Judge Frank Caprio Passed Away: Beloved Judge Frank Caprio Star of Caught in Providence! Dies at 88 After Brave Cancer Battle
Providence, Rhode Island, August 21, 2025 – The world is mourning the loss of Judge Frank Caprio, the compassionate Chief Judge of Providence Municipal Court and cherished star of the reality TV show Caught in Providence. Caprio passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the age of 88, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, his family confirmed. Known for his kind-hearted rulings and warm humor, Caprio leaves behind a legacy of compassion that touched millions worldwide.
A Life of Compassion and Justice
Frank Caprio’s family shared the news of his passing in a heartfelt statement on Facebook, saying, “Judge Frank Caprio passed away peacefully at the age of 88 after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. In his honour, may we each strive to bring a little more compassion into the world – just as he did every day.” His approach to justice, blending empathy with fairness, made him a beloved figure both in Rhode Island and across the globe.
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee paid tribute to Caprio, calling him a “Rhode Island treasure” and a personal friend who faced his illness with remarkable bravery. McKee ordered state flags to be flown at half-mast until Caprio’s burial, stating, “Judge Caprio not only served the public well, but he connected with people in a meaningful way. He showed us all what justice with humanity can look like.” McKee expressed his condolences to Caprio’s family, noting the profound impact the judge had on those around him.
A Global Icon Through Caught in Providence
Caprio gained international fame through Caught in Providence, a reality TV show that showcased his unique approach to handling minor traffic violations and municipal court cases. With his signature warmth, humor, and empathy, Caprio turned routine court proceedings into moments of connection, often bringing laughter or comfort to those standing before him. The show, which began airing locally over two decades ago, later reached a national audience and found a massive following on YouTube, where clips of his rulings continued to inspire viewers even after his retirement.
“I don’t wear a badge under my robe,” Caprio famously said. “I wear a heart.” This philosophy resonated with millions, as his videos garnered widespread attention for their heartfelt resolutions to everyday legal issues. Earlier this year, Caprio shared his life’s wisdom in his memoir, Compassion in the Court: Life-Changing Stories from America’s Nicest Judge, further cementing his legacy as a beacon of kindness.
Facing Pancreatic Cancer with Courage
In December 2023, Caprio bravely shared his pancreatic cancer diagnosis with his 1.7 million Instagram followers, describing it as “an insidious form of cancer.” Despite the challenges, he remained optimistic, regularly updating his followers with videos, including moments from his chemotherapy sessions in Boston and Providence.
In one poignant post, he was seen listening to singer-songwriter Jewel, who later expressed her honor at providing him “a small amount of comfort” during his treatment. Caprio’s openness about his illness inspired countless fans, who admired his strength and positivity in the face of adversity.
A Lasting Legacy of Kindness
Judge Frank Caprio’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of compassion and humanity endures. From his courtroom in Providence to the screens of millions worldwide, he demonstrated that justice could be administered with a human touch. His family, friends, and fans are left with memories of a man who made the world a kinder place, one ruling at a time. As Rhode Island and the global community mourn his loss, Caprio’s life serves as a reminder to approach others with empathy and understanding.
