Frank Caprio, Beloved Judge and Social Media Star, Passes Away at 88

Judge Frank Caprio, known for his heartwarming and humorous courtroom style, has died at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of compassion.

Frank Caprio, the judge often referred to as the "nicest judge in the world," has passed away at the age of 88, as confirmed by his family. Known for his empathetic approach during a distinguished 40-year tenure in Rhode Island, Judge Caprio endeared himself to the public through a unique combination of humor and compassion, often considering the personal circumstances of those he judged.

His hit television series, "Caught in Providence," showcased various cases he presided over, garnering billions of views across social media platforms and earning him a legion of fans. Sadly, his death from pancreatic cancer was announced via his official Instagram account, where the world was reminded of his "warmth" and "unwavering belief in the goodness of people."

Throughout his career, Judge Caprio handled thousands of cases in Providence, Rhode Island, before branching into television. His courtroom style became the basis of countless viral videos, from inviting children to sit with him behind the bench during hearings to revealing a "mini-judge" soft toy modeled after himself. A TikTok video featuring his morning routine had garnered over five million views. In a 2019 interview, he described his courtroom proceedings as "a slice of life in Rhode Island," which resonated with viewers across the nation.

His son, David Caprio, extended gratitude to fans for their unwavering support and encouraged acts of kindness in memory of his father. In a heartfelt Instagram message directed to his 3.4 million followers, Judge Caprio's legacy was celebrated, emphasizing how his warmth and kindness impacted all who encountered him.

During the show's run, "Caught in Providence" received three Daytime Emmy nominations, while Caprio himself earned two nominations last year. The production company, Debmar-Mercury, praised Judge Caprio's exceptional blend of compassion and common sense, expressing deep sorrow over his passing.

In 2023, Judge Caprio disclosed his pancreatic cancer diagnosis, expressing his determination to combat the illness with tenacity. In one of his final social media messages, he shared the news of returning to the hospital due to a treatment setback, soliciting prayers from his followers.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Joyce, along with their five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Judge Frank Caprio will be remembered not only for his judicial contributions but also for the love and kindness he spread throughout his life.