American Pickers star Frank Fritz has died

American Pickers star Frank Fritz has died. The antique and collectable picker hosted the reality TV show from 2010 until 2020.

With a whopping 26 seasons so far, Fritz travelled around the US with Mike Wolfe, searching for rare Americana artefacts and national treasures to buy and add to their own collections or sell on.

His co-star and good friend Wolfe wrote on Instagram: "It’s with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night.

"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. 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.

Fritz and Wolfe. (Taylor Hill/Getty Images)

"Before the show we would take off together to places we never knew existed with no destination in mind and just the shared passion to discover something interesting and historic.

"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. I love you buddy and will miss you so much I know your in a better place."

Another of Fritz's co-stars, Danielle Colby, also shared a tribute as she wrote: "Frank, I will miss your ability to make everyone laugh, your love for talking tattoos, your epic collections but what I will miss the most are those little glimpses of vulnerability from time to time.

"Frank, you loved your cat and your momma and we bonded on those things. You will be missed for all of these reasons and so many more. Rest in Peace Road Dog."

Colby paid tribute on Instagram. (daniellecolbyamericanpicker/Instagram)

And Robbie Wolfe, who replaced Fritz on the popular show, shared: "It with a heavy heart I’m sad to say My friend Frank Fritz has passed away last night.

"You all knew him from TV. But I knew him from traveling ,Fishing and Family he was the god father to my twin girls. His smile was contagious and his laughter will be missed.

"Most of all just time sitting in a fishing boat talking about life. I know you’re in a better place. Love you buddy hope you catch the big one until we see each other in heaven hold the boat steady."