### "American Pickers" Star Frank Fritz Passes Away at 57

The television show "American Pickers" has lost one of its beloved stars, Frank Fritz, who passed away on Monday after battling a long illness. His passing occurred around 7:30 PM, as shared by his friends on social media.

Frank's co-star, Mike Wolfe, shared heartfelt words about his longtime friend, whom he had known for over half his life. Wolfe described Fritz as a genuine and kind individual, both on and off the camera. “The same off camera as he was on, Frank had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself,” Wolfe said on Instagram. He remembered Frank as a funny and sensitive dreamer.

During his time on the History Channel's "American Pickers," Fritz appeared in 308 episodes from 2010 to 2021. The show gained popularity by showcasing Fritz and Wolfe, childhood friends, as they traveled across America hunting for hidden treasures in unexpected places. The duo's adventures were often compared to the PBS favorite "Antiques Roadshow," but with a distinctive twist of their own.

Fritz stepped out of the limelight after suffering a severe stroke in 2022. Despite his absence, he left an indelible mark on viewers and his fellow pickers. A statement from his friends highlighted that Frank filmed "American Pickers" for over a decade and celebrated him as "the bearded charmer" whose relentless pursuit for vintage motorcycles and bikes made him a favorite among fans.

Frank Fritz will be lovingly remembered for his unique charisma and contributions to the world of reality television. His memory continues to live on in the hearts of his loved ones and fans during this difficult time.