Mike Wolfe, born on November 6, 1964, in Joliet, Illinois, is a prominent American television personality, producer, and professional treasure hunter best known as the creator and star of the History Channel’s hit series American Pickers. His journey from a young boy intrigued by antiques to a household name in the realm of “picking” is a testament to his passion for uncovering hidden treasures and telling their stories.
Table of Contents
Who is Mike Wolfe?
- Age: 60 years
- Family: Single mother
- Girlfriend/ New Wife/ Partner: Leticia Cline
- First Wife: Jodi Catherine Faeth
- Daughter: Charlie Faeth
- Net Worth: $7 million and $12 million
- Salary: $500,000 per season
- Illness: Crohn’s disease
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Mike Wolfe Age, Family, Early Life, and Education
Raised in a single-parent household, Mike is the second of three children – Robbie and Beth. Growing up in a family that appreciated the value of history and storytelling, he developed an affinity for antiques at a young age. By the age of four, Wolfe was already rummaging through junk and discovering treasures that others had discarded.
At the tender age of six, Wolfe started salvaging old bicycles from his neighbors’ trash in Bettendorf, Iowa. This childhood hobby blossomed into a lifelong passion for antiques and collectibles. As a teenager, Wolfe’s interests expanded into competitive bicycle racing, which led him to own two bike shops before fully dedicating himself to the art of picking.
Career Beginnings
In 2000, Mike Wolfe founded Antique Archaeology, a business dedicated to buying and selling antiques. This shop specializes in vintage items and folk art sourced from his extensive travels across America. The first location opened in Le Claire, Iowa, and quickly became a hotspot for antique lovers and collectors alike.
In 2011, he expanded his business by opening a second location in Nashville, Tennessee. Both stores feature a wide array of vintage items, folk art, and unique collectibles that reflect Wolfe’s keen eye for treasure. Wolfe’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop at retail; he also ventured into product lines, launching Rustorations, a line of lighting fixtures made from reclaimed materials.
This venture further solidified his reputation as an innovator in the world of antiques and design. Before achieving fame through television, Mike logged over 60,000 miles annually on his cargo van, scouring the backroads of America for what he affectionately calls “rusty gold.” His keen eye for detail and extensive knowledge of antiques allowed him to unearth valuable items that many would overlook.
Rise to Fame with American Pickers
Wolfe’s big break came in 2010 when he pitched the concept of a reality television show to the History Channel. After nearly five years of pitching the concept to various networks, American Pickers premiered on the History Channel. The idea was simple yet captivating: showcase the art of treasure hunting while highlighting the rich histories behind forgotten items.
Thus, American Pickers was born, featuring Wolfe and his co-host Frank Fritz as they traveled across America searching for hidden treasures in barns, attics, and garages. The show premiered on January 18, 2010, and quickly became a ratings success, drawing millions of viewers each week. The series attracted 3.1 million viewers for its debut episode and eventually reaching up to 5.4 million viewers weekly during its first season.
It not only entertained audiences but also educated them about the significance of antiques and the stories they carry. As one of the top-rated shows on cable television, American Pickers has aired over 300 episodes across more than 23 seasons. Wolfe’s genuine enthusiasm for antiquities, combined with his engaging personality and storytelling ability, contributed significantly to the show’s popularity.
He became known as America’s foremost professional scavenger, earning respect in both the television industry and among collectors worldwide. Additionally, Mike co-authored American Pickers’ Guide to Picking (2011) and Kid Pickers (2013), further solidifying his status as an authority in the field.
An avid music lover with a particular affinity for Americana and old-school country music, Mike co-produced an album titled Music to Pick By. This compilation features songs curated by renowned Nashville producer Brian Ahern alongside original tracks recorded by Mike himself.
Mike Wolfe Girlfriend/ New Wife
As of January 2025, Mike and Leticia are still together, enjoying a relationship built on shared passions and values. Mike began dating Leticia Cline in early 2021, shortly after his divorce from Jodi. The couple has shared moments on social media, highlighting their mutual interests in motorcycles and small-town preservation.
They were seen together at the Harley-Davidson Museum in September 2023.
Mike Wolfe First Wife and Divorce
Prior to his relationship with Leticia Cline, Wolfe was married to Jodi Catherine Faeth. The two got hitched on September 7, 2012, in Franklin, Tennessee. They welcomed their daughter, Charlie Faeth, earlier that same year, making her about nine years old as of January 2025.
The family owned two Australian blue heelers named Ruby and Scout. Jodi filed for divorce in November 2020, citing irreconcilable differences, with the official separation date noted as June 2020. The divorce was finalized in July 2021 after nearly nine years of marriage.
Jodi requested a fair division of their marital assets and debts, and there were no custody disputes regarding Charlie, who primarily resides with her mother.
Mike Wolfe Net Worth, Salary, and Entrepreneurial Ventures
As of January 2025, Mike Wolfe’s net worth is estimated to be between $7 million and $12 million. Various sources report differing figures, with some estimating his net worth at $8 million and others suggesting it could be as high as $12 million. His income primarily stems from his role on American Pickers, where he reportedly earns $500,000 per season, translating to about $25,000 per episode.
Given that the show has aired over 300 episodes across multiple seasons, this has established a significant revenue stream for him. Wolfe’s wealth is not solely derived from television. He has made strategic investments in real estate, with holdings valued at approximately $3.4 million. His property portfolio includes:
- A primary residence in Columbia, Tennessee, valued at around $1.5 million.
- A Georgian-style mansion in Leipers Fork, Tennessee, estimated at $1 million.
Beyond American Pickers, Mike Wolfe has built an extensive entrepreneurial empire. He has authored several books on antiques and collecting which have enhanced his general net worth. Wolfe also launched Two Lanes, a line of American-made apparel and accessories that reflects his love for vintage aesthetics.
Additionally, he owns Two Lanes Guesthouse, a rental property in Columbia, Tennessee, where guests can experience decor featuring items picked from across America. His divorce settlement reportedly cost him over $6 million, which included a substantial cash payout and ongoing alimony.
Mike Wolfe Illness and Health Condition
Mike Wolfe has been open about his struggles with Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel condition that can cause severe digestive issues. This condition has been a part of his health history for several years, influencing his lifestyle and dietary choices. In recent episodes of American Pickers, fans noticed that Wolfe appeared significantly thinner, raising concerns about his health.
While he has not publicly detailed these changes, he has emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and staying active despite the pressures of his career. As of late 2024, Wolfe continues to host American Pickers but has experienced emotional challenges following the death of his longtime friend and co-star Frank Fritz in September 2024. Fritz’s passing was due to complications from a stroke, which had severely impacted both his health and their friendship.
Wolfe was present during Fritz’s final moments, indicating a deep bond that remained despite their past conflicts.
FAQs About Mike Wolfe
who is Mike Wolfe married to now?
As of January 2025, Mike and Leticia are still together, enjoying a relationship built on shared passions and values. Mike began dating Leticia Cline in early 2021, shortly after his divorce from Jodi.
does Mike Wolfe have a wife?
No! However, Wolfe is currently dating Leticia Cline.
is Mike Wolfe married?
Wolfe was married to Jodi Catherine Faeth between 2015 and 2021.
how old Mike Wolfe American Pickers?
As of January 2025, Mike is 60 years old.
who is Mike Wolfe partner?
Wolfe is currently dating Leticia Cline.