What happened to Frank in the American selectors? His Tragic Death Explained

American Selectors has lost a huge star, not just with the departure of Frank Fritz, but with his recent tragic manhunt. Debuting in 2010 and still going strong through 26 seasons, American Selectors follows a group of collectors who travel across the United States collecting rare antiques to add to their personal collections, for their clients and even for resale. Although some question whether American Selectors is one of the History Channel's fake shows, there's no denying its popularity and enthusiasm. The show feels more like a treasure hunt than an antique hunt, which adds to its appeal and suspense.

Frank was one of the show's main stars for over 10 years, along with his co-star Mike Wolfe and Wolfe's business partner, associate Danielle Colby. Many episodes focused on Fritz and Wolfe's respective businesses and their desire to find unique pieces of Americana. Unfortunately, Frank and Mike were frequently at odds with each other, leading to a public feud. However, it appears that the first American Selectors the pair managed to repair the barriers before it was too late.

Frank Fritz of American Pickers died of a stroke at age 60

He had a history of health problems

Frank Fritz died unexpectedly on September 30, 2024. A death certificate obtained by TMZ confirms that Fritz died of a stroke. The reality star also suffered from a chronic condition called aortic stenosis, which hampers the body's blood flow. Reports show that Fritz's aortic stenosis and his cerebrovascular disease contributed to his death. Fritz American Selectors co-star Mike Wolfe announced his death via Instagram on October 1 and wrote a touching caption paying tribute to his co-star. Fritz's other co-stars, like Danielle Colby and Fritz's replacement on the show, Robert Wolfe, also expressed their condolences on social media (via Stop).

However, the stroke that killed Fritz was not the first, as Frank suffered another stroke in 2022 after his official departure. American Selectors. Unfortunately, Fritz's last days were very emotionally painful. According to ColliderFrank was never able to get over the match American Selectors in 2021. He was also distraught after his engagement to Diann Bankson ended.

He also felt a lot of physical pain before his death. His longtime manager, Bill Stansey, confirmed that Frank had Crohn's disease, which is a chronic digestive problem. Frank also reportedly suffered from alcohol dependence for many years. All of these issues only increased Fritz's pain which led to his eventual death.

Why Frank Left the American Selectors

His departure was complicated

In 2021, Frank Fitz left American Selectors after back surgery. However, while recovering, Fritz expressed interested in returning to the show. But the network reportedly didn't want to bring him back. Instead, he was replaced by his co-star's brother, Robert Wolfe. Reports claim that Fritz was “it's never the same“after being removed from the show (via Yahoo!). Fritz and his co-star Mike Wolf also feuded for several years before Frank's death.

In short, the disagreement resulted from professional and personal issues. After Fritz's surgery in 2021, he claims Wolfe never reached out to him to check on his recovery. During American Selectors', Fritz also claims that he often took a backseat to Wolfe's desires. Although Fritz officially left the show because of back surgery, he was also undergoing treatment for his alcoholism.

After spending some time away to heal, Fritz wanted to return to American Selectorswith which Wolfe disagreed. Wolfe claims that Fritz had not fully resolved his alcohol problem and was therefore not ready to return to the show. In addition to the rivalry, Fritz's health worsened. But Wolfe chose to put personal squabbles aside and wish Fritz the best after his stroke in 2022. Wolfe said via Instagram in 2022:

I've been very secretive this past year about Frank's life and the journey he's been on. There have been a lot of opinions regarding Frank and I's friendship 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.

Frank, I pray more than anything that you get through this well. I love you, friend.

The duo finally reunited on Memorial Day weekend in 2023. Both Fritz and Wolfe wanted to see each other for a while before meeting to bury the hatchet. Their reunion led fans to want Fritz and Wolfe to reunite in American Selectorsbut Fritz chose to focus on his health. Even though the two never appeared on television together again, their bond remained strong until Fritz's untimely death. As Wolfe said: “No one can replace you, Frank.”