Mike Wolfe Reflects on Friendship with Frank Fritz

In a touching revelation, "American Pickers" star Mike Wolfe shared his emotional final moments with his longtime co-host and friend Frank Fritz, who passed away at 60 in September due to complications from a stroke. The duo had known each other for over 40 years, having become childhood friends in Iowa, and co-hosted the beloved History Channel show for a decade.

Reconciliation Before Tragedy

Despite a fallout that led to Fritz’s departure from "American Pickers" during its 21st season in 2020, Wolfe revealed they reconciled before Fritz’s untimely death. In an exclusive interview with People magazine, Wolfe recalled the moment he rushed to be by his friend's side. “I feel blessed that I was able to get there,” he said, describing how he held Fritz’s hand as he took his last breath. "I just told him that I wasn’t mad at him and that I loved him," Wolfe recounted, reflecting on the depth of their friendship.

The Challenges of their Friendship

The road to reconciliation was fraught with challenges. Fritz had openly discussed his battle with alcoholism and the toll it took on their relationship. Although they were once inseparable, they drifted apart, with Fritz noting that Wolfe hadn't checked on him during a particularly difficult time. Wolfe admitted that this period was heartbreakingly painful, likening the rift to “losing a brother.” He hoped for Fritz to seek help for his addiction, even staging an intervention alongside close friends and family.

Pandemic Struggles and Altered Paths

As the pandemic unfolded, things took a darker turn for Fritz. Wolfe noted that after surgery for a back injury, Fritz struggled with addiction to opioids, which significantly altered the trajectory of their friendship and the show. Wolfe expressed that the show needed to move forward, and it was a surreal experience to continue without Fritz, describing the disconnect he felt as “fending for myself.”

Love Amidst Struggle

Despite the obstacles, the love between the two friends was evident. In their final conversations, Wolfe assured Fritz that he was loved and supported, urging him to find peace. Their reconciliation was marked by moments of sincerity and understanding as Wolfe pointed out that addiction often masked the true person behind the struggles.

Reflections on a Priceless Bond

Wolfe alternated between reminiscing of the priceless bond they shared both on and off camera, emphasizing Fritz's natural comedic talent and warmth that made him a joy to be around. "He was like no one I'd ever met," Wolfe reflected, underscoring how their friendship shaped both of their lives.

Final Days and Unspoken Words

Though Fritz's condition worsened and their planned reunions remained unrealized, their friendship endured until his last days. Wolfe described visiting Fritz in the hospital, where he expressed his love and shared unspoken sentiments. "I was able to speak to him very candidly, and very lovingly, about everything that I ever wanted to say to him," he said, highlighting the beauty of their eventual closure.

Legacy and Advocacy

As Wolfe looks back on their journey together, he hopes that fans will remember Fritz not just for his role on “American Pickers,” but as a beautiful person who had a profound impact on those around him. “Who knows what our lives would've been like if there was never a show?” he mused, longing for recognition of the man behind the persona.

A Call for Empathy and Understanding

In a bittersweet farewell, Wolfe continues to advocate for awareness surrounding addiction and mental health, using his story with Fritz to encourage empathy and understanding in the face of struggle.