Humble Beginnings in Providence

Caprio grew up in the Italian-American neighborhood of Federal Hill in Providence. He was the second of three sons born to Antonio Caprio, an immigrant from Teano, Italy, and Filomena Caprio, whose family hailed from Naples.

His father worked as a fruit peddler and milkman — a role that deeply shaped Frank’s values. As a child, he would wake at 4 a.m. to help on the milk truck before heading to school. Caprio often recalled how his father would deliver milk even to families who couldn’t pay, covering the cost himself.

“My father never stopped delivering milk to anyone who had a child,” Caprio told the Associated Press in 2002. “He was a kind, compassionate man. His influence has had a great impact on me.”

Rise to Fame

Caprio attended Providence public schools, working as a dishwasher and shoe-shiner. At Central High School, he won the state wrestling championship in 1953. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Providence College in 1958 and began teaching American government at Hope High School. Meanwhile, he attended night classes at Suffolk University School of Law in Boston, paving the way for his legal career.

Caprio’s courtroom cases became viral hits, amassing over 1.7 billion views on social media. Known for empathy and fairness, he always considered individual circumstances before ruling.

However, fame was never guaranteed. His younger brother, Joe, filmed him for local access TV for 25 years. It was Joyce who suggested using the footage to showcase his work.

“I didn’t like the idea at first, but when my wife makes a suggestion, I usually don’t win that battle,” Caprio told Rhode Island Monthly. “I agreed we would try it, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.”

The videos initially aired on WLNE-TV, then on ABC 6, boosting local popularity. Later, posting the clips on Facebook and YouTube brought global recognition. In 2017, Caprio received the “magic phone call” from Debmar-Mercury, launching Caught in Providence nationwide. The show aired 130 episodes twice daily on Fox, reaching 90% of the country.

“It’s surreal,” said executive producer Joe Caprio. “I kept it real all these years. What is there is what we saw. It’s all about a good person helping people.”

Joyce Caprio: The Woman Behind the Judge

Frank and Joyce married in 1965. Together, they raised five children: Frank T., David, Marissa, John, and Paul. Their family grew to seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Joyce was more than a loving wife and mother. She was Frank’s steadfast supporter, attending events, guiding him through challenges, and sharing in his triumphs. Even during Frank’s final months, Joyce stayed by his side as he battled pancreatic cancer.

In a heartfelt social media post, Frank honored her:

“The incredible woman who gave me the greatest gift of all: our five amazing children! Your strength, love, and endless devotion shape our family every single day.”

In March 2025, he celebrated their 60-year marriage:

“From 1964 to 2024, what an incredible journey it has been. Every day reminds me of the beauty of sharing life with someone so special. Here’s to us, to our love, and to many more years ahead. ❤️”

A Legacy of Compassion

Frank Caprio’s life reflected kindness, humility, and devotion — to both family and the people who appeared before his court. From his humble beginnings in Federal Hill to worldwide fame, he never forgot the lessons his father taught him: compassion, fairness, and generosity.

Through it all, Joyce was his anchor. Their decades-long marriage, five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren represent not just a lifetime together, but a legacy of love and dedication.

Remembering Frank Caprio is more than celebrating a viral judge. It’s honoring a man who led with heart, a devoted husband, and a life lived with purpose. With Joyce by his side, he leaves a mark that will inspire generations to come.