Is Mike Wolfe Really Letting ‘American Pickers’ Slowly Go?
It’s been a world of change for American Pickers fans. Following Frank Fritz‘s passing last fall, fans and costars alike have mourned the loss. While the show has been present, filming and releasing new episodes, there was another major shock when long-time star Mike Wolfe revealed that he was taking a short hiatus from filming to focus on other ventures. Now, another major announcement has rattled American Pickers fans to their core.
In a shocking reveal, American Pickers star Mike Wolfe is shuttering his famed and beloved Antique Archeology store in Nashville. Opened for 15 years, the store has welcomed fans from around the world as an extension of his hit show. While the flagship store in Iowa will remain open, this closure continues to signal a shift in his life. Is this American Pickers‘ slow fade to black?
The Staff Was Shocked To Learn Mike Wolfe’s Decision
Earlier this month, Mike Wolfe made the major announcement that he was closing the doors of his Nashville location of Antique Archeology. In the emotional Instagram post, Wolfe revealed the tough decision to say goodbye to the brick-and-mortar and the people who have made the store what it was.
“After nearly 15 amazing years, we’ve made the tough decision to close the doors of our Antique Archaeology store here in Music City. This place has meant the world to me — not just the brick and mortar, but the people. The community. The visitors from all over the world who came through those doors, shared their stories, and reminded me every day why I started this journey in the first place,” he wrote. “I’ve been so proud to be a part of this neighborhood, this city, and this chapter of life. But sometimes, even when something is good, you have to pause and ask yourself where your time is going — and where your heart is calling you next.” So where is that next that he speaks of?
In the post, Wolfe also informed fans about his future plans. He said, “For me, that’s family. It’s slowing down a little, staying rooted, and focusing on the new projects that are pulling at my soul. I’m not disappearing — not even close.”
He continued to write, “I’ve learned over the years that it’s easy to spread yourself too thin, and balance is something we all chase in one way or another.” When the announcement came, an insider shared with the US Sun, “Mike tries to be hands on in every store he owns. He’s trying to consolidate a little bit so he could spend more time with his family.” Paired with some other recent changes, in order for Mike Wolfe to do so, the American Pickers as fans know it could be sacrificed down the line as well.
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“I Love You, Buddy”: ‘American Pickers’ Mike Wolfe Shares Emotional Farewell to Frank Fritz
“I feel blessed that I was there by his side.”
Will Mike Wolfe Ever Say Bye to ‘American Pickers?’
Since 2010, American Pickers has been a staple on History Channel. And Mike Wolfe has been a staple on American Pickers. Over the course of 26 seasons, Antique Archeology was a major character of the series. As the home base for Wolfe and the team, it’s partially why die hard fans swarmed to see the stores. Even though the flagship store is still in Wolfe’s hands, shuttering the Nashville location proves that Mike Wolfe is eager to make changes to better himself.
After years of personal struggle surrounding the show, saying good bye to one store to remain centralized in Iowa with his personal team, it makes sense for some to fear American Pickers could fall to the wayside as well, even if he assures fans it’s not over yet.
As he has previously stated, he hopes to focus on his family, regain balance, and pursue new projects. While he says he’s not leaving the world of picking, the continuation of ending chapters of his American Pickers life signals a desire to forge a new path and identity. He has a new film and series on the way. He has a new love in his life. While he says it’s not the end, all signs are pointing in that direction.
While American Pickers fans are likely to follow Wolfe on any venture he goes on, including his new show, the original show, as they know it, will likely have to end. There will always be picking to be done, but a different venue might be for the best. Go out on a high, right? He says that the flagship store and online presence will remain, but if anything happens to either of those Antique Archeology businesses, then we can only assume the official end is near.
