Troy Landry’s Heartbreak: Pickle Wheat’s Unexpected Departure from Swamp People

In the realm of reality television, few stories tug at the heartstrings quite like that of Pickle Wheat from Swamp People.

Known for her fierce spirit and genuine demeanor, Pickle has captured the hearts of fans since her debut.

However, her recent departure from the show has left many in shock, including fellow cast member Troy Landry, who has openly expressed his sorrow over her absence.

What led to this unexpected turn of events? Let’s dive into the life of Pickle Wheat and the circumstances surrounding her exit from Swamp People.

Pickle, born Cheyenne Nicole Wheat on September 21, 1995, in Pyrus, Louisiana, grew up steeped in the traditions of alligator hunting.

Raised by a family of hunters, she learned the ropes of the trade from a young age, catching her first alligator at just 12 years old.

Her upbringing was far removed from the glitz of Hollywood; instead, it was rooted in the rugged, demanding lifestyle of the Louisiana swamps.

When she joined Swamp People in its 12th season, viewers were immediately drawn to her authenticity.

Unlike many reality stars, Pickle wasn’t chasing fame or fortune.

She was there to represent her family and her way of life.

Her genuine nature resonated with audiences, making her a standout among the show’s cast members, who often relied on bravado and theatrics.

Pickle’s relationship with Troy Landry, one of the show’s most prominent figures, was particularly heartwarming.

Their bond transcended the typical mentor-apprentice dynamic; it was built on mutual respect and genuine affection.

Troy often referred to Pickle as a daughter, a sentiment echoed by fans who admired their close-knit relationship.

However, as production slowed due to Troy’s health issues—he was diagnosed with prostate cancer—fans began to notice Pickle’s gradual absence from the show.

With the filming schedule disrupted, she found herself with more free time, which led to significant changes in her personal life.

During this break from filming, Pickle’s personal life blossomed.

She began dating Joshua Kippus, an emergency medical technician, and their relationship quickly became a topic of interest among fans.

While neither Pickle nor Joshua sought the spotlight, their love story unfolded quietly and authentically, away from the cameras.

Eventually, Pickle announced her engagement, and when the wedding took place, it was a heartfelt, intimate ceremony officiated by Troy himself.

This moment was particularly poignant, showcasing the deep bonds that had formed among the cast members over the years.

Troy’s presence at the wedding highlighted the familial ties that had developed within the show, making it clear that their relationships extended beyond the screen.

After her marriage, Pickle welcomed her first child, a daughter named Miami, in April 2023, followed by a son named Casey in April 2025.

As she embraced motherhood, her priorities began to shift.

While she remained committed to her work on Swamp People, the demands of raising two young children naturally took precedence.

Fans noticed her reduced screen time and began to speculate about her future on the show.

Many were concerned that she might be leaving Swamp People for good, especially given the lack of communication from her or the network regarding her absence.

However, Pickle’s journey was far from over.

When news broke of Troy Landry’s emotional reaction to Pickle’s departure, it struck a chord with fans.

In a heartfelt moment, Troy expressed how much he missed her presence on the show, indicating the depth of their bond.

His tears were a testament to the impact Pickle had on the cast and crew, as well as the audience who had come to love her.

Despite the speculation surrounding her exit, Pickle’s absence from the show was not a sign of abandonment but rather a reflection of her evolving life.

She had not forgotten her roots or her commitment to the swamp; she was simply navigating a new chapter filled with family responsibilities.

Even as she stepped back from the camera, Pickle continued to engage with her audience through social media, sharing glimpses of her life as a mother while maintaining her connection to the swamp.

Her posts highlighted the balance she was striving to achieve between her traditional lifestyle and her new role as a parent.

Fans appreciated her honesty and relatability, recognizing that she was not just a hunter but also a dedicated mother trying to find her footing in a demanding world.

Pickle’s journey is a reminder that even reality TV stars have real lives filled with challenges and triumphs.

Pickle Wheat’s departure from Swamp People has undoubtedly left a void not only for the fans but also for her castmates, especially Troy Landry.

However, her story is one of growth, love, and the pursuit of balance.

As she embraces motherhood and continues to honor her roots, it’s clear that Pickle’s legacy on the show will endure, even if she is not in front of the camera.

Her journey reflects the complexities of life, where personal milestones can lead to significant changes in one’s professional path.

While fans may miss seeing her in the swamp, they can take comfort in knowing that Pickle Wheat is thriving in her new role as a wife and mother, proving that the spirit of the swamp lives on in her heart.