Renowned judge Frank Caprio, affectionately dubbed the "nicest judge in the world," has died at 88 years old, as confirmed by his family on his official Instagram account. A diagnosis of pancreatic cancer led to the announcement, which highlighted his enduring warmth and faith in humanity. His son, David Caprio, expressed gratitude for the public's support and urged fans to carry forward his father's spirit by "spreading a little kindness."
Caprio, beloved for his approach in the courtroom, became a social media sensation through his television show, Caught in Providence, which showcased his light-hearted presiding style while addressing real-life issues. This show garnered billions of views online, and Judge Caprio was recognized for his numerous acts of kindness and humor, making a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
In their tribute, the producers of Caught in Providence paid homage to his "unique brand of compassion" while acknowledging his contributions to the show, which earned nominations for three Daytime Emmys and two separate nominations for Caprio last year. His viral moments ranged from inviting children to participate in his court proceedings to creating a "mini-judge" plushie.
An engaging TikTok video featuring his daily routine—comprising teeth-brushing, book-signing, and watching clips of his own show—became a hit, amassing over 5 million views. In a past interview, Caprio described his courtroom reflections as showcasing a "slice of life of Rhode Island," resonating with audiences across the nation.
After being diagnosed with cancer earlier this year, Caprio expressed his determination to fight and appreciated the outpouring of support from his followers. Following a hospital readmission due to treatment complications, he sought prayers from his fans in one of his final social media messages.
Frank Caprio is survived by his beloved wife Joyce, with whom he celebrated nearly 60 years of marriage, along with their five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His legacy of kindness and compassion will continue to inspire many.
