American Pickers’ co-stars pay tribute to Frank Fritz after tragic death aged 60
Frank Fritz’s American Pickers co-stars have paid tribute to the beloved reality TV icon following the heartbreaking news that he has died at the age of 60.
Fritz became a household favorite for his role in the hit reality show show, which first premiered on the History Channel in 2010.
The show follows antique and collectible pickers as they travel across the United States, hunting for valuable items in junkyards, basements, garages, and barns.
Frank co-hosted the show for more than 300 episodes alongside Mike Wolfe. Their chemistry and differing approaches to picking made the show engaging from the get-go.
A former fire inspector and owner his own antique shop, Frank’s Finds, Fritz was known for his keen eye for vintage toys, old motorcycles, and advertising pieces.
Fritz’s last appearance on American Pickers was during March 2020. After that, he did not return to the show. He was replaced by Mike’s brother, Robbie Wolfe. Despite the show continuing – now in its 25th season – many fans struggled to watch after Fritz’s departure.
On Tuesday (October 1), Mike Wolfe took to Instagram to share the news and pay tribute to his late co-star.
“It’s with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night,” 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,” Wolfe continued in the emotional tribute. “The same off camera as he was on, Frank had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself.”
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Wolfe added: “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,” Wolfe concluded his message to fans. “I love you buddy and will miss you so much I know [you’re] in a better place.”
Additionally, fellow co-star “Queen of Rust” Danielle Colby also shared a series of photos with her late friend to pay tribute, writing in the caption: “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.
“Frank, 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.”
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