Mike Wolfe Reflects on Friendship and Loss After Frank Fritz's Passing

Remembering a Friendship

As I roam the forgotten corners of America in my new series, History's Greatest Picks, I can't shake off the memories of my dear friend and co-star, Frank Fritz. His absence is poignant, a hollow echo in a treasure chest filled with our shared memories.

Frank and I first met as kids in a small Iowa town, dreaming of the adventures that awaited us. Our journey began on those dusty roads, on the premise of exploring stories hidden in antiques. Little did we know, we were about to embark on a ride that would eventually reach millions of viewers through our television show, American Pickers.

“We've built something special together,” Wolfe recalls, emphasizing their collaborative spirit. “There would be no American Pickers without Frank.”

New Horizons, Old Memories

With Frank sadly passing in 2024 due to a stroke, I often find myself reflecting on our time together. In those final moments, I was by his side, just like we had been together through the highs of fame and the lows of personal struggles. The tight-knit friendship had endured bitter rifts yet ultimately became a testament to forgiveness and love.

For me, the transition to hosting History's Greatest Picks was a bittersweet endeavor, as I often thought about how Frank would have contributed to this new adventure. While filming a segment on a rare Strap Tank Harley, I felt an overwhelming wave of nostalgia wash over me, remembering the chemistry we had developed before the cameras rolled — a relationship built on trust, laughter, and, above all, love.

The Unseen Battles

As our show gained popularity, Frank faced his own battles. Behind the scenes, he struggled with personal issues, including alcohol addiction and later, complications from surgeries that further clouded our friendship. These challenges played out amidst a backdrop of growing tensions. I always admired Frank but could never quite bridge the chasm that formed between us during difficult times.

We had a profound fallout, one that at times made me question the robustness of our bond, but the journey we shared was far too grand to be overshadowed. In a poignant moment relayed to People, I held Frank's hand as he breathed his last, promising to treasure our memories and what we created together.

Legacy and Learning

This new series serves not just as a continuation of our legacy but as a platform to introduce stories from other passionate pickers. I want to celebrate the extraordinary collectibles that inhabit our history while also encapsulating the spirit of curiosity that Frank and I embodied.

“I learned a lot making this series,” I've remarked. The essence of discovery remains the same, whether it's diving deep into the past or simply engaging with objects that speak to our shared human experience.

A Call to the Next Generation

While I may feel like a veteran in the world of picking, I remain invigorated by the new generation, who refer to this art as sourcing. This shift in terminology perhaps reflects a transformative vision for how we interact with our past. Every piece tells a story, and I'm thrilled that young enthusiasts are ready to dive into this world.

“We're telling stories about our history,” I often say, “and it's crucial that we keep that spirit alive no matter what you call it.”

Whether it's vintage clothing, unique finds, or handcrafted treasures, the pursuit remains as exhilarating as the day Frank and I began this journey. With stories to tell and treasures to uncover, I remain optimistic for the future of picking. Collecting is a journey that transcends generations, and I'm honored to carry on this legacy.

Conclusion

As I continue my journey in the realm of antique collecting, I invite everyone to join me in valuing the treasures of our past while forging connections for the future. Frank taught me that love can blossom in unexpected places, and that every item has a story waiting to be unveiled. Join me in celebrating not just the artifacts, but the bonds we create along the way — just like Frank and I did.