Life has a way of taking us on unexpected journeys, and sometimes, those journeys can be incredibly challenging. Frank Fritz, the well-known television personality and host of “American Pickers,” has faced his fair share of personal struggles. In this article, we will delve into his heartbreaking story and explore the impact it has had on his life.
A Love Story That Took an Unexpected Turn
Frank Fritz’s life seemed to be on the right track when he met Diann Bankson, his longtime partner. They had their ups and downs, but in 2017, they got engaged. The couple purchased a farmhouse in Iowa the following year and began their life together.
Sadly, their romantic journey came to an abrupt end in November of that year. Bankson claimed to have discovered Fritz in bed with another woman, which shattered their relationship. Fritz was devastated by the betrayal but still wanted to marry Bankson, despite everything.
Fritz expressed his pain by sharing, “I was going to marry. I bought a house and a large, expensive ring.” He even got a tattoo that read, “Once a cheater, always a cheater,” as a reminder not to make the same mistake again. The aftermath of the breakup took a toll on him, leading to alcoholism and a significant amount of weight loss.
Struggling to Heal and Rebuild
To cope with his broken heart, Fritz turned to alcohol. Unfortunately, this only deepened his troubles. He acknowledged, “I gave it my all. I attempted to drown her in alcohol.” Recognizing the need to focus on healing, Fritz chose to put his dating life on hold and work on overcoming his alcohol addiction.
As if dealing with the emotional aftermath of his failed relationship wasn’t enough, Fritz also lost his job as the host of “American Pickers” on the History Channel in March 2020. He cited health problems as the reason for his absence, assuring fans that he would return to the show once his back surgery had fully healed.
The future of Fritz’s return to the show remains uncertain, but he has received promises from a showrunner that he will be back. Despite being a part of the show for a decade, there are currently no plans for him to return as a host.
Embracing New Beginnings
While Fritz was grappling with his personal struggles, his former partner, Diann Bankson, moved on and introduced her new partner, Eric Longlett, to the world. Bankson shared her excitement about their relationship, including attending Elton John’s Yellow Brick Road Farewell Tour together.
Fritz’s journey took a tragic turn on July 4, 2022, when he suffered a stroke. Thankfully, a friend found him and called for help. Although he is on the path to recovery, his rehabilitation has been challenging, leading to his placement under guardianship and his transfer to a nursing home.
It was his “longtime friend” who took on the role of his guardian, with a bank overseeing his finances. This arrangement ensures that Fritz receives the necessary care, including daily expenses, health insurance, transportation, and property taxes. His guardian is responsible for decision-making regarding his living situation, healthcare needs, and communication with loved ones.
A Heartfelt Conclusion
Frank Fritz’s story is undoubtedly heartbreaking, filled with love, loss, and the determination to overcome adversity. We extend our heartfelt wishes for his health and recovery as he continues his journey.
Please share this article with your friends and family to spread awareness about what happened to Frank Fritz, and let’s keep him in our thoughts and prayers for a speedy and full recovery.
