The reality television programme “American Pickers” has been a regular fixture on History’s schedule for more than ten years and continues to be a fan favourite. The “American Pickers” cast has been scouring the country for priceless artefacts of history hidden in shacks, sheds, shops, storage containers, and more ever since the show’s premiere in January 2010. Given that the stars have yet to visit many places in the show’s 22 seasons, it makes sense that “American Pickers” may continue to air for another ten or more years. Of course, that depends on the network’s decision as well as that of the show’s three hosts, Mike Wolfe, Frank Fritz, and Danielle Colby. But that might not be the case at all, as shown by the most recent batch of episodes. Wolfe and Colby were back in action for more antiquing excursions, but Fritz was missing when “American Pickers” returned for its 22nd season in January 2021.
He was also not present when the show returned for its midseason on June 7, which sparked rumours among viewers. In some circles, there was renewed discussion about Fritz’s diagnosis of Crohn’s disease, which accounts for his recent (and very noticeable) weight loss, while others pointed to Jersey Jon replacing him as a sign that Fritz’s “American Pickers” tenure may be coming to an end.
What Happened To Frank On American Pickers?
Although there isn’t a lot of specific information available about why Frank Fritz has been absent from recent episodes of “American Pickers,” sources like Celeb Hook are asserting that there are a few factors preventing his immediate return.
Fritz has a serious, underlying medical condition, so it goes without saying that he would want to avoid the risk of contracting COVID-19, which is still a major issue. Fritz and no one else on the “American Pickers” team has confirmed this as the cause of Fritz’s absence, but according to a press release released prior to the show’s arrival in Missouri in May 2021, the cast and crew are seriously concerned about COVID-19 safety. “We recognise that the spread of COVID-19 has left everyone facing very uncertain times. According to a press release obtained by the Neosho Daily News, “We at American Pickers are taking the pandemic very seriously and will be adhering to all guidelines and protocols for safe filming as outlined by the state and CDC.
Additionally, according to Celeb Hook and the U.S. Sun, Fritz was quarantined in LeClaire, Iowa, the location of one of the two Antique Archaeology stores, where he recently sold the $358,000 house he and his ex-fiancée, Diann Bankson, owned together.
Frank Fritz underwent back surgery as well
It’s also important to note that Mike Wolfe has acknowledged the mystery surrounding Frank Fritz’s disappearance. According to Reality Titbit, Wolfe revealed that Fritz had back surgery for an unspecified reason. The commenter continued, saying that the fact that Frank’s name was mentioned twice in a later episode should demonstrate that he “obviously hasn’t been cut out of the show.” The commenter added that in a later episode, Frank’s name was mentioned twice, which should be proof that he “obviously hasn’t been cut out of the show.”
Although it’s not clear why Fritz had surgery, some back or spine operations can have a protracted recovery period while others have a quicker one. Patients stay in the hospital for at least one day following surgery, and then between six and eight weeks and several months are required for recovery, according to Dr Michael Kaiser, a neurosurgeon and spine surgeon (via Neurosurgeons of New Jersey). The frequency, intensity, and overall length of therapy sessions vary depending on the type of surgery the patient had and the surgeon’s recommendations, says Dr Kaiser. Patients will likely start physical therapy one to three months after surgery.
Frank Fritz would probably be overwhelmed by having back surgery, recovering from it, managing Crohn’s disease, selling a house, and avoiding contracting and spreading COVID-19. Hopefully, Fritz will feel more at ease travelling with his longtime co-host Mike Wolfe and searching through America’s biggest treasure troves in the near future with COVID-19 vaccination rates on the rise (per Bloomberg) and mask mandates being gradually rolled back as well (per U.S. News & World Report).
