Updated with Cause of Death: Frank Fritz, 60, passed away from complications following a stroke while receiving hospice care, Fox News Digital has confirmed. According to his longtime manager, Bill Stankey, Fritz had also been battling Crohn’s disease.
According to The Cleveland Clinic Crohn’s disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, primarily affecting the small intestine and colon. Along with ulcerative colitis, it is one of the most common types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The condition often leads to uncomfortable symptoms, including diarrhea and abdominal cramps or pain.
Frank Fritz, the longtime “American Pickers” star host, passed away on September 30. He was 60.
The announcement came through social media from Mike Wolfe, Frank Fritz’s friend and longtime co-host. The pair worked together on the History Channel’s hit series American Pickers for over a decade, appearing in hundreds of episodes. The show featured Fritz and Wolfe traveling across the country, searching for antiques and collectibles that they could either sell in their shop or keep for their personal collections.
Mike wrote “It’s with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night.I’ve know Frank for more then 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. 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.
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. 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 your in a better place”
Fritz was born on October 11, 1965, in Davenport, Iowa. He developed an early interest in collecting vintage items, antiques, and memorabilia. This passion led him to co-star with his childhood friend, Mike Wolfe, on American Pickers, which premiered in 2010.
The show follows Fritz and Wolfe as they travel across the United States, hunting for rare and valuable antiques, often digging through barns, garages, and old warehouses. Fritz’s expertise lies in motorcycles, oil cans, and vintage toys, and he became beloved by fans for his enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendly personality. Together, Fritz and Wolfe showcased not only their finds but also the personal stories behind each item.
However, in 2021, Frank Fritz’s time on American Pickers came to an end. His departure from the show followed a publicized rift with Wolfe and a series of personal challenges, including health issues.
Fritz had been dealing with Crohn’s disease, a chronic illness that he managed throughout his time on the show, but it eventually took a toll on his ability to travel and work. His absence from the show led to rumors, which Fritz later confirmed, of tension between him and Wolfe.
After his departure, Fritz faced further struggles with his health. In 2022, he suffered a stroke, leading to significant concern among fans. His recovery process has been slow, with reports suggesting he required ongoing care and rehabilitation.
Rest In Peace.
