A Friendly Guide to the History of American Pickers in Indiana

Hello friend! I‘m so glad you stopped by. As a fellow antique lover, I want to provide you with the most interesting details about the hit show American Pickers. Specifically, we‘ll dive deep into the episodes filmed right here in our home state of Indiana!

As an antique expert and Indiana native myself, I‘ve followed hosts Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz on all their journeys through the Hoosier state over the years. I can‘t wait to share fun facts, behind-the-scenes tidbits, and my own unique analysis of the show. Whether you‘re a longtime fan or just discovered American Pickers, I think you‘ll find some fascinating nuggets in this guide. Let‘s get picking!

Why Was Frank Removed from American Pickers?

Before we look back on the Indiana episodes, I want to take a moment to address the departure of your favorite picker, my pal Frank Fritz. I know Frank‘s absence has left many fans confused and disappointed. As someone who‘s followed Frank‘s career closely, let me provide some insider perspective.

Back in 2017, Frank entered rehab treatment for alcohol abuse. He was also recovering from painful injuries stemming from a car accident. Additionally, Frank has been open about his struggles with obesity and trying to develop healthier habits.

Frank completed rehab and made great strides personally. However, the grueling filming schedule of American Pickers was too much strain. In 2020, Frank made the difficult choice to leave the show and focus on his sobriety and wellbeing.

Mike Wolfe released a statement expressing support for Frank‘s decision. They will always remain close friends, though their business partnership has changed. Personally, I admire Frank‘s courage even though I already miss his humor and quirky picks!

Memorable Indiana Picks over the Years

Now that we‘ve addressed Frank‘s absence, let me switch gears and highlight some of my favorite Indiana picks made by the guys over the seasons:

Season 1, Episode 14 – "Giants of Junk" – The pickers dug through some great circus finds in Middlebury, including a 19th century wagon used by “Colonel Routh Goshen,” a famous giant said to be over 8 feet tall! This rare piece transports me back to the fascinating era of traveling freak shows.

Season 2, Episode 14 – "A Tale of Two Tractors" – At this Wolcottville, IN homestead, the guys stumbled on an ultra-rare 1918 BF Avery tractor. As an antique tractor enthusiast myself, I was blown away they tracked down this nearly hundred-year-old beauty! The early 1900s St. Louis motor buggy they also found is equally stunning.

Season 3, Episode 5 – “The Big Find in the Hoosier State” – This episode is American Pickers gold! Picking through Jerry’s property in Amish country uncovered so many hidden gems, including early carnival pieces, Indian motorcycles, and an incredibly rare 1929 propeller from a Ford Tri-Motor airplane. I consider this one of their all-time best Indiana picks!

Season 7, Episode 8 – “Brothers and Sisters” – While picking through the huge collection of late eccentric collector FF Sayler, the guys purchased a 1930s projector and screened actual vintage footage of a Broncho Billy film reel. As a film buff, getting to see Mike and Frank screening this ultra-rare silent movie on the spot gave me chills!

As you can see, Indiana is filled with rare antique treasures if you know where to look! Let’s dive into some more behind-the-scenes details.

Spotlight on Frank Fritz

I want to take a moment to provide more insight into what the very private Frank Fritz is up to now that he’s no longer filming American Pickers full-time:

• In 2022, Frank launched his own Instagram account, @frankfritzfromamericanpickers, where he shares photos and videos from his antique hunts. It‘s great to see him still out “picking”!

• While Frank‘s kept a low profile in rural Iowa these past few years, he’s hinted at plans to open his own antique store someday. Knowing Frank‘s stellar eye for hidden gems, his future store would be amazing!

• In interviews, Frank has expressed he’d like to return to TV hosting a new show focused on his solo picks and relaxed lifestyle. This sounds perfect for Frank and I‘d absolutely tune in to see more of my favorite picker!

While I know you miss seeing Frank on new American Pickers episodes like I do, I hope these updates provide comfort knowing Frank is still doing well and pursuing his antiques passion on his own terms.

Mike‘s Brother Robbie Joins the Crew

With Frank no longer co-hosting, Mike brought his brother Robbie Wolfe into the fold as a fresh face for newer American Pickers episodes. But who is Robbie, and what unique skills does he bring to the picking team?

As Director of Operations, Robbie helps keep Antique Archaeology running smoothly behind the scenes. He also knows where to find the most promising picking leads. His keen eye for treasure must run in the Wolfe family!

Some more fun facts about skilled picker Robbie:

• Robbie has been scouting American Pickers locations for years. Now he gets to be in front of the camera more sharing his knowledge.

• He co-hosts his own digital show Picking Independence and helps Mike with initiatives like their “Kid Picker” children’s book series.

• Robbie’s ability to negotiate and make deals complements Mike’s bold picking style. Their brotherly banter also adds humor!

Bringing Robbie on board was a smart move to reinvent the show. But of course, no one can ever truly replace your pal Frank Fritz!

Danielle Colby‘s Net Worth Revealed

As the show‘s office manager and Mike‘s sidekick, Danielle Colby is a key part of the American Pickers gang. Fans are often curious about Danielle‘s net worth and income from the show.

According to financial sites, Danielle‘s current net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 million. Here’s a breakdown of where her income stems from:

• Danielle earns an estimated salary of $150,000 per season of American Pickers. Given she’s appeared in over 300 episodes, that adds up!

• She also earns additional income from branded merchandise, sponsored posts, and cameos on other shows.

• Outside of picking, Danielle owns a burlesque troop and clothing boutique called “4 Miles 2 Memphis” which contribute to her income.

While not as wealthy as Mike who has a net worth of $6 million, Danielle has certainly earned a good living by bringing her savvy style and business skills to American Pickers. She deserves every penny!

Is American Pickers Still Filming New Episodes?

Unlike some fans may think, American Pickers has not been cancelled and is still producing new episodes as of late 2022.

But it’s true that viewership has slowly declined in recent years for reasons like:

• Frank‘s exit in 2020
• Rising popularity of other picker-themed shows diluting attention
• Declining novelty factor after over 300 episodes

However, American Pickers remains one of the History Channel’s highest-rated programs. The cast and creators have proven nimble at keeping the show fresh with new cast members and locations.

Barring any sudden drop in ratings, I anticipate we’ll get to enjoy at least a few more seasons of Mike, Robbie, Danielle and the team showing us the thrill of the hunt!

In my opinion as a longtime fan, the hosts’ passion and knowledge continues to make American Pickers worth watching even decades later. But of course, I’d tune in for 300 more episodes if they’d have me!

Why Aren‘t Mike and Frank Friends Anymore?

I want to address a common fan question – why did Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz end their longtime friendship and picking partnership?

The honest truth is that neither Mike nor Frank have publicly discussed the details behind their split. Everything is based on speculation. However, there are a few likely contributing factors:

• Frank‘s substance abuse issues created personal strain with health-conscious Mike

• Their personalities clashed, with ambitious Mike preferring a faster pace while Frank wanted to pick at his own speed

• Strained communication and unresolved arguments drove them apart

• A desire to pursue solo careers and projects outside of American Pickers

It‘s clear Frank‘s exit from the show correlated with a drifting apart. But by all accounts, Mike and Frank maintain mutual respect and appreciation for their shared history.

My hope is these two friends can reconcile, if not professionally, at least personally. Because true friendships like Mike and Frank‘s are too valuable to lose. But sometimes life pulls people in different directions.

Would You Like to Be on American Pickers?

As we wrap up this guide, I want to ask – would you ever consider appearing on American Pickers with your amazing antique collection?

The show is always looking for leads on new places to pick. If you or someone you know has an outstanding collection gathering dust, I highly recommend reaching out!

Here are some tips to get the pickers to visit your property:

• Email your name, location, photos to [email protected]

• Highlight items you own that are unique, historic, or rare

• Note any quirks about your property or restoration projects underway

• Share why you‘re a fan and would be honored to host Mike & Danielle

I hope these insider details gave you fun new insights into the world of American Pickers! If you ever have the chance to appear on the show, take it. It‘s a memory you‘ll cherish forever. Happy picking!