When The History Channel debuted its reality TV series American Pickers in 2010, there was no way of knowing how successful it would be. Since then, it has become one of the most loved shows on our screens. The series follows experts Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz as they tour the country, looting people’s homes, garages, and basements for treasure.

American Pickers also stars Danielle Colby, who manages the Antique Archaeology store from the sanctuary of Iowa while Mike and Frank hit the road. There isn’t a place in the country they neglect, with Danielle sending the two buddies on different adventures with each new season.

As the store manager, Danielle tracks down items from antique collectors around the country. Not only does Danielle discover the amazing picks, but she also sets the budget for Mike and Frank, which can make or break some of their best finds.

Despite all of that responsibility, arguably, her biggest job is trying to rein in Mike and Frank’s enthusiasm. The History Channel has enjoyed more than a decade of success with American Pickers, and the show has made stars of the three main cast members.

Let's take a look at the real story behind American Pickers and what makes it such a huge success for the History Channel.

How Close Are The Cast Of American Pickers?

It's a real love-in for the three main cast members of American Pickers. They all go way way back, with Mike and Frank knowing each other for decades. In fact, Mike even makes references to know Frank back in high school.

Mike and Danielle also appear super close and they have also known each other for over 20 years, allowing them to have a pretty deep connection. When you’ve known and been friends with someone for that long, they pretty much just fall right into the sibling category.

RELATED: Check Out This 1952 Ferrari 166MM Vignale Collecting Dust In A 1940s Hangar

What Inspired American Pickers

Antique Archaeology shop
Via Wikimedia Commons

The History Channel didn’t just come knocking on Mike’s door and give him a TV show, and he had to earn it. Mike had spent most of his career before reality TV going through people’s stuff, buying it, and flipping it for profit.

A series he did on YouTube helped his personality shine through, which is how the History Channel became aware of Mike. Those videos of Mike were sent around various TV networks in the hope that someone would pick it up.

Once the tapes fell into the laps of executives at the History Channel, it was only a matter of time before American Pickers hit our screens. The channel was not only investing in Mike's business but also his way with people.

Mike’s way with people is a highlight of the show and a major factor in why the History Channel created American Pickers.

Almost Making American Pickers Without Danielle

The show has been running for over a decade, but Danielle and Mike go much further back. They met while living in Iowa, and they kept their friendship going long before they were famous. Danielle has helped Mike with many projects, despite some who felt she wasn't a good fit for his business.

Mike knew how valuable Danielle was to him not only as a business partner but also as a friend. The pair stuck by each other and are reaping the rewards of their great working relationship. Danielle was Mike’s first choice to be the manager of his Antique Archaeology store, but he had to fight to keep her.

When the History Channel first brought its cameras into Mike's shop, the showrunners did their best to ignore Danielle.

In fact, they actively were trying to edit her out because she wasn’t a part of the original contract. However, Mike got to show off his great interpersonal skills by speaking with the producers and changing their minds about Danielle.

Although being on the show was a win for Danielle, the American Pickers store manager later found herself in some legal troubles. Danielle tried to avoid her paying her fees to Uncle Sam which landed her in a spot of trouble. However, after paying a fine, it now seems that Danielle's legal troubles are a thing of the past.

Frank also found himself in some trouble after a deal went wrong through the show. A collector spotted an item that Frank bought on the show and got in touch with the antique collector to make a deal.

The collector reached out and struck a $300 deal for a polarimeter, a historic farming tool, with Frank. After paying Frank what they had agreed, the collector waited patiently for his item to arrive, but it never did. Frank was taken to court over the incident and ordered to pay the collector his dues. He was also arrested for a DUI in 2017, an offense that he pleaded guilty to in 2018.

RELATED: See American Pickers' Mike Wolfe Face A Vintage Ford Pickup Dilemma

The Success Of American Pickers

American Pickers was an instant hit with viewers, and the show didn’t waste any time climbing the ratings. It's one of the most-watched shows in the United States, with viewing records being broken multiple times.

One of the main reasons why people keep coming back is the bond and connection between Mike and Frank. The two treasure hunters have great chemistry, and it’s just so much fun watching them do what they are so passionate about.

Collectively all three members of American Pickers are what makes the show such compelling viewing and why there have been over 20 seasons. Mike has done well for himself thanks to American Pickers, and the reality TV star has an estimated net worth of $7 million. Mike's salary for a season of the hit show is understood to be $500,000.

Some Of The Best Cars Found On American Pickers

Ford Model T
Via Wikimedia Commons

Amongst all of the junk and rusted metal, Mike and Frank do come across some real hidden gems. Although they aren't exclusively looking for classic cars, they are always aware they might find something significant from automotive history.

Some of the best automotive finds the pair have made include a 1935 Auburn Phaeton 653 in South Dakota and a wooden Model T Ford that had been hand carved. In Oregon, the picking duo discovered a 1920s Ace four-cylinder motorcycle and a 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad in California.

NEXT: The Coolest Vehicles The American Pickers Managed To Get Their Hands On