BREAKING: World’s Nicest Judge, Frank Caprio Is Dead

Frank Caprio, a Providence Municipal Court Chief Judge who became a household name for his compassion, humour, and viral courtroom moments, has died at 88 after battling pancreatic cancer.

His son, Frank T. Caprio, confirmed his death in a Facebook statement on Wednesday, August 20.

The family described him as a man defined by kindness, humility, and faith in the goodness of people, noting that his influence reached far beyond the courtroom.

The statement said, “Judge Frank Caprio passed away peacefully at the age of 88 after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

“Beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people, Judge Caprio touched the lives of millions through his work in the courtroom and beyond. His warmth, humour, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

“He will be remembered not only as a respected judge, but as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. His legacy lives on in the countless acts of kindness he inspired.

“In his honour, may we each strive to bring a little more compassion into the world — just as he did every day.”

Frank Caprio was first elected as a municipal court judge in 1985 and served for nearly four decades. His courtroom approach, marked by fairness and empathy, was captured in the popular reality series “Caught in Providence”.

The show, which showcased his light-hearted yet understanding approach to handling traffic cases, ran for over 20 years, earned a Daytime Emmy nomination in 2021, and garnered a massive following worldwide through television and viral clips on social media.

He retired from the bench in January 2023, and later that year, Providence renamed its municipal courtroom in his honour.

A month before announcing his cancer diagnosis in December 2023, he had just celebrated his 87th birthday. He completed his final round of radiation therapy in May 2024.

Away from public life, Frank Caprio was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Joyce, their five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

KanyiDaily also reported that Brandon Blackstock, a talent manager known as the ex-husband of singer Kelly Clarkson, died at the age of 48 after battling cancer for over three years.