynelson6656]

Really sorry to hear about all your troubles. I don't know how you you did that show under the circumstances. May God bless you your health and your family.

[@whereswardo_6368]

He’s just another guy having a human experience, may god bless us all

[@jordanknute2029]

Hey man, full support Tony. I had a dream job playing in a band, touring all over the world, doing exactly what I thought I was put on this planet to do. Had 1 kiddo I missed most of her childhood, went through a divorce, bunch of other heavy stuff requiring me to be close to home, then kiddo 2 came along and I had to make a choice as a man. Be selfish and keep doing my dream while my kids lost opportunities and lost time with their dad, ask my wife to essentially be a soldiers wife, or compromise with myself and take 1/3rd or maybe 40% of my dream away so that 4 other humans I care about most in this world could flourish. Choice was hard at the time but looking back, it's almost shameful to me that the choice was hard to me at that time. I was raised where if you commit to create life, you commit to that life and raising that life. Period. I commend you for doing what you did. There are a lot of guys still that don't have that in them. I never thought conspiracies, I figured it was family related. End of the day, HRG is still decent but we also get an extra thing with your channel. That's a solid net win for us enthusiasts not to sound overly pragmatic

[@CarsCatAliens]

3 most important things in life... 1) family and loved ones 2) Your Health 3) Time. when we lose any of these , we never can get them back.. Cherish them

[@arielatom03]

Solution: dont have kids

[@richardprice5978]

@@arielatom03 sounds like wife ( not sure about the behind-set but she wouldn't have pressed the nukes buttons if she wasn't being selfish/unloyal to tony and her kid's as sometimes as a husband you're forced into working and or golden handcuffs like the gig Tony had of okay paying and somewhat stability-ect job but flying ect as a downside to it ) or court or both = Basically getting fired or forced to quit, yep knowledge 1st handed and also going from working to my first 100k-net-worth to homelessness/poverty's at 25yo~ ect and 5+ more years of drudgery and hoping i can restore my lifestyle and then upgrading from there

[@robertlippens9013]

Bro your awesome! Being a Dad is the best thing that can happen man. the fact you realize that makes you a great man!! Good luck my friend. I will "stay tuned!!!"

[@RTLEE1]

I’m glad to hear your daughter is doing well ! Most of us miss you on HRG ,but your family is more important ! I hope that you were able to make a full recover! Love the new platform and staying tuned in!

[@SSThomas84]

Regardless of why, it doesn't change who YOU are! Glad you're back HOME and seem to be enjoying life MUCH more man! Cheers!

[@StayTunedTA]

I really really am stoked to be here.

[@SSThomas84]

@@StayTunedTA you GOTTA save Lucky from Cali. You 2 together were flippin' GOLD! That's prolly the biggest part of HRG that I miss. Although, Alex is GREAT and adds a new fun twist to the show too.

[@SSThomas84]

@@StayTunedTA unfortunately, due to the VERY strange warm weather we've been getting in Wisconsin, the Merrill Ice Drags have been canceled this year... urgg!

[@NFSgadzooks]

​@@SSThomas84the mention of the Merrill Ice Drags just makes me think of the time a buddy of mine lost the brakes in his Mustang and got some air over the snow pile out there!

[@SSThomas84]

@@NFSgadzooks #MustangThings…. 😂 Gittyup tho! Yikes!

[@USFOLLOWME]

We miss your on Roadkill Garage. I am sorry to hear about all the issues you experienced and wish you health and prosperity. I love to watch your you tube time and time again.

[@roywhitman7109]

WOW!! When Mike Finnegan did this same type of video to explain to his fans why he left MotorTrend, I commented to him the same thing I'm going to comment to you. FAMILY FIRST❣️ I sincerely respect you both for your choices. I'm retired now & my former work partner has a teen son that went through a liver transplant that is also autistic. I kept thinking how he & his wife were able to keep it together with this young man going through all of this medical trauma! But, everything has been working out, such as your family is by the grace of God! You & Lucky were like peanut butter & jelly together. I had suspicions there was something unseen happening for you to leave. Thank you for sharing with us! Best of luck to you & yours!!

[@nestr2007]

Mike was with motortrend too?

[@whiskeytangofoxtrotover9651]

Mike didn't leave Motortrend.

[@deathcab4booty]

Mike left Faster with Finnegan to be with his kids and David Newbern stepped down from Finnegan's KZbin channel to also be with his kids

[@roywhitman7109]

@@whiskeytangofoxtrotover9651 NO, he left Faster with Finnegan. Newbern & Cotton took his place. You'll find his explanation on KZbin, also.

[@roywhitman7109]

@@deathcab4booty Correct.

[@SolamenteVees]

Thank you for being so transparent and sharing some pretty intimate details. Nothing but respect, Tony.

[@clumsysmurf8109]

This episode really highlights what I like(d) about the MotorTrend core programs. I am happy to hear that it was all really drama free, and that my view is not yet an illusion that you guys genuinely like and respect each other. The shows have always been about the cars, not manufactured drama. I hope this stuff maintains popularity and success.

[@RuSrsbro]

Your kids will look back and appreciate your sacrifices to be a good father. Nothing but respect for you Tony, some things are just more important

[@greggcrannage740]

As a Jersey guy that can see Pennsylvania across the River and a father of a son that needed care, I’m so thankful we have CHOP in Philly to care for our kids. I love what you do. My son and I have bonded over your old and new show for years. Thanks for keeping us in the garage.

[@Boatralph]

God Bless you and your Family, My son also had a liver transplant so I know where you are coming from. Stay well ! Family First !!

[@Chris_Bumpus]

Much respect tony, as a father of 2 little girls I understand how hard it is to balance work and home life as a hot rodder. Keep up the channel for all us little guys that don't have the unlimited budgets! Love the show and the vibe!

[@merylpelosi1704]

You'll never regret putting your family and health first. I have even more respect for you now. I'm truly sorry for the price you've had to pay. Best of luck to you and yours.

[@rickdee67]

HUGE respect Tony! I’m a transplant recipient also . Mad respect for being there for your kiddos! You definitely made HRG cool AF! Thank God yer lil girl is doing well and praying for you and her !

[@eddiejeselink2996]

Life is hard, I'm glad you happy now. I'm retired Army and I was so rapped up in those stupid wars I lost my whole family. I'm proud of you. Thanks. I did and still love HRG.

[@Endraven_Prime]

You did not have to step up in front of the camera and tell this story to your fans but you did. Thank you for keeping it very real and caring enough to fill us in. I wish you and your family all the good health and happiness in the world. You have a fan for life.

[@theempireofrust]

As a former mechanic for Westen Champlin, I can say for sure Alex Taylor was an absolutely polite and friendly young lady when we raced her on both occasions, Lucky and her are a pretty good duo on the show! And keep doing what your doing Tony!

[@rjfscorpio711]

Family first, always. You did what you had to do. A real stand up guy. A good job doesn't kill you.

[@terrencebourisaw4073]

As the father of a BA child I feel your struggles😢, my daughter is ten years post transplant and is absolutely amazing. I hope yours continues to to thrive, keep the episodes coming. You guys are doing great!

[@1963impala2drWaylonWire]

the most important job you will ever have is "being a dad" good on ya man... keep em coming! big fan here

[@Dan-o7p]

HRG kept me going through the pandemic and inspired my friend and I to restore a V8 Jeep CJ-5 in my suburban garage. I really appreciate all the work you put into that show. Thanks for sharing more of the story!

[@StayTunedTA]

That is awesome! thanks for watching!

[@pigasus_1]

Because we're family- Dominic Toretto

[@StayTunedTA]

Damn straight!

[@HeadingEast33]

We're building relationships this week.@@DocHolliday3841

[@pigasus_1]

@@StayTunedTA I feel like you addressed this in an early video. Guess as new people come in they can't be bothered to go back to those videos when it was just you.

[@97rspsctt]

Hope the best for you and your family bro

[@wp5177]

Love stay turned. An I'm a even bigger fan now knowing you chose to put your family first

[@WatchmakerErik]

Tony, you are not just a great host and a great hot rodder, but you make the kind of content I really love and you've shown yourself to be a great dad and a true man of integrity. I'm very happy to be one of your fans.

[@joew7897]

I didn't know who you were until you were on HRG. Have followed everything you've done since. You have a natural talent for it, and your enthusiasm is always great and realistic. Your impact goes further than cars as well. Thanks for everything you have done, and I'm looking forward to everything you will do.

[@DericO-rz3be]

WOW TONY... SORRY FOR ALL THE DIFFICULT CHALLENGES WITH FAMILY HEALTH... MAJOR RESPECT FOR YOUR DEDICATION TO YOUR FAMILY...

[@jimmyjckjones]

Being a father is by far more important than any job. Showing your children they come first.. will set them up for what to expect for their future. Good man. I wish the best for your family my dude. Much respect.

[@sethcormier8134]

I think you found your real place to be on youtube. The scripted quick snippets of builds on tv don’t do justice to your ability. Keep up the great work!

[@kylehyman5050]

From one dedicated dad to another, I have so much respect for your decision. You didn't have to come on here and open your life up to the world like this, but I'm so glad you did! You build amazing cars, keep up the good work and keep raising em right!

[@lucassarchet6712]

I think Alex and Lucky are great together. I miss the old show but life doesn't care about your plans. I know this all too well. I absolutely love your channel and all the guys involved. Keep up the good work, and keep being an amazing Dad!

[@PartialRug]

Alex and Lucky are terrible together. She definitely knows alot about cars but she is a bit dry. Also, Lucky went from a funny guy to a simp for Alex and it's painful to watch. I cancelled my subscription because of that show alone lol

[@jono6379]

​@@PartialRughrg has got better in the second season. They were a bit awkward together at first because it felt like they didn't really know each other but they seem to work well together now. Motortrend has slipped a lot since the heydays with dirt every day and other shows getting canned but I hope they will bounce back.

[@digitaldoc100]

@@PartialRug It's a 60 min show that drags out 20 mins at best of content.

[@PartialRug]

@jono6379 I watched 5 min of a recent episode at a friend's house and had him turn it off because the simping is still going strong. He also noticed it after I pointed it out. Him and I both hung out with Lucky at SEMA in 2019 and know he isn't like that all the time. Plus Alex seems like the kind of person who wouldn't laugh at a dirty joke and only does missionary lol

[@PartialRug]

@digitaldoc100 it wasn't always like that but I agree it's definitely that now.

[@bat5917]

Tony you are a true car guy. Car guys are born, not made. It’s very gracious of you to share details of your life with us. A couple of times I was feeling a little emotional and then there was a cut away/edit about the same time. Sharing those memories must have been difficult for you. Balancing a career and raising a family can certainly be at odds. Hearing you tell your story just reinforces who we think we know on screen. Thanks for letting us hang out with you and your team. Best regards 👍

[@WizzlexBizzle]

It's crazy to me that you have to put to bed so many wild theories and rumors. The internet really does suck when it comes to stuff like that. That said, thank you for opening up to a million strangers about what transpired behind the scenes! Been a fan here since day 1, and will continue to follow. Thanks again.

[@briankabell9317]

I hope that taking the time to get this off your chest and setting the record straight pays you back 10K fold. You’ve endeared yourself deeply to those of us who were just casually familiar with you before. - your character and integrity is awe inspiring.

[@GeorgeMcNally]

Tony.....I'm a 64 year old geezer. All I can tell you is that family is everything. Take care of your family and everything else will fall into line.

[@GidDree]

Please don't say Geezer.,..jeez, I'm 65😢

[@greenfuzz13]

Except when they are garbage.

[@DeltaSierra426]

^ My father taught me that a true measure of a man's wealth is his family. I'm a father of two today and couldn't agree more. Always loved Tony in HRG and it's still my favorite era of the show, but him talking about his kids and being so happy that he has that right work-life balance that he's been chasing... man it just made my day. :) Not a lot of folks that became as famous/popular as he did given the momentum of the show would have done this. More than too many broken homes and families in showbiz.

[@mitchrd2004]

Being a new dad as of 8.5 months now, I have nothing but respect for you Tony. Takes a strong man to keep family first and have your dream mature to fit what is best for you and your girls. Keep pushing ahead and stay strong. Thank you for sharing this with us!

[@randalltufts3321]

Its called life. It happens. I'm here for the duration. Keep doing you. It'll be fine. You'll never lose the shop, or us

[@youhaveamonkey]

Tony. From one dad to another: My hat is off to you. Family comes first. Much love to you and your family!

[@GilliamSiblings]

As someone who is dealing with liver issues I can relate and my heart goes out to you and your family. Just heard about your show on here so now I got something to watch while I’m in the hospital.

[@ArthurSperotto]

The Drag Week special is also one of my all time favorites. I've watched it a couple times... still raises the hair on my back. All the best to your daughter, Tony, did not expect this episode to get this deep. Much love, brother!

[@Kingsoupturbo]

I had read about your daughter, but hadn't heard about the accident in the Desert and very sorry to hear about the seperation from your wife. The stresses of a sick child, twins, immense pressure on even the strongest of marriages. I was hoping your favorite was TwinPala, what an effort you guys put into that one! I remember the first episode of HRG you were on, I thought you looked like a L.A. Gangster!

[@MaryBrownForFreedom]

In life family MUST be #1! I was at the peak of my career, had an offer out on the east coast in FL doing work in the space industry. But my parents were aging and I needed to be here for them. So I stayed in MN, spent their final years with them which is priceless, and ended up doing the same work via remote... sure I missed out on seeing launches in person but I was doing the job I loved, got to live the MN outdoor life with my parents(both fished and hunted), and I did not miss out on their final moments because I was on a flight or stuck in an airport because of canceled flights.

[@Martin750hp]

Wow very noble of you, I have a true respect for anyone that had parents they love that much! God bless you.....

[@assaultlick2169]

You and lucky had great chemistry and it made HRG awesome. Edit : hearing about what your family went through was heavy duty, man. Stoked to hear she's doing well now, Tony. God bless

[@robfox5892]

Makes no difference to me where you work my dude. As long as you are happy and having fun, I'm happy to watch. Keep waking up determined, and going to bed satisfied! Thanks for doing what you do.

[@markhoward3851]

My hat is off to you dad! Family first. I love StayTuned, especially when you put the wrong engine in things. I caught the bug helping my dad put a SBC in an 81 Jag XJS with a burned out V12. Decent cam and holley 4bbl, took my DL test in it! Keep up the great work!

[@theglitch99]

Family 1st ALWAYS!!! SMART MAN! Great story, thanx for sharing!

[@curtissmith5924]

And this is why Stay Tuned is quickly shooting up to be one of my favorite channels! Thanks for keeping it real 😀

[@remnard1]

I just watched this and subscribed to you. My son does import rebuilds and I’ve been a car guy since high school and got a degree in automotive repair. You’ve been through the mill, I wish you the best.

[@7HeadsCustoms]

Tony, I’ve said this before about you and your show. You are us, you are ME, you are the normal guy, with the normal family shit. You are giving us hope that it’s possible to live through it all and still love cars. You’re doing more for us normal guys than you may know. Please, just keep being you and we’ll keep watching. My family used to live in Allentown, brother still does, totally dig the PA vibes!! Thank you!!

[@TheGinger15765]

You and Lucky were like, so perfect together. Hotrod felt very dated on some shows and this spoke to a younger generation in my opinion. Im 29 and loved the builds you did. I question GM’s 4.2 inline6 all the time and seeing you mess with it was awesome.

[@blt3479]

Thanks Tony for sharing. You're the Real Deal, and no one ever regrets doing the right thing. You are a great dad.

[@Trains-With-Shane]

Have to say that I really miss you and Lucky together on HRG. But I also think that Alex is doing an amazing job as well. As you said she's got legit hotrod credentials and that to me is important. I learned a lot about you and your family today. Thank you for putting this out there, Tony. I myself don't have any children but coming into a relationship with a lady whom, at the time, had a 12 and 6 year old whom are now 18 and 12 and being a part of their lives for the past 6 years I totally get how important it is. And these aren't even "my" boys and i'd sacrifice everything for them.

[@tpetry1303]

I honestly didn't know a lot of what you told us. You're doing this best thing for your kids and I can't blame you. I know what it's like to have a child with medical issues. My wife left me 3 years before we found out my son had a brain tumor when he was 9. I put my life on hold and never left the hospital until he could come home. Rehab, radiation , and chemo I was there. He is now almost 17 and doing great. Being a dad is probably the best thing that ever happened to me. So I totally understand on your decision. I always loved watching you and lucky together. Once you left and Steve Mags left I stopped subscribing to MT.

[@MarineTpt92]

Just stumbled along your channel with the V8 build for Derek. Love the content I’ve seen and looking forward to what you have coming up. Sorry to hear about the troubles, but glad you were able to prioritize what mattered to you most!!

[@StayTunedTA]

Welcome aboard!

[@sct100]

I’m proud of you, Tony. I made a similar decision many, many years ago to stay in a job that allowed me to be involved in my kids’ lives rather than to take a more lucrative job offer that would pull me away a lot. Best decision in my life. No regrets. You also handled the show with absolute class. More power to you. I always respected you but my level of respect is now through the roof.

[@Mrelectric423]

I made a similar decision when my kids were little. They are in college now. I am 100% it was the right choice. People I know who focused on money above all else seem lost.

[@MichaelBrewer]

@StayTunedTA I always took you at face value when you said it was to be with family, and it was! As a dad (of 4 girls!), my heartstrings were tugged, but I am happy to hear everything is trending up. Loved HRG with you; love it with Alex. Lucky is like my hot rod TV grandpa. And I love Stay Tuned! Killer show.

[@ltsgarage7898]

Tony . It’s really nice to see someone come out and just tell us what’s up. I am glad to hear about how your daughter is doing, that’s great news. As far as your fatherly responsibilities are concerned. You’ve got my vote son. After listening to what has been going on in your life. You’re a fine father and role model for those 3 girls…. Good luck with the future. Great job thus far…

[@BigBurly68]

Tony, your reason for leaving HRG is legit. Family IS the most important thing of all. I didn't know that you had a major health issue either! Wow! You've come through a lot, and are a great man! I've enjoyed your growth as a person and host of HRG and Stay Tuned. All of my best wishes go to you and yours!

[@nickfonder3441]

Twinpala was an awesome idea, loved it. Lucky isn’t the same funny with Alex as he was with you, you guys were awesome together

[@christopherwaszczyk3870]

Thanks for sharing. Appreciate for including us in your personal life. Got a new channel fan!

[@ChrisHamilton-cv6vz]

I wish you absolutely all the best to your children and you! I cannot imagine seeing my children sick. Best of luck to you in all your future endeavors

[@HaveMercyMotors]

Staying REAL with Tony. Nice work spreading the stoke!

[@Revolution1117]

Mucho respect, Tony @Stay Tuned. Thanks so much for being so candid with us re: your personal and work life. Not everyone would / does have the guts to do what you did here, and for that a BIG Thank You! Not every public personality has the respect for their fans you showed here. You were a huge part of HRG getting off the ground and turning it into a Motor Trend hit series. You showing that you live by "Family & Kids First" rule garners the most respect from me, personally. HRG is still a hit, Alex is a BadAss, and Lucky is still The Man. I'm new to your channel, but you can bet I'll be here moving fwd. From one gear-head to another; you've done well Bro, and best of luck with everything you set out to do in the future. Wishing you and the fam much health & happiness moving forward!!

[@baggedhemi]

Psh no brainer brother. You made the right move. Your participation in all that extra work (never knew that about you) made you the performer we are all thankful is providing free content to his fans. Keep it up dude!

[@StayTunedTA]

Right on, thanks for watching! I will keep it up!

[@twiztedsquid94]

Tony ,we have to be there for our little people. As a single father of 2 I now have legitimate respect for you brother. I am thankful that you made the decision yourself!

[@StayTunedTA]

Yes, there's nothing like being a dad, and trying to be the best one you can be is a righteous pursuit. Appreciate you.

[@m693504]

Been there bro, work for me and my wife negatively affected our family in a similar way and we split for 2 yrs. Started getting along again and love our family and have been back together again after some changes with our jobs. Good luck to you and your family. Will still keep following

[@chadwickciampo3634]

Honestly Tony I've always liked you. This story time really made me respect you. Thank you for what you do Tony. A true family man that just loves cars. And I loved that show community! Imma share every episode of stay tuned from now on. You rock Tony! And props to your family and awesome crew!

[@lowhpgt500]

I loved hot rod garage with you and lucky but your channel has more than made up for it! Keep up the fantastic work

[@lennyscott8001]

Thanks for sharing your reasons behind the decision to move on to Stay Tuned. Sincerely appreciate the transparency and candor.

[@scalefreakgaming]

I'm sure others have said it, but I cancelled my Motortrend subscription when you left. Tony/Lucky and Tony/Finnegan were MotorTrend for me. Drag week series with Mike was the high bar to set. And nothing can match that.

[@klegends2939]

I will follow you where you go brother

[@dscarter81]

Glad to hear your daughter is doing well, and that you’re looking after yourself. Sorry to hear about your separation. Nothing ever stays the same, but really glad I was able to watch you presenting HRG. :)

[@emilianocruz11]

Hey Tony hope a future reunión in your shop with lucky and Alex Taylor and builit the v12 Aston Martín Mustang with twin turbos❤

[@traviscurlutu7723]

I'm a divorced Dad myself, I feel for you. Your kids are the most important folks in your life. I watch your KZbin channel whenever I can, keep up the good work Tony!