In memory of Frank Fritz: 5 facts about the beloved host of American Pickers
1 october 2024 в 20:13
Frank Fritz, beloved co-host of the popular reality show «American Pickers», - won the hearts of fans with his passion for antiques and unique finds. Known for his adventurous spirit and keen eye for valuable collectibles, Fritz’s journey in the world of collecting left an indelible mark. Tragically, he passed away at the age of 60 on Monday, September 30, according to his former show partner Mike Wolfe. This news has led many to reflect on his contribution to the show and the legacy he left behind.
Here are 5 things to know about Fritz.
Born on October 11, 1965 in Davenport, Iowa, Fritz showed an interest in collecting at a young age, influenced by his family’s history of treasure hunting.
Before his television career, he owned a business called Frank Fritz Finds, where he bought and sold antiques. His experience in restoration allowed him to assess and improve the items he found on the show.
Fritz began hosting «American Pickers» when it premiered in January 2010. The show became popular, showcasing his and Wolfe’s adventures as they traveled the country in search of unique antiques.
In addition to antiques, Fritz was a passionate motorcycle enthusiast. He often shared his love for motorcycles on the show and enjoyed riding them in his personal life.
He was also inducted into the Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame in Sturgis in 2019. During the induction ceremony on August 8 of that year, Fritz told the Black Hills Pioneer, «It's an honor that I will proudly talk about for the rest of my life».
The History Channel announced Fritz’s departure from the series in July 2021, shortly after Fritz told The Sun that he hadn’t spoken to Mike in two years. Wolfe responded to the changes in a statement at that time.
«I've known Frank as long as I can remember, he’s been like a brother to me. The journey we started with Dani and I in 2009, like all of life, was full of its highs and lows, blessings and challenges, but it was also the most rewarding», - he said. «I will miss Frank, as will all of you, and I pray for the best and all good things for him in the next part of his journey».
Fritz’s last appearance on «American Pickers» was in March 2020, shortly before he underwent back surgery.
«I had a couple of rods put in because of constantly lifting weights. If you watch the show, you can see who’s always lifting — it’s me», - he told The Sun in July 2021. «It bothered me for a long time — months and months. Finally, I sought help, and they said the bones in the middle of my spine were ready to split in half. They put in a couple of big rods and stitched me up with 185 stitches. I had a back injury, but now I can lift; I’m fine».
Fritz also openly discussed his battle with Crohn’s disease, saying, «There is no cure; it’s like a dragon. Every day is a lottery. One day I can eat a double chimichanga with mustard and have no problems. The next day I can eat a piece of toast and eggs and have a flare-up. I haven’t had any flare-ups lately; I’ve been feeling really good, and I quit drinking».
In July 2022, a year later, Mike Wolfe announced that Fritz had been hospitalized after a stroke.
«I have been very reserved over the past year regarding Frank’s life and the path he has walked», - Wolfe wrote on Instagram. «There have been many opinions about my friendship with Frank and the show, but now is not the time to explain. Now is the time to pray for my friend».
He continued, «Please keep him in your hearts and thoughts. Frank, I pray first and foremost that you get through this well. I love you, buddy»
Here are 5 things to know about Fritz.
Born on October 11, 1965 in Davenport, Iowa, Fritz showed an interest in collecting at a young age, influenced by his family’s history of treasure hunting.
Before his television career, he owned a business called Frank Fritz Finds, where he bought and sold antiques. His experience in restoration allowed him to assess and improve the items he found on the show.
Fritz began hosting «American Pickers» when it premiered in January 2010. The show became popular, showcasing his and Wolfe’s adventures as they traveled the country in search of unique antiques.
In addition to antiques, Fritz was a passionate motorcycle enthusiast. He often shared his love for motorcycles on the show and enjoyed riding them in his personal life.
He was also inducted into the Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame in Sturgis in 2019. During the induction ceremony on August 8 of that year, Fritz told the Black Hills Pioneer, «It's an honor that I will proudly talk about for the rest of my life».
The History Channel announced Fritz’s departure from the series in July 2021, shortly after Fritz told The Sun that he hadn’t spoken to Mike in two years. Wolfe responded to the changes in a statement at that time.
«I've known Frank as long as I can remember, he’s been like a brother to me. The journey we started with Dani and I in 2009, like all of life, was full of its highs and lows, blessings and challenges, but it was also the most rewarding», - he said. «I will miss Frank, as will all of you, and I pray for the best and all good things for him in the next part of his journey».
Fritz’s last appearance on «American Pickers» was in March 2020, shortly before he underwent back surgery.
«I had a couple of rods put in because of constantly lifting weights. If you watch the show, you can see who’s always lifting — it’s me», - he told The Sun in July 2021. «It bothered me for a long time — months and months. Finally, I sought help, and they said the bones in the middle of my spine were ready to split in half. They put in a couple of big rods and stitched me up with 185 stitches. I had a back injury, but now I can lift; I’m fine».
Fritz also openly discussed his battle with Crohn’s disease, saying, «There is no cure; it’s like a dragon. Every day is a lottery. One day I can eat a double chimichanga with mustard and have no problems. The next day I can eat a piece of toast and eggs and have a flare-up. I haven’t had any flare-ups lately; I’ve been feeling really good, and I quit drinking».
In July 2022, a year later, Mike Wolfe announced that Fritz had been hospitalized after a stroke.
«I have been very reserved over the past year regarding Frank’s life and the path he has walked», - Wolfe wrote on Instagram. «There have been many opinions about my friendship with Frank and the show, but now is not the time to explain. Now is the time to pray for my friend».
He continued, «Please keep him in your hearts and thoughts. Frank, I pray first and foremost that you get through this well. I love you, buddy»
© Artemenko Olga
