Frank Caprio, Beloved Judge and TV Star, Passes Away at 88

Frank Caprio, known as the "nicest judge in the world," has passed away at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and compassion.

Frank Caprio, the celebrated judge and social media sensation, has died at the age of 88, as announced by his family on his official Instagram account. Charismatic and warmly remembered, Caprio was battling pancreatic cancer, which ultimately led to his passing. His son, David Caprio, expressed gratitude towards fans for their unwavering support and urged everyone to "spread a little kindness," reflecting his father's ethos.

Known for his empathetic demeanor in the courtroom, videos featuring Judge Caprio on his popular show "Caught in Providence" amassed billions of views across social media platforms, leading many to refer to him as the "nicest judge in the world." In a heartfelt statement to his 3.4 million followers, the family emphasized Caprio's ability to inspire kindness and remarked on the warmth and humor that endeared him to countless individuals.

With a significant career in the Providence, Rhode Island judiciary prior to his television fame, Judge Caprio held a prominent presence, often bringing light-hearted moments in to serious proceedings. The production company behind his show, Debmar-Mercury, commemorated his unique compassion and common sense approach, indicating that he would be profoundly missed.

During its airing, "Caught in Providence" was recognized with three Daytime Emmy nominations, including two nominations for Caprio himself just last year. Many of his courtroom interactions went viral, notably his ways of engaging with children and introducing a plush "mini-judge" representation of himself.

Among the judge's viral moments, a TikTok video illustrating his daily routine, which includes brushing his teeth and watching his show, garnered over five million views. Caprio once shared in an interview that his courtroom showcased "a slice of life of Rhode Island," resonating with similar societal issues found across the nation.

Despite his cancer diagnosis in 2023, Caprio remained resilient, stating his readiness to fight the illness while expressing gratitude for the support he received online. In one of his last posts, he indicated a hospital setback, asking for prayers from his followers. He is survived by his wife of nearly sixty years, Joyce, alongside their five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, cementing his family-oriented legacy.