Beloved U.S. judge Frank Caprio, known for his compassion and humor, has died at age 88. He gained global recognition through his show Caught in Providence, where he handled minor court cases with empathy, earning him the title “nicest judge in the world.”

His courtroom videos went viral online, drawing billions of views for their heartwarming moments. Just before his death, he posted on Instagram: “Unfortunately, I’ve had a setback, I’m back in the hospital… remember me in your prayers once more.”

Caprio is survived by his wife of 60 years, Joyce, five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

His family wrote, “He will be remembered not only as a respected judge, but as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend… may we each strive to bring a little more compassion into the world – just as he did every day.”