Frank Fritz: 1965 - 2024

Sky HISTORY is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of one of the channel’s great characters, Frank Fritz.

Frank, known and loved by countless fans as one of the faces of American Pickers, died on 30th September 2024 at the age of 58 after battling health issues for several years.

He was a firm favourite for so many fans during his decade of television work due to his charm, humour and unrivalled passion for antiques.

Early life

Frank was born in Davenport, Iowa on 11th October 1965. From an early age, he developed a deep love for collecting rare and unusual items. His fascination with antiques began with small items, such as old cans and various memorabilia.

His knowledge and impressive eye for detail eventually turned into a career that took him across the USA and transformed him into a household name. Before his television career began, Frank worked as a fire inspector, but his passion for antique hunting never wavered.

It was his infectious enthusiasm that eventually led to a role on American Pickers, a show that debuted in 2010 and quickly developed a loyal following.

TV career on American Pickers

American Pickers was much more than a reality show about antiques. It was about uncovering hidden treasures, exploring forgotten corners of America and connecting with the people and stories behind each item.

Frank and his co-star Mike Wolfe travelled across the country in search of collectables, from vintage motorcycles and cars to quirky Americana relics. Their uniquely funny dynamic was a key factor in the show’s widespread appeal. While Mike often took the lead, it was Frank’s laid-back nature and deep knowledge of the items – particularly motorbikes and cycles – that made him an indispensable part of the duo.

One of the aspects that made Frank so relatable to fans was his authenticity. What viewers saw on camera was exactly who he was off camera. Mike Wolfe, reflecting on his friend after his passing, shared that Frank was ‘just as sensitive as he was funny’. Mike and Frank shared a longstanding friendship before their television careers began, which is part of what made their partnership on the show so special.

Frank’s ability to connect with both the people they met along the way and the viewers at home was perhaps one of his greatest strengths. It quickly earned him the nickname ‘The Bearded Charmer’. His sharp sense of humour and the friendly banter he shared with Mike created a chemistry that fans adored.

While they were business partners, they were also friends and their bond was clear to anyone who watched them. Frank wasn’t just a guy looking to make a profit – he was someone who truly loved the thrill of the hunt and valued the history behind each piece he found.

Some of Frank’s best moments on American Pickers revolved around his deep interest in vintage motorcycles. He had an impressive knowledge of these machines, which often led to fascinating discoveries and thrilling negotiations. Whether it was uncovering a rare bike in someone’s dusty garage or haggling for a piece of memorabilia, Frank’s passion and excitement shone through in every episode.

Lasting legacy

It wasn’t just Frank’s knowledge of antiques that made him such a hit with viewers. His humility and laid-back attitude, even as his fame grew, made him a beloved figure in the antique community and on television.

Though Frank left the show after 2020, his impact on American Pickers is undeniable. He helped shape the series into what it became – a journey not just through America’s backroads, but also through its history. He brought a unique charm and expertise to the show that cannot be replaced, but will always be remembered.

Frank’s lasting legacy is not just as a television personality – but as someone who truly loved what he did. Few people are as good at sharing their passion with such a diverse audience as Frank Fritz.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and fans alike.