Fans are devastated at the news that Frank Fritz, the antiques expert who gained fame on the reality series American Pickers, has died at 60.
Fritz, who left the series in 2021, had been suffering from health problems and was hospitalized from a stroke two years ago.
The news was announced by Fritz’s friend and co-star Mike Wolfe, who said that Fritz passed away last night.
“I’ve know 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,” Wolfe wrote in a social media tribute. “The same off camera as he was on, Frank had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself.”
Fritz and Wolfe gained fame as the hosts of the reality TV series American Pickers, which premiered on the History Channel in 2010. The series showed the two “pickers” traveling across the USA, searching for valuable antiques and collectibles in unexpected places.
“We’re looking for amazing things buried in people’s garages and barns,” the show’s opening narration explains. “What most people see as junk, we see as dollar signs. We’ll buy anything we think we can make a buck on.”
“We make a living telling the history of America… one piece at a time.”
The series attracted millions of viewers, becoming one of History Channel’s most popular programs. In its debut year it was the #1 non-fiction series among total viewers and adults 25-54.
While the antiques were often interesting, there’s no doubt it was the chemistry and charisma of the two hosts that kept viewers coming back for more.
In 2021, it was announced that Fritz would be leaving American Pickers after a decade on the hit series. Fritz said the decision was not his own, and that he was pushed out by the network after a back surgery.
“I didn’t leave the show,” he told The Sun at the time. “I finished shooting and then I had a little back surgery and the pandemic came.”
He also suggested that his co-host’s ego was a factor, saying the show had “tilted towards him 1,000 percent.” “I haven’t talked to Mike in two years,” Fritz said. “He knew my back was messed up, but he didn’t call me up and ask how I was doing. That’s just how it is.”
In July 2022, Fritz was hospitalized from a stroke. In 2023, he had a tearful reunion with Mike Wolfe, and the two resolved their purported feud. However, Fritz declined an offer to rejoin American Pickers, deciding to focus on his health.
It’s clear that the two former co-hosts have remained friendly since then, and it seems Wolfe was by his side til the end.
“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,” Wolfe wrote on Instagram. “I love you buddy and will miss you so much I know [you’re] in a better place.”
American Pickers remains a staple of the History Channel lineup. Fritz has never officially been replaced as co-host, though series regulars like Danielle Colby, Mike Wolfe’s brother Robbie, and friend and antiques expert “Jersey Jon” Szalay will rotate accompanying Wolfe on his antiquing trips.
Colby also shared her own tribute to Fritz on social media. “Frank, I will miss your ability to make everyone laugh, your love for talking tattoos, your epic collections but what I will miss the most are those little glimpses of vulnerability from time to time,” she wrote.
“Frank, you loved your cat and your momma and we bonded on those things. You will be missed for all of these reasons and so many more.
Rest in Peace Road Dog.”
Rest in peace to the iconic reality TV star Frank Fritz 😢🙏 Please share this story in his memory.
The Dangers Lurking In Your Backyard
Social media has completely changed how we exchange information in the current digital era. With a single click, it enables us to instantly disseminate messages, no matter how minor or significant. However, what would happen if this knowledge could be the difference between life and death? Ask Andrea Pergola, a worried mother who came face-to-face with a deadly caterpillar, for proof.
A Fortuitous Meeting Turns Hurting
Logan, Andrea’s 15-year-old son, was busy gathering tree branches for his volunteer work when the tragedy happened. Suddenly, he experienced a searing, stinging agony that sent shivers down his spine. He had no idea that this harmless-appearing monster had injected him with a poisonous sting. Logan’s arm developed a red, grid-like mark in a matter of minutes, and a painful rash soon extended to his chest.
Revealing the Lethal Secret
They only realized how serious things were when Logan’s watchful grandfather discovered and investigated the caterpillar. Andrea didn’t take long to use Facebook and other social media platforms to raise awareness of this dangerous caterpillar. She underlined how important it is to get medical help right away if this deadly critter stings you.
The Unflattering Entity
Despite not being native to Florida, this caterpillar has made its way there from Texas. Its fluffy exterior and innocuous appearance conceal any possible harm it may inflict. Simply put, over-the-counter medications are ineffective against this venom. Getting professional medical attention is necessary when handling this dangerous caterpillar.
Keep an eye out and be careful.
Logan’s terrifying experience should serve as a clear warning to all of us to be aware of the potential risks that could be hiding in our own backyards. We must make the effort to familiarize ourselves with the insects and other organisms that may pose a threat to ourselves or our loved ones. The keys to prevention are knowledge and research.
Therefore, do not take any chances the next time you come across a caterpillar that seems suspicious. Get medical assistance right away. Keep in mind that it’s always better to be cautious than sorry!
Did Logan’s tale surprise you? Please share your ideas in the comments section below.
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