Frank Caprio, the beloved American judge admired worldwide for his compassionate approach to justice, has died at the age of 88 after a prolonged battle with pancreatic cancer.

His death was confirmed on Wednesday through his official Instagram page, which announced that he passed away “peacefully” and will be remembered “not only as a respected judge, but as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.”

Caprio became an international figure through the hit television series Caught in Providence, which captured his kindhearted courtroom interactions in Providence’s Municipal Court. Presiding over minor violations such as parking tickets and traffic offences, he won global admiration for his empathy, often choosing compassion over punishment. His courtroom moments—ranging from waived fines to warm words of encouragement—went viral online and left a lasting impression on millions.

In 2021, Caught in Providence earned a Daytime Emmy nomination, cementing Caprio’s reputation as “America’s Nicest Judge.” He served as a municipal judge in Providence, Rhode Island, from 1985 until his retirement in 2023.

Just hours before his passing, Caprio recorded an emotional video message from his hospital bed, thanking his supporters and asking for their prayers. “I’m coming to you again asking you to remember me in your prayers once more,” he said.

Born in 1936, Caprio was admitted to the bar in 1965 and went on to build a distinguished legal career defined by compassion. He shared some of his most memorable courtroom stories in his book, Compassion in the Court: Life-Changing Stories from America’s Nicest Judge.

Reflecting on his diagnosis in an earlier interview, he said: “My first reaction was disbelief. But then I thought: I have lived a life full of blessings. I’m not going to let this define my later years.”

Judge Caprio is survived by his wife Joyce, five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.