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The Tragic End Of Frank Fritz: 5 Shocking Details About His Final Years After Leaving American Pickers

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The legacy of Frank Fritz, the beloved co-host of the History Channel’s hit show American Pickers, has taken a somber turn in recent years, culminating in his tragic passing in late 2024. As of December 23, 2025, fans continue to mourn the loss of the affable antique hunter, whose on-screen chemistry with Mike Wolfe defined the show for over a decade. The story of what happened to Frank after his 2020 departure is far more complex and heartbreaking than most viewers realize, involving severe health battles, personal struggles, and a fractured relationship with his long-time picking partner. This deep dive uncovers the shocking details of Frank's final chapter, offering a fresh, definitive look at the man behind the finds and the circumstances that led to his untimely death.

Frank Fritz’s absence from the show left a massive void, not only for the audience but also for the world of antique collecting. His expertise in vintage motorcycles, antique toys, and unique collectibles was a cornerstone of the series. The official narrative surrounding his exit only hinted at the profound challenges he was facing, including debilitating back surgery and a quiet battle for his health and sobriety. The full truth reveals a man struggling to find his footing after losing the career he loved, which ultimately led to a catastrophic health crisis.

Frank Lee Fritz: A Complete Biography and Professional Profile

Frank Lee Fritz was a celebrated American reality television personality, antique collector, and author, best known for his 11-season run on *American Pickers*. His distinctive look, dry wit, and keen eye for rusty gold made him an iconic figure in the world of history and treasure hunting. The following is a detailed look at his life and career:

  • Full Name: Frank Lee Fritz
  • Date of Birth: October 11, 1963
  • Place of Birth: Davenport, Iowa, USA
  • Date of Death: September 30, 2024 (Age 60)
  • Place of Death: Davenport, Iowa, USA (Assisted Living Facility)
  • Mother: Susan Kay Hunt
  • Education: Graduated from Sudlow Junior High School and attended Davenport West High School.
  • Career Start: Worked as a fire and safety inspector for two decades before his television career. He began collecting antiques in his early teens.
  • Television Career: Co-host of *American Pickers* (History Channel) from 2010 to 2020.
  • Author: Co-authored *American Pickers Guide to Picking* and wrote *How to Pick Vintage Motorcycles*.
  • Business: Owned and operated his own antique shop, Frank Fritz's Finds, located in Savanna, Illinois.
  • Specialty Collectibles: Known for his love of vintage bikes, old signs, petroliana, and antique toys.

The Shocking Reasons Behind Frank’s 2020 Departure from American Pickers

Frank Fritz’s abrupt absence from *American Pickers* in 2020 led to widespread speculation among fans, but the reality was a confluence of serious personal and health crises. The departure was not a simple break, but a permanent split that would tragically mark the beginning of his final years.

A Debilitating Health Crisis and Surgery

The primary, publicly stated reason for Frank leaving the show was the need for major back surgery. For years, the demanding travel and heavy lifting required for picking had taken a toll on his body, resulting in debilitating back pain. He confirmed in a 2021 interview that he left the show in 2020 to undergo this procedure, hoping to recover and return.

The Private Battle with Alcohol Abuse

In addition to his physical health, Frank was also quietly struggling with alcohol abuse. He sought treatment for this condition ahead of his official departure from the show, a brave step toward recovery that he took privately. This dual battle—recovering from major surgery while simultaneously undergoing alcohol abuse treatment—made a quick return to the road impossible. The subsequent onset of the COVID-19 pandemic further complicated his return timeline.

The Fractured Relationship with Mike Wolfe

Perhaps the most heartbreaking element for fans was the breakdown of the friendship between Frank and co-star Mike Wolfe. Frank claimed that despite his intention to return, he was never invited back to the show by the History Channel. This led to a public disagreement, where Frank expressed disappointment that Mike had not reached out to him in two years. While Mike later spoke out, expressing his concern for Frank's health, the professional and personal rift between the two antique dealers never fully mended before Frank's passing, leaving a cloud over the show's later seasons.

Frank Fritz’s Final Years: Health Struggles and Tragic Death in 2024

Frank’s post-*American Pickers* life was dominated by his fight for health, which ultimately ended in tragedy. His struggles highlight the intense pressure and personal cost of reality television fame.

The Catastrophic 2022 Stroke

In July 2022, Frank suffered a catastrophic stroke at his home in Iowa. The stroke was a severe medical event that left him hospitalized and eventually required him to move into an assisted living facility for long-term care and recovery. This event brought his health struggles back into the public eye, with Mike Wolfe being one of the first to publicly ask for prayers for his long-time friend.

Cause of Death and Final Moments

After a prolonged period of recovery and care, Frank Fritz passed away on September 30, 2024, just shy of his 61st birthday. His cause of death was officially reported as complications from the stroke, which was caused by cerebral vascular disease. Additionally, his death certificate noted a chronic condition, aortic stenosis, which is a heart valve disease that restricts blood flow throughout the body. The combination of these serious health issues proved too much for the former picker.

The Legacy on American Pickers

Despite the bittersweet ending to his career, Frank's legacy on *American Pickers* is undeniable. He was the grounding force to Mike Wolfe's enthusiasm, the expert on vintage items who could haggle a fair price with a smile. The show continues with Mike Wolfe and his brother, Robbie Wolfe, but the dynamic that Frank, Mike, and Danielle Colby created during the early seasons remains the gold standard for fans. The show, which is currently in its 27th season, will continue its journey in 2025, but every episode serves as a quiet memorial to the man who made the phrase "I'm Frank and he's Mike" a part of pop culture history.

Frank Fritz’s story is a poignant reminder of the human cost behind the entertainment. From his humble beginnings in Davenport, Iowa, to his time on the History Channel and his final days, he will be remembered as a genuine antique enthusiast whose passion for history and rusty gold brought joy to millions. His shop, Frank Fritz's Finds, and his books, including the *American Pickers Guide to Picking*, ensure that his influence on the collecting community and Antique Archaeology lives on.

frank on american pickers
frank on american pickers

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