The “American Pickers” community is coming together to pay tribute to the late Frank Fritz, the beloved reality TV host. Frank passed away on Monday evening at the age of 60. Mike Wolfe, Frank’s co-host on the show, shared the heartbreaking news on his Instagram and Facebook accounts.
Wolfe’s emotional message read, “It’s with a heavy heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night. I’ve known Frank for more than half my life, and what you’ve seen on TV has always been true to who he was: a dreamer who was just as sensitive as he was funny. Frank had a way of touching the hearts of so many people just by being himself.”
Wolfe went on to recall the adventures that he and Frank embarked on together, saying, “Before the show, we would set off on spontaneous trips to undiscovered places, driven by our shared passion for discovering something interesting and historical. We’ve traveled countless miles and created countless memories along the way.”
In a touching conclusion, Wolfe said, “I feel fortunate that I was by his side as he took his final journey home. I love you, buddy, and I will miss you dearly. I know you’re in a better place now.”
According to Frank’s representative, Bill Stankey, the star passed away due to complications from a stroke he suffered in 2022. Frank spent his final days in a hospice facility in Quad Cities on the border of Iowa and Illinois, surrounded by his friends, including Mike Wolfe.
Frank had been battling various health issues in recent years. After filming his final season of “Pickers” in 2021, he underwent back surgery, which required 185 stitches and the insertion of two rods in his spine. In 2022, he was hospitalized for a stroke.
Frank co-hosted “American Pickers” for 20 seasons, from the show’s inception in 2010 until 2021. During Season 21, he appeared less frequently due to a falling-out with Mike Wolfe, but they seemed to have reconciled in 2023. Wolfe’s brother, Robbie, then replaced Frank as co-host.
The popular History Channel show followed Frank and Mike as they traveled across the United States in search of rare artifacts and national treasures to sell in their antique shops or add to their personal collections.
In addition to Mike Wolfe, other “American Pickers” cast members paid tribute to Frank Fritz:
Danielle Colby
Danielle Colby, the manager of Mike Wolfe’s shop, “Antique Archaeology,” shared her grief on Instagram. She posted a series of photos with Frank and wrote, “Frank, I will miss your ability to make everyone laugh, your love for talking tattoos, your epic collections, but most of all, those moments of vulnerability that you occasionally shared. Frank, you loved your cat and your momma, and we connected over these things. You will be missed for all these reasons and many more. Rest in Peace, Road Dog.”
Robbie Wolfe
Robbie Wolfe, Mike’s brother, expressed his deep sadness in a heartfelt message. He said, “It is with a heavy heart that I must say my friend Frank Fritz passed away last night. You all knew him from TV, but I knew him as a travel companion, fishing buddy, and family member. He was the godfather to my twin girls. Frank had an infectious smile, and we will miss his laughter. But most of all, I will miss the conversations we had in a fishing boat, talking about life. I know you’re in a better place… Love you buddy, and I hope you catch the biggest fish until we meet again in heaven. Keep the boat steady.”
Jon Szalay
Jon Szalay, also known as “Jersey Jon,” was a friend of Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz. He appeared on the early seasons of “American Pickers.” In an emotional Instagram post, Jon wrote, “I am very sad to say that we lost Frank Fritz last night. Watching Mike and Frank create the amazing show ‘American Pickers’ was a thrill for me, and I was proud to see my friends succeed. Frank was a good friend, always bringing me treasures from his picks on the show. We would negotiate deals and have a great time together with his sharp wit and humor. Farewell, Brother. Save the good stuff for me when we meet again.”
The History Channel and the producers of “American Pickers,” Cineflix Productions, also released a joint statement to honor Frank Fritz. The statement read, “We are saddened to share that our friend and beloved member of the History Channel and ‘American Pickers’ family, Frank Fritz, passed away on September 30, 2024. Frank filmed ‘American Pickers’ for over a decade. We will always remember him as ‘the bearded charmer’ and for his unwavering quest to find vintage motorcycles and bicycles. Our thoughts are with Frank’s loved ones during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed.”
Frank Fritz will forever be remembered as an exceptional human being. He was passionate about life, cared deeply for people, and had an unmatched knowledge of Americana and antiques. He was the heart and soul of “American Pickers,” and his friends, family, and fans will remember him fondly.
