Pickle Wheat, the fearless alligator hunter from *Swamp People*, captured the hearts of viewers with her unmatched skills and authentic charm.

However, since early 2025, she has seemingly vanished from the show, leaving fans wondering what really happened to her.

Was it a silent departure, a personal turning point, or something that remains undisclosed?

Let’s dive into the life of Cheyenne Nicole Wheat, better known as Pickle, and explore the journey that led her to become a beloved figure in the swamp hunting community.

Born on September 21, 1995, in Pyrus, Louisiana, Pickle did not grow up in the entertainment industry.

Instead, she was raised in the southern swamps, where alligator hunting is not just a job but a life-and-death tradition passed down through generations.

Her family has been involved in this trade for decades, with her great-grandfather being one of the first alligator hunters in St. Bernard Parish.

Her father, Eddie Wheat, continued this legacy, taking Pickle on hunting trips from a young age.

By her early teenage years, she was already adept at navigating dense bayous and spotting alligators alongside her father.

The Wheat family also runs a duck and turkey call manufacturing business, which is another traditional craft of the local community.

These products are not merely tools for hunters but also cultural symbols of the swamp region.

Pickle played a significant role in the production process, shaping wooden tubes and soundchecking, which deepened her appreciation for the connection between people and nature.

Interestingly, the nickname “Pickle” originated from a playful coincidence.

 

 

Her middle name, Nicole, when said quickly, sounded like “shiny pickle,” and the name stuck throughout her childhood.

Despite her growing fame, Pickle’s formal education background has not been widely publicized.

Local sources indicate that she chose not to pursue college, opting instead to stay in her hometown and continue the hunting trade with her parents.

In a candid interview with the History Channel, Pickle stated, “I don’t need a degree to be true to who I am.

All I need is a good boat, a strong rope, and sharp eyes.”

Before her rise to fame, she was known as a simple girl with braided hair, often seen in t-shirts, jeans, and rubber boots.

She had little social media presence before her television debut, making her sudden popularity all the more surprising.

People who worked with the Wheat family described her as quick, independent-minded, and not afraid of hard work, even when it involved carrying heavy alligator meat.

In Louisiana, alligator hunting demands endurance, keen observation, and strong reflexes—qualities Pickle possesses in abundance.

Growing up in a community where women were rarely seen as leaders in hunting, Pickle was trained as a professional hunter from a young age.

This foundation explains why her appearance on national television was not just refreshing; she represented a new generation revitalizing a fading traditional trade.

 

 

Pickle first appeared on *Swamp People* in its 12th season, which aired in 2021.

Her introduction was a bold move by producers, bringing a young female hunter into a lineup dominated by veteran faces like Troy Landry and Jacob Landry.

Pickle quickly proved she was not just a new addition; she had the skills to thrive in one of the harshest environments in the American South.

From her debut episodes, viewers were captivated by her professional attitude and quick problem-solving abilities.

She often teamed up with Troy Landry, creating a mentor-apprentice dynamic that became a key draw for audiences.

Statistics from the History Channel indicated that episodes featuring Pickle often achieved higher-than-average ratings.

Fans were not only interested in her hunting prowess but also in how she interacted with her environment.

She handled ropes, bait, and rifles with ease, displaying remarkable composure under pressure.

In a behind-the-scenes interview, Troy Landry remarked, “Pickle doesn’t have to prove she’s good. She just needs to show up and do her work, and that’s enough.”

Her personality further endeared her to viewers.

 

 

Rather than being loud or theatrically dramatic, Pickle approached her work with a serious ethic and a touch of rustic humor.

In challenging conditions, she remained calm and effectively coordinated with her partner to complete their tasks.

These attributes convinced the audience that she was not merely there for scripted drama.

Beyond *Swamp People*, Pickle was selected for the spin-off *Swamp People: Serpent Invasion*, focusing on hunting invasive snake species in the Florida Everglades.

This venture required agility and sharp reflexes, showcasing her adaptability as a hunter.

Pickle’s relationships with cast members demonstrated her integration into the professional hunting community.

She collaborated with Ashley Jones, another female hunter, forming a rare connection in a male-dominated field.

Her rapport with other cast members, including Jacob Landry and Willie Edwards, highlighted her role as an integral part of the show’s success.

From season 12 through season 16, Pickle’s consistent presence affirmed her as a capable personality with significant contributions.

After three years of steady involvement, her image became synonymous with the swamps and alligator hunts.

However, her life was not solely defined by her work.

In late 2022, Pickle shared personal news that changed public perception.

She posted a sonogram photo on Facebook, announcing her pregnancy with Joshua Kippus, an EMT based in Louisiana.

Fans noticed her increased social media presence alongside Joshua, sparking curiosity about her future on *Swamp People*.

In May 2023, Pickle welcomed her first daughter, Mammy, sharing the moment on her Facebook page.

Even during her pregnancy, she continued to film special episodes, demonstrating her dedication to both motherhood and her work.

In a behind-the-scenes clip, she expressed, “I know where my limits are. As long as I’m out in nature, I feel way better than sitting at home doing nothing.”

Her portrayal as a strong, balanced figure resonated with viewers, showcasing the duality of motherhood and hard work.

After giving birth, Pickle maintained her presence on *Swamp People*, albeit with a reduced filming schedule.

She participated in segments with Troy Landry and some shorter hunting trips while balancing her new role as a mother.

Her social media updates continued to offer glimpses into her daily life, including family meals and outings with her baby.

Toward the end of 2024, Pickle announced her second pregnancy, sharing updates with her followers.

In January 2025, she revealed she was 25 weeks along, emphasizing her commitment to staying active outdoors.

Her wedding to Joshua Kippus was featured in an episode of season 16, showcasing a significant moment in her personal life.

This integration of her personal journey into the show reflected the audience’s affection for Pickle and the support from the production team.

As she gradually stepped back from filming activities in March 2025, fans noticed her absence from the show.

Promotional clips stopped mentioning her name, raising questions about her future on *Swamp People*.

While there has been no official statement regarding her departure, her recent posts indicate a focus on family.

Fans expressed disappointment at her absence from action scenes but also understood her choice to prioritize motherhood.

The production team has not confirmed whether Pickle will return, leading to speculation among fans.

Some believe she may come back once her children are older, while others suggest she could explore new opportunities in social media or personal branding.

Regardless of the theories, fans respect her decision to focus on family over fame.

In a world where many reality TV stars chase relevance, Pickle’s choice to step back highlights her commitment to personal values.

This isn’t the first time a member of *Swamp People* has taken a hiatus, but Pickle’s absence resonates deeply with fans.

She became a symbol of fresh energy, helping the show retain a younger audience.

Reflecting on her journey, her step back is not a sign of decline but a transition that aligns with her personal circumstances.

Pickle has often stated that while she loves her work, family is the foundation guiding her choices.

By 2025, she embodies this philosophy, balancing work and family life.

Even though she is currently absent from *Swamp People*, her journey leaves a lasting impression on audiences.

Behind the fearless alligator hunter lies a personal life that is rarely shared in the spotlight.

For her followers, the stories of her life beyond the camera are just as captivating.

One intriguing fact is that Pickle does not eat alligator meat, despite her profession.

This preference stems not from ethical beliefs but simply because she dislikes the taste.

Additionally, she remains involved in her family’s duck and turkey call business, participating in quality control and promotion.

Her enduring relationship with Troy Landry reflects the strong bonds formed within the hunting community.

Troy has described Pickle as family, emphasizing the trust and respect earned through action.

Pickle’s participation in community fundraising events showcases her proactive nature and commitment to her roots.

While rumors swirl about her joining a new show, she seems to prioritize her personal life over strategic career moves.

Looking back, Pickle Wheat has carved her place in the swamp hunting world through skill, hard work, and genuine interaction with fans.

She represents a television personality who exists beyond the screen, embodying authenticity and dedication.

Though her future on *Swamp People* remains uncertain, her legacy as a rising star in the swamps endures.

Today, she seeks peaceful moments with her family rather than chasing alligators.

What do you think of Pickle Wheat’s choice?

Will she return to the screen soon, or has she embarked on a new journey?

Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more stories!