Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and even well-known television personalities like Frank Fritz are not exempt from its challenges. In this article, we share the heartbreaking story of Frank Fritz, the host of “American Pickers,” and his tumultuous personal journey.
A Love Story Cut Short
Frank Fritz met Diann Bankson when he was just 25 years old, and their love story began to unfold. They had their ups and downs, but they eventually got engaged in 2017 and purchased a farmhouse in Iowa in 2018. It seemed like their life together was on track. However, everything came crashing down when Bankson claimed to have caught Fritz in bed with another woman. Their romance abruptly ended, leaving both of them deeply hurt.
The Aftermath
Fritz opened up about the pain he felt after the betrayal. He revealed that Bankson had gone so far as to get a tattoo as a reminder of her infidelity. Despite everything, he still had the desire to marry her. He had even bought a house and an expensive engagement ring with that intention. He said, “She is the cheater,” and he got a tattoo that read, “Once a cheater, always a cheater,” as a constant reminder not to make the same mistake again. The emotional toll and financial loss caused by the betrayal took a toll on Fritz.
To cope with his broken heart, Fritz turned to alcohol. It became his way of dealing with the pain and resulted in significant weight loss. He admitted, “I gave it my all. I attempted to drown her in alcohol.” The scars from his previous relationship were still fresh, so he decided to take a break from dating and focus on overcoming his drinking problem.
Career Challenges
As if dealing with the aftermath of his personal life wasn’t enough, Fritz also faced career difficulties. He lost his job as the host of “American Pickers” on the History Channel in March 2020. Although he attributed his absence to health issues and back surgery, there were no concrete plans for his return at the time. However, Fritz remained hopeful, expressing his eagerness to get back to the show once he had fully recovered.
A New Chapter
Despite his hopes of returning to the show, Fritz’s future as a host remained uncertain. TMZ reported that there were no plans for him to return. To add to his challenges, his ex-partner, Diann Bankson, publicly revealed her new relationship with Eric Longlett, an engineering administration manager. Bankson shared her happiness, posting about attending Elton John’s Yellow Brick Road Farewell Tour with her new partner.
Health Struggles
On July 4, 2022, Fritz suffered a stroke that landed him in the hospital. Thankfully, a friend discovered him on the floor of his house and immediately called for help. Although he was doing well and showing signs of improvement, his rehabilitation didn’t progress as anticipated. He was eventually placed under guardianship and transferred to a nursing home for continued care.
A Helping Hand
To ensure Fritz’s well-being, a “longtime friend” was appointed as his guardian. The bank assumed responsibility for managing his finances as his conservator. They would handle all payments related to his care, including daily expenses, health insurance, property taxes, and maintenance. The bank’s involvement also meant arranging transportation for activities and medical appointments.
His friend, now his guardian, was tasked with making decisions about Fritz’s living situation, healthcare needs, and promoting his participation in activities. It was important for the guardian to maintain open communication with Fritz’s family members and potential romantic interests. Additionally, a yearly report was required to track Fritz’s progress and well-being.
A Difficult Road to Recovery
The court recognized the severity of Fritz’s condition and the need for ongoing support. They determined that a guardian and conservator were necessary to protect his health and prevent immediate harm. Fritz’s future remains uncertain as he continues to work towards regaining his independence and receiving the necessary treatment for his injuries.
An Outpouring of Support
We can’t help but feel saddened by Frank Fritz’s heartbreaking journey. Let’s join together and send our best wishes for his health and recovery. Share this article with your friends and family so they can stay informed about their favorite TV show host and keep Frank Fritz in their thoughts and prayers. Together, we can provide the support he needs during this challenging time.
