Frank Fritz, the longtime co-host of American Pickers, died on September 30, 2024, at age 60. Co-host Mike Wolfe and fellow cast member Danielle Colby paid tribute after his death was announced. Fritz’s initial death announcement did not state a cause; later reporting citing his death certificate gave further details.
What happened to Frank Fritz?
The History Channel and American Pickers producer Cineflix Productions confirmed Fritz’s death in a joint statement reported by the Los Angeles Times. The statement described him as “the bearded charmer” and remembered his search for vintage motorcycles and bikes. It did not disclose a cause of death.
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Fritz died at a hospice facility in Davenport, Iowa, according to his longtime friend Annette Oberlander, whose account was reported by the Associated Press. Oberlander said she was at his bedside, as was Wolfe.
How did Frank Fritz die?
Oberlander told the Associated Press that Fritz had a stroke in 2022 and never fully recovered. The announcement confirming his death did not give a cause.
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A later TMZ report, citing Fritz’s death certificate, described the cause as “late sequela of cerebral infarction” and listed cerebral vascular disease and other conditions as contributors. That detail came in later reporting, not in the initial announcement.
What did Mike Wolfe say about Frank Fritz?
Wolfe mourned his longtime friend in an Instagram post. The Associated Press quoted him saying: “The same off camera as he was on, Frank had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself.” The two had co-hosted American Pickers for more than a decade.
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Did Danielle Colby pay tribute to Frank Fritz?
Yes. Colby posted a tribute after Fritz’s death was announced. Parade reported on her initial response, and later interview coverage recalled Fritz’s sharp humor and the memories he shared with the team. Colby’s tribute is best understood through those reports rather than a reconstructed quotation.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why was Frank Fritz known?
Fritz became widely known as one of the co-hosts of American Pickers, which debuted on the History Channel in 2010. The series followed him and Wolfe as they traveled around the United States looking for antiques and collectibles to buy and resell, often at rural properties such as barns and garages. The Associated Press noted that Fritz was particularly drawn to antique toys, while the companies’ statement recalled his interest in vintage motorcycles and bikes.
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The History Channel and Cineflix statement also said: “Our thoughts are with Frank’s loved ones during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed.”
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