Frank Caprio, the beloved Rhode Island judge known as the ‘Nicest Judge in the World,’ passed away peacefully at 88 on August 20, 2025, after a courageous fight against pancreatic cancer.
His death, confirmed by his family via social media, ends a remarkable life marked by compassion and kindness that touched millions through his TV show *Caught in Providence*.
Fans across Europe and the UK mourn his loss as of 01:03 PM IST today, Thursday, August 21, 2025.
Life and Legacy
Born on November 24, 1936, in Providence, Rhode Island, Caprio grew up in a modest Italian-American family in the Federal Hill neighborhood.
He served as a Providence Municipal Court judge from 1985 until his retirement in 2023, earning the honorary title of Chief Judge Emeritus.
His courtroom, now named ‘The Chief Judge Frank Caprio Courtroom,’ became famous for his empathetic rulings.
Caprio’s show *Caught in Providence*, which aired nationally from 2018 to 2020, showcased his unique approach, dismissing tickets for struggling families and offering encouragement, amassing over a billion views online.
Caprio’s kindness stemmed from his upbringing. Growing up poor without hot water, he learned compassion from his parents, who helped neighbors.
This shaped his judicial style, seen in viral moments like dismissing a 96-year-old man’s speeding ticket after learning he was driving his cancer-stricken son to a doctor.
His book *Compassion in the Court: Life-Changing Stories from America’s Nicest Judge* captures these stories, inspiring readers worldwide.
Cancer Battle and Final Days
Caprio revealed his pancreatic cancer diagnosis in December 2023, sharing an emotional video on Instagram asking for prayers.
He underwent six months of chemotherapy and five radiation treatments, completing his last session in May 2024 at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute, where he rang the bell to celebrate.
“I rang the bell and am on my way to happy days,” he posted then, a moment of hope for his 3.2 million Instagram followers.
However, his health declined recently. On August 19, 2025, he posted his final video from a hospital bed, saying, “Unfortunately, I’ve had a setback.
I’m back in the hospital now and I’m asking you to remember me in your prayers once more.”
This heartfelt plea came less than 24 hours before his death, reflecting his faith in the power of prayer, which he credited for surviving earlier challenges.
Global Reaction and Tributes
The news of Caprio’s passing sparked an outpouring of grief. His Instagram statement read, “Beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people, Judge Caprio touched the lives of millions…
His legacy lives on in the countless acts of kindness he inspired.” Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee ordered flags at half-staff, calling him a “Rhode Island treasure” whose empathy set a new standard for justice.
Posts on X echo this sentiment, with one user writing, “RIP Judge Caprio—his kindness changed lives. A true legend gone too soon!”
Fans worldwide, including in the UK and Europe, share memories of his viral clips, praising his humor and heart.
Career Highlights
Caprio’s judicial career spanned nearly four decades, starting as a Providence City Council member in 1962. He became Chief Judge in 1985, serving until 2023.
*Caught in Providence* earned four Daytime Emmy nominations, with Caprio individually nominated in 2024 for Outstanding Daytime Personality.
His show, initially a local PEG access program, went viral in the 2010s, reaching 500 million views by 2022. He also appeared on *Parking Wars*, further spreading his compassionate image.
Beyond the bench, Caprio was a family man, married to Joyce for 60 years, with five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
His sons, Frank T. and David, served as Rhode Island representatives. An avid Boston Red Sox fan, he threw the ceremonial first pitch at Fenway Park in 2019.
What’s Next?
Caprio’s death leaves a void, but his legacy endures. His family asks fans to honor him by spreading compassion, a call resonating with his life’s work.
Funeral details remain pending, but tributes continue to pour in.
In Europe and the UK, where his show gained a following, fans reflect on his lessons of empathy in justice.
Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring figure!