As a long-time fan of American Pickers, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of loss with the passing of Frank Fritz. For over a decade, he and Mike Wolfe have been my go-to duo for treasure hunting adventures, bringing joy, laughter, and a touch of nostalgia into my living room every week.
Approximately two months after Danielle Colby from American Pickers quelled rumors about her demise that were proven false, the reality TV community is now grappling with an authentic loss. Frank Fritz, who was a longtime co-host and has faced numerous health challenges in recent times, has sadly passed away at the age of 60.
American Pickers‘ head honcho Mike Wolfe took to Instagram to share the sad news with his friends, fans and followers, many of whom have also been supportive of Fritz over the years. Here’s how his touching post started:
With a heavy heart, I’m compelled to share the sad news that Frank departed from us last night. For more than half my life, I’ve been fortunate enough to call him my friend, and what you saw on screen was truly who he was – an imaginative soul with a wit as sharp as his humor was comforting. Off-camera, he was no different; Frank had this unique ability to touch the hearts of countless others simply by being himself.
From the very beginning, Fritz’s down-to-earth characteristics and his intriguing hobbies during the treasure hunt episodes endeared him to viewers. It was almost impossible to predict that they would gain such widespread popularity, as the show “Pickers” quickly outshone much of its cable competition in those early years since 2010.
Mike Wolfe expressed a feeling of uncertainty from the start, while still paying tribute to Frank Fritz’s legacy, as he put it.
Who could have imagined that we’d be co-pilots in a white delivery van, broadcasting our expeditions to millions of enthusiasts? Before each episode, we’d embark on journeys to uncharted territories with no specific goal but the shared excitement to unearth something intriguing and historical. We’ve traveled countless roads together, and I feel grateful for having been there with him during his final homecoming trip. I miss you dearly, buddy, and I know you’re in a peaceful place now.
Previously, Wolfe and Fritz experienced a disagreement, leading to Fritz’s alleged dismissal from the series following his health leave. Later, Fritz admitted to seeking treatment for alcoholism and suffered a stroke in July 2022. His health seemed to improve, and by mid-2023, it appeared that Wolfe and Fritz had reconciled. There were even whispers suggesting that efforts were underway to reinstate Fritz on the show.
Fellow picker Danielle Colby shared her own tribute to her late friend on Instagram:
Dear Frank, I’ll deeply miss your knack for bringing laughter, your unique fascination with talking tattoos, and your impressive collections. However, what I’ll miss the most are those rare, heartfelt moments of vulnerability you shared from time to time. Frank, our bond was formed over shared love for your cat and momma, and I know we’ll both miss you because of these special connections and countless others. Rest in Peace, Road Dog❤️🩹
On Wednesdays, you can catch fresh episodes of “American Pickers” on A&E, accompanied by re-runs throughout the week. There’s speculation that future episodes might pay tribute to Frank Fritz in some manner.
In this difficult period, our sympathies and heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Frank Fritz.
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2024-10-01 21:37