Two years after suffering a debilitating stroke and plagued by a severe illness, “American Pickers” star Frank Fritz died at the age of 58, loved ones said.
“Frank had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself.”
For 11 seasons, Fritz and Wolfe co-hosted “American Pickers,” a reality TV show that follows the two on their trips through America looking for antiques and collectibles.
The show was an instant hit when it premiered in 2010 and is currently airing its 23rd season. Wolfe is the main host, and his brother Robbie Wolfe and Danielle Colby, who runs the antique shop’s office in LeClaire, Iowa, are co-stars.
The last episode recorded with Fritz aired in March 2020, when he left the show to undergo back surgery. Then the pandemic hit, but Fritz would not return even after the lockdowns had been lifted.
In July 2021, the History Channel confirmed that Fritz would not return to the show, as rumors of a feud between the two hosts circulated among fans.
A year later, Fritz was found unresponsive in his home after experiencing a stroke. Wolfe issued a heartfelt message addressing their relationship.
Unfortunately, Fritz would never recover.
“He fought a valiant battle the last two years with many ups and downs,” Starr wrote on Facebook. Alas, “the combination of the severe stroke and his Crohn’s disease was just too much for his body to bear.”
Wolfe thanked his co-host for his company and their shared adventures.
“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,” Wolfe wrote.
“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 your in a better place.”
