The acclaimed motorcycle drama Sons of Anarchy debuted on FX in 2008, captivating audiences over its seven-season run, concluding in 2014. Central to the narrative are the First 9, the founding members of the club, whose legacies influence the storyline long after some have passed. The series opens with Jax Teller (Charlie Hunnam), the club’s vice president, discovering a manifesto penned by his late father, John “JT”Teller, co-founder of SAMCRO (Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club Redwood Original). Jax’s journey to align the club’s direction with his father’s ideals sets the stage for an explosive narrative filled with conflicts both internal and external.
As the story unfolds, the complex relationships and backgrounds of the First 9 members emerge. While some are only referenced, others leave undeniable marks on the club’s history and Jax’s life. Below is a look at these pivotal figures, their contributions, and their fates.
9
Thomas “Uncle Tom” Whitney
Tom Was Killed In 1995
As SAMCRO’s sixth member, Thomas “Uncle Tom” Whitney was introduced to the club by his childhood friend, Walter “Wally” Grazer. Despite a significant lack of detailed history, it is known that Tom faced legal troubles, which led to his tragic stabbing death by fellow inmates in 1995.
8
Chico Villanueva
Chico Died In 1976
Joining SAMCRO in 1968, Chico Villanueva served in the Marines during the Vietnam War. With little awaiting him upon his return, he became involved in illegal drug trafficking for his cousins, which brought him into contact with SAMCRO. His affiliation with the club also connected them to the Mayans MC. Unfortunately, Chico’s life was cut short in 1976 at the age of 32.
7
Walter “Wally” Grazer
Wally Killed Himself In 1986
Walter “Wally” Grazer turned to a life of crime after leaving home at 16. His encounters with SAMCRO began when he sold stolen goods to a member, leading to his eventual invitation to join the club. Wally played a crucial role in bolstering the club’s finances through illegal activities until his struggles with cirrhosis culminated in his suicide in 1986.
6
Otto “Lil Killer” Moran
Otto Was Found Dead In 1985
Otto “Lil Killer” Moran’s introduction to SAMCRO occurred during a Memorial Day event in La Honda, California, where his determination to join the club was evident. Despite his smaller stature, Otto proved invaluable, securing numerous gigs as security and facilitating critical connections. Tragically, his struggle with gambling led to his disappearance and subsequent discovery of his body in the Sacramento River in 1985, raising suspicions but ultimately leaving his death unexplained.
5
Keith McGee
Keith Was Killed By Clay
Keith McGee, portrayed by Andrew McPhee, is one of the few initial members to transition on-screen in Sons of Anarchy. He immigrated from Ireland in the 1960s and became intricately involved with the club, later founding the Belfast charter, known as SAMBEL, and solidifying connections with the IRA. His life ended tragically when Clay Morrow, fearing betrayal, murdered him, marking a pivotal moment for the series.
4
Leonard “Lenny The Pimp” Jankowitz
Lenny Continued To Be Very Loyal To The Club
Leonard Jankowitz, also known as “Lenny the Pimp,” had a storied past with SAMCRO, establishing a close bond with JT and Piney during their time in the military. He became the club’s third member and served as the first Sgt-at-Arms. Though incarcerated for life after a tragic raid, Lenny’s loyalty to the club remained steadfast, and he expanded his influence while in prison through connections with the Russian mafia, ultimately serving as a vital bridge for SAMCRO.
3
Piermont “Piney” Winston
Piney Was Opie’s Father
Piermont “Piney” Winston, best friend to JT and father of Opie (Ryan Hurst), played a crucial role in the founding of SAMCRO post-Vietnam. Although health issues prevented him from becoming president following JT’s death, he remained influential as Vice President, continually monitoring Clay’s actions. His ultimate demise at the hands of Clay in his own home underscored the dark complexities of loyalty and betrayal within SAMCRO.
2
Clarence “Clay” Morrow
Clay Was Jax’s Stepfather
Joining the military in 1969, Clarence “Clay” Morrow quickly rose to power within SAMCRO after reconnecting with JT. His controversial decisions, including a dangerous shift towards gun-running and his illicit affair with Gemma, led to the ultimate betrayal of JT, whose death he orchestrated to assume control. Clay’s reign was marked by both loyalty to the club and self-serving actions, culminating in his own demise at Jax’s hand as the club finally confronted his treachery.
1
John “JT” Teller
JT Was Jax & Thomas’ Father
John “JT” Teller, a veteran of Vietnam, established SAMCRO with Piney as a means to reclaim brotherhood and purpose in a turbulent world. Their early activities in illicit operations forged the club’s identity. JT’s manifesto, detailing his vision for the club, encapsulated his hopes and fears. Tragically, a conspiracy led by Clay and Gemma resulted in his death on November 11, 1993, serving as a catalyst for the events that unfolded throughout Sons of Anarchy, ensuring his influence endured even posthumously.