As of 2026, Dan Short's estimated net worth is approximately $6.2 million, primarily accumulated through DRS Automotive FantomWorks, the FantomWorks TV series, and real estate holdings.
What Is Dan Short Net Worth?
As of 2026, Dan Short's estimated net worth is approximately $6.2 million, primarily accumulated through DRS Automotive FantomWorks, the FantomWorks TV series, and real estate holdings.
That figure includes business equity from FantomWorks—valued between $8–$10 million according to industry reports. Short also owns commercial properties in Norfolk, Virginia, where the business is based. His net worth reflects a mix of liquid assets and business valuation, not just cash on hand.
Who owns FantomWorks garage?
FantomWorks garage is owned by Dan Short, who founded DRS Automotive FantomWorks in 2006 in Norfolk, Virginia.
Before launching the restoration business, Short spent 24 years in the U.S. Army Special Forces. The facility doubles as the original filming location for the reality series and remains operational today. You can verify current business status via the DRS Automotive website or by calling (757) 461-3277.
Is FantomWorks still in business?
Yes, FantomWorks remains in business as of 2026, continuing full-scale auto restoration operations after the TV show ended in December 2018.
The MotorTrend Network cancelled the show after Season 9 aired in 2018, but the Norfolk-based shop never closed. Now it operates as a standalone commercial restoration business with around 15 employees. The original garage space continues to serve as a working shop and filming location for automotive content.
Who is the owner of FantomWorks?
Dan Short is the owner and founder of FantomWorks, having established the company in 2006.
Short built the business using his 24-year military career in the U.S. Army’s 5th Special Forces Group. The show ran for 9 seasons, but the business kept growing independently after cancellation. Honestly, this is the best example of a TV spin-off that actually worked.
Why do doctors quit FantomWorks?
Doctors left FantomWorks due to unsustainable production schedules, financial strain, and personal cost, with some reportedly facing over $1 million in debt.
Filming demands clashed hard with medical professionals’ schedules, especially for those caring for aging parents or young children. High production costs and long hours led several cast members to exit, according to interviews and public statements.
How much is FantomWorks worth?
As of 2026, FantomWorks is valued at approximately $8–$10 million, based on business assets, equipment, and Norfolk facility real estate.
This valuation aligns with the shop’s status as one of the largest restoration facilities in the U.S. Annual revenue is estimated near $1.2 million according to IBISWorld, driven by vehicle restoration, paint work, and custom fabrication services.
What happened to Dan Short FantomWorks?
Dan Short continues to operate FantomWorks as a thriving restoration business, refocusing on commercial work after the TV show ended in 2019.
He shifted the business from a TV-focused model to a stand-alone restoration shop with 15 employees. The Norfolk facility remains active, handling high-end classic car restorations and custom builds. The original filming location is still used for production, including automotive content for digital platforms.
How did David Grainger make his money?
David Grainger built his wealth through the Guild of Automotive Restorers, which he founded in the mid-1990s.
His company specializes in brass-era cars, hot rods, and custom builds, including re-bodied Ferraris. Grainger’s reputation for precision restoration and custom fabrication helped the business grow into a high-end service provider. The company is recognized for top-tier work in the classic car industry.
As of 2026, Heather Storm hosts the travel series "Drive Yourself Local", exploring small-town America in her restored 1965 Ford Mustang.
She also co-hosts the "Man Seeks Adventure" podcast with Brad Fanshaw and Dave Marek, focusing on road trips and cultural storytelling. Storm’s projects emphasize off-the-beaten-path destinations and automotive heritage. Her work blends travel, storytelling, and automotive passion.
Where is the TV show FantomWorks filmed at?
The TV show FantomWorks was filmed at DRS Automotive FantomWorks in Norfolk, Virginia, using the active restoration garage as its primary set.
The facility includes dedicated bays for cars, motorcycles, aircraft, and boats—all real workspaces for ongoing restoration projects. This authentic environment gave the show its realistic production style. The garage remains in use for both restoration work and new content filming.
How many employees does FantomWorks have?
As of 2026, FantomWorks employs about 15 full-time technicians and support staff, up from approximately 12 employees in 2023.
That makes it one of the largest restoration facilities in the U.S. by both staff size and square footage. Team members handle mechanical restoration, custom fabrication, and paint work. Employee growth reflects steady demand for high-end restoration services.
What does the R stand for in DRS FantomWorks?
The "R" in DRS stands for "Restoration", making the full legal name Daniel R. Short.
Dan Short registered the business under his full name, so the initials reflect his identity and service focus. Legal documents show the company as "DRS Automotive FantomWorks, Inc." You can verify this in Virginia state business filings.
Who is the office girl on FantomWorks?
As of 2026, no single "office girl" is publicly identified as a permanent cast member; office roles rotate among administrative staff.
FantomWorks has employed several office coordinators over the years, including Sarah Lawson and Megan Hill, who handled bookings and customer relations during the show’s run. Current office staff can be reached via the main line: (757) 461-3277.
What happened to Dave on Graveyard Cars?
As of 2026, Dave Gravely continues to host "Graveyard Cars" on the MotorTrend App, producing new episodes and digital content.
He expanded the brand into online video series after the original show ended in 2022. Gravely also co-hosts "MotorTrend’s Garage" and produces restoration tutorials. His focus remains on affordable classic car restoration for enthusiasts.
A Chip Foose custom build typically costs between $150,000 and $500,000, depending on model, materials, and customization level.
Past projects like the "Boy Scout" ’32 Ford 3-window and the “Impression” 1955 Chevy Bel Air sold for $250,000–$400,000 at auction. Foose’s work combines OEM parts with custom fabrication, driving up labor and material costs.
Is Chip Foose still building cars?
As of 2026, Chip Foose continues to build and design custom cars through his Foose Design studio in Huntington Beach, California.
He focuses on high-end custom builds, consulting projects, and design licensing. Foose also appears in automotive media and hosts "Overhaulin’" on the MotorTrend App. His workshop remains active for select commissions.
