Frank Fritz, Star of “American Pickers,” Passes Away at 60 – Rest in Peace

Fans are heartbroken following the news that Frank Fritz, the antiques expert who gained fame on the reality series *American Pickers*, has died at the age of 60. Fritz, who left the show in 2021, had been dealing with health issues and was hospitalized after suffering a stroke two years ago.

The announcement of his passing came from his friend and co-star Mike Wolfe, who shared the news on social media. 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. The same off-camera as he was on, Frank had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself.”

Fritz and Wolfe rose to prominence as hosts of *American Pickers*, which premiered on the History Channel in 2010. The show featured the duo traveling across the U.S. in search of valuable antiques and collectibles in unexpected places, often discovering treasures in people’s garages and barns.

The series quickly became a fan favorite, attracting millions of viewers and establishing itself as one of the History Channel’s most popular programs. Its debut year saw it become the #1 non-fiction series among total viewers and adults aged 25-54.

While the antiques were always fascinating, it was the chemistry and charisma between Fritz and Wolfe that kept audiences engaged.

In 2021, it was announced that Fritz would be leaving *American Pickers* after a decade. He claimed that the decision was not his own, stating he felt pushed out by the network following back surgery. “I didn’t leave the show,” he explained. “I finished shooting, then had a little back surgery, and the pandemic came.” He also indicated that he felt the show had tilted towards his co-host, claiming he hadn’t spoken to Wolfe in two years despite his health struggles.

After a stroke in July 2022, Fritz had a tearful reunion with Wolfe, resolving their previous issues, but he ultimately decided to focus on his health and declined an offer to rejoin the show. Wolfe expressed gratitude for their friendship, sharing, “We’ve been on countless trips and shared so many miles, and I feel blessed that I was there by his side when he took one last journey home. I love you, buddy, and will miss you so much. I know you’re in a better place.”

*American Pickers* continues to be a staple of the History Channel lineup, and while Fritz has not been officially replaced, series regulars like Danielle Colby, Mike Wolfe’s brother Robbie, and antiques expert “Jersey Jon” Szalay will rotate accompanying Wolfe on his antiquing adventures.

Colby also paid tribute to Fritz, stating, “Frank, I will miss your ability to make everyone laugh, your love for talking tattoos, your epic collections, but what I will miss the most are those little glimpses of vulnerability from time to time. You loved your cat and your momma, and we bonded on those things. You will be missed for all of these reasons and so many more. Rest in Peace, Road Dog.”

Rest in peace to the iconic reality TV star Frank Fritz. 😢🙏 Please share this story in his memory.