Is ‘American Pickers’ Canceled After Frank Fritz’s Death?
History Channel’s reality series, American Pickers, introduced best friends Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz to the world in 2010. The friends had their ups and downs through the years, with Fritz exiting the series in 2021. Despite Wolfe and Fritz’s complicated relationship, they remained friends. Sadly, Wolfe announced that Fritz died in September 2024. So, is American Pickers canceled following the announcement? Here’s what to know.
Is ‘American Pickers’ canceled following Frank Fritz’s death?
American Pickers initially starred Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz as they traveled across America to find rare finds, treasures, and antiques. The friends starred in the series together for 10 years before Fritz disappeared from the series. While some reports suggest Fritz was fired, other insiders say he chose to leave on his own accord following burnout and health issues. He and Wolfe also had a falling out that appeared to affect the show.
Sadly, Fritz died in 2024 after having a stroke in 2022. The stroke was a catalyst for other health problems, including pneumonia. Fritz regained the ability to walk, but he needed a wheelchair to continue to get around. Wolfe posted about his friend’s death on Oct. 1, 2024, on social media.
So, what will happen to American Pickers after Fritz’s death? Wolfe previously said the show would return with new episodes in October 2024. Additionally, History Channel renewed the series for more episodes beyond 2024. According to the new contract, the show will continue for at least three more years as of May 2024.
“They are filming; they just got back from Louisiana,” a source told The U.S. Sun. “They’re filming for season 26, and they have signed on for three more years.”
It’s unclear if Fritz’s death will affect American Pickers moving forward. However, Fritz hasn’t appeared in an episode since March 2020. The show will likely continue with Mike and Robbie Wolfe.
Mike Wolfe posted about his friend’s death
American Pickers stars Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz’s relationship had notable ups and downs. Despite the low points, they retained a lot of love for each other. In 2023, they reunited and revived their friendship.
Wolfe posted the heartbreaking news regarding Fritz’s death on Instagram.
“It’s with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night,” he posted on Oct. 1, 2024.
“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,” he continued. “The same off camera as he was on, Frank 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,” Wolfe wrote.
Wolfe concluded his post by stating he was by his best friend’s side when Fritz died. “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,” he wrote. “I love you buddy and will miss you so much; I know [you’re] in a better place.”
Frank Fritz and Mike Wolfe stayed ‘great friends’ despite their setbacks
Frank Fritz and Mike Wolfe will forever be known as the dynamic duo on American Pickers. They had a friendship that spanned 40 years. A source told The U.S. Sun that Wolfe and Fritz stopped talking for years due to “burnout.”
“They had arguments over stuff, disagreements as anybody does in business. It’s all business,” the source said. “Frank knows what business is like. Whatever decision came down, it came down. It wasn’t that big of a deal.”
However, business aside, “their friendship is fine. They’re fine. Their friendship is great today. They’ve known each other for 40 years. They’re great friends.”
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