Remembering Frank Fritz: A Tribute To The Iconic 'American Pickers' Co-Host

Alaina April 20, 2025

American Pickers has been a beloved series for many since its debut in 2010. But in July 2021, things changed dramatically when co-host Frank Fritz decided to step away from the show. Three years later, fans were left heartbroken by the news of his passing. It's a story of highs and lows, friendship, and a man who left an indelible mark on the world of antiques and beyond.

The Legacy of Frank Fritz on 'American Pickers'

Back in January 2010, American Pickers first hit our screens on the History Channel. Frank Fritz and his then-co-host, Mike Wolfe, became household names as they scoured the U.S. for hidden treasures. Alongside Antique Archaeology worker Danielle Colby, they uncovered some truly remarkable pieces. For years, the duo seemed unstoppable, but life has a way of throwing curveballs. In 2021, Frank made the difficult decision to leave the show, leaving fans wondering what lay ahead for him.

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When Mike Wolfe took to Instagram in 2021 to announce Frank's departure, it was a shock to longtime fans. Mike shared a heartfelt post about their journey together, calling Frank "like a brother" to him. He reflected on their shared adventures, noting the ups and downs they faced along the way. "I will miss Frank, just like all of you," Mike wrote, adding a prayer for Frank's next chapter. By that point, Frank had already been absent from several episodes, raising questions about his well-being.

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Frank Fritz's Health Struggles

Frank's life after the show wasn't easy. In a 2021 interview with The Sun, he revealed he was recovering from major back surgery. "I had a couple of rods put in there. It was from lifting stuff all the time," he explained. "If you watch the show, you can see who the guy is that’s lifting all the time—it's always me. It had been hurting for a long, long time." Beyond that, Frank had been battling Crohn's disease for over three decades. Despite these challenges, he embarked on a weight loss journey, shedding 65 pounds during the pandemic. He credited healthy eating and cardio for his transformation.

A year after Frank's departure, Mike took to Instagram again, this time revealing that Frank had suffered a stroke. "I have been very private in the past year in regard to Frank's life and the journey he's been on," Mike wrote. "There has been lots of opinions in regard to mine and Frank’s friendship and the show, but now is not the time to set the record straight. Now is the time to pray for my friend. Frank has suffered a stroke and is in the hospital. Please keep him in your hearts and thoughts."

As seasons 23 and 24 of American Pickers rolled out, Mike's brother, Robbie Wolfe, stepped in as a co-host, bringing new energy to the show while honoring Frank's legacy.

The Passing of a Legend: Mike Wolfe Remembers Frank Fritz

On October 1, 2024, Mike Wolfe shared the devastating news of Frank's passing 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’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."

Mike continued, "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, 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 you're in a better place."

American Pickers costar Danielle Colby also paid tribute to Frank. "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," she wrote. "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."