Dave Hester is an American auctioneer and reality-TV buyer best known for A&E’s Storage Wars. Born July 23, 1964, he grew up around buying and selling, learning how value hides in plain sight. Before TV fame, he ran consignment and thrift operations in Southern California and earned the nickname “The Mogul.” His father’s train collection helped spark his eye for collectibles, while occasional appearances from his son (Dave Jr.) showed the business runs in the family.
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As Storage Wars took off, Dave Hester stood out for his bold bids and that unmistakable “YUUUP!” call. The catchphrase became part of his brand across TV, events, and merch. Over time he faced both legal drama and real health challenges, yet he kept working as an auctioneer and eventually returned to the show. Today, fans still know him for quick decisions, a sharp read on value, and a style that turns dusty lockers into profit.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Full name | Dave Hester |
| Born | July 23, 1964 (Age 61) |
| Known for | Storage Wars bidder, “YUUUP!” catchphrase |
| Nickname | The Mogul |
| Business | Dave Hester Auctioneer (Southern California) |
| Notable moments | 2012 lawsuit; 2018 stroke; TV return in 2025 |
| Family note | Son Dave Jr. occasionally appeared on the show |
Dave Hester on Storage Wars: persona, bidding style, “YUUUP!”
Dave Hester came into Storage Wars with a loud voice and a sharp eye. He bids fast, keeps a straight face, and pushes rivals to make mistakes. His “YUUUP!” shout is more than a catchphrase. It’s a signal that he’s ready to take the unit and force others to back off. Viewers remember the tension he creates at the door, plus the way he turns rough-looking lockers into solid flips.
On screen, Dave Hester plays the tough competitor. Off screen, he treats bidding like a numbers game. He studies costs, time, and resale value before he lifts a finger. That mix—TV drama plus real math—made him stand out. Fans either root for him or root against him, but they always watch what he does next.
The Dave Hester lawsuit & controversies: what happened and what it meant
Back in the early 2010s, Dave Hester made headlines for a lawsuit tied to the show. He challenged parts of the production, and the dispute led to time away from TV. The legal fight didn’t end his career, though. It became a chapter that shaped how fans viewed the show and the people on it.
Today, most viewers remember the drama, but they focus on what came after: work, recovery, and a comeback. The big lesson for creators and fans is simple. TV is entertainment, and business is business. Dave Hester found a way to return to both.
Quick Timeline: Dave Hester Lawsuit (Fast Facts)
| Year | Issue | What Dave Claimed | Result (Publicly Known) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Legal dispute | Challenged parts of show production | Case moved through court; later resolved |
| After | TV future | Time away from series | Returned to TV in later seasons |
Health scare of Dave Hester: the stroke and the road back
In late 2018, Dave Hester suffered a hemorrhagic stroke. Recovery was slow and serious. He focused on rehab, speech, and getting his strength back. For fans, it was a reminder that life can change fast, and health always comes first. The pause also showed how much of his work depends on quick thinking and steady energy.
Over time, he came back to auctions and to TV. That return wasn’t just about being on camera. It was about proving he could handle the pressure again. Many viewers saw a tougher, wiser Dave Hester—someone who values rest, planning, and balance as much as the thrill of the bid.
Business & money of Dave Hester: auctions, brand, and steady income
Away from TV, Dave Hester runs auction services in Southern California. He works with storage facilities, estates, and business liquidations. That hands-on work keeps him close to the market. He sees what items move, what stalls, and what trends are rising. When you do this daily, you learn which units are worth a fight—and which to skip.
His brand also matters. The “YUUUP!” line appears on merch and promotion, and his TV profile helps bookings. Income doesn’t come from one source. It’s a mix of auction fees, consulting, appearances, and resale. That spread lowers risk. If one stream dips, the others help keep cash flow steady.
Where is Dave Hester now: TV spots, events, and how to follow
These days, Dave Hester balances TV tapings with auction work. You’ll see him at storage sales, charity calls, and local events. He still treats each unit like a puzzle. What’s the worst-case loss? What’s the best-case flip? That quiet math happens even when the cameras aren’t rolling.
If you want to keep up, watch new Storage Wars episodes and clips online. Check official network pages and his business updates for schedules. The formula that built his name—speed, discipline, and that signature “YUUUP!”—still drives how Dave Hester works today.
FAQs about Dave Hester
Who is Dave Hester?
He’s a California auctioneer and reality-TV buyer from Storage Wars, known for sharp negotiating and turning lockers into big profit.
Why does he say “YUUUP!”?
His loud bid call. On TV it became a catchphrase and signal he’s in, ready to outbid rivals and win today.
Why did he leave the show?
A 2012 lawsuit and a 2018 stroke sidelined him. After recovery and legal resolution, he returned for Storage Wars episodes.
Is “YUUUP!” trademarked?
Yes, he pursued trademark protection and defended it. It’s core to his brand on merchandise, marketing, and live auctions.
Where is Dave Hester now?
Running Dave Hester Auctioneer in Southern California and appearing on Storage Wars again, sharing updates and auction gigs with fans.
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