Judge Frank Caprio shared a heartbreaking final message just before he sadly passed away following a battle with cancer.
His family confirmed the news on his official Instagram page, where he was remembered for his “warmth” and “unwavering belief in the goodness of people.”
“His warmth, humour, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him,” the statement read, also urging his millions of fans to “spread a little kindness” in his memory.
Caprio passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
His son, David Caprio, thanked supporters for their love and encouragement throughout his father’s illness, which had been publicly known since his diagnosis in 2023.
In one of his final video messages shared from his hospital bed, Caprio looked directly into the camera and asked followers to keep him in their thoughts.
“I’m coming to you again asking you to remember me in your prayers once more. So I ask you again if it’s not too much that you can remember me in your prayers,” he said.
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Caprio studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1965 before beginning a long and remarkable career in public service.
He served as a municipal judge in Providence from 1985 until his retirement in 2023, per BBC News.
Though he presided over thousands of cases involving minor violations such as parking tickets and traffic offences, it was his unique blend of compassion and common sense that made him stand out.
His rise to international fame came through the hit TV show Caught in Providence, which showcased his courtroom proceedings. The series, produced by Debmar-Mercury, became a global phenomenon after clips of Caprio’s interactions went viral on social media, amassing billions of views.
From inviting children to sit beside him on the bench to forgiving fines for those struggling financially, his small acts of compassion resonated worldwide. The show earned multiple Daytime Emmy nominations, while Caprio himself was nominated twice in 2022.
“Caught in Providence was nominated for a Daytime Emmy in 2021, further cementing his reputation as ‘America’s Nicest Judge,’” the show’s producers Mort Marcus and Ira Bernstein said in a statement. “We will miss him dearly.”
Even as he faced his cancer diagnosis, Caprio spoke with grace and gratitude.
“My first reaction was disbelief. But then I thought: I have lived a life full of blessings. I’m not going to let this define my later years,” he told CNA in an earlier interview.
When he first announced his illness, he promised to fight “as hard as I can,” and he continued sharing updates with his followers, who flooded his posts with encouragement.
His presence on social media became an extension of his kindness, whether through behind-the-scenes clips, like his viral morning routine video - brushing his teeth, signing copies of his book, and rewatching moments from his show - or through heartfelt messages that inspired millions.
Judge Caprio is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Joyce, their five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.