Judge Frank Caprio, the Providence, Rhode Island, jurist whose compassion and humor turned him into a viral sensation far beyond the courtroom, has died at 88 after a battle with pancreatic cancer, his family announced Wednesday.
Caprio, who served as a municipal court judge from 1985 to 2023, became a household name through the television program Caught in Providence and billions of views on social media. He was celebrated for his plainspoken kindness, often softening traffic fines or allowing children to sit with him on the bench. His son, David Caprio, said in a video statement that "it was the love and support he received from all of you that lifted his spirits and boosted his soul to find the strength to fight on and outlive his diagnosis by a year and a half."
In December 2023, Caprio publicly revealed his diagnosis, saying he wanted to inspire others facing the same illness. In a 2024 appearance on CBS Mornings, he explained that his empathy stemmed from growing up in poverty in Providence. "I'm just a small-town municipal court judge, just trying to do good," he said. "When someone appears before you, put yourself in their shoes, imagine it's you before them. How do you want to be treated?"
Hours before his death, Caprio posted a final video message from his hospital bed, asking fans to pray for him once more. "Last year, I asked you to pray for me and it's very obvious that you did because I came through a very difficult period," he said, his voice breaking. "Unfortunately, I've had a setback and I'm back in the hospital now... remember me please." The video drew millions of views on TikTok and Instagram.
Caprio's career reflected both grit and resilience. He grew up on Federal Hill, working as a shoeshiner and milk truck helper before attending Providence College and Suffolk University Law School at night while teaching high school. His courtroom demeanor, marked by empathy and humor, made him stand out in an era when legal proceedings rarely resonated with the public.
Caught in Providence, which ran nationally from 2018 to 2020 and earned multiple Daytime Emmy nominations, showcased those moments. Clips of Caprio forgiving elderly drivers or excusing parents juggling children drew global attention, earning him the nickname "the nicest judge in the world."
Family members remembered him as much more than a television personality. "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," the Caprio family said in a statement.
Caprio is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Joyce, five children, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His family urged the public to honor him by spreading kindness. "In his memory, please, spread a little kindness today," his son said. "I know he would love that."
