Frank Fritz, best known for his role in American Pickers, became a beloved TV personality alongside Mike Wolfe. However, unlike his co-star, Frank led a more private life, especially when it came to his personal relationships. His passing in September 2024 left fans questioning who he truly left behind and whether he ever had a wife. Despite years of rumors surrounding his relationship status, the details of Frank’s romantic life remained somewhat ambiguous until the very end. Let’s delve into the truth behind Frank Fritz’s relationships and the legacy he left behind.
Did Frank Fritz Have a Wife?
Throughout his career, Frank Fritz was rumored to have tied the knot, particularly in the later years of his life. These speculations grew stronger in 2021, when fans began to believe that Frank had settled down with a woman named Diann. Frank had posted occasional photos of Diann and her family on his Facebook page, which spurred talk of marriage. However, despite the appearance of a serious relationship, Frank never confirmed that they were officially married.
In one notable instance, Frank referred to Diann’s granddaughter as his own, calling himself “Grandpa Frank.” This added fuel to the rumors, making fans wonder if he had taken the step of marrying Diann. But Frank quickly clarified the situation, stating that although he was close to Diann’s family, they were not married. “Diann’s family is my family. It is great being Grandpa Frank! I love my girls,” he explained in one post. Despite this emotional attachment, their relationship didn’t end in marriage.
The Heartbreak of Frank Fritz’s Relationship with Diann Bankson
Frank’s relationship with Diann Bankson was long-term, but it wasn’t without its struggles. In a candid interview with The Sun in July 2021, Frank shared how the relationship took a painful turn. According to him, he had been on the road filming American Pickers and believed that he and Diann were heading towards marriage. He had even bought a house for them. But upon returning home,
he discovered that Diann had been seeing someone else. This revelation deeply hurt Frank and took a toll on his mental health. “It hurt my feelings, my self-esteem, and my whole world,” he admitted, even confessing that he turned to drinking in an attempt to cope with the heartbreak.
Diann, however, denied Frank’s version of events. She told The Sun that his accusations were untrue, insisting, “If he’s trying to make me look like the bad person, of course, I’m going to say it’s not true, because it’s not.” She also mentioned that she had been trying to heal from the relationship and was ready to move on. By 2019, their relationship had ended for good, with both parties moving in different directions.
Health Struggles and Tragic Passing
Frank Fritz faced numerous health struggles in his final years. His battle with Crohn’s disease, a condition he had been open about, forced him to step back from several episodes of American Pickers. In 2020, he officially left the show due to ongoing health issues, including a severe back injury that required surgery.
Then, in July 2022, Frank suffered a stroke, which left him hospitalized. His co-star, Mike Wolfe, took to Instagram to ask fans for their prayers and support, calling Frank “a friend who means a lot” to him. Despite the outpouring of love from fans and his inner circle, Frank’s health continued to decline. On September 30, 2024, Frank Fritz passed away at the age of 60.
Mike Wolfe, deeply saddened by the loss, made the official announcement of Frank’s death on social media. “It’s with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night,” he wrote. “I’ve known Frank for more than 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.” Fans and friends mourned the loss of a man who had been such a key part of American Pickers and a significant figure in the antique world.
Frank Fritz and Diann: A Tumultuous End
Frank and Diann’s relationship was rocky until the very end. After their breakup in 2019, the couple faced several disputes, some of which became legal. Diann sued Frank for $50,000 in 2020, claiming that he was negligent with fireworks, resulting in her suffering severe burns to her hand and arm. Diann alleged that Frank had left an improperly disposed firework in an ashtray, which exploded, causing third-degree burns. She also claimed that Frank refused to take her to the hospital, telling her to “toughen up.”
The lawsuit was later dropped in March 2020, but tensions between the two persisted. Frank, still hurt by the breakdown of their relationship, accused Diann of infidelity, even getting a tattoo that read, “Once a cheater, always a cheater.” Despite the bitterness between them, it’s unclear whether Frank and Diann had any communication in the years leading up to his death.
Frank’s Legacy: Remembered Fondly by Fans and Friends
While Frank Fritz’s personal life was marked by ups and downs, his legacy as a television personality and antique expert remains solid. Fans of American Pickers cherished his contributions to the show, and his down-to-earth personality won him countless admirers. His co-host, Mike Wolfe, remembered him fondly as “the same off-camera as he was on,” a sentiment echoed by those who knew him personally.
Though Frank never had a wife, his life was filled with meaningful relationships and friendships that left a lasting impact on those around him. His passing marks the end of an era for American Pickers, but his presence will be felt for years to come.
Conclusion
Frank Fritz may not have had a wife, but his relationships, particularly with Diann Bankson, were significant chapters in his life. Despite the challenges he faced, from personal heartbreak to health struggles, Frank remained a beloved figure in the world of antiques and reality TV. His fans, friends, and family continue to mourn his loss while celebrating the joy and laughter he brought to so many.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Did Frank Fritz ever get married?
No, Frank Fritz was never married, though he was in a long-term relationship with a woman named Diann Bankson.
2. Who was Frank Fritz’s girlfriend?
Frank Fritz was in a relationship with Diann Bankson for several years. They were together intermittently before officially breaking up in 2019.
3. Why did Frank Fritz leave American Pickers?
Frank left American Pickers due to health issues, including back surgery and his battle with Crohn’s disease. He also suffered a stroke in 2022.
4. What caused Frank Fritz’s death?
Frank Fritz passed away on September 30, 2024, following a series of health complications, including a stroke in 2022.
5. How did Mike Wolfe react to Frank Fritz’s passing?
Mike Wolfe, Frank’s co-host on American Pickers, expressed deep sadness at his passing, sharing a heartfelt tribute on social media.