Beloved Judge Frank Caprio Dies at 88 After Battle With Pancreatic Cancer

Judge Frank Caprio — affectionately known worldwide as the “Nicest Judge in the World” for his compassion on the hit series Caught in Providence — has passed away at the age of 88 following a battle with pancreatic cancer. His family announced his death on August 20, 2025, through his official Instagram page.

In his final days, Caprio offered fans one last message. Not from the bench that made him a household name, but from a hospital bed, where he smiled, gave a thumbs-up, and thanked people for their prayers.

A Judge Who Believed in Second Chances

Caprio became a viral sensation for his warmth, humor, and ability to see the humanity in everyone who stood before him. Millions around the world tuned in to his courtroom rulings — where instead of harsh penalties, he often extended grace, encouragement, and second chances.

His family’s tribute reflected that same spirit: “He will be remembered not only as a respected judge, but as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.”

Rhode Island leaders also paid homage. In a joint statement, Senate President Valarie Lawson, Senate Majority Leader Frank Ciccone III, and Senate Majority Whip David Tikoian said:

“Judge Caprio embodied the spirit of Rhode Island and its people. He truly saw the humanity in everyone, and his compassion inspired countless acts of kindness across the world. The entire Senate family mourns the passing of Judge Caprio and extends its heartfelt condolences to his loved ones.”

His Illness and Final Messages

Caprio revealed in December 2023 that what should have been a joyful birthday was instead overshadowed by a devastating diagnosis: pancreatic cancer. Still, he met the news with optimism, telling followers, “I know this is a long road, and I’m fully prepared to fight as hard as I can.”

He began treatment in Rhode Island and Massachusetts before relocating to Florida on the advice of a friend. Over the next months, he endured six months of chemotherapy and five rounds of radiation — which he described to People magazine as “debilitating.”

Despite the draining toll, Caprio never lost his hopeful outlook. “You have to dig down deep within your courage and make up your mind that you’re going to beat this,” he said. Even when hospitalized toward the end, he kept reaching out: “Unfortunately I’ve had a setback. I’m back in the hospital now, and I’m asking you once more to remember me in your prayers.”

From Humble Beginnings to Viral Fame

Frank Caprio was born November 24, 1936, in Providence’s Federal Hill neighborhood, the son of Italian-American parents who worked as fruit peddlers while raising three children. His early years included shining shoes and delivering newspapers, before attending Providence College and later Suffolk University School of Law.

His public service began on the Providence City Council in 1962, eventually leading to his role as chief judge of the Providence Municipal Court. His courtroom later became the setting for Caught in Providence, which went viral in 2017 and amassed billions of views worldwide. In 2019, he was inducted into the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame.

Outside the courtroom, his generosity touched countless lives. He established the Filomena Fund — named after his mother — to help residents pay traffic fines, supported local scholarships, and contributed to organizations like the Rhode Island Food Bank and Boys Town of Italy.

When he retired in October 2023 after nearly four decades of service, Caprio admitted he wasn’t sure what life would look like away from the bench. But he later reflected: “And while I do miss being on the bench and hearing all of your amazing stories, everywhere I go I’m reminded that my legacy still lives on, and that is the most priceless gift in the world. So remember, just because one door is closing, don’t be afraid to open the next one and see what life has in store for you.”

Family, Faith, and Legacy

Judge Caprio passed peacefully at 2:15 p.m., surrounded by his loved ones. He shared 60 years of marriage with his wife, Joyce E. Caprio. Together, they raised five children — Frank T., David, Marissa, John, and Paul — and were later blessed with seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A lifelong Boston Red Sox fan, Caprio fulfilled a dream on July 25, 2019, when he threw out the ceremonial first pitch at Fenway Park before a game against the New York Yankees.

Caprio leaves behind far more than legal rulings; he leaves a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering belief in people’s goodness. His final messages to the world reflected humility, gratitude, and compassion — the very qualities that made him beloved far beyond Providence.

Rest in peace, Judge Caprio. The world’s kindest judge. Your compassion will live on well beyond the courtroom.