Mike Wolfe Reflects on Friendship with Frank Fritz as He Hosts New Series

As Mike Wolfe sets off on new adventures, he can’t help but reflect on his past and the friendships he cherishes, especially with his late co-star and friend, Frank Fritz.

Wolfe, known for “American Pickers,” is now the host of a new series on the History Channel titled “The Greatest Picks of All Time.” This show explores the stories behind some of America’s most famous antiques and collectibles, diving deep into the treasures that tell a story.

Fans of “American Pickers” have certainly felt the impact of Frank Fritz’s absence since he passed away in 2024 from complications after a stroke. Wolfe shared that his bond with Fritz spanned over a decade, and he was with him during his final moments.

Wolfe commented that without Fritz, “American Pickers” might not have even come to be. They spent five years together on the show, and he fondly recalls how they both believed in their shared dream. They were not just colleagues; they were friends since middle school, with Fritz even serving as the godfather to Wolfe’s nieces.

“If it wasn’t for Frank, I wouldn’t be talking to you right now,” Wolfe shared. “We built ‘American Pickers’ together.”

Growing up in a small Iowa town, Wolfe and Fritz quickly became inseparable. They took the leap to travel across the U.S. searching for unique finds, and their journey resulted in the first season of “American Pickers,” which debuted in 2010.

However, over the years, challenges emerged. Fritz faced personal battles, including struggles with alcohol and an eventual fallout with Wolfe, revealing feelings of being overshadowed by him. Wolfe expressed his sorrow over the negative press that surrounded them during that time.

Despite their rocky moments, they managed to reconnect before Fritz fell seriously ill. Wolfe visited him often in his nursing home, highlighting that their bond of friendship never wavered. In fact, it was deeply evident in their emotional reunion just before Fritz’s passing.

Wolfe was with Fritz during his last moments, holding his hand as he passed. “It was a difficult time,” he said, referring to their past but focusing on the love they shared. “We always loved each other.”

Reflecting on the film-making process of the new show, Wolfe admitted that he often thought of Fritz. There’s a unique dynamic when you’re used to collaborating closely with someone, and adjusting to a new format can be, well, jarring. “I felt a little out of my element,” he confessed.

For fans who miss Fritz as much as he does, Wolfe believes they’ll find something enjoyable in the new series, which is, in some ways, an extension of “American Pickers.” “This show features others’ discoveries, and I’m excited to share their stories,” he noted.

Wolfe pointed out that the upcoming episodes will showcase fascinating artifacts—a nod to the tradition he and Fritz helped popularize. He emphasized that while collecting might evolve, the stories behind each item remain crucial.

Looking to the future, Wolfe remains optimistic, confident that younger generations will continue to explore and cherish the art of “picking.” “Call it what you will; it’s about keeping history alive,” he concluded.