America Loses a Treasure Hunter: Frank Fritz, Star of 'American Pickers,' Dies at 60
The world of reality TV is mourning the loss of Frank Fritz, one of the hosts of the popular show "American Pickers." Fritz passed away on Monday at the age of 60, leaving behind a legacy of over a decade of scouring the country for hidden treasures and antiques. Frank Fritz, who drove around the U.S. in search of the rarest and most valuable Americana artifacts, was a beloved figure on the History Channel show. Alongside his friend and co-host Mike Wolfe, Fritz explored the country, searching for that elusive next big find. His death has left fans and fellow cast members in shock. The Pickers, as they are affectionately known, have been a staple of the History Channel since their debut in 2010. With Mike Wolfe's expert eye and Frank Fritz's quick wit, the duo traversed America, uncovering treasures that were just waiting to be found. From dusty old barns to treacherous junkyards, Fritz and Wolfe never backed down from a challenge, always on the lookout for the next piece of history to add to their collection. Frank Fritz's love for the antique business led him to collaborate with Mike Wolfe on "American Pickers," a venture that took him across the United States, uncovering the fascinating stories behind each artifact they discovered. Fritz was a skillful negotiator and a personable collector, which endeared him to the people they met on the road. Whether he was haggling over the price of an antique or getting chased off a property by a grumpy homeowner, Fritz's humor and charm won over viewers. Though Fritz and Wolfe were always the stars of the show, the dynamic duo also included Danielle Colby, who played a pivotal role as the resident expert and auctioneer. Danielle was the one who would ultimately decide whether the finds were worth buying or selling, often negotiating with passionate collectors. Over the years, Fritz and Wolfe became more than just co-hosts; they were actual friends who grew up together in Iowa. Mike Wolfe posted a message on social media following Fritz's passing, stating that his friend was an integral part of the show and that he would be deeply missed. During the "American Pickers" podcast, Mike shared that Frank had always been the person who could walk into a room and light it up with his presence and charisma. Frank Fritz also battled health issues in the past, having undergone a stroke two years ago. According to sources close to the family, Fritz had been on hospice care in Iowa before his death. Fritz's passing was met with an outpouring of support from fans and fellow TV personalities. Viewers shared stories of their favorite Fritz moments on social media, celebrating the irreplaceable mark he left on the world of reality TV. Even though Frank is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the episodes we still get to enjoy. Frank Fritz may have been searching for hidden treasures, but for millions of viewers, he was that treasure.#Entertainment
