LOS ANGELES, CA. (THECOUNT) — Frank Fritz, a beloved star of the hit reality TV show American Pickers, has passed away at the age of 60. His longtime friend and co-star, Mike Wolfe, confirmed the tragic news on social media, sharing his sorrow with fans and remembering the man he had known for much of his life.
Wolfe, who had co-hosted the popular show with Fritz for more than a decade, posted heartfelt messages on Instagram and Facebook on Tuesday, informing fans that Frank had died on Monday evening. In his posts, Wolfe expressed his deep grief over the loss of his friend, highlighting the strong bond they shared both on and off the camera.
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Mike Wolfe’s Emotional Tribute:
“It’s with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night,” Wolfe began in his emotional statement. He reflected on their long friendship, explaining how much Fritz had meant to him over the years. “I’ve [known] Frank for more than half my life, and what you’ve seen on TV has always been what I have seen: a dreamer who was just as sensitive as he was funny. The same off camera as he was on, Frank had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself.”
Wolfe went on to recount the early days of their friendship, long before they found fame together on American Pickers. He recalled the spontaneous road trips they took, driven by a shared love of history and the excitement of discovering rare artifacts. “Before the show, we would take off together to places we never knew existed with no destination in mind, just the shared passion to discover something interesting and historic,” Wolfe wrote. “We’ve been on countless trips and shared so many miles, and I feel blessed that I was there by his side when he took one last journey home.”
Wolfe signed off his tribute by expressing his love for Fritz and reflecting on his belief that Fritz was now in “a better place.”
Frank Fritz’s Legacy:
Frank Fritz was well-known for his role as co-host on American Pickers, a reality show that follows Wolfe and Fritz as they travel across America in search of hidden treasures. Premiering in 2010, the show quickly gained a dedicated fan base, in large part due to the genuine camaraderie between Fritz and Wolfe. Their shared enthusiasm for uncovering forgotten pieces of history and giving them new life endeared them to viewers.
Fritz’s unique personality made him a favorite on the show. His sense of humor, passion for antiques, and down-to-earth nature resonated with fans, who appreciated his authenticity. Over the years, American Pickers became more than just a show about finding rare artifacts—it became a celebration of friendship, curiosity, and the joy of discovery.
Fritz stepped away from American Pickers in 2020 due to a series of health issues. He had suffered from Crohn’s disease for many years, which affected his ability to travel and work on the show. In 2021, he experienced a severe stroke, which left him hospitalized and led to further complications with his health. Despite these challenges, Fritz remained a beloved figure in the world of reality television, with many fans expressing their continued support for him during his health struggles.
Health Struggles and Cause of Death:
While Mike Wolfe’s tribute did not specify the cause of death, Fritz’s health had been a concern in recent years. His stroke in 2021 was a major turning point, and he had faced a series of other health complications leading up to his passing. Fans had been hoping for his recovery, but his health issues ultimately proved too severe.
Wolfe’s message to fans made it clear that Frank’s passing was not just the loss of a co-star, but the loss of a dear friend with whom he had shared countless memories and experiences. “I feel blessed that I was there by his side,” Wolfe wrote, underscoring the depth of their relationship and the impact Fritz had on those who knew him.
A Fond Farewell:
Frank Fritz’s death has left a significant void in the hearts of his fans, friends, and family. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, curiosity, and a passion for uncovering the forgotten stories hidden in America’s attics, barns, and garages. Fans of American Pickers will remember him for his humor, his friendship with Mike Wolfe, and the joy he brought to the screen for over a decade.
As Wolfe and others mourn the loss of a friend and TV personality, fans across the world are paying tribute to Fritz, sharing their favorite moments from American Pickers and remembering the laughter and warmth he brought to every episode. His memory will live on in the stories he helped tell and the artifacts he helped preserve.
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