Viral judge Frank Caprio passes away aged 88

Judge Frank Caprio has passed away at the age of 88.

The Rhode Island native, who became a viral sensation thanks to his compassion in the courtroom, had been battling pancreatic cancer.

Tributes have poured in for Caprio after his son, Frank T. Caprio, confirmed the news on Wednesday (20 August), as per the Daily Mail.

He was dubbed the 'nicest judge in the world' by viewers who tuned into Caught in Providence, a reality TV show which Caprio fronted.

His empathy when residing over traffic, parking, and arraignments for criminal cases earned him the respect of a legion of social media users too when clips of the show went viral.

Caprio was both amusing and forgiving while brandishing his gavel, as demonstrated when he told NBC in 2017: "I don't wear a badge under my robe. I wear a heart under my robe."

A statement shared to his Instagram page announcing his death stated: "Judge Frank Caprio passed away peacefully at the age of 88 after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Judge Frank Caprio has passed away at the age of 88 (Jessica Rinaldi/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

"Beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people, Judge Caprio touched the lives of millions through his work in the courtroom and beyond.

"His warmth, humour, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

"He will be remembered not only as a respected judge, but as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. His legacy lives on in the countless acts of kindness he inspired.

"In his honour, may we each strive to bring a little more compassion into the world - just as he did every day."

The father-of-five announced that he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in a video shared to social media in December 2023.

A statement announcing his passing described him as a 'devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend' (Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images)

Caprio then underwent treatment, which he reportedly completed in May the following year.

Just yesterday (19 August), he shared an Instagram post urging people to wish him well as he had been hospitalised.

"As I continue this difficult battle, your prayers will lift my spirit," Caprio wrote in the caption.

In the poignant clip, he said: "Last year I asked you to pray for me and it's very obvious that you did, because I came through a very difficult period.

"Unfortunately I've had a setback, I'm back in the hospital. Now, I'm coming to you again and asking you to remember me in your prayers once more."

Caprio is survived by his wife of six decades Joyce, his five children - Frank, David, Marissa, John and Paul - seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.