Frank Fritz, the longtime co-host of The History Channel’s American Pickers, has died at the age of 60.
The news of Frank’s passing was shared on social media by his friend and former co-host, Mike Wolfe, who revealed that Frank passed away Monday night.
“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,” Mike wrote. “The same off-camera as he was on, Frank had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself.
“Who would have ever dreamed we would share the cockpit of a white cargo van in front of millions of people interested in our adventures,” he continued. “ … We’ve been on countless trips and shared so many miles and I feel bless that I was there by his side when he took one last journey home. I love you buddy and I will miss you so much I know [you’re] in a better place.”
In 2021, it was announced that Frank would no longer be on ‘American Pickers,’ reportedly due to health issues related to his Crohn’s disease and back issues that required surgery. At the time, Frank revealed that he and Mike’s friendship was strained and that they hadn’t spoken in two years.
Mike previously spoke out in July 2022 after Frank suffered a stroke, asking fans for prayers and well wishes for his friend of more than 40 years.
After suffering the debilitating stroke, Mike stated Frank was reportedly left “unable to care for himself.” In October 2022, plans were being made for Frank to return home with the help of an appointed guardian, who would be on hand to assist as Frank continued his recovery.
On Tuesday, the History Channel and Cineflix Productions released a statement on Frank’s passing, claiming the ‘American Pickers’ star will be “deeply missed.”
“We are saddened to share that our friend and beloved member of The History Channel and ‘American Pickers’ family, Frank Fritz, has passed away on September 30, 2024,” the statement read, as reported by TMZ. “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.”
UPDATE! In a statement to TMZ, Frank’s rep said that Frank died from the effects of his 2022 stroke. He also pointed to the Crohn’s disease that Frank had for decades as possibly contributing to the reality star’s early death. The rep stated that Frank was in a hospice facility, surrounded by friends (including Mike) when he passed away.
(Photos: The History Channel; Instagram)
2 Responses
RIP Frank
Such sad news. 60 is so young. I wish his family and friends peace during this awful time. ❤️🩹