Frank Fritz, host of American Pickers, dies aged 58: 'Will miss you so much'

American Pickers host Frank Fritz has passed away at the age of 58. Mike Wolfe, who worked with Frank on the show, confirmed the news on social media, revealing Frank died on Monday night.

"It’s with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night," Mike began a lengthy statement. "I’ve known Frank for more than half my life and what you’ve seen on TV has always been what I have seen, a dreamer who was just as sensitive as he was funny. The same off camera as he was on, Frank had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself.

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"Who would have ever dreamed we would share the cockpit of a white cargo van in front of millions of people interested in our adventures [?]. Before the show, we would take off together to places we never knew existed with no destination in mind and just the shared passion to discover something interesting and historic."

He finished by saying, "We’ve been on countless trips and shared so many miles and I feel blessed that I was there by his side when he took one last journey home. I love you buddy and will miss you so much I know you're in a better place."

TMZ has revealed Frank died due to the effects of a debilitating stroke he suffered two years ago.

Mike broke the news of his friend's stroke in 2022, telling their friends and followers the news.

"I have been very private in the past year in regards to Frank’s life and the journey he’s been on," Mike wrote at the time.

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"There has been lots of opinions in regards to mine and Frank’s friendship and the show but now is not the time to set the record straight. Now is the time to pray for my friend," he added, referencing a rumoured feud between the pair.

Frank was a host on American Pickers from 2010. In the show, he and Mike would travel across the US searching for rare artefacts to sell to antique shops or put in their personal collections.

American Pickers also shared the news on social media, writing, "We are saddened to share that our friend and beloved member of The HISTORY Channel and American Pickers family, Frank Fritz, has passed away on September 30, 2024."

Tributes pour in for Frank Fritz

Fans took to Mike's Instagram post to share their condolences, with one user writing, "I'm so sorry Mike, this is heartbreaking to hear the news of Frank. Have always loved watching you two hunt for serious treasure. Sincerest condolences to you and Frank’s family and friends."

"Sorry for your loss Mike, it is a loss for all, we share the sadness and the memories," another said.

"So sorry for your loss. He was wonderful person and so kind," a third said.

"Devastating. I can’t imagine the bond you form with someone sharing a van across the states all those years," a fourth added. "So sorry for your loss.

Someone else simply described Frank as "a legend forever".

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