US celebrity judge Frank Caprio, affectionately referred to as the "nicest judge in the world," has passed away at the age of 88, as announced by his family. With a remarkable career spanning over 40 years in Rhode Island, Judge Caprio became famous for his compassionate approach and humor in court, allowing personal circumstances to influence his decisions. His TV show, Caught in Providence, showcased his unique courtroom style and went viral, garnering billions of views across social media platforms.
New information about his passing follows a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. An emotional statement on his official Instagram account celebrated Judge Caprio's "warmth" and "unwavering belief in the goodness of people." During his tenure in Providence, Caprio presided over thousands of cases before he gained fame on television. His signature antics, such as inviting children to join him at the bench and promoting a "mini-judge" toy likeness of himself, contributed to his beloved persona.
He was also known for his engaging morning routine, which included brushing his teeth, signing books, and reviewing clips from his own show—a TikTok video of which alone accumulated over five million views. In a poignant 2019 interview, Caprio reflected on how his courtroom proceedings serve as a "slice of life of Rhode Island," addressing broader societal issues faced nationwide.
His son, David Caprio, expressed gratitude for the love and support from fans, encouraging others to "spread a little kindness" in honor of his father. In memory of Judge Caprio's impact, a heartfelt message was shared with his 3.4 million followers, highlighting the innumerable acts of kindness he inspired during his lifetime.
Judge Caprio earned several accolades during the run of Caught in Providence, including nominations for three Daytime Emmys and two personal nominations last year. The production company Debmar-Mercury honored his "unique brand of compassion," noting how deeply he would be missed.
Despite facing health challenges, Judge Caprio remained optimistic, stating he was ready to fight his illness and expressing gratitude for the ongoing support from followers. In one of his final posts, he informed his audience of a hospitalization due to a treatment setback, appealing for prayers.
Survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Joyce Caprio, Judge Caprio also leaves behind five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His legacy of kindness and generosity resonates deeply with all who had the privilege of knowing him.
