In the years preceding the tragic death of American Pickers star Frank Fritz, persistent media reports suggested a bitter feud between him and his long-time friend and co-star Mike Wolfe. The two men had shared a close bond for over four decades, having created the immensely popular History Channel programme together and supported each other through numerous personal and professional challenges.
The Rise of American Pickers and a Deep Friendship
Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz conceived the idea for American Pickers in the early 2000s, drawing inspiration from British television series like Antiques Roadshow. Their vision was to demonstrate that collectors did not need to be academic scholars and that anyone could participate in the business of picking valuable items. The duo aimed to highlight the potential of yard sales and profitable deals, describing their concept as "hands on history."
Together, they pitched the show for five consecutive years before History finally picked it up. Wolfe emphasised their collaborative effort, stating, "When American Pickers was being pitched we walked side by side the whole time. It's important for people to know that I couldn't have done it without him, and he couldn't have done it without me."
The Beginning of Speculation and Health Struggles
Wolfe and Fritz co-hosted American Pickers for twenty-one successful seasons until 2020, when Fritz departed the programme to undergo necessary back surgery. While fans anticipated his eventual return, he never resumed his role on the show. This absence sparked widespread speculation about a potential behind-the-scenes fallout between the former partners.
Throughout 2021, Fritz gave multiple interviews claiming he had not communicated with Wolfe. Additionally, hints emerged from American Pickers cast members, including Wolfe himself, suggesting Fritz was grappling with substance abuse issues. Wolfe later confirmed his friend's battle with opioid addiction, which began during his recovery from back surgery amid the Coronavirus pandemic.
"The reality of it is Frank was doing a lot of things that he was not supposed to do," Wolfe told the Daily Mail. "We fought hard for him, and we loved him, and no matter how hard and no matter how much we wanted something for him, he had to make the decision to stop on his own."
Wolfe's Decision to Remain Silent
Mike Wolfe chose not to publicly correct the narrative of a feud out of profound respect for Fritz and his ongoing struggle with addiction. He explained his silence was a protective measure, wanting to avoid causing further distress to his friend during a vulnerable period.
Fritz's health deteriorated significantly in 2022 when he suffered a debilitating stroke in July. Wolfe recalled visiting him regularly at his nursing facility, saying, "He could barely speak. I wanted him to know how much I loved him. I would show him photos on my phone of things that I found, and we would talk as best we could about everything that we accomplished together."
Despite the challenges, Wolfe described their final interactions as emotionally rich. "There were a lot of tears shed, and there were a lot of laughs, and there were so many beautiful things," he reflected.
Reconciliation and Tragic Loss
The pair eventually reconciled before Fritz's untimely death on September 30, 2024, at age sixty following complications from his stroke. Nearly two years after his passing, Wolfe has decided to set the record straight about their relationship, speaking exclusively to the Daily Mail.
"I want people to know - and he would want people to know - that we loved each other like brothers," Wolfe asserted, describing his time with Fritz as a "once in a lifetime friendship." He expressed deep sadness about how their bond was portrayed in the media and emphasised the brotherly love that defined their connection.
A New Chapter and Lasting Tribute
Wolfe is now preparing to launch his new History channel programme, History's Greatest Picks with Mike Wolfe. This eight-part series explores the fascinating journeys, historical tales, and monetary values behind legendary treasures, relics, and artifacts. The show provides expert insight and compelling historical context, with Wolfe guiding audiences through captivating stories about how these extraordinary objects have changed hands and appreciated dramatically in value over time.
Wolfe acknowledges that this new venture would not exist without his late friend's influence and their shared achievements. "I wouldn't be sitting here talking if it wasn't for him," he stated. "Me and Frank built American Pickers together and when he passed that changed so much of our lives."
He clarified that this impact extends beyond their professional collaboration. "I'm not talking about the way we made the show," Wolfe explained. "I'm just talking about our lives personally. And you know, that show has led to this show. This is a real tribute to his level of work and passion and commitment that he made, as well, is the reason I'm standing here today."
The new programme serves as a heartfelt testament to their enduring friendship and the remarkable legacy they built together through American Pickers.
