Season 26 of the popular show American Pickers ended on a controversial note, with host Mike Wolfe’s extravagant purchase of a rare 19th-century slot machine for $15,000 seemingly rekindling viewer interest. However, the season, which struggled to maintain its audience, has been criticized for its dwindling ratings, with some suggesting it’s become the ‘skeleton’ of the show. It remains to be seen if this move was a comeback or a last gasp.