Frank Fritz, the beloved co-star of American Pickers, passed away at age 60 on September 30, 2024, due to complications from a stroke. His death certificate revealed that the stroke, caused by cerebral vascular disease, ultimately led to his passing. Fritz had also been living with aortic stenosis, which affects blood flow from the heart, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which contributed to his declining health.
Fritz’s long-time friend and co-star, Mike Wolfe, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, expressing his grief, saying, “I’ve known Frank for more than half my life… He had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself.” Wolfe reminisced about their many trips together, recalling their shared passion for discovering rare and historic treasures.
Fritz had been off American Pickers since 2021 due to his health issues. He suffered a severe stroke in 2022, and Wolfe had previously asked fans to keep Fritz in their prayers during his recovery. The History Channel, where American Pickers aired, released a statement mourning the loss of “the bearded charmer” who had been a key part of the show’s success for over a decade.
The news of Fritz’s death has left fans of the show deeply saddened, as his love for vintage motorcycles and antiques made him a memorable figure in the series. He will be remembered not only for his contributions to the show but also for his lasting friendship with Wolfe.
