Discover where the Storage Wars cast is now! From Barry Weiss to Brandi Passante, find out their life updates, businesses, and shocking turns after the show.

Storage Wars: Where Are They Now? The Untold Stories Beyond the Auctions

“I spent $1,000 on this locker because I just had to have that pink scooter.” If you’ve ever tuned in to Storage Wars, chances are you’ve heard similar words echoing across the auction yard. Since its debut on A&E in 2010, the hit reality show turned abandoned storage lockers into treasure chests and made household names out of its quirky cast. Over 14 seasons, Storage Wars delivered drama, laughs, and those heart-pounding moments when a dusty box revealed a priceless artifact.

But what happened when the cameras stopped rolling? Fame comes at a price, and for the stars of Storage Wars, life after the spotlight has been a mix of triumph, reinvention, and even tragedy. Let’s dive into where some of your favorite auction warriors are today.

Dan and Laura Dotson: The Heartbeat of the Auctions

Dan and Laura Dotson weren’t just auctioneers—they were the glue that held Storage Wars together. Known for their rapid-fire auction chant and playful banter, they became instant fan favorites. Their chemistry as a married couple brought warmth to an otherwise competitive environment, making them the power duo of the series.

Even after Storage Wars went on hiatus, the Dotsons didn’t step away from the gavel. They doubled down, running their thriving business, American Auctioneers, which conducts live auctions across California. They also own storageauctions.net, connecting bidders to units across the U.S. and Canada. Today, they remain respected figures in the auctioneering world—proof that their love for the business wasn’t just for show.

Mark Balelo: The High Roller with a Tragic Ending

Mark Balelo, nicknamed Rico Suave, brought charisma and flair to every auction. Dressed in sharp suits and exuding confidence, Mark was known for bold bids and risk-taking strategies. Off-camera, however, life told a different story. Legal troubles and personal struggles weighed heavily on him, and in 2013, fans were shocked to learn of his death at age 40, ruled a suicide.

Mark’s story serves as a sobering reminder that reality TV glitz often masks real-life battles. Despite his tragic end, his impact on the show—and his fearless approach to the game—won’t be forgotten.

Daryl Sheets: The Gambler Who Lived Big

If Storage Wars had a motto, Daryl Sheets embodied it: Go big or go home. Nicknamed The Gambler, he was famous for making risky bids that sometimes paid off in spectacular ways. Fans admired his optimism, and even after leaving the show, that spirit never wavered.

Daryl embarked on a weight-loss journey, shedding 40 pounds, and inspired others with his positivity. But in 2019, health issues struck when he suffered a severe heart attack, later revealing congestive heart failure. Despite multiple surgeries, Daryl stayed strong and even made cameo appearances before ultimately retiring to focus on his health. Sadly, in March 2023, the Storage Wars community mourned his passing.

Brandon Sheets: From Auctions to Real Estate

Brandon, Daryl’s son, brought a youthful energy to the show as The Side Bet. Known for his measured approach, he often acted as the voice of reason next to his father’s big risks. After leaving in 2016 due to budget cuts, Brandon pivoted to real estate in Arizona.

Today, he lives a quieter life with his family, working as a sales agent and logistics specialist. While he no longer chases storage treasures, his sense of humor shines through on social media, where he occasionally entertains fans with lighthearted posts.

Barry Weiss: The Collector Who Keeps Rolling

Perhaps the most eccentric buyer, Barry Weiss—The Collector—turned heads with his vintage cars, stylish outfits, and thrill-seeking attitude. He wasn’t in it for profit; he was in it for fun. After leaving the show in 2015, Barry starred in two spin-offs: Barry’d Treasure and Storage Wars: Barry Strikes Back.

In 2019, Barry suffered a severe motorcycle accident that left him with multiple broken bones and a long recovery ahead. But Barry bounced back with his signature cool. He later became the face of Sherwood Valley Casino and remains active in the collector community. These days, Barry spends time with his family—including his grandson, Jack—and occasionally pops up at vintage events.

Ivy Calvin: From Auctions to Antiques

A former MMA fighter, Ivy Calvin brought grit and competitiveness to Storage Wars. Nicknamed the King of Palmdale, he joined the main cast in season 5 and quickly became a fan favorite. After stepping away from TV, Ivy focused on his antique business, Grandma’s Attic, in Palmdale.

While his store eventually scaled back to weekend openings and online sales, Ivy remains deeply involved in the antiques world and active in his local community. Married to Wendy and a proud father of two, Ivy has found success beyond the spotlight.

Rene and Casey Nezhoda: The Power Couple of Resale

Rene and Casey joined in season 4, winning fans with their humor and expertise in collectibles. When the show went on hiatus, they launched their YouTube channel, Bargain Hunters Thrift, which now boasts over 190,000 subscribers. They also ran a physical thrift store in California until its closure in 2023.

Despite rumors of a split, Rene and Casey remain together, balancing family life with online ventures. They’ve managed to turn reality TV fame into a sustainable business model—and fans still can’t get enough.

Brandi Passante and Jarrod Schulz: From Partners to Exes

Brandi and Jarrod were the fiery couple whose banter and bold moves made them must-watch TV. They even landed a spin-off, Married to the Job, but their relationship eventually unraveled. After season 12, the pair split, and Brandi later revealed struggles with co-parenting and alleged abuse.

Today, Brandi lives as a single mom and is rumored to be dating Clifford Beaver, while Jarrod has kept a lower profile. Though their partnership ended, they remain memorable figures in Storage Wars history.

Dave Hester: The Villain Who Walked Away

Every reality show needs a villain, and Dave Hester embraced that role with his infamous “YUUUP!” battle cry. Love him or hate him, he added drama that fueled ratings. But after calling out the show for being staged, he was fired.

Now semi-retired, Dave runs an independent auction business and lives a quieter life in Alaska. After surviving a near-fatal stroke, he’s focused on health and family rather than TV drama.

Mary Padian: The Junkyard Queen with a Heart

Mary Padian, aka The Junkster, charmed fans with her creativity and love for upcycling. After leaving the show, she opened Mary’s Finds, a vintage store, and dedicated herself to philanthropy through Ubuntu Life, supporting children in Kenya.

Although her physical store closed during the pandemic, Mary pivoted online and remains active on social media, sharing DIY projects and vintage finds. Her journey proves that life after reality TV can be just as colorful—and meaningful—as the show itself.

Beyond the Lockers

Storage Wars was never just about dusty units and hidden treasures. It was about people—their ambition, quirks, and resilience. From triumphs and tragedies to reinvention and legacy, these stars remind us that life after fame is a new kind of bidding war: for health, happiness, and purpose.