We are deeply saddened to announce that our dear friend and beloved member of The HISTORY Channel and the American Pickers family, Frank Fritz, passed away on September 30, 2024,” shared The HISTORY Channel and Cineflex Productions in a heartfelt statement to Fox News Digital. “Frank was part of American Pickers for more than a decade, and we will forever cherish the memory of ‘the bearded charmer’ and his endless pursuit of vintage motorcycles and bikes. Our thoughts are with Frank’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed.
Mike Wolfe, Frank’s former co-star, also expressed his grief on Instagram. “It’s with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night,” he wrote. “I’ve known Frank for more than half my life, and what you saw on TV was exactly who he was off-screen—a dreamer who was as sensitive as he was funny. He had a unique ability to connect with people by simply being himself.
Danielle Colby, another American Pickers star, shared her own tribute to Frank, who was a Midwestern native. “Frank, I will miss your infectious laughter, your passion for tattoos, and your legendary collections. But above all, I will miss those rare moments when you let your guard down and showed your vulnerability,” Colby wrote on Instagram. “We bonded over your love for your cat and your momma. You will be missed for these reasons and so many more.
Reflecting on their friendship, Wolfe had previously shared: “There’s been a lot of speculation about my relationship with Frank and our time on the show, but this isn’t the moment to clear the air. Right now, we need to come together in prayer for him.
In earlier comments to The Sun, Wolfe had expressed hope for reconciliation, saying, “We all care deeply about Frank and want him back on the show. I’d love to reconnect with him, but he’s dealing with some personal struggles that he hasn’t been able to overcome.
Frank has faced some tough battles with addiction,” Wolfe added. “It’s heartbreaking to see the choices he’s made, but we continue to hold him in our hearts.