Treasure Hunt

Star Trek props? Batman comics? Brady Bunch booty? Lisa Whelchel goes in search of big pop culture troves on Collector's Call

- DAMIAN HOLBROOK

ONE PERSON'S TCHOTCHKE is another's treasure. And if that prize also happens to be a piece of pop culture history? You might as well bring a true TV icon in to be wowed by its worth! I really loved this idea, says Facts of Life star Lisa Whelchel, host of Collector's Call Me TV's nod to fan-accrued memorabilia, which returns for Season 3 with even more finds. I'd just become a life coach [when the network pitched the show), so I was deep into exploring what gives us passion and purpose. And one thing collectors have is passion and purpose! In each episode, Whelchel meets ordinary folks who have gone way beyond a poster or action figure when it comes to their biggest obsession. Think: re-created Star Trek quarters, a Doctor Who TARDIS console, antique cars from Hollywood's yesteryear or a wealth of sports paraphernalia. There are some who have built entire [displays] from floor to ceiling, marvels Whelchel of these ultimate fans and their extraordinary troves. “Their collections have taken over the entire house.