The journey of Frank Fritz and Mike Wolfe captured American audiences across 26 seasons as they traveled the country in search of rare artifacts.
On October 1, Wolfe announced the passing of Fritz, who died on September 30, two years after suffering a stroke. Describing Fritz as a “dreamer who was just as sensitive as he was funny,” Wolfe shared that he was by his former co-host’s side during his final moments.
Their long-standing friendship brought joy to many fans, though it was not without its challenges. At one point, Wolfe disclosed that the two had not spoken for two years due to a rift between them.
Wolfe announced the passing of Fritz, who died on September 30
Here’s a look back at the ups and downs of Fritz and Wolfe’s friendship over the past two decades, including how they reconciled after their disagreements.
July 2021: Fritz Opens Up About Rift with Wolfe and Departure from American Pickers
Fritz first discussed his troubled relationship with Wolfe during an interview with The Sun. “I haven’t talked to Mike in two years,” he revealed, while a representative for The History Channel confirmed his exit to PEOPLE.
“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.” Fritz expressed feeling like he was in a secondary position on American Pickers, claiming Wolfe was the show’s main focus.
“The show is tilted towards him 1,000 percent. I can’t even bend that far down to show you how much,” Fritz explained, noting that he felt more relatable as a “common man.” He likened their dynamic to that of Aerosmith, stating, “I found my spot, I’m second, and he’s number one on the show. That’s no problem with me; maybe he does have a problem.”
In response to Fritz’s departure, Wolfe issued a heartfelt statement, expressing his sadness at losing his former co-host.
“I have known Frank for as long as I can remember; he’s been like a brother to me,” he wrote. “The journey that Frank, Dani (Danielle), and I started back in 2009 has brought both highs and lows, blessings and challenges, but it has also been the most rewarding. I will miss Frank, just like all of you, and I pray for the very best for him in the next part of his journey.”
August 2021: Danielle Colby Comments on the Rift
Shortly after Fritz’s revelations, Colby shared her thoughts on the situation through an Instagram post. “Out on the road again with my best friend and big brother, whom I fully support and stand behind,” she wrote alongside a selfie with Wolfe.
“Thank you for the last decade of advocacy toward myself and others on set. I’m proud of how you’ve handled the last 12 years and look forward to many more years of rolling around this big blue marble together.”
Colby expressed her sadness over Fritz’s departure from American Pickers and her concern for his struggles. “I have personally watched everything over the last decade. I have many thoughts but won’t speak them as they are only my thoughts, not gospel,” she remarked. “I wish things could have been different, but we must be accountable for our actions when we cause instability or pain and suffering to others.
Frank caused so much pain for himself that it has been hard to watch. I truly hope Frank receives all the help he needs to become well after years of being unwell.”
Colby felt compelled to address the speculation surrounding her feelings, stating, “Here’s exactly how I feel. I hope everybody gets well. I hope everybody continues to love each other even through the hard stuff.”
July 2022: Wolfe Shares Update on Fritz’s Health
One year after Fritz opened up about their fallout, Wolfe shared news of Fritz’s hospitalization following a stroke. In an Instagram post, Wolfe wrote alongside a photo of Fritz smiling, “I have been very private in the past year regarding Frank’s life and the journey he’s been on.
There have been lots of opinions about my friendship with Frank and the show, but now is not the time to set the record straight. Now is the time to pray for my friend.”
“Frank has suffered a stroke and is in the hospital. Please keep him in your hearts and thoughts,” he added. Wolfe concluded with a heartfelt message, expressing, “Frank, I pray more than anything that you make it through this okay. I love you, buddy.”
2022: Wolfe Requests Privacy for Fritz’s Recovery
Shortly after revealing Fritz’s health situation, a representative for Wolfe asked fans to respect Fritz’s privacy during his recovery.
“We ask that everyone keeps Frank in their thoughts and prayers,” the rep stated. “The most important thing is that we allow him time to heal and give him the space to do so.” October 2024: Wolfe Confirms the Passing of Fritz On October 1, Wolfe took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news of Fritz’s death on September 30.
“It’s with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night,” Wolfe wrote in his tribute. “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. Frank was the same off-camera as he was on, and he had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself.”
“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?” he continued. “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.”
Reflecting on their experiences, Wolfe expressed gratitude for their time together, 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.”
