The Unfiltered Life of Danielle Colby: From American Picker to Burlesque Star

In the world of reality television, few personalities are as intriguing as Danielle Colby. For years, audiences have known her as the tattooed, rockabilly-styled office manager of Antique Archaeology on the History Channel’s hit show, “American Pickers.” She is the one who holds down the fort, researches the leads, and keeps Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz on track as they traverse the backroads of America in search of rusty gold. But behind the friendly smile and encyclopedic knowledge of antiques lies a story of personal evolution, controversy, and a passion that takes center stage in a world far removed from dusty barns and forgotten relics.

Born in Davenport, Iowa, Danielle was raised in a Jehovah’s Witness household. It was a life of structure and modesty, a stark contrast to the vibrant and expressive persona she would later embrace. Her early years were quiet, focused on family and faith. This upbringing, however, laid the groundwork for a rebellious spirit, a desire to break free and define her own path. It was a journey that would eventually lead her to the forefront of a cultural phenomenon, but not without its share of personal sacrifice.

Before the glitz and glamour of television came into the picture, Danielle was a wife and mother. She married Robert Strong, and together they had two children. Their life was ordinary, filled with the everyday joys and challenges of raising a family. But everything changed when “American Pickers” premiered in 2010. The show was an instant success, and Danielle, with her unique style and warm personality, became a fan favorite. The sudden thrust into the limelight, however, put an immense strain on her marriage. The constant filming, the travel, and the demands of fame created a chasm between Danielle and her husband. In the end, the pressure became too much, and their marriage crumbled, a casualty of a life she had never anticipated.

As “American Pickers” grew in popularity, so did the scrutiny. The show, which had once been praised for its authenticity, began to face criticism. One of the most talked-about controversies involved the restoration of Aerosmith’s original touring van in Season 19. The storyline, which saw the van being gifted back to the legendary rock band, was seen by many viewers as a blatant and excessive form of product placement. Fans felt that the show was losing its focus on genuine picking and was instead becoming a commercial for other brands and celebrities. Danielle, who was featured in the segment, did not escape the backlash. Some viewers accused her of not taking the restoration seriously, while others took issue with what they perceived as inappropriate behavior from Aerosmith’s lead singer, Steven Tyler, towards her. The incident highlighted the double-edged sword of reality TV fame – the adoration of fans can quickly turn to criticism when the line between reality and entertainment becomes blurred.

While the world knew her as an antique expert, Danielle was cultivating a passion that was entirely her own. After witnessing a burlesque performance in Chicago, she was captivated. It was a world of glamour, empowerment, and self-expression, a far cry from the conservative world she had grown up in. She dove headfirst into the art form, training to become a professional burlesque dancer. She took to the stage under the name “Danny Diesel,” a nickname given to her by her father, and quickly made a name for herself in the burlesque community. For Danielle, burlesque was more than just a performance; it was a way to reclaim her body, her identity, and her narrative. It was a space where she could be unapologetically herself, free from the constraints of her past and the expectations of her television persona. Today, she is not only a performer but also a mentor, teaching the art of burlesque at her own academy in Chicago. Her passion has even been passed down to the next generation, with her daughter also taking to the stage.

The world of “American Pickers” has also seen its share of changes. Co-star Frank Fritz, a beloved figure on the show, departed due to health issues, including back surgery and a stroke. His absence was deeply felt by fans, and ratings began to decline. While Mike Wolfe has publicly stated that the door is always open for Frank to return, the future of the show remains uncertain. Despite the turmoil, Danielle has remained a constant presence. She appeared in the 23rd season, which concluded in March 2022, and has expressed her excitement to continue working alongside Mike.

Today, Danielle Colby’s life is a delicate balance between two worlds. She continues to be an integral part of “American Pickers,” her passion for history and antiques as strong as ever. But she is also a celebrated burlesque performer, a business owner with her own clothing brand, “Four Miles to Memphis,” and a happily remarried woman, having found love with French artist Alexandre De Meyer. Her journey is a testament to the power of reinvention, a reminder that it is never too late to chase a new dream or to redefine who you are. From a quiet life in Iowa to the bright lights of the stage, Danielle Colby has proven that she is more than just a picker – she is a force of nature, a true original, and a woman who is not afraid to write her own story.