Mike Wolfe has been the star of the History Channel’s American Pickers for more than 10 years. He turned his passion for picking into a cultural phenomenon with his deep appreciation of Americana, easygoing charm, and sharp eye.
He, alongside his former co-star Frank Fritz, travelled across backroads in America, uncovering forgotten treasures in sheds, garbage, and barns.
However, he has experienced significant changes ranging from health issues, personal challenges, and new professional endeavors, as well as the disappearance of Fritz.
The rise of Mike Wolfe as a picker
Mike Wolfe was a veteran picker even before television fame. He began collecting discarded items as a child while growing up in Bettendorf, Iowa. Picking soon became a career.
He spent many years traversing small towns, forming connections with collectors, and visiting scrapyards.
The year 2010 changed his life when the History Channel premiered American Pickers.
The show followed Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz as they hunted for rare memorabilia, valuable antiques, and Americana with rich stories.
American Pickers’ unique concept and the duo’s chemistry rapidly resonated well with audiences. The show became one of History Channel’s highest-rated programmes within its first season.
Mike Wolfe’s deep respect for history and enthusiasm helped transform picking from a niche interest into mainstream entertainment.
Mike Wolfe’s rift with Frank Fritz
Frank Fritz’s departure was one of the biggest turning points for American Pickers and Mike Wolfe. Fritz revealed that he had not been in touch with Wolfe for over two years in 2021.
Similarly, he disclosed that he had undergone a back surgery and was struggling with alcohol addiction and Crohn’s disease.
In July 2021, The History Channel confirmed that Frank Fritz would not be returning to American Pickers, after many fans of the show blamed Mike Wolfe for not supporting his long-time friend.
Frank’s departure from the show deeply affected Wolfe both personally and professionally.
In 2022, Fritz suffered a stroke, leaving him in recovery under guardianship. Wolfe is said to have visited him privately and expressed his hope for reconciliation.
However, Fritz passed away in 2024.
In an Instagram post on October 1, 2024, Wolde expressed his grief and loss, stating that their journey was rewarding, though filled with highs and lows.
“It’s with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night,” he wrote.
“We’ve been on countless trips and shared so many miles, and I feel blessed that I was there by his side when he took one last journey home. I love you, buddy, and will miss you so much. I know you’re in a better place.”
Frank’s absence marked the end of an era for Wolfe.
Mike Wolfe’s personal changes
In 2022, Mike Wolfe divorced his wife, Jodi Faeth, after nearly a decade of marriage in which they shared a daughter, Charlie.
He then began dating reality TV star and model Leticia Cline, the couple shares on social media about architecture, rural adventures, and vintage motorcycles.
Mike Wolfe’s health challenges and recovery
In 2025, Mike was involved in a severe car accident in Tennessee that caused multiple injuries, including a collapsed lung, broken jaw, ribs, and sternum.
Wolfe’s injuries required significant medical treatment and a period of recovery, during which he was hospitalised and cared for alongside his girlfriend, Leticia Cline, who was also injured.
On his 61st birthday, Cline shared an encouraging message with Mike Wolfe, two months after the accident.
“Every year we say, ‘we made it through,’ but this year feels like we really earned it. When I started dating you, I knew it wouldn’t be a straight path – backroads, detours, no map, and the occasional wrong turn. But I didn’t expect this many detours all at once. Somehow, though, we made it (mostly in one piece). It’s a testament to who we are, both separately and together. Strong. Stubborn. And still laughing even when we probably shouldn’t be,” she wrote in part.
What is Mike Wolfe up to today?
Mike Wolfe remains the executive producer and star of American Pickers, which has recently featured new faces, including picker Danielle Colby and his brother Robbie Wolfe.
Similarly, Mike Wolfe announced a new television project titled History Greatest Picks, featuring eight episodes showcasing iconic treasures and artefacts throughout history.
In an Instagram post on November 6, 2025, Wolfe revealed that filming for the show is currently underway and set to air in January 2026.
“My crew and I are in uncharted territory. This is the first day of a new show we’re filming for the History Channel called… History’s Greatest Picks was shot totally differently from American Pickers. I’ll be in a studio setting, introducing Stories of Epic Artefacts, cut to experts and reenactments that visually bring these incredible finds to life!”
“There will be 8 stories per episode so it’s gonna move fast. I’m excited and nervous at the same time. Which is where I’m usually at on camera all the time! This will air in January and I’m stoked for y’all to see it,” he added.