CREW’S CONTROL: Alvin (left), Lebanon Levi and Jolin star in Discovery’s “Amish Mafia.” (
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Get ready for more Lebanon Levi.
“Amish Mafia,” which set Discovery Channel records last December, is coming back for a second season on Aug. 13.
And, once again, its narrative arc will focus on Amish “enforcer” Levi and his tough-guy crew, who patrol the Amish community in and around Lancaster, Pa. — and are both feared and respected.
This season will see Levi — a full-fledged Amish who was never baptized and can operate outside the church — dealing with problems in the ranks, including with his right-hand man, Alvin, and with Jolin, who’s in a beef with Levi. And they all have to adapt to new crew member Caleb.
“Amish Mafia” premiered to 3.7 million viewers last season — a Discovery record — and was the highest-rated freshman series in Discovery history (3.3 million viewers).
Levi, who has never spoken to the press about “Amish Mafia,” agreed to answer a few questions from The Post, via e-mail, about the show.
Q: Were you surprised at how well the show did last season?
Levi: Yes, I was very surprised. I didn’t expect it to be so big.
Q: How did it feel to become a celebrity of sorts once the show began to air?
Levi: It felt different and it felt so real. From where I grew up and where I come from it’s an experience you never thought would happen. There were ups and downs, but once I got outside and met with people they cheered you right back up and I thank God every day for the fans. I never thought I’d be in shoes like this.
Q: Do you feel you were portrayed fairly?
Levi: Yes. I just want people to know how we take care of each other and how we stand up for ourselves and for each other.
Q: How are you treated now by the Amish community?
Levi: They treat me the same. Some aren’t too happy and some don’t care.
It’s like that in the community — some always have a problem with what other people do, and some that mind their own business don’t have a problem.