Judge Frank Caprio, renowned for his compassionate approach in the courtroom and celebrated as the star of Caught in Providence, passed away at 88 after a prolonged battle with pancreatic cancer. His death was announced on August 20, 2025, via a statement on his official Instagram account. The statement highlighted Caprio’s empathy, humility, and steadfast belief in human goodness, noting that he touched millions through his judicial work and beyond. “His warmth, humor, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him,” it read.
Caprio, often called the “Nicest Judge in the World,” gained global fame through viral clips from his courtroom, where he handled cases with kindness, frequently dismissing tickets for those facing hardship or offering encouraging words. These moments, shared widely online, amassed over a billion views. A native of Providence, Rhode Island, Caprio served as a municipal judge for decades before his courtroom became the setting for Caught in Providence. The show, which aired nationally from 2018 to 2020, earned multiple Daytime Emmy nominations for its portrayal of justice tempered with fairness and respect.
In 2023, Caprio disclosed his pancreatic cancer diagnosis, sharing updates on his treatment journey, which included both hopeful moments and challenges. Just a day before his passing, he posted an Instagram video from his hospital bed, requesting prayers after a health setback. “As I continue this difficult battle, your prayers will lift my spirit,” he said, expressing gratitude for the support that sustained him through earlier struggles.
Caprio’s legacy endures through the countless lives he impacted with his humane approach to justice. His family and community mourn the loss of a figure whose courtroom was a beacon of compassion, leaving behind a model of dignity and kindness in public service.
Judge Frank Caprio, Beloved Star of Caught in Providence, Dies at 88
