Margaret Cho and the Influence of Burlesque on Danielle Colby
Margaret Cho is widely recognized as a Renaissance woman in the entertainment industry. As a stand-up comedian, actress, and musician, Cho has not only entertained but also tackled social and political issues in her routines, becoming a fierce advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Her notable performances, including a memorable run as Kim Jong-il on 30 Rock and a recently acclaimed role in the 2024 film All That We Love, have captivated audiences. However, it is her passion for burlesque that has profoundly influenced fellow performer Danielle Colby, best known from the reality series American Pickers.
Burlesque: A Life-Changing Inspiration for Colby
Danielle Colby grew up in a strict Jehovah’s Witness household in Davenport, Iowa. Despite an early interest in burlesque, Colby’s upbringing instilled a sense of taboo surrounding the art form. This fascination was reignited when she attended Cho’s variety show The Sensuous Woman in Chicago in 2004. Colby describes the experience as “life-changing,” noting the liberating atmosphere created by a diverse group of women on stage, showcasing varying body types and strengths. This moment spurred her to pursue a career in burlesque.
Soon after, Colby began taking burlesque classes and even started teaching. Despite pushback from friends and family, who viewed her ambitions as unconventional, Colby was determined. She formed her own performing troupe, Burlesque Le’ Moustache, adopting the stage identity of Dannie Diesel—a name she still uses.
Navigating Health Challenges
Colby’s journey in burlesque has had its share of hurdles. In December 2024, she announced a pause in her performances due to a personal health issue, which concerned fans. In an Instagram video, she later revealed that the health issue was her own, and she expressed optimism about returning to the stage. By April 2025, she confirmed her comeback, reaffirming the importance of burlesque in her life journey as a means of building a positive relationship with body image and sexuality.
A Museum Dedicated to Burlesque?
As American Pickers readies for a six-month hiatus—the first significant break for the cast in over 15 years—Colby has plans to channel her experiences into establishing a museum dedicated to burlesque and the art of ecdysis (an archaic term for stripping and burlesque). Her role on American Pickers has enabled her to acquire fascinating historical artifacts related to burlesque, including vintage costumes and significant memorabilia from burlesque legends like Lillie Langtry and Josephine Baker.
Colby aims to inspire other women through her performances and this new venture, highlighting the importance of celebrating the artistry of burlesque without shame. She stated, “It would be a shame if this history featuring all of these strong, talented, amazing women were lost because of the shame of being a striptease artist, because there’s no shame in that. It’s a beautiful art.”
Cultural Significance and Future Prospects
The impact of Cho’s influence on Colby underscores the broader narrative of how art forms traditionally viewed as taboo can empower individuals and reshape societal perceptions. Colby’s transition from a hesitant admirer to an advocate and performer speaks volumes about the potential of art to transform lives.
As American Pickers prepares for its return in January 2026, there is speculation about whether Cho might join the cast, expanding the intersection of reality TV and performance arts. Both women exemplify the resilience of artistic expression, challenging norms while fostering inclusivity and empowerment within their communities.
In conclusion, the intertwined journeys of Cho and Colby reflect not only personal triumphs but also a cultural shift towards accepting and celebrating diverse forms of expression. Colby’s initiatives, both on and off the stage, promise to leave a lasting impact on the preservation and appreciation of burlesque as an art form.
