Frank Fritz, the beloved co-host of the hit reality series American Pickers, captured the hearts of fans with his passion for antiques and unique finds. Known for his adventurous spirit and keen eye for valuable collectibles, Fritz’s journey in the world of picking left a lasting impact. Tragically, he passed away at the age of 60 on Monday, September 30, according to his former co-star Mike Wolfe. This news has prompted many to reflect on his contributions to the show and the legacy he leaves behind.
Here are 5 things to know about Fritz.
Early Interest in Collecting
Born on October 11, 1965, in Davenport, Iowa, Fritz developed an interest in collecting at a young age, influenced by his family’s history of treasure hunting.
Before his television career, he owned a business called Frank Fritz Finds, where he bought and sold antiques. His expertise in restoration allowed him to evaluate and enhance the items he discovered on the show.
Premiere of American Pickers
Fritz began co-hosting American Pickers when it premiered in January 2010. The show became a hit, showcasing his and Wolfe’s adventures as they scoured the country for unique antiques.
A Passionate Motorcycle Enthusiast
Beyond antiques, Fritz was an avid motorcycle enthusiast. He frequently shared his passion for motorcycles on the show and enjoyed riding in his personal life.
He was also inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame in 2019. During the induction ceremony on August 8 of that year, Fritz told the Black Hills Pioneer, “This is an honor that I will proudly talk about for the rest of my life.”
Departure from American Pickers in July 2021
The History Channel announced Fritz’s departure from the series in July 2021, shortly after Fritz claimed to The Sun that he hadn’t “talked to Mike in two years.” Wolfe reacted to the shakeup in a statement at the time.
“I have known Frank for as long as I can remember, he’s been like a brother to me. The journey that Frank, Dani [Colby], and I started back in 2009, like all of life, has come with its highs and lows, blessings and challenges, but it has also been the most rewarding,” he said. “I will miss Frank, just like all of you, and I pray for the very best and all good things for him on the next part of his journey.”
Health Issues
Fritz’s last appearance on American Pickers was in March 2020, shortly before he underwent back surgery.
“I had a couple of rods put in there due to lifting stuff all the time. If you watch the show, you can see who’s always lifting—it’s me,” he told The Sun in July 2021. “It had been hurting for a long time—months and months. Finally, I had it looked at, and they said it was about ready to split in half, the bones in the middle of my spine. They put in a couple of big rods and stitched me up with 185 stitches. I had the back injury, but I can lift now; I’m okay.”
Fritz was also candid about his battle with Crohn’s Disease, stating, “There’s no cure; it’s like a dragon. Every day is a crap shoot. One day I could have a double chimichanga with hot sauce and have no problem. The next day, I might have a piece of toast and some scrambled eggs and experience a flare-up. I haven’t had any flare-ups recently; I’ve been doing really well and have quit drinking.”
In July 2022, one year later, Mike Wolfe announced that Fritz had been hospitalized after suffering a stroke.
“I have been very private over the past year regarding Frank’s life and the journey he’s been on,” Wolfe wrote on Instagram. “There have been lots of opinions about my friendship with Frank and the show, but now is not the time to set the record straight. Now is the time to pray for my friend.”
He continued, “Please keep him in your hearts and thoughts. Frank, I pray more than anything that you make it through this okay. I love you, buddy.”
