Life can lead us down unexpected paths. Frank Fritz, once a beloved television figure, faced significant struggles in his personal life. This is his poignant story.
Frank’s long-term partner, Diann Bankson, played a significant role in his life. Their tumultuous breakup resulted in Frank’s battle with alcohol, job loss, and even a serious health issue. Though their relationship has ended, the impact of their time together remains.
Frank, known as the host of “American Pickers,” met Diann Bankson when he was 25. They had an on-again, off-again relationship and got engaged in 2017. In 2018, they purchased a farmhouse in Iowa and moved in together. However, things took a turn in November that year when Bankson claimed she found Fritz with another woman.
In an interview, Frank revealed that it was actually Bankson who had been unfaithful, which led him to get a tattoo as a reminder of her betrayal. He said he still wanted to marry her despite the circumstances. “I bought a house and a big expensive ring, only to find out she’d been seeing someone else for two and a half years,” Frank shared. He explained the tattoo was to remind him not to repeat his mistake, noting that Bankson had cost him a lot financially.
To cope with the heartbreak, Frank turned to alcohol, leading to significant weight loss. “I tried to drink her away,” he admitted. Despite overcoming his drinking problem, the sting from his relationship with Bankson left him reluctant to date again.
Professionally, Frank faced setbacks as well. According to the Sun, he hadn’t appeared on “American Pickers” since March 2020. He explained that health issues had kept him away and expressed his desire to return, saying he was fully recovered and ready to rejoin the show. However, while a showrunner promised to bring him back, TMZ reported there were no plans for his return despite his decade-long involvement.
Adding to his struggles, Bankson introduced a new partner, Eric Longlett, an Engineering Administration Manager, on social media. She shared a post about how fortunate she felt to be with him, even mentioning a concert they attended together.
On July 4, 2022, Frank was hospitalized after a stroke. A friend found him at home and called for help, fearing he was having a seizure. Frank’s father, Bill Fritz, reported that his son was improving daily.
However, Frank’s recovery was slower than hoped. After leaving the hospital, he was moved to a nursing facility and placed under guardianship. In August 2022, his “longtime friend” applied for and received temporary guardianship and conservatorship for Frank.
As a guardian, his friend manages Frank’s daily decisions, including his living arrangements, healthcare, activities, and contact with loved ones. As conservator, the bank oversees his finances, including expenses, health insurance, property taxes, and ensuring transportation for medical appointments.
Legal documents revealed that Frank’s condition had worsened, affecting his ability to make sound decisions. The court decided that a guardian and conservator were necessary to protect his health and prevent harm.
This story is truly heartbreaking. We hope for Frank Fritz’s full recovery and wish him the best. Please share this with others so they can support him through their thoughts and prayers.
