Frank Fritz, widely known for his role on the popular History Channel show American Pickers, became a familiar face to millions of viewers who enjoyed his travels across rural America in search of antiques, collectibles, and forgotten treasures. For over a decade, he entertained audiences alongside co-host Mike Wolfe, offering insights into Americana, history, and negotiation skills in the world of picking.
However, in recent years, public concern has grown over his health and well-being, leading many to ask the question: Is Frank Fritz still alive in 2025?
The answer is no. Frank Fritz passed away on September 30, 2024, at the age of 60. His death was confirmed by official sources and followed a prolonged battle with health issues, including the effects of a major stroke he suffered in 2022. His passing marked the end of a chapter in reality television history, and tributes have since poured in from fans, colleagues, and the collecting community.
Early Life and Interest in Antiques
Frank Fritz was born on October 11, 1963, in Davenport, Iowa. From an early age, he displayed a fascination with old objects and vintage Americana. This passion grew throughout his teenage years, eventually leading him to pursue antique collection as both a personal hobby and a full-time career.
Before television fame, he worked in various roles, including fire inspection. However, his entrepreneurial drive pushed him toward buying and selling antiques, which eventually evolved into the business model that would make him a household name.
Rise to Fame with American Pickers
In 2010, the History Channel debuted American Pickers, a reality series that followed Frank Fritz and Mike Wolfe as they traveled the backroads of America in search of valuable or interesting items. Frank quickly became a fan favorite due to his dry humor, straightforward personality, and expertise in certain types of collectibles such as vintage toys, motorcycles, and signage.
The chemistry between Fritz and Wolfe, long-time friends before the show’s creation, gave American Pickers an authentic appeal. Audiences connected with their shared passion and the often surprising discoveries they unearthed in barns, garages, and basements across the country.
The show became a long-running success, airing hundreds of episodes and becoming one of History Channel’s most-watched programs.
Health Challenges and Departure from the Show
In 2021, Frank Fritz officially stepped away from American Pickers. His exit was originally attributed to medical issues, but it was later revealed that he was dealing with multiple personal and health struggles.
Among his challenges:
- He was managing Crohn’s disease, a chronic gastrointestinal illness he had battled for decades.
- He had undergone back surgery, which required a lengthy recovery.
- He publicly acknowledged struggles with alcohol dependency, which led him to enter rehabilitation.
As his health declined, communication between Fritz and Wolfe reportedly became strained. Despite efforts from fans to push for his return to the show, Frank did not rejoin the series.
The 2022 Stroke and Conservatorship
On July 14, 2022, Frank Fritz suffered a serious stroke at his Iowa home. He was discovered unresponsive and rushed to the hospital. The stroke left him physically and cognitively impaired, prompting his family and legal representatives to seek conservatorship to oversee his medical care and financial decisions.
The court approved this measure, acknowledging that Fritz required continuous medical oversight and daily assistance. Family members reported that while he was receiving care in a residential facility, his condition remained serious and his long-term prognosis uncertain.
Updates during this period were sparse, though supporters hoped for some degree of recovery.
Passing in 2024 and Cause of Death
Frank Fritz passed away on September 30, 2024, two years after his stroke. He was 60 years old at the time of his death. The official cause was listed as complications from a cerebral infarction—a type of stroke—compounded by multiple chronic conditions including vascular disease, aortic stenosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
His death certificate confirmed that his earlier stroke had played a central role in his physical decline. Friends, former colleagues, and fans expressed sadness at his passing, remembering him for his humor, passion, and the unique mark he left on American reality television.
Relationship with Mike Wolfe and the Public Response
Though their friendship had reportedly cooled in later years, Mike Wolfe, Frank’s longtime co-star, issued a heartfelt statement after his passing. He expressed gratitude for the time they had shared and acknowledged the struggles Fritz faced in his final years.
Fans responded with memorial tributes on social media, rewatching old episodes of American Pickers and reflecting on the impact Frank had made as a true “picker” and genuine personality. Many cited his authenticity, work ethic, and extensive knowledge of vintage collectibles as irreplaceable qualities.
Frank Fritz’s Legacy in the Antiques World
Even after leaving television, Frank Fritz remained a respected figure in the antiques and collectibles community. His unique eye for hidden value and genuine appreciation for historical artifacts helped elevate public interest in vintage and antique preservation.
His former store, Frank Fritz Finds, became a popular destination for collectors and tourists. Though the store faced uncertainty after his stroke, it remains part of his lasting footprint in the industry.
Fritz’s legacy is one of discovery, education, and enthusiasm. Through hundreds of episodes, he taught viewers how to assess value, recognize rarity, and appreciate the craftsmanship of earlier eras.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Frank Fritz still alive in 2025?
No. Frank Fritz passed away on September 30, 2024, at the age of 60.
What was the cause of Frank Fritz’s death?
He died from complications related to a stroke suffered in 2022, with contributing health conditions including vascular disease, aortic stenosis, and COPD.
Did Frank Fritz return to American Pickers before he died?
No. He did not return to the show after his departure in 2021, due to serious health challenges and personal issues.
What is Frank Fritz remembered for?
He is best remembered as the co-host of American Pickers, known for his knowledge of antiques, his humor, and his commitment to preserving vintage Americana.
Did Frank Fritz have any family or children?
Frank Fritz was never married and had no children. He maintained a private personal life and was close to extended family members and friends who assisted with his care in later years.
What happened to Frank Fritz Finds, his store?
The future of his store remains uncertain, though it remains a popular attraction for fans who want to honor his memory and legacy.
Conclusion
Frank Fritz is no longer alive, but his legacy as a passionate picker, dedicated collector, and beloved television personality remains intact. His journey from small-town Iowa to national television fame inspired a renewed interest in vintage artifacts and antiques. More than that, he reminded viewers of the joy of discovery, the value of preserving history, and the importance of perseverance through personal challenges.
Though his final years were marked by health struggles, his contributions to reality television and the antiques community continue to be celebrated. Frank Fritz may be gone, but the impact he made lives on in the stories he helped tell and the treasures he helped uncover.