The Man Behind Malibu California

Jefferson "Zuma Jay" Wagner embodies the spirit of Malibu, having been a resident for over 50 + years. He is best known as the owner of Zuma Jay's Surf Shop, a staple in the community since the 1970s. Wagner's deep connection to Malibu is reflected in his dedication to preserving its unique, rural charm amidst the evolving landscape dominated by Hollywood influence.
Born and raised in Malibu, Wagner's journey is as diverse as it is impressive. After graduating college in 1975, he was unexpectedly discovered as a model by renowned photographer Bruce Weber while working at his shop. This chance encounter launched him into a successful international modeling career, working with top brands like Ralph Lauren Polo, Banana Republic, Versace, and even as a Marlboro Man. Despite the glamour of the modeling industry, Wagner remained grounded, using his earnings to invest in his beloved Malibu home.
Wagner also has a career working with explosives for military training and on movie sets to create stunt scenes; he even has countless credits working as a stuntman himself on multiple films and as a recurring stunt double for Clint Eastwood.
Wagner's contributions to the Malibu community extend beyond business however. He was solely responsible for re-opening the Malibu Pier by Surfrider Beach in the late 90’s and has continued to serve the Malibu community as mayor for two terms.
Despite the commercial changes in Malibu, he remains dedicated to preserving its essence. As mayor, Wagner focused on maintaining the rustic charm of Malibu. He is passionate about ensuring that the Malibu he loves endures for future generations.
While he cherishes the stories of surfing adventures shared by his customers, Wagner continues to find joy in surfing locally at spots like Little Dume, Leo Carillo, and Malibu. For Zuma Jay, the best surfing days in Malibu are marked by the perfect combination of swells from Mexico and the howling Santa Ana winds.
Jefferson "Zuma Jay" Wagner is a true Malibu legend, a man whose life and work reflect his unwavering dedication to his community, his love for surfing, and his passion for preserving the unique character of Malibu.

[@coachbabbitt4253]

Add me to the list of guys who got their first board from Zuma Jay. Moved to Malibu from Wisconsin and had to try this surfing thing. Think I bought a used board for around $50. Surfed all over Malibu as a teenager. Took about 30 years off after high school but now surf every chance I can. Also, went to Malibu junior high with Shen. He was a stud then, looks like he still is. Great video bud! Great tribute to a Malibu legend.

[@jonasm3812]

I worked in the industry, on set for about 30 years, worked with a ton of "celebs." One day I was talking with the SFX team, and the coordinator introduces himself to me (to show me that card you get at the DMV), and I did a double take... "holy sh*t, you're Zuma Jay?" Only then was I starstruck. Great to meet him, and happy all the pyro went as planned.

[@MayorKushman]

I just aquired a Zuma Jay Old School Surfboard = Great old pin tail tri fin . It is red and white 6-2

[@countrymouse489]

Snapped my 3 year old sons Zuma J at the mouth of Klamath back in the mid 90's. Told him about it on an early cell phone. Apparently he cried and lost it for the next 2 hours as I made my way home. My wife gave me heavy beef for It. Best board I ever schralped.

[@berrey7]

We only get a handful of these true Gentleman every Century. An actual modern day Renaissance Man.

[@glennsak]

Met him 40 years ago. He was also a double for Clint Eastwood.

[@sunnyside9273]

Kind of makes me feel like I haven't done enough with my life. Inspiring !

[@UserUser-ty5ej]

I stop by n visit with Jefferson just about every week.. such a humble fwn to earth human being.. its amazing how much he's accomplished.. I'm always learning more interesting facts about his life.. great video..!!

[@leonardodalongisland]

I never met this Marlboro man but I spent some time working in Malibu and around LA in films and TV. So I may have actually crossed paths with him. ,I also worked all over North America doing pyro professionally and good friends of mine also modeled for Bruce Webber-who has a home near me-like Christie Brinkley who I recently met and talked to about a short film I wrote with her and Billy Joel (another "neighbor here on Long Island) in mind. And, I worked for the other photographer who shot Marlboro ads, Peter B. Kaplin.

[@michaelfarar4232]

I was in the construction products and services industry and Malibu was an area included in my territory. So canvassing job sites are part of the gig. I went into Zuma Jay surf shop as i was a Venice Dogtown surfer in .y teens and i we stopped in ZJs quite often. I spent alot of time talking with Jeff at his shop. I used to have a collection of ZJ t shirts and i had 1 or 2 boards i bought there. Anyway Jeff is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to malibu. I plan on stopping by there very soon.

[@allensarlo]

Thank you Jefferson for all you have done for the city of Malibu. We love Zuma Jay!

[@JeffAdairKTM530]

Thanks for the summer job Jay

[@JTfitclub]

Great video ,,, spent most of my life surfing up and down the Malibu Beaches , Topanga to Zuma etc .. Enjoyed this video greatly , Thanks Shen !!!

[@timkeane2907]

Legend is thrown around too loosely but he is the one

[@danmeifert2469]

My first job in Malibu was with Shen detailing cars in the early 90s. Thanks for the fun work. Protect Malibu it is a unique place.

[@seanmontgrain4146]

Great dude. A few years ago my son and I dropped in his shop and he talked PMC work with us in his office. We both had been cops in SoCal that surfed. I had bought a board from his old shop at Point Dume in early 80's. Memorable day.

[@shell7789]

Still have my Zuma Jay custom board from years ago!

[@yomommastupid]

wow what an interesting man and life he has lived....amazing to hear his stories and knowledge....definitely a person that can say he has been successful in life, not many of us can say that....

[@ezrhino100]

This is so socal. Bro... Dude.... Shredding with Clint Eastwood.

[@allenrothsothebysinternati7825]

Fascinating guy! Thank you for making these incredible documentaries!