Mike Wolfe Remembers His “American Pickers” Co-Star & “Buddy” Frank Fritz

Mike Wolfe / Instagram / Jeffrey Ufberg/WireImage/Getty Images

“I Love You Buddy And Will Miss You So Much”: Mike Wolfe’s Touching Memories of Frank Fritz

Frank Fritz passed away yesterday, September 30th, at the age of 58. Fritz is best known for his role on the History Channel’s hit show, American Pickers. The show has been running since 2010 and has been nominated for multiple awards.

The highly rated reality series follows the two main characters, Frank Fritz and Mike Wolfe, who portray themselves. They drive around America collecting vintage and antique goods while explaining the history to the audience. 

The History Channel posted about their past star on Facebook, stating:

“We will always remember ‘the bearded charmer’ and his never-ending search for vintage motorcycles and bikes. Our thoughts are with Frank’s loved ones during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed.”

His Friend Remembers Him With Touching Post

Mike Wolfe, who was Fritz’s on-air co-star, shared a touching Instagram post with fans about his friend’s death. Wolfe started the post by saying that he had horrible news and then went on to write about his relationship with Fritz. He shared that:

“I’ve know Frank for more then 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.”

Mike Wolfe / Instagram

The two shared hours together in their van, touring the United States looking for treasure. In his words: “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

The co-star ended his tribute by saying, “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 your [sic] in a better place.”

Read the full post below.

Fritz’ fans and co-stars will greatly miss the star. There is still not yet an official cause of death, but he did suffer a stroke in 2022 and has had health complications since then.
The world will not soon forget the American Picker, and we send out our love and condolences to his family and friends. Watch one of his on-air highlights below.