The world is mourning Judge Frank Caprio, known as “the nicest judge in the world,” who passed away at 88 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Famous for his compassionate courtroom style on Caught in Providence, Caprio earned global admiration for choosing kindness over punishment.
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, to Italian immigrant parents, Caprio grew up in a modest home where values of empathy and hard work shaped his life. From delivering milk with his father to becoming a judge, his journey was built on perseverance and integrity.
While his fame came later in life, it was his wife Joyce—his partner of 60 years—who encouraged him to share his unique approach on television. Their marriage was the foundation of his life.
Together, they raised five children and built a quiet life behind the spotlight. Just months before his death, he celebrated their anniversary with a heartfelt message calling Joyce “the incredible woman who gave me the greatest gift of all: our five amazing children.”
Frank Caprio’s legacy is more than viral videos. He showed the world that justice can be humane and that behind every great man is often a source of quiet strength and love. His greatest role wasn’t as a judge—it was as a devoted husband, father, and kind-hearted human being.