One of the saddest news stories of this week was the passing of a man who inspired millions. “The world’s kindest judge,” Frank Caprio, passed away on Wednesday, August 20th at the age of 88, as reported through his official Instagram account.
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You have probably seen him at some point in a video circulating on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, or on the social media platform X; on television programs, or even in viral compilations of emotional moments. It was impossible not to be moved by his sentences full of compassion, humanity, and sensitivity towards the people who came to his court.
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In addition, his kindness became known through the program “Caught in Providence”.
What did Frank Caprio, the world’s kindest judge, die of?
According to the statement published on their social media, the judge from Rhode Island passed away after a long and tough battle against pancreatic cancer.
“Judge Frank Caprio has passed away peacefully at the age of 88 after a long and courageous battle against pancreatic cancer. Beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering faith in the goodness of people, Judge Caprio touched the lives of millions through his work in the courts and beyond,” reads the message from his family.
His legacy, they emphasize, is not limited to the courtroom: he will be remembered as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and dear friend.
According to CNN, Caprio promoted his courtroom as a place "where people and cases are handled with kindness and compassion."
Who was Frank Caprio?
Far from the rigidity that usually characterizes judges, Frank Caprio always found a way to touch the heart of those in front of him.
The judge became a worldwide phenomenon thanks to his unique style. While other magistrates limited themselves to delivering judgments, he turned every hearing into a lesson in empathy.
His charisma, his way of connecting with people, and his sincere smile earned him the title of “the kindest judge in the world.” That’s why his name transcended borders and generations: adults, young people, and even children recognized his figure.
In 2000, he became more famous when “Caught in Providence” started airing, the judicial reality court show broadcast on local channels in Rhode Island. The program featured real cases handled in the municipal court of Providence. In 2018, it made the leap to national syndication, making it a well-known program throughout the United States.