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Frank Fritz, the beloved co-host of the History Channel's "American Pickers," passed away on September 30, 2024, at the age of 60. His death comes two years after he suffered a debilitating stroke in October 2022. Fritz's passing was confirmed by his long-time friend and co-host, Mike Wolfe, who shared the news on Instagram.
"It's with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night," Wolfe wrote. "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."
Frank Fritz's journey on "American Pickers" began in 2010 when the show first aired. Alongside Wolfe, Fritz traveled across the United States, exploring hidden treasures and uncovering historical artifacts. The duo's chemistry and shared enthusiasm for their work made the show a hit, drawing in millions of viewers each week.
Despite the success of the show, Fritz faced several personal challenges. In addition to his stroke in 2022, he had been dealing with ongoing health issues, including complications from Crohn's disease. These health struggles led to his departure from the show in 2020, as he needed to focus on his recovery and well-being. Wolfe acknowledged these difficulties in his tribute, stating, "Before the show, we would take off together to places we never knew existed with no destination in mind and just the shared passion to discover something interesting and historic."
The History Channel and Cineflix Production, which produces "American Pickers," also released a joint statement mourning Fritz's loss. "Frank filmed American Pickers for over a decade. We will always remember 'the bearded charmer' and his never-ending search for vintage motorcycles and bikes. Our thoughts are with Frank's loved ones during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed."
His ability to connect with people, both on and off the screen, was a testament to his genuine and warm nature. Wolfe's tribute encapsulated this perfectly: "Frank had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself."
