AMERICAN Pickers is suffering its worst season ratings yet as star Mike Wolfe’s store is also facing struggles.
Mike, 60, stars on American Pickers, which is currently airing season 27, alongside Robbie Wolfe, Jon “Jersey” Szalay and Danielle Colby.
Mike Wolfe on an episode of American Pickers[/caption]
Mike’s store Antique Archaeology in Iowa[/caption]
While the show’s ratings once reached over one million viewers, The U.S. Sun can exclusively reveal Season 27 has received the lowest viewership in the history of the series.
The season premiere brought in a record low of just 390,000 viewers.
For episode two, called Field of Finds, 536,000 viewers tuned in.
Episode three ratings climbed to 594,000, the highest of the season, but dropped back down to 437,000 for July 23.
The July 30 episode brought in 484,000 viewers and the August 6 episode had 450,000 fans watch.
For the August 13 show, 525,000 viewers tuned in.
Ratings for season 27 are the lowest overall in show history.
The season 26 finale saw 708,000 viewers.
The most-watched episode for season 26 reached 760,000 on December 18.
American Pickers once reached over one million fans in its heyday, especially with episodes including longtime cast member Frank Fritz.
Frank left the show in 2020 and died on September 30, 2024, two years after he suffered a debilitating stroke.
American Pickers stars Mike and Robbie Wolfe, Jon ‘Jersey’ Szalay and Danielle Colby[/caption]
Fans have complained of the store’s expensive items[/caption]
STORE STRUGGLES
To make matters worse, Mike’s Iowa store Antique Archeology has also faced poor reviews.
Mike shut down his Nashville, Tennessee store Antique Archaeology in April after nearly 15 years in business.
He wrote in an Instagram post on Friday, April 18, “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.”
His only remaining store is the Iowa location, though recent reviews haven’t been favorable.
One fan wrote on Google Reviews, “Not what you would think. 6 thousand dollar old clock, people running the store, no cast members at all.”
A second commented, “Good for a gift shop, not great as an antique store.”
A third criticized, “It’s more of a novelty shop, in my opinion. Some what museum esk, I guess. I was a little let down, maybe because in my head, I figured the shop would be more spectacular because I’ve watched American Pickers religiously.
“The items that were for sale are very overpriced. But I guess you are paying the price to visit because of the show.”
EXPENSIVE ANTIQUES
The U.S. Sun has reported on the expensive store items.
The highest-priced antique is a “Marx Tin Lithographed Spooky Tree Toy” for a whopping $1,775.
A description for the listing read, “Behold, the marvelous, rare vintage 1960’s eerie Marx Tin Lithograph Spooky Kooky Tin Tree Toy is a standout piece of vintage Halloween fun.
“With its expressive face, mechanical charm, and classic litho detailing, it captures the playful side of fright.
“Whether haunting your holiday display or anchoring a toy collection, this spooky tree adds a quirky, nostalgic twist to any shelf.”
Another costly item is a leather license plate for a whopping $1,348.
The listing reads, “Leather license plates are some of the earliest pieces of automobile history.
“One of the most durable material, leather became the most popular choice for automobile owners to display their licenses. From the early 1900’s, this pieces reads 46-185.”
A Kendall Canvas Banner is on sale for $775, as the listing urges collectors to “bring the golden age of motoring into your home with this stunning 1920-30’s Kendall Oil canvas banner.”
Another expensive item is a Roar of The iron Horse Movie Poster for $750.
Mike Wolfe’s businesses
Mike Wolfe has created a business empire featuring real estate, antique stores, and more.
OTHER PROJECTS
Mike was announced to be the host of History’s Greatest Picks in March.
For the show, Mike will introduce a story and antique piece.
Despite the announcement, the show’s air date has not been released.
Outside of picking antiques, Mike is the owner of multiple businesses and landlord of properties in Iowa and Tennessee.
The Iowa antique store is across the street from his new vacation rental Two Lanes Guesthouse and blocks away from properties he owns.
The vacation rental is now available for rent after a months-long delay.
The show reaches millions of viewers with late star Frank Fritz[/caption]
Mike closed his Nashville, Tennessee store earlier this year[/caption]
