Danielle Colby is stepping back into the burlesque spotlight. The American Pickers personality will headline the Ohio Burlesque Festival on August 9, marking a bold return after a string of canceled shows in late 2024.
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The 49-year-old TV star and performer shared the announcement on June 3 via Instagram. A joint post with the Ohio Burlesque Festival revealed Colby -- also known as Dannie Diesel -- will take center stage in Cleveland.
The event flyer featured her in a leopard-print bodysuit and red cape, setting the tone for what organizers are calling "the most dazzling event of the summer."
Personal Triumph Fuels Performance
The performance takes place at Beachland Ballroom & Tavern. Doors open at 7 p.m., with the show scheduled for 8. General admission costs $30 in advance or $35 at the door.
For Colby, this show carries deep personal meaning, she said. Alongside the announcement, she opened up about the outfit featured in the promo image.
"The last time I wore this costume, I was in very bad health," she wrote. "That night was painful and frightening. But I survived, and I can't wait to wear it again -- with confidence and peace."
Earlier health concerns forced her to cancel previous burlesque dates. Now, she's not only performing again but also expanding her professional footprint. Colby is preparing to open a new venture in her hometown of Davenport, Iowa. Meanwhile, her longtime American Pickers co-star Mike Wolfe is pursuing major projects of his own.
From Roller Derby to Burlesque Icon
Colby's creative journey began in Davenport, where she was raised as a Jehovah's Witness. She later joined the roller derby circuit, skating with the Big Mouth Mickies until injuries forced her off the track.
While living in Chicago, she attended a burlesque performance featuring comedian Margaret Cho and dancer Satan's Angel. That night changed everything, it seems.
Colby launched her own troupe (Burlesque Le Moustache) and began touring across Iowa and Illinois. She also opened Dannie Diesel's Bump 'n' Grind Academy in Chicago's Rogers Park neighborhood.
Her friendship with Mike Wolfe led her to American Pickers, which premiered in 2010 and quickly rose to become one of History Channel's top-rated shows. Wolfe invited Colby to work at Antique Archaeology, and her on-screen presence helped solidify the show's early success.
Now, the Queen of Rust is back, and this time, she's bringing the fire with her.
