Super-fan Luke Theochari (65) owns the real Herbie, one of the Volkswagen Beetles used in the 1969 movie The Love Bug, about sentient race car Herbie and its bond with driver Jim Douglas. Luke runs Terry’s Beetle services in West London and recalls being enamored with the vehicle after seeing the movie at the age of 10. Despite a heart attack in 2005, Luke eventually acquired the original Herbie from Florida in 2007 after a year-long effort convincing the owner. The car has remained unaltered with its original design features and has a Porsche 356 engine and performance upgrades. Luke, being a car enthusiast, enjoys driving Herbie around London, with people honking and staring at the car in awe.
Luke’s wife Helen, who passed away in 2015 and was crowned Miss VW in a beauty contest, shared Luke’s love for the Beetle. They met when she was his customer in the 80s, before she started working at his garage. Luke often watches the old Herbie movies, finding comfort and happiness in his connection with the car. They also had their first date in a green Beetle and shared many memories around cars. Luke is deeply connected to Herbie and believes in keeping his dream alive through his bond with the car, which is priceless to him. His love for Herbie has also been featured in an advert for Volkswagen, as part of a campaign celebrating genuine VW fans.
Fans of Herbie come from all ages, drawn to the iconic car’s presence. Actresses Lindsay Lohan starred in the 2005 remake “Herbie: Fully Loaded”, attracting a younger fan base. People passing by Luke’s garage in West London are excited to see the real Herbie, with many recalling childhood memories of watching the original movies. Luke’s garage is now a destination for Herbie enthusiasts, who stand in awe of the vintage car. Luke’s emotional connection to the car is evident in his dedication to restoring and maintaining it, making sure Herbie runs smoothly on the roads, bringing joy to both Luke and the passersby who catch a glimpse of the iconic vehicle.
Despite the value of the real Herbie, Luke remains humble about its worth, not revealing the exact cost of acquiring it. The original film car has special significance, with another model used in a later movie fetching a significant amount at an auction. Luke’s passion for and commitment to Herbie is driven by his love for the car and the memories associated with it. The emotional bonds he shares with his late wife Helen and the special moments they had together contribute to his deep connection to the car. Luke’s story is a testament to the power of dreams coming true and the lasting impact of childhood joys, reflecting the enduring legacy of Herbie and its significance to fans of all ages.
In a world where special effects and CGI dominate the film industry, Herbie remains a classic icon that captivates audiences with its charm and nostalgia. The enduring appeal of the sentient Volkswagen Beetle, as seen through Luke’s passion and dedication, highlights the timeless nature of the original Herbie movies. As Luke continues to share the magic of Herbie with fans and VW enthusiasts, the legacy of this beloved car lives on, bringing joy, memories, and a sense of connection to those who encounter it. Herbie’s presence on the streets of London is a reminder of the enduring power of storytelling and the impact of cinematic icons on popular culture.
