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Mangesh Hattikudur
15 Reasons Mister Rogers Was the Best Neighbor Ever
by Mangesh Hattikudur - May 23, 2007 - 1:52 PM

1943-1-photo.jpgBack when I was in 7th grade I stood up in front of my English class and delivered a tongue-in-cheek, poorly researched presentation on why I thought Mister Rogers should be the next President. I ate up the first few minutes zipping up my cardigan, and putting on some sneakers, and then I proceeded to mock him roundly. It was a riotous success. Fourteen years later, I’m using this post to repent. The following are 15 things everyone should know about Fred Rogers:

fred-and-Koko.jpg1. Even Koko the Gorilla loved him
Most people have heard of Koko, the Stanford-educated gorilla who could speak about 1000 words in American Sign Language, and understand about 2000 in English. What most people don’t know, however, is that Koko was an avid Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood fan. As Esquire reported, when Fred Rogers took a trip out to meet Koko for his show, not only did she immediately wrap her arms around him and embrace him, she did what she’d always seen him do onscreen: she proceeded to take his shoes off!

2. He Made Thieves Think Twice
According to a TV Guide piece on him, Fred Rogers drove a plain old Impala for years. One day, however, the car was stolen from the street near the TV station. When Rogers filed a police report, the story was picked up by every newspaper, radio and media outlet around town. Amazingly, within 48 hours the car was left in the exact spot where it was taken from, with an apology on the dashboard. It read, “If we’d known it was yours, we never would have taken it.”

3. He Watched His Figure to the Pound!
274149.jpg In covering Rogers’ daily routine (waking up at 5; praying for a few hours for all of his friends and family; studying; writing, making calls and reaching out to every fan who took the time to write him; going for a morning swim; getting on a scale; then really starting his day), writer Tom Junod explained that Mr. Rogers weighed in at exactly 143 pounds every day for the last 30 years of his life. He didn’t smoke, didn’t drink, didn’t eat the flesh of any animals, and was extremely disciplined in his daily routine. And while I’m not sure if any of that was because he’d mostly grown up a chubby, single child, Junod points out that Rogers found beauty in the number 143. According to the piece, Rogers came “to see that number as a gift… because, as he says, “the number 143 means ‘I love you.’ It takes one letter to say ‘I’ and four letters to say ‘love’ and three letters to say ‘you.’ One hundred and forty-three.”

FredRogers_BigBird.jpg 4. He Saved Both Public Television and the VCR
Strange but true. When the government wanted to cut Public Television funds in 1969, the relatively unknown Mister Rogers went to Washington. Almost straight out of a Capra film, his 5-6 minute testimony on how TV had the potential to give kids hope and create more productive citizens was so simple but passionate that even the most gruff politicians were charmed. While the budget should have been cut, the funding instead jumped from $9 to $22 million. Rogers also spoke to Congress, and swayed senators into voting to allow VCR’s to record television shows from the home. It was a cantankerous debate at the time, but his argument was that recording a program like his allowed working parents to sit down with their children and watch shows as a family.

5. He Might Have Been the Most Tolerant American Ever
Mister Rogers seems to have been almost exactly the same off-screen as he was onscreen. As an ordained Presbyterian minister, and a man of tremendous faith, Mister Rogers preached tolerance first. Whenever he was asked to castigate non-Christians or gays for their differing beliefs, he would instead face them and say, with sincerity, “God loves you just the way you are.” Often this provoked ire from fundamentalists.

6. He Was Genuinely Curious about Others
Mister Rogers was known as one of the toughest interviews because he’d often befriend reporters, asking them tons of questions, taking pictures of them, compiling an album for them at the end of their time together, and calling them after to check in on them and hear about their families. He wasn’t concerned with himself, and genuinely loved hearing the life stories of others. Amazingly, it wasn’t just with reporters. Once, on a fancy trip up to a PBS exec’s house, he heard the limo driver was going to wait outside for 2 hours, so he insisted the driver come in and join them (which flustered the host). On the way back, Rogers sat up front, and when he learned that they were passing the driver’s home on the way, he asked if they could stop in to meet his family. According to the driver, it was one of the best nights of his life—the house supposedly lit up when Rogers arrived, and he played jazz piano and bantered with them late into the night. Further, like with the reporters, Rogers sent him notes and kept in touch with the driver for the rest of his life.

7. He was Color-blind
Literally. He couldn’t see the color blue. Of course, he was also figuratively color-blind, as you probably guessed. As were his parents who took in a black foster child when Rogers was growing up.

nyctransit051223ap.jpg 8. He Could Make a Subway Car full of Strangers Sing
Once while rushing to a New York meeting, there were no cabs available, so Rogers and one of his colleagues hopped on the subway. Esquire reported that the car was filled with people, and they assumed they wouldn’t be noticed. But when the crowd spotted Rogers, they all simultaneously burst into song, chanting “It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood.” The result made Rogers smile wide.

A few other things:
9. He got into TV because he hated TV. The first time he turned one on, he saw people angrily throwing pies in each other’s faces. He immediately vowed to use the medium for better than that. Over the years he covered topics as varied as why kids shouldn’t be scared of a haircut, or the bathroom drain (because you won’t fit!), to divorce and war.
10. He was an Ivy League Dropout. Rogers moved from Dartmouth to Rollins College to pursue his studies in music.
11. He composed all the songs on the show, and over 200 tunes.
12. He was a perfectionist, and disliked ad libbing. He felt he owed it to children to make sure every word on his show was thought out.
13. Michael Keaton got his start on the show as an assistant– helping puppeteer and operate the trolley.
misterrtrogers.jpg 14. Several characters on the show are named for his family. Queen Sara is named after Rogers’ wife, and the postman Mr. McFeely is named for his maternal grandfather who always talked to him like an adult, and reminded young Fred that he made every day special just by being himself. Sound familiar? It was the same way Mister Rogers closed every show.
15. The sweaters. Every one of the cardigans he wore on the show had been hand-knit by his mother.

I can’t sign off with out citing: Tom Junod’s wonderful profile of Fred Rogers and his obituary for him. They are two of the most lovely pieces I’ve (re)read in a very long time. Our researcher Kara Kovalchik also deserves credit for digging them up on an internet archive located here.

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Comments (328)

  1. I remember the day after he died. I was in the fifth grade and we all wore black armbands. ‘Twas a sad day.
    And the sweater thing? Uh-mazing.

    posted by Amy on 5-23-2007 at 1:59 pm

  2. Mr Rogers was so great.

    posted by srah on 5-23-2007 at 2:21 pm

  3. I only wish my little one could’ve grown up watching him as I did. That beats the pants off of anything on the Disney Channel or Nickelodeon any day!

    posted by Nicki on 5-23-2007 at 2:43 pm

  4. I just finished reading the tribute at Esquire. I bawled like a baby. Just like I did for days after Mister Rogers died. I was an adult in college when he died, and it crushed me like the loss of a loving grandparent. I still miss him.

    posted by Cheryl on 5-23-2007 at 2:51 pm

  5. Mr. Rodgers is/was an inspiration.

    posted by Ed Hands on 5-23-2007 at 3:04 pm

  6. Mangesh, I bet Mr. Rodgers would have chuckled over your 7th grade antics then found a way to correct your behavior without you even realizing it. But most important of all he would have been so happy with what you wrote today. Not because it sang his praises but because he’d have known you ‘got it’.
    I miss him still

    posted by JaneM on 5-23-2007 at 4:21 pm

  7. I swear I teared up all over again reading this post. Pass the Kleenex…

    By the way, any Canadian Flossers out there might be interested to know that ERnie Coombs started out in television working with Fred Rogers at the CBC in Toronto doing a version of the show that would eventually become “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” in the US. When Rogers decided to return to Pennsylvania, Coombs stayed in T.O. and hosted his own show, “Mr. Dressup,” from 1967 to 1996.

    posted by Kara on 5-23-2007 at 4:29 pm

  8. Loudon Wainwright III wrote a song about the day he died. Apparently, Louden was in Alabama and visiting Hank Williams grave when he heard the news on the radio. In the interview he said it really tore him up.
    There’s the cynic in me can’t help wondering what his dark, dirty secret was. (Even Ghandi and MLK had their shortcomings.)Well, if he had one it seems nobody knew about it, which means he didn’t indulge it and makes him better than most of us.

    posted by Bassman on 5-23-2007 at 4:48 pm

  9. I miss Fred Rogers. Not only because he was a favorite of my children when they were young, but even as an adult, I sometimes needed to hear, “You make each day special by just you’re being you.” Thank you, Mr. Rogers, for being one positive voice in a lifetime of negatives.

    posted by Pam on 5-23-2007 at 4:51 pm

  10. My mom still tells the story of how, at age 4, I turned to her while watching Mr. Rogers and said, completely mesmerized, “He’s my friend.”

    He was so cool.

    posted by Emily Jane on 5-23-2007 at 5:34 pm

  11. I grew up taught not to trust men. Mr. Rogers will always be the only man I trusted until I met my husband. I wish we could get him on cable or dvd. I’d love for my kids to know him.

    posted by Annie on 5-23-2007 at 5:44 pm

  12. i remember my mom telling me that Mr. Rogers died… i was in 5th grade. it was really sad especially since Mr. Rogers was the show that my big brother would watch and talk about with me.

    i do love the sweater thing, i never knew that

    posted by ashley on 5-23-2007 at 6:16 pm

  13. I would stay home from school just so i could watch a marathon of Mr.Rogers. In fact. I’m in the 9th grade, and i would still stay home for Mr.Rogers. Kids are seriously missing out on a great show. Damn. I miss that dude soo muchhh!

    posted by Jeannie on 5-23-2007 at 7:27 pm

  14. After walking with me to take her sister to the bus for kindergarten, my 2 yr old would cuddle in my lap and we would watch Mr. Rodgers together. She loved him.

    posted by Sue on 5-23-2007 at 7:57 pm

  15. After walking with me to take her sister to the bus for kindergarten, my 2 yr old would cuddle in my lap and we would watch Mr. Rodgers together. She loved him. That was 28 years ago.

    posted by Sue on 5-23-2007 at 7:57 pm

  16. Someone I know was lucky enough to meet Mr. Rogers. She said he was exactly like he seemed to be on TV.
    I feel bad for those of you who don’t get his show any more. All three of my local PBS stations still show it every day. A childhood without Mr. Rogers is just wrong.

    posted by Camille on 5-23-2007 at 8:32 pm

  17. Ah, this brings back some good memories. I used to watch his show every day with my parents and always thought he would make the neatest grandfather. There really needs to be more people like him in the world.

    I really miss that guy.

    posted by heather on 5-23-2007 at 9:09 pm

  18. As far back as I can remember I watched Mr. Rogers on television, and loved snowdays in elementary school because my brothers and I could stay home and Watch Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood. Im now 43 years old and, until recently, whenever I would skip through the channels and see his show, I would always stop and watch. It meant so much to me growing up, and as an adult, it still does. He was so positive and you always knew, of anyone in the world, he was so right. Mr. Rogers can never be replaced, and is sadly missed.

    posted by Don on 5-23-2007 at 9:22 pm

  19. Camille said it best: A childhood without Mr. Rogers is just wrong. I miss him & his unconditional love for humanity dearly.

    posted by Trish on 5-24-2007 at 1:14 am

  20. I never heard of the guy until today and based on what was written about him and all the comments about him, he seemed to be a saint among the living back in his days. I would probably have cried too if I knew him and learned he passed away.

    posted by Susan on 5-24-2007 at 5:26 am

  21. Boy – today’s newsletter and the links in it about Mr Rogers were wonderful. Love your magazine – Thank you.

    posted by sally yates on 5-24-2007 at 5:50 am

  22. I found a video of his appearance before the Senate in 1969 asking for funding. His speech was quite inspirational.

    Thank you for this story!

    posted by jerry on 5-24-2007 at 5:53 am

  23. No discussion of Fred Rodgers would be complete without mentioning Josie Carey. I grew up in Pittsburgh where MisterRodgers Neighborhood was taped. But before there was that show there was “Children’s Corner”. It aired on WQED, the nation’s first public TV station, in the early ‘50s. At that time, I was their target audience. Josie Carey was the host and Rodgers was behind the flats as the puppeteer. I was a particular fan of X the Owl. Carey wrote the lyrics to most of the songs in those days, including the “Tomorrow” song. By the time MisterRodgers came into being, I was too old for it. So, for me Fred Rodgers was the guy that did the puppets for Josie Carey. Carey died in 2004.

    regards,

    f. x.

    posted by F. X. Ryan on 5-24-2007 at 6:24 am

  24. It was a sad day when he died. I grew up watching Mr. Rogers, and we Pittsburghers (or Yinzers, if you prefer) feel especially close to him.

    My sister, who’s very shy, ran into him one day. And she stopped him and told him how wonderful she thought he was. He thanked her, and the exchange made her day (even though she was at least 35 at the time.)

    He was a true gentleman, and a very gentle man.

    posted by Alison on 5-24-2007 at 7:00 am

  25. I was thrilled when my 17-year-old, sometimes aloof, sometimes affectionate daughter shared this with me. Mr. Rogers still touches her heart (and mine).
    Mr. Rogers proves the old adage, “It is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness.”

    posted by Patti on 5-24-2007 at 7:04 am

  26. As I grew older, I eventually appreciated how much Mr. Rogers meant to other people. Little me, however, was frickin TERRIFIED of him. I hated him so much as a kid, particularly his puppets. They all just creeped me out. Still can’t explain it.

    Of course, my twin brother LOVED HIM!

    posted by Cheeques on 5-24-2007 at 8:13 am

  27. I loved Mr Rogers as a child, and it was fun to watch my daughter enjoy him when she was small too. You know, if everyone could just take Mr Rogers advice, and just be happy and nice(just like they are)the world would be a much nicer place.

    posted by Deborah on 5-24-2007 at 9:26 am

  28. I think he’s a great man since I’ve read more about him, but personally I didn’t like the show. I thought it was boring and stupid. I hated how he changed his shoes and sweater. Irked me to no end.

    I am horrid.

    posted by Amber on 5-24-2007 at 9:43 am

  29. I met Fred Rogers at WQED (PBS affiliate in Pittsburgh) when I was there interviewing for a job shortly after I moved to Pgh in the spring of 2000.

    I was in the men’s room wiping the sweat off my face (very hot day in Pittsburgh) when I heard a john flush. Guess who came out of the stall? That’s right, Fred Rogers. I shook his hand (after he washed, of course) and said I was a lifelong fan. I shoulda got his autograph :[

    ESJ

    posted by Ed on 5-24-2007 at 10:35 am

  30. Im with you Amber…Hated the show to NO end.. and I turned out okay.. but he certainly left his mark.

    posted by jOaNN on 5-24-2007 at 12:27 pm

  31. I know this may sound silly, but as a young mother in a miserable marriage I found comfort in Mr. Roger’s gentle ways and unconditional acceptance. I would watch him every day with my young daughter and it was a respite from the problems of my life, if only for the length of the program. I felt very sad when I heard of his death, the world needs all the nice guys it can get, and Mr. Rogers was a very nice guy!

    posted by Dixie on 5-24-2007 at 12:36 pm

  32. I loved Mr. Rogers so much and cried when I heard that he died. It felt like I had lost my own grandfather all over again.
    A few years ago my son was watching Mr. Rogers for the first time and I took a picture of him in front of the TV.
    He was a magical man and the world is better for him having been in it.

    posted by Kirsten on 5-24-2007 at 12:39 pm

  33. It doesn’t matter if you loved or hated his show. There is no denying that he was one of the greatest people that has ever lived. I can’t imagine my childhood without him. He was, and still is, one of my heroes.

    posted by Jason on 5-24-2007 at 1:05 pm

  34. I was the first generation raised on Mr. Rogers (and Sesame Street for that matter), and frankly my life has been the better for watching him. The biggest draw was you felt like Mr. Rogers was speaking directly and only to you.

    I was a very shy kid and scared of most situations, but Mr. Rogers explained things in a way that made sense to me.

    I knew in my heart he had to be a good and decent man, but I had no idea until reading this column and the linked Esquire article. I also bawled like a baby reading it.

    posted by JR on 5-24-2007 at 1:47 pm

  35. The key to his charisma is simple. His thoughts and feelings were of a very wise man expressed in a very simple manner so that the child in all of us would understand and appreciate the wisdom.

    posted by Roger on 5-24-2007 at 1:57 pm

  36. The key to his charisma is simple. His thoughts and feelings were of a very wise man expressed in a very simple manner so that the child in all of us would understand and appreciate the wisdom.

    posted by Roger on 5-24-2007 at 1:57 pm

  37. My sister was chronically ill, and while she was in the hospital recovering from a multi-organ transplant (which eventually failed), she received a personal three-minute video from Mister Rogers which used her name and the names of all us siblings with his wishes for a speedy recovery. While my sister never recovered, I was always so pleased that one of my sister’s last memories was of that tape that wonderful man took the time out of his schedule to make for her (he also signed T-shirts for us other siblings). He was a rare person indeed.

    posted by Casey on 5-24-2007 at 3:30 pm

  38. This post made me cry. My mom told me that when I was very little 4-5, I would run into my room, grab a cardigan and my shoes and change them with Mr. Rogers.

    And now being a knitter myself, it really touches me that his mom made all those cardigans for him! What a family.

    posted by Julie on 5-24-2007 at 4:00 pm

  39. I remember hearing, a few years ago, that Fred Rogers was also a hero in the Korean War. I think he was awarded the Medal of Honor.

    posted by George on 5-24-2007 at 4:29 pm

  40. actually, according to everything I read, the Korean War stuff is a myth. In fact, wikipedia and snopes both have stuff disclaiming the stories about him having tattoos, and the ones about him being a sniper in war.

    posted by Mangesh on 5-24-2007 at 4:51 pm

  41. This story made me cry like so many other boomers — it was the right medicine at the right time. Mr. Rogers had it real right. My daughter’s school is losing their principal of 26 years (including his teaching at the school before becoming principal).

    Mr. W., who is retiring, reminds me of Mr. Rogers. Nothing will be the same after he leaves.

    posted by Sandra on 5-24-2007 at 7:43 pm

  42. Fred Rogers was the real deal. You may want to read any of his Life Little Journey books. Give one to a graduate or keep one on your nightstand. A page a night, can help you relax after a stressful day.

    posted by Kathy H on 5-24-2007 at 7:57 pm

  43. I didn’t watch Mr. Rogers on TV until my children were at the ages where they enjoyed the program…especially my two youngest kids, both boys. They loved the puppet characters and the different voices for each one. Supposedly Mr, Rogers himself spoke for each puppet. The more I watched the show, the more I liked Fred Rogers’ easy-going, encouraging, simple approach to life in general. “It’s a beautful day in the neighborhood” still rings gently in my ears when I hear or read his name anywhere. What a great man and what a wonderful, intangible legacy he left to so many viewers. There will never be another one like him, and I feel blessed to have been able to watch so many of his shows, even though I was an adult when I did.

    posted by Sandi on 5-25-2007 at 4:28 am

  44. My ex is a major fan of “Misterogers.” He used to come home from work every day just before the show started, get a beer out of the fridge, put his feet up, and enjoy the show. He liked Misterogers’s calm nature; it was just the thing for relaxing after the daily rat race.

    And of course he was almost always joined by our son, who was 3-4 at the time. I thought the two of them sharing an easy chair in rapt fascination were so cute, I knitted them matching red sweaters.

    posted by anomalous4 on 5-25-2007 at 1:17 pm

  45. I am ashamed to admit it because of all the wonderful stuff I have learned about him, but I thought he was creepy when I was a kid. Maybe I was an exceptionally cynical child. I always felt that he was talking down to his audience. And those puppets, yikes! But I am pretty much against puppets in general.

    posted by Belle O'Cosity on 5-25-2007 at 5:06 pm

  46. Shortly after he died, I remember a Family Circus comic in which the kids were watching Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood, and one said to the other, “I bet Mr. Rogers and God are getting along great – they both love everybody!” (Or something to that effect)

    I also sniveled and bawled like a maniac reading Tom Junod’s fantastic words – and laughed at loud at the ‘New York Honorific’ part.

    Thank you so much for sharing this! I LOVE the magazine, thoroughly enjoyed this story, and thank you for the reminder of such a lovely man and a life well spent.

    posted by Tiffany on 5-26-2007 at 8:27 am

  47. i loved his show, he was so awesome

    posted by nathan on 5-26-2007 at 11:21 am

  48. He was one of a kind. Well, maybe two of a kind. His brother was an engineering prof at Penn State. My brother had him for class. Yes, he wore cardigans knitted by his mom, and he had exactly the same voice. Add the physical resemblance, and my brother said it was disconcerting to have your engineering prof say “Good Day girls and boys, today we’re going to talk about structural dynamics…”

    posted by Broadsheet on 5-29-2007 at 3:42 pm

  49. When Fred Rogers died I was at Fort Hood with my army reserve unit, preparing to go to Iraq. We had a moment of silence during our morning formation for the man that had so touched all of our lives.

    posted by Aaron on 5-29-2007 at 9:00 pm

  50. The first time I saw him, It changed my life forever. He was the most compassionate person I’ve ever seen in my life. I still miss him. now pass the kleenex please….

    posted by Skully on 5-29-2007 at 9:43 pm

  51. Mr.Fred Rogers was a TRUE PIONEER and ahead of his time.. I learned so many words and phrases growing up.. I hope they can still play some of his old shows? I was crushed when he passed… Yes, its a wonderful life, I will let him finish it…

    posted by Azapata on 5-30-2007 at 11:45 am

  52. He was a great man. I was having the worst day today, but reading this article renewed my faith in humanity.

    posted by jaycee on 5-30-2007 at 10:48 pm

  53. Wow, that’s so inspiring. It gives me a fuzzy feeling.

    posted by Dana on 5-31-2007 at 3:54 am

  54. When my daughter was very small, we would get home every day about the time Mr. Rogers was going to be on. She would say “I want to watch neighbor, mommy” and I would turn it on and we would watch Mr. Rogers together. It’s one of my favorite memories.

    posted by Janet on 5-31-2007 at 1:25 pm

  55. He was religious in the way that makes people want to be religious. He simply was who he was and believed what he believed. He made no demands on others to believe as he did and he treated everyone with honest respect. Its the reason everyone loved him.

    posted by Adam on 5-31-2007 at 2:34 pm

  56. For those of you who missed Mr Rogers saving the funding for PBS shows.

    Watch this: youtube*com/watch?v=a41lJIhW7fA

    If you haven’t seen it you are missing out.

    posted by Josh on 5-31-2007 at 2:59 pm

  57. I was lucky enough to live in Mr Rogers actual neighborhood. He lived in an high rise next to the Carnegie Mellon campus. During move-in day our freshman year he came and helped carry my friend’s bags into the dorm. He always lived as he preached. We are at a loss without him.

    posted by Margaret on 5-31-2007 at 3:22 pm

  58. And it’s amazing to see how many people’s lives he touched, isn’t it? Fred Rogers is what sanity looks like. What I’d give to have a library of his shows on the shelf.

    posted by Tom on 5-31-2007 at 4:09 pm

  59. Don’t forget that Fred Rogers was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom which is the highest honor a civilian can receive in the USA.

    posted by Michael Flessas on 5-31-2007 at 4:10 pm

  60. I grew up with Mr. Rogers – a sissy, delicate child afraid of his father. He became my surrogate father. I myself became a public broadcasting show host and when he died I called his show and talked to his assistant. We both cried on the phone together. I still watch him at lunch every day.

    posted by David Gilmore on 5-31-2007 at 4:36 pm

  61. If more people could take his demeanor then this world would be a better place. loved this article boosted my day

    posted by andy on 5-31-2007 at 4:36 pm

  62. One of the most genuine human beings ever. The world is a worse off for having lost him.

    posted by Josh Reinholds on 5-31-2007 at 5:41 pm

  63. There was an interesting piece on NPR’s This American Life (sorry, don’t remember the date, i think it was late last year), where a guy in his early 20’s who had watched the show as a kid brought Fred Rogers to HIS neighborhood, and interviewed him. It was slightly creepy when Daniel the tiger started talking to this grown-up boy, but Mr. Rogers had some insightful things to say about real issues too.

    posted by Justin on 5-31-2007 at 5:45 pm

  64. My cousin, who has cerberal palsy, grew up watching Mr. Rogers. It was one of the only shows that was paced so well for him in his developmental stage.

    My aunt has since walked in on him watching reruns of Mr. Rogers from time to time.

    posted by Bri on 5-31-2007 at 6:24 pm

  65. There was not as much on TV back in his day. He did a great job with kids.

    posted by John Cavers on 5-31-2007 at 6:34 pm

  66. It truly was a beautiful thing to see a human being who remained undamaged by the world. What a great and kind man he was.

    posted by Elizabeth on 5-31-2007 at 6:44 pm

  67. I always think about him when a Friday, the 13th, rolls around. In the kingdom of Make-Believe, any Friday, the 13th was King Friday’s birthday, I think because he wanted kids to have a good association with the day, instead of a bad one. And I love the Koko the gorilla story. What a difference he made with his life.

    posted by Beth on 5-31-2007 at 7:10 pm

  68. At 48 years old of all people I wish that I could have a mind and heart even remotely close to that of Fred Rogers. An inspiration to the world.

    posted by Ron Cole on 5-31-2007 at 9:54 pm

  69. I loved Mr. Rogers Neighborhood as a child…my mom says I would get so excited because “Micker Rogers!!” was on. I haven’t seen it in years, but I think I would still love it. When he died, I cried so hard…I found out when I got to work and checked the news online. My boss came into my office and gave me a hug because I was crying so hard. It’s a shame that more people aren’t like him.

    posted by Lauren on 5-31-2007 at 10:55 pm

  70. I’m 57; when I was about 40, I recall a Neighborhood show to which the set was tuned one day when Mr. Rogers was talking about disappointment. He explained so endearingly and empathetically something that I’d either never gotten or had forgotten, but needed at that moment. I’ll never forget it. It was the kind of thing (insight) we pay therapists lots of money for, sometimes for a long time, hoping to get. And to think, all we have to do is switch on the set where the shows still air, and those kinds of nuggets and a whole world view are waiting! I am so very grateful for him, and that he touched the lives of so many. He’s the best of what passes for human; a North Star for us all, who, in complementing him with our imitation, might help to carry on his legacy.

    posted by Sandy on 6-1-2007 at 7:15 am

  71. I actually didn’t care for the show while growing up, but my children certainly enjoyed it.

    And you’re right, he was absolutely the same man off-camera that he was on. Several years ago, Candid Camera tried to make a comeback and one of their setups involved a hotel full of TV critic type people who were there for the sole purpose of watching various TV show ideas and pilots on closed circuit in their rooms. Fred Rogers was one of them. The gag that was being played was the “stupid bellhop” was bringing tiny, old B&W, non-closed-circuit TV in the room because the other one “broke”. Mr. Rogers never, ever got upset with the guy, never chastised him, never got ill with the situation. He just basically shrugged it off and said he’d figure out something. He was so very sweet and kind. :-)

    posted by Melanie on 6-1-2007 at 7:47 am

  72. I attended Rollins College. Fred Rogers passed away my freshman year. My class was the first to not hear him speak. A tradition missed. I did have the chance to meet him at the Capitol in high school, however. Genuine and down right cool.

    posted by BJC on 6-1-2007 at 7:53 am

  73. I have very fond memories of Mr. Rogers. I remember him, that voice, his manner. I hadn’t thought about him in a long time untill I came accross this article. There aren’t many people in this world who are truly inspiring, and Mr. Rogers was certainly one of them. Having put him out of my mind I feel was a great disservice. What ever the age, the man could reach anyone. Thank you for posting this. I think we could all use a little more Mr. Rogers in out lives.

    posted by David on 6-1-2007 at 8:28 am

  74. Thank you for making a grown man cry at work.

    ~jw

    posted by Jason on 6-1-2007 at 9:02 am

  75. Awww… Reading this made me cry. I miss you Mr. Rogers.

    posted by Marie-Elaine on 6-1-2007 at 9:07 am

  76. i was in seminary with fred and we were friends …. what you saw was what you got …. if you did not like fred … you needed help

    in a class on puritanism we fought and laughed … he was one of a kind … peerless

    posted by wallace matsen on 6-1-2007 at 9:13 am

  77. tree … tree … tree

    posted by wallace matsen on 6-1-2007 at 9:16 am

  78. Great writeup, Mr Rogers was probably one of the best television people around, and all the good deeds he did weren’t just for show like most people’s are.

    posted by Brandon on 6-1-2007 at 9:20 am

  79. I’m crying. Thank you.

    posted by Bob on 6-1-2007 at 9:56 am

  80. This was great to know!

    posted by Anna Maria on 6-1-2007 at 10:04 am

  81. Mr. Rogers was truly a magnificent human being, and I enjoyed your post. However, I think your comment, “Despite being an ordained Presbyterian minister, and a man of tremendous faith, Mister Rogers preached tolerance first,” is off base. Mr. Rogers was a kind, tolerant man because of his Christian beliefs, not in spite of them. He lived his life as Christ wants all of us to do. It is unfortunate that some people who call themselves Christians fail to be as tolerant as they ought to be, but you should know that becoming a Christian doesn’t make you perfect, it simply starts you on a journey to improve yourself by following the guidelines that Christ has laid down for us. Mr. Rogers reached a point that many others are journeying towards. If you don’t believe what I’ve written here, I would suggest turning off the television evangelists and actually meeting the Christians who live in your community. You might be surprised at what you find.

    posted by Fred on 6-1-2007 at 10:10 am

  82. I remember when Mr. Rodgers passed. I was in graduate school and I felt crushed. Having him gone made me realize I had lost a key link to my childhood and I wasn’t a kid anymore.

    Fred Rodgers was a true gem of a human being. Kind, humble, hard-working, tolerant, sincere…we need more people like him in the world. THank you, God, for sharing him with us. Send another..

    posted by Sam on 6-1-2007 at 10:12 am

  83. I’m truly moved by the outpouring of love for this beautiful man. Its great to be reminded of what is there in each of us, underneath the madness.

    There are others I have found with this same quality of spirit as Fred Rogers. They have no agenda, are not trying to sell you anything, just want to show you who you are.

    For those interested, Eckhart Tolle’s teaching reminds me very much of the spirit displayed in this thread.

    posted by John on 6-1-2007 at 11:01 am

  84. I loved Mr. Rogers. I watched him as I grew up in the 80’s and maybe 90’s. I’m not sure when he died, but I’m pretty sure I remembered him when I heard the news.

    My sister, who is 8, still watches his show and although she knows that he no longer exists anymore, she still loves him for what he was and is on the TV screen.

    posted by Rock on 6-1-2007 at 11:24 am

  85. I once picked up a hot Argentinian chick because I was whistling and singing “It’s a beauiful day in the neighborhood” one rainy day on the Metro. She said “American men never sing in public” and it was just the opening I needed.

    posted by Goober on 6-1-2007 at 11:24 am

  86. Thank you for a well-written tribute. I thought you and your readers might be interested in my own tribute to this wonderful man.

    I see that you won’t allow links, but here’s the general idea.

    jimsuldog.blogspot.com/2007/04/its-beautiful-day-in-neighborhood.html

    posted by Suldog on 6-1-2007 at 11:27 am

  87. Mr Rogers is a great person. we all miss him.

    posted by jenny on 6-1-2007 at 11:35 am

  88. Fred Rodgers was a rare human being. He took the doctrine of man made in God’s image to television and it captured the imaginations of millions of people, young and old. It is tragic that today’s media has fallen the way of the sewer. Whether it is recordings, comedy routines, music, or morning talk shows the culture of love and respect has been replaced by the culture of incivility and crudity. may someone out there take up the Mantle Fred Rogers left behind,and remind youngsters and grown ups of the good we are capable of

    posted by michael on 6-1-2007 at 11:52 am

  89. i used to live in Pittsburgh, where he also lived. The local public radio station has a big record fair every year where it sells off records (presumably duplicates, things it has on CDs, etc.). Although the name Fred Rogers is certainly common enough that I can’t say for sure, one of my happiest possessions is a record of Stravinsky’s Rites of Spring with the name, in small, neat cursive letters “Fred Rogers” written on the back.

    posted by aviatrix on 6-1-2007 at 12:12 pm

  90. Great Post – We miss Fred. Thanks for teaching me stuff when I was shorter.

    posted by furiousball on 6-1-2007 at 12:29 pm

  91. My wife had a friend who knew him. She claimed that in real life he was exactly as you saw him on the show. Matches up with your article perfectly.

    posted by CyberMage on 6-1-2007 at 12:38 pm

  92. Thanks to your great post, I learned some interesting facts about Mr. Rogers that I didn’t know.

    One of my all-time favorite quotes is from a commencement address Mr. Rogers gave at Dartmouth:

    “Our world hangs like a magnificent jewel in the vastness of space. Every one of us is a part of that jewel–a facet of that jewel. And in the perspective of infinity, our differences are infinitesimal. We are intimately related. May we never even pretend that we are not.”

    I believe Fred Rogers was a Buddha, an enlightened being.

    posted by citizen Able on 6-1-2007 at 12:54 pm

  93. Just want to add that I, too, love Mr. Rogers and to say that all the commenters above me are great just the way they are.

    posted by Never teh Bride on 6-1-2007 at 12:56 pm

  94. I also attended Rollins College, and had the opportunity to hear him speak one Easter. Coincidentally, it was 50 years to the day, according to Mr. Rogers himself, that he stood at that same podium and gave his commencement speech. What an honor. I think it hit everyone especially hard at Rollins when he died because we all considered him one of ours. We’ll miss you, Fred.

    posted by Daniel on 6-1-2007 at 12:58 pm

  95. When we were planning our wedding recently, I was inspired to write our wedding vows and include music from Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood. In fact, my husband to be walked down the aisle (instead of me) singing Won’t You Be My Neighbor….with a lot of help from the wedding party. He then put on his sneakers and took off his sweater (with tie dye T-shirt underneath. Invitations to the wedding were from King Friday and Queen Sara Saturday and instead of wedding rings we were crowned. It was an unforgetable wedding! We have emphasized “being good neighbors” and our relationship is growing closer every day!

    posted by Sue on 6-1-2007 at 1:15 pm

  96. Fred was a great man. I still enjoy his shows to this day. Thanks for the article you just made a 26 year old man cry at work.

    posted by Denis on 6-1-2007 at 1:22 pm

  97. There was an episode of The Sopranos where Junior came in, took off his coat and shoes, put on a sweater and slippers, and said, “It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood.”

    posted by redthumb on 6-1-2007 at 1:24 pm

  98. I used to drink a six pack of beer while watching Mr. Rogers with my three year old son. Mr. Rodgers must have rubbed off on us both. My son is a fire fighter and quite fit while I am working the AA program for a better life. Thanks for the memories, Mr. Rodgers. :-)

    posted by Colorado Dad on 6-1-2007 at 1:33 pm

  99. I also teared up reading this. In a world with too much ugly he was beautiful. He is missed

    posted by Dgruber on 6-1-2007 at 1:36 pm

  100. I liked his fish tank!

    posted by Cordell on 6-1-2007 at 1:49 pm

  101. I once sent an e-mail to Mr. Rogers via the PBS website purely as a gag, after I noticed that Lady Elaine Fairchild’s face (a puppet in the land of make-believe)was noticeably more sinister looking than I remember as a child. I am referring to what might have been blush at one time. I joked that it looked like her face had been burned reaching into the oven for cookies because the ‘blush’ was more brown than red. What a surprise it was when Mr. Rogers personally replied to my email, and told me that Lady Elaine’s face had gradually darkened over time because of the exposure to lights. He was aware of how it looked but decided to not repair the paint job because he wanted people to know that it was not how someone looked on the outside but who they were on the inside that mattered. He said that the condition of the puppet was a perfect example of that. He then took the time to thank me for being a fan all of these years (42-I can still watch him, along with my five children on PBS) He encouraged me to foster the love of reading in my kids, and was absolutely true to his tv image throughout. I will never forget the example he showed of love towards his fellow humans. We miss you dearly Fred, I wish our world’s “leaders” were as compassionate and gentle as you were.

    posted by danimal on 6-1-2007 at 1:49 pm

  102. But what about Captain Kangaroo? Doesn’t he get any props?!?

    posted by Noir on 6-1-2007 at 2:07 pm

  103. I remember when I was in college and a friend told me that he and his wife were getting a divorce. My first thoughts were concern for his then 5 yr. old son. I wrote Mr. Rogers and asked if he would write to my fiend’s son. He send him a inspiring letter and an autographed photo. He sent one to me as well and, 15yrs. later, it still hangs on the wall of my house.

    He and his musical director were very influential in love of jazz music.

    There will never be another like him.

    posted by julian on 6-1-2007 at 2:15 pm

  104. I’m a big, hairy, 350-pound monster with tattoos, piercings and a sarcastic attitude. But I loved Mr. Rogers with every fiber of my being, and still do. I’m misty just typing this. Kids have seriously over-developed BS detectors, and we knew he was REAL. He was GENUINE. And his ability to unite all people in common admiration for him has never ceased to impress me. EVERYONE loved the man. In a world where it’s easier to achieve peace in the middle east than it is to get any two random Americans to agree on pizza toppings, Fred Rogers was universally revered across every line imaginable. The world is FAR poorer without him. And what’s more, he would have been humbled by the praise.

    posted by Jim on 6-1-2007 at 2:46 pm

  105. I was in 8th grade when i found out that he died, i was very upset, so was my best friend, so that day, me and her walked through the halls of our middle school belting out “its a beautiful day in the neighborhood” song at the top of our lungs once school was out. lots of people laughed at us but we didnt care, we loved that guy. i miss his show :’(

    posted by andrea on 6-1-2007 at 2:56 pm

  106. Was’nt he actually a Navy Seal?

    posted by Frank on 6-1-2007 at 3:58 pm

  107. My favorite memory of Mr. Rogers is the way he responded to children’s emotional needs during tragedies such as the Oklahoma City bombing and 9/11. He advised parents and teachers to focus on showing kids the rescuers and other people who were demonstrating kindness and trying to save others. He wanted kids to understand that although bad things will sometimes happen, there are always people ready to help, ready to make the world right again. In short, he planted faith.

    posted by Sharon on 6-1-2007 at 4:01 pm

  108. Fred Rogers was the real deal on and off camera…A man of genuine faith who cared for and advocated for children and indeed, for all of humanity. God bless him for the goodness and light that he brought into the world – he is deeply missed.

    posted by Will on 6-1-2007 at 4:11 pm

  109. Thirty-two years old, I’m reading this and the Esquire article at work and very glad that I can close the door so nobody hears me sniffling.

    Thank you for such a gentle list.

    posted by Chris B on 6-1-2007 at 4:16 pm

  110. I was working on the animated show “Arthur” and we were doing an episode featuring Mr. Rogers. I was at my desk drawing when I heard his voice from behind me say “You’re doing a wonderful drawing.” I turned and he introduced himself. He made a point of visiting the whole studio. A genuinely nice person.

    posted by Sean LeBlanc on 6-1-2007 at 4:20 pm

  111. Man, this made me tear up pretty badly. I didn’t watch his show regularly as a kid, but I gained a new appreciation for him when I got older. He was truly an incredible person. I wish that everyone on this planet would watch an episode of his show as soon as they wake up in the morning.

    Oh, and everyone talking about his supposed military past should check out the Snopes article on him (he was never in the military).

    posted by Alex on 6-1-2007 at 4:34 pm

  112. I’ve heard that he wore a long-sleeved cardigan because his arms were all tatooed from he Service.

    Any truth to this cool nugget?

    HP

    posted by Henning Paul on 6-1-2007 at 4:43 pm

  113. Met him once when I worked for another PBS station in PA. I am totally secular, but I felt deeply that I was in the presence of a holy person. Tom Junod’s article in Esquire’s Hero’s edition is certainly an accurate and moving read.

    posted by David on 6-1-2007 at 6:06 pm

  114. First, to Henning Paul:

    No.

    Second: My boys, who are grown, and I would watch Mr. Rogers every day. It was a very special time for us.

    Years later, when my oldest was 24, he emailed me the news story that Mr. Rogers had died. My son told me, in a note that accompanied the article: “I had the closing theme to Mr. Rogers in my head all night last night, and then I discovered this this morning.” I wrote him back and suggested that, since, out of all the Fred Rogers songs we knew, it was the closing theme to the show, that Mr. Rogers was saying “goodbye.”

    I really believe that.

    posted by Vittoria on 6-1-2007 at 6:43 pm

  115. Mister Roger’s had a tremendous impact on me as a child and as an adult. His life is an inspiration. As far as the rumors, no Fred Rogers was not a Navy SEAL, nor did he serve in any other branch of the military. This fact does not make him any less cool.

    posted by CosmicDog on 6-1-2007 at 6:57 pm

  116. Aww. I had to laugh a little over the 3rd one. I caught the show in reruns recently, and saw an episode where he took his tv neighbour to the swimming pool. I admit to snickering at the fact that he decided to don a red speedo to the pool, but you know what? The man was in better shape at that age than I am now, and I’m way younger!

    It’s nice to see such positive comments here.

    posted by lisa on 6-1-2007 at 7:59 pm

  117. I loved Mr. Rogers and I was really hurt that some older kids and even adults made fun of him. Later on I found solace in apparent myth that he was a special forces badass that could break a detractors neck with two fingers (google ‘mr rogers special forces’). That was a great urban legend, but after reading this list I realize he really was an amazing person and that we should all try to be more like him and celebrate what he did. Thank you for writing this.

    posted by frazman on 6-1-2007 at 8:02 pm

  118. I love Mr. Rogers! I was very sad when he died.

    I think some adults could benefit from watching his show again….

    posted by Laura on 6-1-2007 at 8:39 pm

  119. Say what you want about Mr. Rogers, he was a rock for me, a place of sanity when I grew up. I had a very turbulent upbringing, and I used to watch this show and wish I lived in a neighborhood like his, and could hear that quiet, calm voice all day (instead of the angry ones I had to listen to). When I heard he died, I felt like a piece of my childhood was gone.

    posted by Duppy on 6-1-2007 at 8:49 pm

  120. To dispell rumors about Mr. Rogers serving time in the military and/or having tattoos, these are quotes from Snopes.com:

    Rumor – Fred Rogers served as a sniper or as a Navy Seal during the Vietnam War, with a large number of confirmed kills to his credit.

    Truth – This same rumor has often been applied to boyish country singer-songwriter John Denver (among others), and it’s just as false when told of Fred Rogers. Not only did Fred Rogers never serve in the military, there are no gaps in his career when he could conceivably have served in the military — he went straight into college after high school, he moved directly into TV work after graduating college, and his breaks from television work were devoted to attending the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary (he was ordained as a Presbyterian minister in 1963) and the University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Child Development. Moreover, Fred Rogers was born in 1928 and was therefore too old to have enlisted in the armed services by the time of America’s military involvement in Vietnam.

    Rumor – Fred Rogers always wore long-sleeved shirts and sweaters on his show to conceal the tattoos on his arms he obtained while serving in the military.

    Truth – As noted above, Fred Rogers never served in the military, and he bore no tattoos on his arms (or any other part of his body). He wore long-sleeved shirts and sweaters on his show to maintain an air of formality — although he was friendly with the children in his viewing audience and talked to them on their own level, he was most definitely an authority figure on a par with parents and teachers (he was Mister Rogers to them, after all, not Fred), and his choice of dress was intended to establish and foster that relationship.

    Hope that helps :)

    posted by Jennifer on 6-2-2007 at 12:31 am

  121. I used to watch Mr. Rogers every day as a kid, the same with Mr. Dressup (in Canada), and I really have to say that the kids today are really missing out on something special by not having somebody like this to watch on tv. They were probably the best shows on tv for kids, or for anybody for that matter – even 20 years later I still remember the song – it’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood, a beautiful day in the neighborhood, …. won’t you be my neighbor…

    posted by Jason on 6-2-2007 at 2:06 am

  122. When someone is just plain good, they transcend popular culture.

    posted by beajerry on 6-2-2007 at 2:30 am

  123. I grew up in Pittsburgh and Mr. Rogers Neighborhood was a production of WQED-TV the Pittsburgh PBS station. For my birthday in 1961 my mother took me and five other 8-9 year olds to the station during a taping of the show, we were in behind glass looking at the set with Fred, the cameramen, the lights, the TV monitors… it was marvelous and mind-blowing for a kid to see behind the scenes like that! Then, after the show finished, Fred Rogers came and spoke to each of us, asking our names, where we went to school, chatting but genuinely interested and kind hearted and genuine! I will never ever forget that – he was such a wonderful person – and he launched me into a career in film and television! The most loving human being I ever met – a unique and special being we are lucky to have had in the world.

    posted by Craig on 6-2-2007 at 5:13 am

  124. Wow I can’t believe his mom knit all those sweaters. She too must have been amazing.

    posted by Motorcycle Guy on 6-2-2007 at 6:07 am

  125. When my daughter watched Mr. Rogers about 20 years ago, I felt her senses and sesibilties were safe. Was it his cardigans, his sneakers, his smile, his comforting yet intelligent voice, that won me over? It surely wasn’t the songs, the almost ugly puppets, the nerdy mailman and silly stories.
    His telling of tolerance, anti-bullying stance, his amazing show of empathy and sesitivity was a gift, I realized and a deep love of humanity sorely missed on today’s shows for children. He spoke to children more than being their “entertainer”. Long Live Sir Rogers.

    posted by Leyla Cohen on 6-2-2007 at 10:47 am

  126. Nice piece. All true!

    Wendy Zoba did a nice story on
    Mr. Rogers in “Christianity Today”
    a few years ago.

    posted by Clay Knick on 6-2-2007 at 10:55 am

  127. Fans of Mr. Rogers will really like a CD I found at my library, called “Songs from the Neighborhood”. It has a dozen songs written by Fred Rogers, covered by contemporary singers. The second song on the disk, “It’s You I Like”, made me cry my eyes out! And I’m a 42 year old woman! Mr. Rogers is an inspiration–he makes me want to be a better person.

    posted by Ruth on 6-2-2007 at 1:40 pm

  128. Mr. Rogers was truly an American hero. My 17 year old son gave me this article – he loved Mr. Rogers as did I. I don’t think many people could read this without tearing up a little and fondly remembering him. What a legacy!

    posted by Just a mom on 6-2-2007 at 2:48 pm

  129. I was a Captain Kangaroo kid, but I occasionally watched Mr. Rogers, too. While he was little too sweet for my tastes even then, I always recognized him as a nice guy–but I really watched for the cool puppet set. The castle and the trolley! As a kid, I remember wanting to play on that set sooo much.

    posted by Daniel on 6-2-2007 at 3:10 pm

  130. i had a Mr Roger’s lp record with a song called ”i want to marry my mom”.
    any student of hypnosis would find him creepy if you check out his hypno techniques. may he rot

    posted by lee on 6-2-2007 at 5:00 pm

  131. I loved Mr. Rogers. Excellent post!

    posted by Saffron on 6-2-2007 at 7:44 pm

  132. I genuinely loved Mr. Roger’s. I cried when I found out he passed. He’s the only television personality that has ever affected me in that way.

    posted by Cathy on 6-2-2007 at 10:26 pm

  133. One of the things I liked about him was that, like me, he was an ordained Presbyterian minister. His “call” — (the TV program) was much more creative than the Church I serve!

    posted by Bill Hayes on 6-3-2007 at 4:10 am

  134. They took Mister Rogers neighborhood off the air where I live. I wrote to ask them to put it back on, and this was the reply:

    “Thank you for writing. Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood has been a beloved program on our station for decades, but it has been losing viewers on a steady basis. While we have found that parents who may have grown up with him still enjoy the program for their own nostalgia, the children aren’t tuning in because of the highly competitive nature of children’s programming. We needed to focus on programming that was more engaging to both the parent and the child in order to serve the most with our mission of educational television.

    Our Ready To Learn team has been in the field on a regular basis working with parents and caregivers. When they researched the viewing of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, they found it was the parents who would miss the program – not for what their children saw but what they saw and remembered.

    While we understand that some parents who grew up with Mr. Rogers will not agree with our schedule change, this decision was made with the best intentions of the children watching today in mind.

    Thank you again for writing KVIE.”

    posted by Jamie on 6-3-2007 at 1:09 pm

  135. He was a real man, a mensch, one of the good guys, a hero: He talked the talk and walked the walk. He did the right and honorable thing every day.

    Merciful God above, send us more like this, and help me try to approach this, myself.

    posted by Nat on 6-3-2007 at 2:11 pm

  136. i love mr.rogers he was/is so cool

    posted by scott on 6-3-2007 at 6:41 pm

  137. I have a very strong memory of watching Mr. Rogers visiting a sneaker factory. Not only did he show the process of making the sneakers and the machinery,he showed the REAL people who were making the shoes. I think it had a big influence on me becoming a sculptor in adulthood.

    posted by tracy on 6-3-2007 at 8:05 pm

  138. You may or may not know that Fred Rogers wrote all two hundred of the songs featured on his show.

    Last year I produced a tribute album of Fred’s music to called “Songs from the Neighborhood – the Music of Mister Rogers.” The project pays tribute to Fred Rogers and, unbelievably, it won a Grammy award.

    The CD includes all new pop flavored arrangements of songs written by Fred Rogers. It features performances by Amy Grant, B.J. Thomas, Bobby Caldwell, CeCe Winans, Crystal Gayle, Donna Summer, John Pizzarelli, Jon Secada, Maureen McGovern, Ricky Skaggs and Roberta Flack.

    I hope you’ll check it out. The website is http://www.songsfromtheneighborhood.com (you can also find it at Amazon).

    posted by Dennis Scott on 6-3-2007 at 8:20 pm

  139. I wouldn’t call what he had tolerance, because what the world doesn’t need is more tolerance. Rogers believed in love and loving people. And as a true man of faith, he knew that that was what God really is all about.

    I think that with the number of posts people have left saying such nice things about him, it shows that his legacy of kindness will always carry on.

    posted by Joseph Lee on 6-4-2007 at 12:37 am

  140. Tree, tree, tree,
    Tree, tree, tree,
    Tree, tree, tree,
    Tree, tree, tree.

    We love you,
    Yes, we do.
    Yes, we do,
    We love you.

    Tree, tree, tree,
    Tree, tree, tree,
    Tree, tree, tree,
    Tree, tree, tree.

    posted by Stacy on 6-4-2007 at 2:59 am

  141. Why do you say Mr. R. was tolerant ‘despite’ his Christian background. Anyone who truly practices Christianity is tolerant, and holds beliefs without judging others. Unfortunately, too many people have used ‘Christianity’ to act against others, which is a perversion of its intent.

    posted by Angela Camack on 6-4-2007 at 6:53 am

  142. In a world of frenzy – Mr. Rogers was a gentle breeze. He spoke softly and kindly with common sense and good humor. I remember when my children were small, I myself would enjoy watching him and the wisdom he delivered on a daily basis. There is not another like him. God Bless him.

    posted by Louise Bersani on 6-4-2007 at 7:47 am

  143. The man was truly wonderful. Of all the television characters of host or celebrities, Mister Rogers is by far my favourite. If God had a face and a voice and a mannarism, he would be Rogers. I just know he’s somewhere now entertaining the masses with hs humour, his wit and hiw easy going attitudes towards life.

    We can all learn a thing or two from Fred.

    posted by John on 6-4-2007 at 9:04 am

  144. I love Mr. Rogers, and just wanted to be the 143 replier.

    posted by rocky on 6-4-2007 at 9:28 am

  145. Wouldn’t work this day and age. Get someone up on the screen with a like-minded persona and they’ll be gunned down immediately. We’re far too cynical. We don’t like the non-judgmental type anymore. We all love to wax sentimental on this one guy in our childhood, but he’s never coming back. He had a familiar face and conveyed a sense of warmth, but imagine a midget with Cerebral Palsy up there on the TV screen trying to be nice and preach tolerance. Wouldn’t work. We’d be freaked out. This guy just had a natural martyr quality to him and a Grandfatherly demeanor, because it was good genes. That’s all.

    Loved the guy, naturally. I’m just pointing out the irony here. Now let’s all go back to watching beheadings on the internet.

    posted by John Doe on 6-4-2007 at 9:33 am

  146. For the record, I teared up upon reading this article. But soon thereafter punched my dog and crotch-kicked my friend Evan.

    posted by John Doe on 6-4-2007 at 9:39 am

  147. This is all amazing and I agree with the president thing lol. But I couldn’t help but notice that there were 143 comments on here. mine being the 144th. but i found that to be kinda wierd after reading about the weight thing.

    posted by Zack on 6-4-2007 at 9:53 am

  148. You Might Not Ever Guess

    Captain Kangaroo passed away on January 23, 2004 as age 76 , which is odd, because he always looked to be 76. (DOB: 6/27/27.) His death reminded me of the following story.
    Some people have been a bit offended that the actor, Lee Marvin, is buried in a grave alongside 3 and 4 star generals at Arlington National Cemetery. His marker gives his name, rank (PVT) and service (USMC). Nothing else. Here’s a guy who was only a famous movie star who served his time, why the heck does he rate burial with these guys? Well, following is the amazing answer:
    I always liked Lee Marvin, but didn’t know the extent of his Corps experiences

    In a time when many Hollywood stars served their country in the armed forces often in rear echelon posts where they were carefully protected, only to be trotted out to perform for the cameras in war bond promotions,

    Lee Marvin was a genuine hero. He won the Navy Cross at Iwo Jima. There is only one higher Naval award… the Medal Of Honor.

    If that is a surprising comment on the true character of the man, he credits his sergeant with an even greater show of bravery.

    Dialog from “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson”: His guest was Lee Marvin. Johnny said, “Lee, I’ll bet a lot of people are unaware that you were a Marine in the initial landing at Iwo Jima…and that during the course of that action you earned the Navy Cross and were severely wounded.”

    “Yeah, yeah… I got shot square in the bottom and they gave me the Cross for securing a hot spot about halfway up Suribachi. Bad thing about getting shot up on a mountain is guys getting’ shot hauling you down. But,Johnny, at Iwo I served under the bravest man I ever knew… We both got the cross the same day, but what he did for his Cross made mine look cheap in comparison. That dumb guy actually stood up on Red beach and directed his troops to move forward and get the hell off the beach. Bullets flying by, with mortar rounds landing everywhere and he stood there as the main target of gunfire so that he could get his men to safety. He did this on more than one occasion because his men’s safety was more important than his own life.

    That Sergeant and I have been lifelong friends. When they brought me off Suribachi we passed the Sergeant and he lit a smoke and passed it to me, lying on my belly on the litter and said, where’d they get you Lee?’ Well Bob… if you make it home be fore me, tell Mom to sell the outhouse!”

    Johnny, I’m not lying, Sergeant Keeshan was the bravest man I ever knew.

    The Sergeant’s name is Bob Keeshan. You and the world know him as Captain Kangaroo.”

    On another note, there was this wimpy little man (who just passed away) on PBS, gentle and quiet. Mr. Rogers is another of those you would least suspect of being anything but what he now portrays to our youth. But Mr. Rogers was a U.S. Navy Seal, combat-proven in Vietnam with over twenty-five confirmed kills to his name. He wore a long-sleeved sweater on TV, to cover the many tattoos on his forearm and biceps. He was a master in small arms and hand-to-hand combat, able to disarm or kill in a heartbeat.

    After the war Mr. Rogers became an ordained Presbyterian minister and therefore a pacifist. Vowing to never harm another human and also dedicating the rest of his life to trying to help lead children on the right path in life. He hid away the tattoos and his past life and won our hearts with his quiet wit and charm.

    America’s real heroes don’t flaunt what they did; they quietly go about their day-to-day lives, doing what they do best. They earned our respect and the freedoms that we all enjoy.

    Look around and see if you can find one of those heroes in your midst.

    Often, they are the ones you’d least suspect, but would most like to have on your side if anything ever happened.

    Take the time to thank anyone that has fought for our freedom. With encouragement they could be the next Captain Kangaroo or Mr.Rogers

    ——————————————————————————–

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    Checked by AVG Free Edition.
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    posted by ken pittman on 6-4-2007 at 9:58 am

  149. Mr Roger’s tv show was a great show, I like how it used such simplistic ways of teaching children, not the flashy stuff thats on nowadays that passed off as childrens shows. I used to watch him when I was little and always hoping what new item or object he would bring to show.

    posted by Shane on 6-4-2007 at 10:28 am

  150. All this (not about his death; the stuff about him being such a nice guy on AND off screen) reminds me of an urban legend I read. It said that Mr. Rogers was actually a Green Beret (or Navy Seal or whatver), and he was the best sniper in the whole, uh, group(?). (ie – he was the best sniper in all of the Green Berets, whatever). Anyways, he started doing the show as a way of dealing with PTSD, and – the best part – he always wore long sleeves to hide his military tattoos. LOL…

    -ak

    posted by A K on 6-4-2007 at 10:41 am

  151. I remember in 6th grade I was in art class. I hadn’t talked or even thought about Mr. Rogers in a while even though he was my favorite show. But for some reason I brought him up and we talked about him throughout the whole class. The next day I came into school and when I walked into the classroom, everyone ran up to me and told me, “Mr. Rogers died yesterday.” I couldn’t believe it. It was like one of those weird coincidences that you feel have a purpose. He has become one of my greatest heroes.

    posted by Joseph on 6-4-2007 at 10:43 am

  152. Oops! Should have read all the posts before I posted my previous comment. Sorry! (For those that don’t know what I’m talking about, “Frank” brought up the topic in post #106, and it continued in 111, 112, 115, 120.) At least, those were the ones I saw. I kinda speed-read through the comments. :)

    -ak

    posted by A K on 6-4-2007 at 10:54 am

  153. I look forward to chatting with Mr. Rogers in heaven. Are you going there too? Make sure you know where you’re headed!! I know Mr. Rogers would welcome you joyously!!

    posted by Esther M. on 6-4-2007 at 10:57 am

  154. My first child was born in ‘84 and I decided that PBS was the best choice for children’s shows.
    I grew up as the youngest of 4 (I’m 50 now), our Father died of Cancer & Mother had to work, I grew up in an UNHEALTHY ENVIRONMENT of physical & sexual abuse; with feelings of abandonment and out right fear for my safety.
    After having moved into a home of our own, I quickly incorporated Mr. Rogers into my daily routine & learned so much from him about unconditional love & acceptance. I learned alongside my first daughter & when my 2nd came along, I became a childcare provider & watched with her and the children I cared for as well. He was both parents for ME; encouraging, accepting, empowering. I truly hope that when my girls decide to start a family, that they bring Fred Rogers into thier home. I haven’t checked, but it would be fantastic to be able to buy his shows on DVD, so I can share him with my grandchildren! GOD BLESS FRED ROGERS!

    posted by Daphne on 6-4-2007 at 11:03 am

  155. I grew up with Mr. Rogers neighborhood.
    I miss you, Mr. Rogers, we all miss you.

    posted by Tanya Harmonn on 6-4-2007 at 11:16 am

  156. Didn’t he die of stomach cancer? Why do all of the awesome guys die from nasty stuff?

    posted by Citrus on 6-4-2007 at 11:48 am

  157. What a beautiful soul. A reminder to all of us, young and old, of our true potential for kindness, wonder, care and sharing. He will be missed, but may his qualities live on and multiply.

    posted by Glenn on 6-4-2007 at 3:04 pm

  158. Fred Rogers: Boddhisattva!

    posted by Rob on 6-4-2007 at 4:22 pm

  159. Mister Rogers, among a vast arsenal of good, useful, and constuctive things is single-handedly responsible for my deep abiding love of music– most especially Jazz.

    posted by Shane Milton Coronado on 6-4-2007 at 4:43 pm

  160. I enjoyed this article about Mr. Rogers. Although I was in my late 30’s at the time my youngest son was two years old, I watched Mr. Rogers with him sometimes. More often I was preparing dinner at that hour. Mr. Rogers had a very calming effect on an active two year old, and our dinner hours were always peacful and loving with a little boy who told us how he loved us “just the way” we were. I wrote Mr. Rogers a fan letter; it was the only fan letter I ever wrote in my life. I cried when he died. Sometimes, now that I am retired, I’ll be watching daytime TV and come upon a rerun of one of his shows, and I will stop there and watch it. At my age! Imagine!
    I checked out the urban legends concerning Mr. Rogers, Bob Keeshan, and Lee Marvin. Turns out all were wrong. Marvin was wounded in the butt, but in Saipan, not on Iwo Jima. He did not serve with Bob Keeshan. Keeshan did not join the military until 1945, shortly before the bombing of Hiroshima and the subsequent Japanese surrender. Keeshan never saw any combat at all. Mr. Rogers never served in the military at all, especially WWII (he was only 12-16 years old then) or Vietnam (he was around 40 at that time). I dont know what bothers me more – the urban legends themselves, or the fact that so many people who read them in email attachments believe them and send them along to others, kind of like passing innacurate gossip over the back fence.

    posted by Jan on 6-4-2007 at 5:10 pm

  161. I always knew Mr. Rogers was amazing, I just didn’t quite realize how wonderful he truly was. Thanks for being my neighbor, Mr. Rogers!

    posted by Shmuzz on 6-4-2007 at 5:50 pm

  162. Mr. Rogers was always my favorite show and guy when I was little. After watching a Barney show, I would watch Mr. Rogers. He was always my hero and he still is now that I’m 15. I still watch reruns when I can!

    I hope to see him in Heaven.

    posted by Allison on 6-4-2007 at 6:11 pm

  163. I was born in 1969, I watched Mr Rogers twice a day, I remember most of the shows. I believe his values, that I learned from his shows at age 3, are the ones that I follow today. He did influence me, especially that line “God loves you, just the way you are.”. Thank you PBS for airing Mister Rogers.

    posted by DREW on 6-4-2007 at 9:54 pm

  164. I grew up watching Mr.Rogers on T.V. as a little child and have grown up to be a tough, steel working, motorcycle riding, dock worker, and this article and the following transcripts are the first thing that have caused me to shed a tear in almost a decade he was truly a wonderful person and will be missed forever.

    posted by Greg on 6-4-2007 at 10:11 pm

  165. Man Mr. Rogers was great. I don’t think I watched him when I was a little kid (I probably did but I just don’t remember), but after reading this it just makes me love Mr. Rogers. He was a great influence and a great person.

    posted by Vozzon on 6-5-2007 at 11:33 am

  166. I met Fred Rogers once: he was a kind and gentle man! He inspired my life in many ways – ironically, I wound up becoming a teacher because I wanted to work for him but couldn’t without a degree in education!

    posted by mendillo on 6-5-2007 at 12:10 pm

  167. Love Mr. Rogers and everything he stood for …. a must read is Tim Madigan’s
    I’m Proud of You book on Mr. Rogers.
    It will remind you why we all fell in love with his beautiful spirit. Where are the reruns playing, this and every generation needs Mr. Rogers.

    posted by margo on 6-5-2007 at 1:18 pm

  168. Fred was my man. I KNOW I wasn’t the only divorced single-mom who made sure I tuned in every day to the end of his show just to hear one person look in my eyes and say to me, “I like you just the way you are.”

    posted by Shirley on 6-6-2007 at 12:50 am

  169. Mr. Rogers will always be a part of my life. I love the song “Would you be my Neighbor?”
    The blog post almost brought a tear to my eye ( I was at work, and I resisted)

    Good work for bringing back great memories

    webcure

    posted by webcure on 6-6-2007 at 7:49 am

  170. I used to watch Mr.Rogers every single day. BOB DOG freaked me out though and made me cry. I have Mr.Rogers picture that he signed himself on my wall. its awesome.

    posted by joe on 6-6-2007 at 2:46 pm

  171. I loved Mister Rogers!!!! I remember watching all my life, even after I was grown. Mister Rogers was a great neighbor and an inspiration to all children. He is truly loved and missed.

    posted by Micki on 6-7-2007 at 6:47 am

  172. it’s “It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood”…number 8 is wrong. seems like it’s important to get that right.

    posted by jessica on 6-7-2007 at 1:46 pm

  173. He truely was a good person who praticed what he preached. How many of our politicians today can say that? A great man who will be missed by many.

    posted by Jelena on 6-7-2007 at 5:07 pm

  174. Re: being colorblind — the day after Mr. Rogers died, in my Music Appreciation college class, two young black men were lamenting his death, when one, genuinely bummed about it, said “Man… no more make-believe and sh**.”

    Ironically, it was quite touching.

    posted by Bryan on 6-8-2007 at 8:31 am

  175. I never heard about Mr. Rogers until I was in my late teens. If we had got our first television set earlier, I would have seen Mr. Rogers in his first shows teamed with Mr. Dressup (Ernie Coombs) on CBC TV. Fortunately, these two people cared enough (when TV hosts had some creative control) to provide three generations of kids in North America with healthy, wholesome TV without the marketing and hype kids are watching today. While I cannot remember Mr. Rogers, I will fondly remember his buddy Mr. Dressup whose tickle trunk was always full of imaginative surprises, his amazing ability to draw his stories on flip chart paper and his friends, Casey, Finnegan (by puppeteer Judith Lawrence) in the treehouse.

    Here’s to Mr. Dressup and his buddy, Mr. Rogers!

    posted by DL Hunt on 6-8-2007 at 9:51 pm

  176. Every day is still a ‘wonderful day in the neighborhood’ thanks to Fred Rogers.

    posted by Chuck Sosnicki on 6-9-2007 at 7:02 pm

  177. Hi. I just wanted to say that i loved Mr Rogers, it used to come on right after Sesame Street. I was a latch-key kid, my mom was a single mom working 12 hour shifts as a nurse in order to support me, and when i’d get home and be waiting for my mom to come home, i’d watch Sesame Street and Mr Rogers and always felt safe.

    As i got older, i got a little creeped out by him and his weird sweaters and teh shoe thing, so i faded away from that and was moer into the Electric Company. But i still named my beloved stuffed kitty Henrietta and my beloved pet cat Daniel Tiger… i did love the Land of Make-Believe…

    But here is one more story i have heard about Mr Rogers… i wonder if anyone can tell me if this is true or not?

    Mr Rogers lived on Nantucket and his son (sons?) turned out to be a drug dealer and criminal. I first heard this when i was about 12 or 13, and have never really heard anything more about it. So i wonder if it is true or if it is just yet another urban legend?

    What IS true about him is that he was a truly lovely man, and a rock of strength and security for me in my latch-key days…….

    posted by lunamoth on 6-10-2007 at 9:08 pm

  178. Someone just posted the video of Mr. Rogers testifying before congress. Check out the user “capnshady” on livejournal. His 6/1/2007 post.

    Cheers,
    Avocado

    posted by Avocado Tom on 6-11-2007 at 6:04 am

  179. I absolutely love Mr. Rogers. I watched him when I was a kid. I so cry my eyes out when he died. I miss him, but it brings me comfort to know that I can pass him on to my children. He always made me feel special. I hope he knew how special he was.

    posted by Cristina on 6-13-2007 at 2:49 am

  180. Fred Rogers was a man of faith. He lived and breathed his beliefs and taught them to others without being “preachy” or asking for money or damning anyone to hell.

    His memory and legacy will live on in all of us who watchd him and believed in what he said.

    posted by Bob on 6-14-2007 at 2:28 pm

  181. Mr. Rogers was the greatest influence in the world for me when I was growing up. I lived in the poor projects of San Francisco, Ca so seeing him and his very gentle style and choice of words showed me another way of life, and I implement that in the way I rear my 3 children. I will always love him.

    posted by Queen on 6-14-2007 at 6:14 pm

  182. “What a lovely family”, it’s become a family joke, but they were the words Fred Rogers spoke to me, my wife and our small son when we met him crossing Craig St. in Pgh. years ago. Mr. Rogers went on to explain to our wide-eyed son that while he was real, other things seen on TV were not and he shouldn’t worry about seeing them in person. A moment in time, but an example of a man who was real on and off the job.

    posted by rotholo on 6-19-2007 at 11:45 am

  183. I miss Mr Rogers. I wish there were more peole like him in this world today

    posted by Rachel on 6-19-2007 at 10:12 pm

  184. Mr. Rogers became part of my morning routine as an adult. I turned on the television one morning (normally I can’t stand the sound of one in the AM) to check the weather. It was still on KERA from the last time I’d used it and Mr. Rogers was on. I watched the whole program and was late for work.

    For some reason, this wonderful article made me cry. Good tears, though.

    posted by Lisa on 6-21-2007 at 8:20 am

  185. It is painfully obvious that Dick and George NEVER watched “Mr. Rogers Neighborhood” … They should have.

    posted by Ron on 6-23-2007 at 9:37 pm

  186. On the day Mr. Rogers died David Newell who played Mr. McFeeley stood outside the WQED studios and greeted the stream of visitors who came and left flowers and memorials.

    A ten foot sculpture of Mr. Rogers tying his shoes and a parklet is being constructed in Pittsburgh on what is called “the North shore.” Plans call for the site to be completed by March 20, 2008 which would have been Mr. Rogers 80th birthday.

    This info came from http://www.post-gazette.com

    posted by Tdave on 6-26-2007 at 4:13 am

  187. I just found this website and think it’s great! My former boss received a telegram from Mr. Rogers after he and his sister were caught in a fire in their home. They were both little (he was 3) and HUGE fans. He still has that telegram framed at home.

    posted by Laura on 6-27-2007 at 6:47 pm

  188. of course no one ever cared that he was an alcoholic and there’s a video of him punching out his cameraman

    posted by Zak on 6-28-2007 at 8:28 am

  189. I watched his show a few times when I was little, but now I feel like I never noticed how great it really was

    posted by Crimefiction on 6-29-2007 at 8:08 pm

  190. I’m yet another person who grew up watching that show. Very pleasant memories of a much simpler time. Mr. Rogers was, is, and will always be an integral part of my life if only for the lessons in morality and humility (and maybe the little scampish part of me that wants to have a stoplight in my house, too). I’d say “you’ll be missed” but I think it’s pretty much obvious by the comments here that it needn’t be said.

    posted by Marty on 7-13-2007 at 11:38 pm

  191. I never liked his show, but I did like him just the way he was.

    posted by Bruce Williams on 7-14-2007 at 5:26 pm

  192. Fox “News” recently did a hit piece on Mr. Rogers (youtube: n44WCUKIK2Y). I came here for materiel for a rebuttal, but the archive links at the end are now dead. Does anyone know where I can find those articles again?

    posted by mos on 7-16-2007 at 5:21 pm

  193. AND! the reason why he even wore those sweaters and long sleeved t-shirts in 100*F weather was because he had sleeves(tattoos down his arm)

    posted by Traci on 7-30-2007 at 7:39 pm

  194. Mr. Rogers is creepy:

    Mr. Rogers weighed in at exactly 143 pounds every day for the last 30 years of his life. He didn’t smoke, didn’t drink, didn’t eat the flesh of any animals, and was extremely disciplined in his daily routine. And while I’m not sure if any of that was because he’d mostly grown up a chubby, single child, Junod points out that Rogers found beauty in the number 143. According to the piece, Rogers came “to see that number as a gift… because, as he says, “the number 143 means ‘I love you.’ It takes one letter to say ‘I’ and four letters to say ‘love’ and three letters to say ‘you.’ One hundred and forty-three.”

    He’s too nice. He’s probably the nicest person in the world. It’s scary. Nobody should be allowed to be that nice. It looks abnormal. You could totally make a zombie movie out of Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood.

    “The sweaters. Every one of the cardigans he wore on the show had been hand-knit by his mother.”

    It’s pathological.

    posted by Bob on 8-1-2007 at 12:13 am

  195. I love Mr. Rogers. When I was little, I named our family car Fred after him. (Fred Tree Datsun was the full name. I liked trees too.)

    posted by Jennie on 8-7-2007 at 11:10 pm

  196. Mangesh,

    What a great article yours is. Mister Rogers would be proud of you.

    I haven’t read all the posts here, so if someone has already submitted the following, my apologies:

    Fred Rogers not only couldn’t see blue, he could see only yellow. He had to have someone tell him which soup was which, as he couldn’t see the red in tomato soup.

    As for post #193, this is false and easiy disprovable; Mister Rogers went swimming on one episode, and has NO tattoos.

    as for post #194, do you feel the same way about real love? Not the mushy kind; the strong kind in which a man is not afraid to stand up for what he believes in, in front of others who disagree?

    Someone who stands up to angry fundamentalists to tell each one of us that God loves us “just the way you are” is one side of such strength. It would seem to me that those angry people resemble movie zombies much more than Fred Rogers.

    Maybe you have trouble accepting someone so nice simply because you’ve never met anyone like that before.

    But Bob, if you had spent any time with the real Fred Rogers, I doubt you could say the same thing. You would sense that he was the real item, that during his brief few minutes with you, he was really listening to you, and actively accepting whatever you had to say, deeply and thoughtfully.

    What movie zombie ever did that?

    posted by Sky Blue T on 8-9-2007 at 10:52 pm

  197. Just correcting a few more mistaken assumptions about Fred Rogers:

    Re: #177. lunamoth says,”Mr Rogers lived on Nantucket and his son (sons?) turned out to be a drug dealer and criminal. I first heard this when i was about 12 or 13, and have never really heard anything more about it. So i wonder if it is true or if it is just yet another urban legend?”

    It’s just another urban legend. Many people tell (or perhaps even worse, pass on to others), lies about Fred Rogers and his family. Anybody can make such things up, but NOBODY can prove any of them. I hereby challenge anyone reading this to offer up PROOF before submitting another such “terrible secret.”

    Re: #188. Zak say,
    “of course no one ever cared that he was an alcoholic and there’s a video of him punching out his cameraman”

    Same challenge to you, Zak. Prove it. You can’t, because it is a lie. For one thing, it is well known that Fred Rogers touched NO alcohol, because he didn’t want to lead children to drink. He even told the actor who played “Captain Kangaroo” that he might want to consider not drinking in public places, for the same reason. As for punching any cameraman, go ahead and prove it by submitting the video in question. You cannot, because it doesn not, in fact, exist.

    People, what is it about human nature that makes us want to cut down someone who truly cares for others?

    posted by Sky Blue T on 8-9-2007 at 11:04 pm

  198. To the author of #148, please read #120. Mister Rogers IS a hero, but he was never in the military.

    posted by Sky Blue T on 8-9-2007 at 11:07 pm

  199. Finally, for those who have “heard something about Mister Rogers,” please check out snopes dot com (you’ll have to type in the dot yourself as no links are allowed on this webpage), and run a search for “mr rogers”. The article you’ll find there debunks many of the mistaken beliefs about Fred Rogers.

    Mister Rogers affected many people for the better, as this web page here at mental floss is testimony to. The unprovable slander against him is in the vast minority, whereas testimony about how he has inspired and truly helped others continues to multiply.

    Thank God for Fred Rogers, who shows us a better way to live — respecting each other in spite of our differences, and in spite of different opinions (as shown in countless segments of his program’s “Neighborhood of Make-Believe,” in which ornery, bossy characters vehemently disagree, but eventually find a way to work together anyway — something that can actually happen in our own “Neighborhood of Reality” as well, if only we’re willing to try to understand the other person).

    Yours,

    Sky Blue T

    posted by Sky Blue T on 8-10-2007 at 12:08 am

  200. Being a “nice guy” can intimidate some disfunctional people to the point that they spread lies and gossip to slander that person. (I know from personal experience.) Don’t believe everything you hear about someone.

    posted by Tdave on 8-14-2007 at 2:18 am

  201. Reading over this page, I felt a deep sense of sadness. I watched his show as a kid, and it’s so hard to forget the magic that was put into my life. I know that what I’m saying has all been said before, but I had to add to the list. Thank You, Mr. Rogers, may your legacy live on.

    posted by Stephen on 8-25-2007 at 8:39 am

  202. Mr Rogers, the closest thing to Jesus in our era. He taught nothing but peace and tolerence for all. Any flaw people may say about him, true or false, was greatly outweighed by the good he did.

    posted by Dave on 9-12-2007 at 3:29 pm

  203. This should help your appreciation for him – in 6 minutes, he makes a moving appeal to congress, and they agree to fund his program with 6 million dollars…

    I can’t put a link here, but go to YouTube and search for “Mr. Rogers Congress”

    Robert Goretsky
    Hoboken, NJ

    posted by Robert Goretsky on 9-12-2007 at 5:53 pm

  204. Mr rogers was great. One thing I really admired was how even though he was a devout religious guy, he never once put his views onto his show. That amazes me to this day, in a day and age when we got way too many self-serving idiots out there who preach when they can get the spotlight.

    posted by Steve on 9-13-2007 at 2:45 am

  205. RIP Mr Rogers. Always a Beutiful day in MY Neighborhood, because of him..

    posted by shabawler on 9-21-2007 at 1:11 am

  206. Lady Elaine scarred me for some reason. But I loved Mr. Rogers. I always remember thinking that his sweaters were so nice. Wasn’t Mr. Green Jeans on that show also?

    posted by estevan on 9-21-2007 at 10:43 pm

  207. Mr.Rogers was no doubt a lovely man, but it was the worst children’s show I have ever had to suffer through, and my young son had the same response, without my influence, as I thought that perhaps our social network’s response was an anomaly. The puppet show was insane and the woman playing their child was rediculous.The conversations of the puppets painful, boring, often irrational to children eg. King Friday’s birthday always on a Friday. Great educating there. The type of music played and/or sung by his other-worldly musical guest couldn’t hold most adults’ attention let alone children. The cat meow meow meow meow; brilliant — not. He was an atrocious story-teller and puppeteer, no matter how wonderous his intents. You are all under some kind of tacky spell if you think that show had more than the tiniest amount of merit.Sesame Street rules, Mr. Rogers’ out of touch Neighbourhood drools, regardless of his kind nature. No-one in my neighbourhood could stand the program, and we all wondered what was going on in the rest of the western world. Still do. Nice man, crappy show.

    posted by pat franczyk on 9-22-2007 at 1:55 pm

  208. Thank you for this beautiful article.

    posted by Victoria on 9-23-2007 at 8:17 am

  209. Does anyone have the words to the song TOMORROW that Mr. Rogers use to close the show with many, many years ago???

    posted by Carolyn on 9-25-2007 at 11:25 am

  210. My mother told me that when I’d watch Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood as a toddler, whenever she’d make a joke about something on the show, I would reprimand her. She thought that was adorable.

    posted by Courtney on 9-26-2007 at 1:04 pm

  211. Mangesh, I might suggest one change to your delightful tribute. You wrote: “Despite being an ordained Presbyterian minister, and a man of tremendous faith, Mister Rogers preached tolerance first.” I might have written “Perhaps because he was an ordained Presbyterian minister…” I offer this correction because some Christians give the impression that we are all about “castigating non-Christians or gays” rather than following Jesus’ model of love. Although there are certainly many Christians who judge others, I can attest to the fact that there are many others who preach not just tolerance, but true acceptance and love of all people. As a Presbyterian minister, I can assure you that Mr. (or should I say Reverend) Rogers’ attitude is consistent with the education I received in becoming a pastor.

    posted by Amy on 10-3-2007 at 9:25 am

  212. Great point, Amy. I’ve tweaked the text a little to fix the meaning.

    posted by Mangesh on 10-3-2007 at 9:52 am

  213. I missed ‘Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood’ as a child because my mother was very strict and did not permit us to watch television. However, at 38 years of age, I have had the most blessed opportunity to love and appreciate Mr. Rogers for who he was by watching his program on PBS every weekday with my daughter. Only recently did I learn of his passing, and how my heart broke! Mangesh’s article has been a salve for my grief. I have also purchased (thus far) four books written by Mr. Rogers to get me through the low points and stresses of life and have just finished Tim Madigan’s book, ‘I’m Proud of You – My Friendship with Fred Rogers’ which I found very poignant and beautifully written. Mr. Rogers was an extraordinary man with the most beautiful spirit and heart. He has been added to my extremely short list of most loved, respected and admired individuals in my life.

    posted by Gloria on 10-3-2007 at 11:50 pm

  214. I will miss Mr. Rogers greatly. He was a good man and teacher, and I enjoyed his show very much as a kid. An amazing and much loved part of American culture. And as “boring” as his show may seem to those who are used to the flashy, ADD-inducing children’s programs on television today, this man was so influential to so many people as children and adults, as the many responses to this article testifies. We should all strive to be a little like him. Goofy cardigans and all!

    posted by Jas on 10-4-2007 at 10:23 am

  215. I work in the filed of child care. As a provider I watched MrRogers daily with me children. I was teaching a class to child care providers when he died. I brought in the nightline show about him at his death and talked about the most important knowledge I wanted them to take away from class. To treat the children in thier care the way Mr Rogers would have wanted them to. Mr Rogers is my hero.

    posted by Ann on 10-4-2007 at 4:44 pm

  216. I used to observe my pre-school daughter during Mr. Rogers program. She responded verbally to everything he said and followed all his directions as if he was talking to her alone. She grew up with very positive values. I like to believe his inspiration had something to do with it.

    posted by Mary on 10-5-2007 at 5:40 pm

  217. I also made fun of him when I was younger. Now I am older and wiser, and realize that Mr. Rodgers was truely a Man of God. If Jesus ever comes back, he will be like Fred Rodgers.

    posted by Ronnie on 10-23-2007 at 9:46 am

  218. Honestly one of the greatest people to ever live.

    posted by Umar on 10-23-2007 at 4:06 pm

  219. On a previous Mental Floss write up, you mentioned that he also would wear the sweater to cover tattoos on his arms as he used to be a Navy Seal and had over 15 or 20 confirmed kills before becoming a minister. I would have felt sorry for the house thief in his neighborhood. Appearances can be deceiving, as he always appeared so frail or gentle. In reality he was the opposite and was strong physically and in stature.

    posted by John Brown on 10-24-2007 at 8:05 am

  220. Actually, the previous post stated that the story about Mr. Rogers being a navy seal was a myth. He was never a Seal, nor did he have tattooed arms.

    posted by Mangesh on 10-24-2007 at 8:13 am

  221. Even at 41 years old, I still think very fondly of Mr. Rogers and his show. Too bad some of the modern cynicism and disappointment has gotten to me. We could certainly use that sort of reassuring calm he showed in today’s society. Not everything has to be “vanilla” and sqeeky clean, but how about a little kindness and reason??

    posted by Erik on 10-24-2007 at 11:35 am

  222. I remember my mother talking about televsion shows for kids these days to a friend of hers and said that, in my early childhood, it was Sesame Street that taught me to spell and count; it was The Electric Company that taught me to read; but it was Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood that taught me how to be good. 30+ years later and I still remember watching Mr. Rogers and being afraid to turn off the TV ’cause I thought he’d notice I wasn’t there anymore.

    posted by LBeria on 10-24-2007 at 11:38 am

  223. Thanks, Mangesh, both for your tribute and the links to Tom Junod’s pieces. The Neighborhood was the calm beginning to my daughter’s preschool day, and I got to rediscover him as I watched with her. To this day, when I get frustrated with my daughter, I try to take a deep breath and ask myself “what would Mr. Rogers do?”, and I find it helps keep me from yelling about the dirty clothes left on the floor, the homework foot-dragging and the other less than joyful parts of parenting. He inspires both me and my child to do better. Wouldn’t it be a wonderful world if we all approached each other with Fred Roger’s open heart?

    posted by CelticSiren on 10-24-2007 at 3:04 pm

  224. A excellent tribute to a man who defined and redefined life for so many people. One of my earliest memories is watching Mr. Rogers, and I only hope that the reruns will continue long enough for my own children to be able to experience his influence. From things such as how rocking horses were made to the fact that the toilet will not suck you into it to discovering that people have tremendous personalities and talents even if they don’t look like it, Mr. Rogers taught us so much.

    posted by Kate on 10-24-2007 at 3:57 pm

  225. As I said the day Mr. Rogers died–he was one of those people, about whom you can say the world was better off because he was in it.

    The consolation, of course, is that he left behind unbelievable wealth, namely his TV footage, and what he left us will be with us, always.

    Incidentally, I also did a parody of “Neighborhood” in junior-high English. I imagine that if the author’s parody was light-hearted and respectful, Mr. Rogers himself would have enjoyed it.

    posted by J.W. on 10-26-2007 at 12:30 pm

  226. Wow, what a fitting tribute to a dear man. I was a first-generation Mr. Rogers fan. When my daughter started watching his show, it really moved me how timeless the things he had to say were. In this world of flashy images and non-stop sound, Mr. Rogers’ show was an oasis – a safe place to learn and feel good about yourself.

    My daughter and I wrote to him a couple of years before he died. He really did take the time to write back to us even then – he didn’t have a show to promote or any obligations to fulfill at that time, but he wrote us a very sweet note back. I will treasure our years of watching Mr. Rogers together and I wish our PBS station would run his show later than 6am!

    To all who said the world is a better place because of him, I concur! May each one of us purpose to make a difference in whatever way we can – we are special! :)

    posted by Sunny on 10-27-2007 at 9:31 am

  227. I love the magic of Mr. Rogers. His love for each and everyone of us is so reassuring. I still listen to him when I eat my lunch. In the mist of all the business and hype of TV and the world, it is reassuring to know that someone still is interested enough to take the time to listen to the stories of a two year olds.
    MY granddaughter will be the second generation to meet this wonderful man whose presence in the world has surely made a difference to us. God bless him!

    posted by Carole Schuschu on 10-29-2007 at 5:47 am

  228. I saw Mr. Rogers for the first time when I was four. I watched through college! At 34, I turned the show on for my daughter, and she spent the next several years watching him too. You can debate the merits of the entertainment, but not the good influence!

    posted by Richard on 11-2-2007 at 5:33 am

  229. This was a beautiful story. I had no idea that Mr. Rogers was like that. The part about how he would get so involved in others lives blew me away.

    posted by Michele on 11-2-2007 at 2:05 pm

  230. I watched Mr. Rodgers with my children as they grew in the late 80’s and early 90’s. It was a peaceful, relaxed, perfect time when we felt cozy and calm. I miss him.

    posted by Smitch on 11-2-2007 at 10:48 pm

  231. I know its been a while, but you forgot all about His Navy SEAL service! The sweater covgered tatoos…….

    posted by John Brown on 11-4-2007 at 1:09 pm

  232. Sorry John, but Fred Rogers never served in the military and he did not have any ink (tatoos).

    posted by Mac on 11-9-2007 at 1:05 am

  233. This man changed my life, and the life of many others. Yesterday, I turned him on for the first time in 10 years. Watching him put his arm around Mr. McFeely and sing about love and friendship brought me back to my childhood. I still remember the words to many of his songs. What a wonderful man. He is sincerely missed in my life.

    posted by Nate M. on 12-23-2007 at 9:17 am

  234. Please see Mr. Rogers’ testimony before the U.S. Senate in 1969 — which is available on YouTube.

    Has there ever been anyone as loving, as accepting, and as influential in such a positive, healthy way, as Mr. Rogers?

    I grew up in an unhealthy environment where people were not what they pretended to be; and so perhaps it isn’t surprising that I didn’t believe Mr. Rogers was real, when I was a child. I just couldn’t believe that someone could be so good, so sincerely caring. Thus it was only when I became a parent that I truly discovered Mr. Rogers. He has been such a reliable guide — such a reassuring, helpful, and inspiring teacher. Each of his songs is all those things — reassuring, helpful in practical ways, and inspiring.

    My young daughter has said it all: “Mr. Rogers is our minister.”

    The world is a much better place, thanks to Mr. Rogers. We have a yardstick now — he has set the perfect example.

    posted by American Mom on 12-27-2007 at 4:31 am

  235. A very good article. I never realized all of the stuff he did, certainly didn’t realize the trip to Washington for public TV, and VCR recording.

    posted by Dave Nofmeister on 1-6-2008 at 4:16 pm

  236. Just last week, I went to the Crayola Factory in PA and photographed the crayon that Mr. Rogers made. It was one of the most exciting moments of my life!

    I think it’s easy for modern kids (and adults, perhaps) to look at the man and say, “oh that’s hokey”, “that’s too old-fashioned”, etc. But Fred Rogers will live on, being known as someone who was everyone’s friend, and who always practicing love for everyone. If that’s hokey, so be it.

    posted by Christine on 1-23-2008 at 8:59 am

  237. You know, on a whim after my last post, I decided to wiki Mr. Rogers. They had a lovely quote from Esquire Magazine’s coverage of Mr. Roger’s acceptance speech when he won the Lifetime Achievement Emmy in 1997:
    “Mister Rogers went onstage to accept the award — and there, in front of all the soap opera stars and talk show sinceratrons, in front of all the jutting man-tanned jaws and jutting saltwater bosoms, he made his small bow and said into the microphone, ‘All of us have special ones who have loved us into being. Would you just take, along with me, ten seconds to think of the people who have helped you become who you are. Ten seconds of silence.’
    And then he lifted his wrist, looked at the audience, looked at his watch, and said, ‘I’ll watch the time.’ There was, at first, a small whoop from the crowd, a giddy, strangled hiccup of laughter, as people realized that he wasn’t kidding, that Mister Rogers was not some convenient eunuch, but rather a man, an authority figure who actually expected them to do what he asked. And so they did. One second, two seconds, seven seconds — and now the jaws clenched, and the bosoms heaved, and the mascara ran, and the tears fell upon the beglittered gathering like rain leaking down a crystal chandelier. And Mister Rogers finally looked up from his watch and said softly, ‘May God be with you,’ to all his vanquished children.”

    posted by Christine on 1-23-2008 at 9:29 am

  238. He was my Father, for a very long time. After my own Father deserted our family when I was a child, Mister Rogers became my Dad. Of course, I grew up and when peers teased or made-fun of Mister Rogers, well, lets just say, “You don’t mess with family.”

    Thanks for your insight and wonderful tidbits about “The Man!”

    posted by Patricia on 1-26-2008 at 1:23 pm

  239. I have many fond memories watching Mister Rogers as I grew up. This continued as I became a dad and watched the how with my children. Just wondered if you had the words to the “Tomorrow” song that you could send?

    Thanks!
    john

    posted by John on 1-29-2008 at 11:31 pm

  240. May God Always Bless Mr. Fred Rogers- May he always rest in peace in heaven. He was such a kind, gentle man! He was so talented an an Educator, a Presbytarian Minister, A Puppeteer, and a Musician. His show always touched my heart! I loved the way he used to change his suit in his closet! He really made a difference in our world! And he made millions of children happpy! And I know that he’s entertaining all the children and their families in heaven as well!

    posted by Greg Casiglia on 2-13-2008 at 4:00 am

  241. I have many fond memories of Mr. Rogers’ show. I’m glad that I got the opportunity to experience that as a kid. He was a true credit to humanity and a gift to the world in general and especially the people who knew him best. He is missed, but not forgotten.

    posted by James on 2-16-2008 at 12:39 am

  242. You know, I was never in to Mr.Rogers when I was kid, I would sometimes watch it but found it pretty boring, after reading your article I have a new-found respect for him…and it definitely made me tear up!

    posted by Brittany on 2-19-2008 at 11:51 am

  243. My daughter used to talk to Mr. Rogers and anser his questions. It would be nice if more programs were like his. Unselfish, caring, and reassuring in a troubled world.
    (My niece Heather sent me this link. Thank you sweetie.)

    posted by Pam on 2-19-2008 at 12:22 pm

  244. It took some digging, but here are the lyrics to “Tomorrow”:

    It’s such a good feeling to know you’re alive
    It’s such a happy feeling/You’re growing inside
    And when you wake up ready to say
    I think I’ll grow 12 inches today
    It’s such a good feeling, A very good feeling
    The feeling you know you’re alive.
    Now, you try. Try making up a dance; O.K., while you hear the music. But stay sitting. Stay sitting. Sure, you could even tap your feet. Good for you. Anything. That’s it. (clapping to music) Good. (continutes clapping)

    …feeling to know you’re in tune
    It’s such a happy feeling to find you’re in bloom
    And when you wake up ready to say
    I think I’ll grow 12 inches today
    It’s such a good feeling, a very good feeling
    The feeling you know that you’re alive.
    Mm-hmm. It’s a good feeling to be with you. It surely is. You know, at night when I go to bed, I think, “Tomorrow, I’ll get to visit with him again”. Mm-hmm. I do. I like you. And we will. (singing)

    Tomorrow, Tomorrow
    We’ll start the day tomorrow with a song or 2
    1, 2

    Tomorrow, Tomorrow
    We’ll start the day tomorrow with a smile for you
    Til then I hope you’re feeling happy
    Til then I hope your day is Snappy
    Tomorrow, Tomorrow
    It soon will be tomorrow and will be our day
    We will say, a very happy tomorrow to you.

    posted by Adrienne on 2-19-2008 at 7:56 pm

  245. I’m not sure saving public television was such a great thing. The VCR, however, is a different tale altogether.

    posted by DeathMitten on 2-20-2008 at 1:58 am

  246. I truly believe that if each of us could start our day by watching Mr. Rogers and being reminded of how special we are, the world would be a better, more peaceful place.

    I had the privilege of attending a conference honoring what must have been Fred Roger’s 25th year in television, in 1979, the summer before my senior year in college. It was a top-notch conference in early childhood education and children’s television, keynoted by Erik Erikson — an extraordinary scholarly event. He dealt with being the center of attention with his usual grace, talking with as many participants as he could (although his son was in a serious car accident the same weekend, and he had every reason to be distracted or absent). I got to see the trolley and his sweaters up close. Not only were the sweaters hand-knit by his mother, each one of them had a little “Hand Made by…” tag sewn into them. After the conference, I wrote to him, expressing my interest in a career in children’s television. He wrote a long, personal letter in response, encouraging me and giving me the names and contact information for two people in the field. What a generous gesture. He was the real deal, and I miss him a lot.

    BTW, Jonathan Coulton has just written a song about Mr. Rogers Neighborhood, entitled “Lady Aberlin’s Muumuu.” It’s delightful, and the comments are full of warm memories of Mr. Rogers. I’m having trouble pasting the link, but you can listen to the song at Jonathan Coulton’s website.

    posted by Karen on 2-20-2008 at 9:52 am

  247. In the late-1980s, I did an internship at WQED, the station where Mr. Rogers did his show and where his offices are located. I remember one day coming in the door, moving hastily to get to the office in time. Fred Rogers was standing near an elevator, speaking with someone. As I walked past him to get in the elevator, he stopped speaking with the other person, looked me in the eye and said “Good morning!” I was startled at his warmth and kindness. I responded by wishing him the same. When you’re a little kid and appreciate how kind this man was, you respond to him. Then, as you grow up, it becomes uncool to like him. Then you become an adult and appreciate how he was very much what he seemed. He practiced what he preached and what he preached was kindness. The world is a better place for him having been here.

    posted by Fred on 2-21-2008 at 10:06 am

  248. the obits won’t link… thank you for a great article.

    posted by rachel on 2-21-2008 at 1:37 pm

  249. Posted by Justin on 5-31-2007 at 5:45 pm: “There was an interesting piece on NPR’s This American Life (sorry, don’t remember the date, i think it was late last year), where a guy in his early 20’s who had watched the show as a kid brought Fred Rogers to HIS neighborhood, and interviewed him.”

    You are referring to Davy Rothbart’s piece. He created Found Magazine. Google it. I bought the audio CD that had 5 pieces on it, and one of them was the Mr. Rogers bit. It truly was amazing.

    Mr. Rogers once came upon a boy who was swinging his toy sword wildly with no regard to others around him. Mr. Rogers went up to the boy and whispered something to him, and the boy stopped swinging the sword and hugged him fiercely. Someone asked Mr. Rogers what he said to the boy, and he said something to the effect of, “It’s a good thing to be brave, but the bravest thing we can do is be respectful of other people.” I think I butchered that story, so it’s worth checking out yourself.

    posted by Natalie on 2-21-2008 at 1:41 pm

  250. Yup. Mr. Rogers, Mr. Dressup & Finnegan, and Captain Kangaroo.
    And Sesame Street and Kermit.
    I’m 52, in poor health, and suffer a lot. Gee, I wish I could be a kid for just a little while again. Just to see them all again. Just to be happy. No reruns in my area. Happy for the memories. Sad for the days and people gone. Thanks for the great post.

    posted by Pierre on 2-21-2008 at 10:36 pm

  251. It’s so funny… reading over this, and all of a sudden the words to “Beatiful Day in the Neighborhood” came flooding back to me. And I’m 40 years old, fer Pete’s sake!
    He was a special guy.

    posted by kaiserjano on 2-23-2008 at 2:37 pm

  252. I have a son with autism/retardation. How he loved Mr. Roger’s TV show. So I decided to write to Fred Rogers and tell him. He immediately wrote back and asked permission to show my letter to his producer and he sent a T-shirt with the trolley on it for my son. My son was 30+ years old at the time. He wanted to use the letter to let the producer know people of all ages enjoyed his show.

    posted by Carol on 2-24-2008 at 9:44 am

  253. MR. ROGERS IS HOTT!!!!

    posted by Katelyn on 2-27-2008 at 12:50 pm

  254. Role. Model.

    posted by Shaun on 3-5-2008 at 3:30 pm

  255. Wow….I have to say that I haven’t even thought very much about Mr. Rogers for a very long time. This piece not only tugged at my heartstrings but made me reflect to what has become of children’s television today…and I have to say it’s an absolute disgrace. Thank you for all the wonderful information about a man who was a real hero to me as a child and is even more so as an adult for his beliefs in family and children development.

    posted by Layla on 3-11-2008 at 5:03 am

  256. I must say bro, I knew Mr. Rogers was a great man, but wow, what I found out here floored me. Thanks for the info. :)

    7osh

    posted by Josh Hayman on 3-11-2008 at 6:33 am

  257. What an amazing human being….
    lol That almost made me cry just reading it. Wow, you don’t see people like that often, anymore.

    posted by Chronus on 3-17-2008 at 5:34 am

  258. What a well rounded person he was. May God bless his soul and may he rest in peace!! I only wish I could’ve found a man like that in my life

    posted by Lady D on 3-19-2008 at 8:27 am

  259. I loved his show as a child, and hope my own children will be able to watch in syndication.

    On the day Rogers died, God undoubtedly would have said, “Well done my good and faithful servant.”

    posted by Mike R. on 3-19-2008 at 8:10 pm

  260. It is too bad we all can say such wonderful things about such a wonderful man but we can not try to change the world the way he tried so hard to do. How can such a love just die away with such a loving man? I say we should all remember the wonderful Jim Rogers by saying thank you in a way he would see from that wonderful place we all know he is now. If anyone in history has every had the power to see the good in mankind it is Mr. Rogers. Let him see the good in you. We all know we are special enough for him.

    posted by Lisa on 4-4-2008 at 10:05 am

  261. I am also a big fan of Mr. Rogers. He was a good guy that everyone loved. :)

    posted by Louis Vuitton Replica on 4-12-2008 at 1:12 pm

  262. you know how some people can say, ‘i know where i was when i heard about JFK…’?

    i know where i was when i heard about mr. rogers’ death. and i know most of us who loved him can say the same.

    i stood in the room and watched the news person say it, and i cried… i was 25. don’t think i felt like a little kid more since then.

    posted by amywithlemon on 4-25-2008 at 5:07 pm

  263. I never watched the show, though I vaguely remember not liking it.

    I don’t remember him dying.

    I read all the comments. I cried three times.

    posted by jeremy on 5-24-2008 at 9:42 pm

  264. He was also a former navy Seal who was awarded the Navy Cross, second highest award for valor in combat. Who would have figured?

    posted by Phil Coffman on 5-26-2008 at 12:23 am

  265. He was a great human being, there is no doubt. I didn’t watch his show when I was younger, maybe because I had already been convinced I was broken at an early age.

    If more people were half the man he was we could eliminate all of our problems.

    posted by Jamesy on 6-3-2008 at 8:17 am

  266. What a Great man he was. I along with millions of others grew up watching his show every day. I wish we still had TV like that for todays kids instead of all the Japanese anime and killing and stuff.

    JJ
    Ultimate-Anonymity.com

    posted by John thomas on 6-3-2008 at 9:13 am

  267. I never knew up until now that he was a presbyterian minister – it makes a lot of sense out of his show inviting everyone to be his neighbor, as a man living out Jesus’ second greatest commandment “Love your neighbor as yourself”. All the stories and all the impact can be summed up in this one word: Love.
    I’ve been blessed enough to meet one or two people like this, quiet unassuming people who just radiated love for those around them, and while it was the genuine love that everyone noticed, in every one of these cases it was the unsung daily discipline of seeking after God’s heart that gave them this love.
    I’m not surprised to see that Mr Rogers prayed for a few hours every morning, and wish I could get more detail on his schedule – we would all do well to be more like him.

    posted by Thom on 6-3-2008 at 3:43 pm

  268. Fred Rogers was also a nuclear physicist and an accomplished ballroom dancer.

    posted by ross gload on 6-4-2008 at 2:45 am

  269. As a Canadian I didn’t watch the show much – Mr Dressup and The Friendly Giant were my shows of choice. I remember when Mr Rogers died though. Now I did bawl my eyes out when Jim Hensen died, that man effected my life and still does to this day.

    posted by Anne on 6-23-2008 at 10:44 pm

  270. As a little girl growing up in NY, I would always watch his show, every day. I always felt as if he was talking to me personaly, and it made me feel really special. I watched his show even into my twenties and I still felt special! I was really glad to share his program with my own kids. I was very sad when he passed away. I’m in my forties now, and I would definetly show his show to my grandchildren.

    posted by Jeannette on 6-24-2008 at 11:16 pm

  271. Mr. Rogers was like a father to me via television. One of the most pure people to ever walk the earth.

    posted by ryan on 6-27-2008 at 4:58 pm

  272. Mr. Rogers was like a father to me.

    One of the most pure beings to walk the earth.

    posted by ryan on 6-27-2008 at 5:00 pm

  273. My mom still talks about my older brother’s innate ability to know what time Mr. Rogers was on TV. We’d be playing outside and he would get up and run home, saying “The Man is on! The Man is on!”

    I still like to think of Mr. Rogers as “The Man”.

    posted by nicole on 6-28-2008 at 1:06 pm

  274. I believe that this is the most comments I’ve ever seen on a MF post. My most remembered moment of Mr. Rogers is when he explained, on his show, that he couldn’t actually see me. I was probably about two or three years old, and I didn’t quite get the whole TV concept. I clearly remember being very surprised that he wasn’t talking to me personally, and a little sad too. He was my friend, after all. I also remember going to my parents afterward and asking them to explain all of this to me in more detail. His serving as the catalyst behind this and many other such conversations is the biggest gift that he gave me as a child.

    posted by David on 7-7-2008 at 7:17 pm

  275. The man knew how to relax and take life as it comes. He even enjoyed Eddie Murphy’s takeoff of him in SNL’s “Mr. Robinson’s Neighborhood” sketch. That tells you all you need to know about the man.

    posted by airship on 7-8-2008 at 9:54 am

  276. i missed this the first time around. thanks for profiling it again. i know i enjoyed him a kid, and it was cool to learn more about him. nice work!

    posted by heather on 7-8-2008 at 12:56 pm

  277. The first thing my father-in-law and I bonded over was Henrietta Pussycat’s little voice. :) Work, meow meow, play!

    posted by L on 7-8-2008 at 8:31 pm

  278. I used to always get SO excited when that train went into the neighborhood of make-believe! ps…Cardigans have been a major part of my wardrobe for years!

    posted by Holly D on 7-14-2008 at 10:17 am

  279. I grew up watching Mr.Rogers and am better for it. I think that children today would be better off watching Mr. Rogers rather than the flashy, hyper and sometimes vulgar and too adult “childrens” programs of today. I remember feeling safe and calm when I watched Mr. Rogers. Kids today find it “boring” because they are constantly OVERSTIMULATED… no wonder there are so many a.d.d and a.d.h.d kids today.

    I have often told people that Mr.Rogers was my first crush. There should be more men like him.

    I will always love and miss Fred Rogers.

    posted by NESSA on 7-14-2008 at 6:44 pm

  280. As an Australian I had never heard of Mr Rogers till I read this article, and I have to say I wish I had the good fortune to have grown up watching him.
    He sounds like a remarkable person.

    posted by Evangeline on 7-27-2008 at 2:20 pm

  281. Fred Rogers was a kind, gentle soul. The importance of his message of unconditional love and acceptance shouldn’t be underestimated. We need more of that in the world.

    posted by Queenie on 7-28-2008 at 2:03 pm

  282. I grew up just outside of Pittsburgh, and grew up watching Mister Rogers. When I was in my high school’s band, we were invited to perform at a teachers convention in Pittsburgh, and he was the guest speaker. From the time we arrived, until we performed before his address, virtually every adult unassociated with us ignored us; no doubt that they were (secretly?) pleased by not having to deal with any students that particular day. Then he spoke. He not only reminded the teachers that their students were people also, he addressed US rather than them for a portion of his time. Immediately after he finished speaking, and unexpectedly, he made his way over to us to meet and thank us individually. Many other speakers would have – at the most – tossed as a blanket “Thank you,” but Mister Rogers was like no other.

    I often think to myself today, sixteen years later, that he was the only human being that could love my children as much as myself and their mother.

    posted by tdc15068 on 7-29-2008 at 12:12 am

  283. Ａｓ　ａ　ｃｈｉｌｄ，　Ｉ watched ‘Mister Roger’s Neighborhood’ with great enthusiasm and affection. I remember the episodes where he would visit his young neighbors that used a wheelchair or crutches and the way he conveyed that they were normal children that just happened to use the assistance of a wheelchair. There was nothing else different about, nor should they be treated any differently than any other child. Twenty years later, I unconsciously remember this each time a come across anyone ‘different;’ whether it be physically, socially, or culturally.

    On the kitchen design front, I call color metal cabinets with silver handles from the 1960’s, “Mr Roger’s Cabinets” because had kitchen cabinets like that.

    posted by Lauren on 7-29-2008 at 12:23 am

  284. Mr. Rogers gave an interview some time before he died that can be found at the Archives of American Television (tvinterviewsarchive blogspotorg). It is remarkable. He talks about his family and how he got into television and his philosophy of life.

    Also, I have a friend who was his neighbor; my friend lived in the same building in NYC where the Rogers kept a pied-a-terre on West 56th Street. He was by all accounts a friendly, kind-hearted man who seemed truly interested in people.

    posted by Brooklynperson on 7-29-2008 at 12:26 am

  285. I loved the tv show when I was a kid. I vagely remember a show where mr rodgers gave us a tour of an umbrella factory, I LOVED it. I also remembering zipping up my sweater all the way up then half way down :)

    posted by Emily on 7-31-2008 at 4:22 pm

  286. I remember seeing a video of Mr. Rogers trying to set up a (pop-up?) tent. I don’t know how many times he tried and failed. . .maybe a dozen. He never lost his temper! I was so impressed by his patience in that hilarious video!
    I’ve tried to find it, but have had no luck so far :*( miss him

    posted by Sue on 8-7-2008 at 12:46 pm

  287. i used to watch him every morning and exsercise with my grandpa i loved him i wish he was still on the air

    posted by chris on 8-26-2008 at 10:46 pm

  288. i got so teary eyed by the end of this article….he was so amazing :-)

    posted by Ben W. on 8-28-2008 at 12:34 pm

  289. I read about Mr. Rogers in an Uncle John’s bathroom reader. (Every flosser should check that series out. It’s like mental floss). I loved his show when I was little.

    posted by Sara on 9-11-2008 at 1:04 pm

  290. I still enjoy watching Mr Rogers as he highlights how things are made or done, and I’m 46. What an amazing person. A friend of his wrote a book about him titled, “I’m proud of you”. Highly recommended.

    posted by Jerry Green on 10-16-2008 at 6:14 pm

  291. I also remember reading that he was a Presbyterian minister.

    posted by Sara on 10-17-2008 at 8:53 am

  292. We taped Mister Rogers every day.

    Then every night my little boy in footie pajamas would sit with me and we would watch that day’s show.

    I often said, “Some day you’ll be too big to sit with me.”

    He always said he would never get too big………..

    Mister Rogers incredible color blindness – once there was going to be a ball game of some sort. Daniel Striped Tiger was worried that he would not be picked to be on the team.

    By the end of the week everyone in the Land of Make Believe had matching orange tee shirts sporting the name of the “Owl Platypus man woman tiger King Queen Prince and so on TEAM.”

    Who among us never suffered being last to be picked for a team or just not being invited to play at all?

    Jeff Erlanger, a young boy confined to a wheelchair, wheeled up to Mister Rogers’ front porch.

    Mister Rogers sat on the bottom step so as to see eye to eye with the little boy.

    Mister Rogers asked the lad why he needed to use a wheelchair.

    The boy explained that he needed surgery to remove a tumor on his spine but nevertheless he had very limited use of his limbs.

    The LOVE in that scene is the finest moment ever produced for TV IMHO (IMHO is teenager talk for In My Humble Opinion.)

    Mister Rogers accorded unconditional caring and decency for all mankind.

    I’m 50 and my not so little boy still look for re-runs any time we can.

    PS Any and all who intimate that Mister Rogers was anything other than a genuinely decent, caring person just haven’t sat still and watched the show for more than five minutes.

    God Bless Mister Rogers.

    posted by Jimbo on 10-17-2008 at 10:39 am

  293. It’s hard to find the right adjective to describe Mister Rogers – kind, gentle, thoughtful, supportive, caring

    When my boy was little we would tape each day’s show and watch it together in the evening – all washed, footie pj’s, time to gentle down for the end of a busy day.

    I told him that some day he’d get too big to climb up and sit with me.

    He said no no, never too big.

    He’s twenty now and we still watch the TV Guide for Mister Rogers when we can.

    Once there was going to be a game of some sorts in The Neighborhood Of Make Believe.

    Danien Striped Tiger was worried that he’d never get picked for a team because he was too little and he was the only tiger in the neighborhood.

    By the end of the week, everyone was wearing matching orange tee shirts with Dog, Owl, Pussycat, Man, Woman, King, Queen, Prince, Tiger and Platypus team on them.

    Who among us never suffered waiting to be picked last or worse, picked never?

    When he was ten years old Jeff Erlanger came to Mister Rogers’ front porch in his wheelchair.

    Mister Rogers sat on the bottom step so he could look the boy in the eye.

    Mister Rogers asked Jeff why he had to use a wheelchair.

    The boy matter of factly explained that he had had surgery to remove a spinal tumor and that his limbs were all but useless.

    Mister Rogers sang “It’s You I Like” to this brave little boy and this was the finest moment ever shown on television IMHO (today’s youngsters type IMHO for In My Humble Opinion…)

    PS to those who infer inappropriate conduct of a grown man toward little children – cure your ignorance and watch the reruns before someone decides they’re not profitable enough to compete for a time spot against

    Sponge Bob.

    posted by Jimbo on 10-17-2008 at 12:12 pm

  294. Sorry -

    I checked and it looked like my first story never made it through so I wrote again.

    Sorry Sorry.

    posted by Jimbo on 10-17-2008 at 12:15 pm

  295. I love Mr. Rogers ,he was a Presbyterian minister

    posted by newstar on 10-21-2008 at 10:48 pm

  296. Let’s remember Mr. Rogers !

    posted by newstar on 10-21-2008 at 10:54 pm

  297. I watched Mr. Rogers every day when I was little. It was one of just a couple of programs I’d never miss.

    My mom tells the story of how, when I was 2 or 3, I had my dad write a letter to Mr. Rogers asking how cameras were made. (It was the only fan letter I ever wrote/had written for me). And sometime after that, there was a little segment in the show that showed how it was done. I don’t remember the episode, of course. It was almost twenty years ago now. I don’t know if we ever got a letter back, or whether he did the clip because of my letter, some other kid’s letter, or it was just something coming up, but I am sure it was pretty cool to have my question answered.

    Another cool piece of Mr. Roger’s trivia: He kept the song the same, at the same easy tempo and everything, despite pressure from execs to spice it up and make it more modern.

    posted by Michelle on 11-15-2008 at 5:25 pm

  298. Mr. Rogers was truly wonderful. Even when I was in high school or home sick from work, I’d watch his show because it made me feel good about myself. In a world where things kept moving faster, his show was a sanctuary where everyone mattered. Mr. Rogers kept his attention focused, personal and gentle. God bless Mr. Rogers.

    posted by Teresa on 11-25-2008 at 11:23 pm

  299. my son adored mr. rogers also. wholesome and friendly, and my son at 12 is, is too.

    posted by sue on 11-30-2008 at 1:00 am

  300. Are the rumors true that he wore the sweaters to cover up US Marine tattoos and that he had dozen of confirmed enemy kills?

    posted by Jesse on 12-1-2008 at 3:39 am

  301. It’s funny how as a kid I didn’t care to watch Mr. Rogers. One day-i would say at the age of 7-I was just finishing Arthur (fave show of all time)and Mr. Rogers came on. It’s vague to me now but it had to deal with friends? anyway the song is still stuck in my head and everytime I leave my friend’s house(who’s like a sister to me and my sister and vice versa) I always sing the Neighbor song(she also lives around the corner) haha I’m 18 by the way and I always sing that song and she laughs at me(because I love sweaters and wear quite a bit of them every weekend from october to april)but hey he did have an impact on me, my sister, and our friend!

    posted by Brianna on 12-10-2008 at 3:57 pm

  302. I was a big fan of MR Rogers growing up and i really enjoyed reading this piece. I was greatly interested in the links at the end but they didnt work. If someone could repost them or find them that would be great.

    posted by Devin on 12-26-2008 at 1:59 am

  303. I am 18 years old, already a cynic with a dark view on humanity. That is, until I read this. This here gave me back my hope in humanity. This here made me think that maybe people can be good.

    This made me cry like a baby.

    I am so very, very sad I never got to see his show and so very, very happy that such a beautiful, wonderful and good person ever lived. Mr. Rogers, you’re a force of goodness that shines through even to this day. May we never forget you.

    posted by A person on 12-28-2008 at 9:08 pm

  304. I missed those years of joyful and get amused by Mr. Rogers

    posted by partoba on 1-23-2009 at 5:37 am

  305. i remember him dying too. i stayed home all day from school and held a memorial with my mom of all our recorded shows. i loved him. i still do. just a few months ago i spent the night at a friends and we woke up early to see his show. there was a mr. rogers work out thing that he did. and we did it. later i showed my track coach and had the whole team doing it, even though it was way less of a work out than usual.

    posted by me on 1-25-2009 at 11:20 pm

  306. please pass the kleenex.

    posted by Chris Grant on 2-2-2009 at 2:34 am

  307. I’ve had a really tough year, and a few months ago when things seemed to be at their worst I discovered the clips of Mr. Rogers on PBSkids.org. Watching Mr. Rogers tell me, a 21-year-old paramedic and college senior, that I am special and loved just the way I am and that everything is going to be alright made even my darkest days brighter. In a world that as an emergency responder I seem to see the dregs of more often than not, Mr. Rogers’ gentle reminders of hope and love mean the world to me still, just like they did when I would come home after kindergarten and watch them with my Mum.

    posted by Annie on 2-14-2009 at 12:26 am

  308. I never knew this about him, the only thing I knew about him was that he had tons of tattoos. This man has literally become one of my idols. The way he led his life sets a great example for mine.

    posted by Drina on 2-27-2009 at 3:33 pm

  309. mr rogers is a well-known hero at all costs!

    posted by Kina C. on 3-15-2009 at 2:14 pm

  310. i don’t like the silly urban legends posted about him. i respect him for not causing a mess about it.

    posted by exelda on 3-15-2009 at 3:31 pm

  311. I think this is an excellent article. Anyone got any more info about it?

    posted by sbs on 3-24-2009 at 11:03 am

  312. The links at the end don’t work. Have any others that do?

    posted by R Girard on 3-31-2009 at 2:07 am

  313. R Girard: The profile can be found at http://www.thedqtimes.com/pages/castpages/other/fredrogerscanyousayheropg1.htm. I’m not sure which obituary was originally linked, but the NY Times one is here: http://www.nytimes.com/2003/02/28/arts/mister-rogers-tv-s-friend-for-children-is-dead-at-74.html.

    posted by Andréa Fernandes on 3-31-2009 at 2:48 am

  314. 2 years after the article and I still feel the need to say what a great guy he was . The real deal . They talk about Saints and at first you go well what did he do ? He was a truly kind and caring person and tried to spread that ideal without beating little people with it or preaching to them . Frankly , he performed some feats that knowing politics and the government are miracles and for unselfish reasons.Of course he would say it was simply what he should be doing . Where did I put the Kleenex ?

    posted by R Everitt on 5-3-2009 at 1:00 pm

  315. As a kid, I tried to never miss an episode. I’ve spent my life trying to follow his excellent example of how to treat people. I’ve always loved his trips to see how things are made, and sometimes I wonder if “How It’s Made” is modeled after that show for those of us that got hooked on watching Mr. Roger’s crayons and sneakers episodes. I went through a phase where Mr. Rogers symbolized everything silly, soft and obsolete, but I’m glad PBS is still airing episodes. Mr. Roger’s tolerance, despite or in spite of his Christian faith, taught me that we can agree to disagree and still keep our self-respect and respect others in turn.

    posted by Mecquelch on 5-8-2009 at 3:05 pm

  316. God loves you just the way you are…

    What an inspiration he was!

    posted by Hyacinth on 5-13-2009 at 4:06 pm

  317. Mr Rodgers was so sweet. When I was sick in the hospital as a child he sent me a hand written get well card.

    posted by Lauren on 5-28-2009 at 2:03 pm

  318. Ahh… I remember catching this show on the telly all the time with my nana. She’s got dementia now, but I just remember the times when she was on it and we’d sit down to watch this show.

    My mum and I were sitting in bed one day on a day off, up early for no good reason and we saw that Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood was on, and I felt compelled to watch it again.

    It was just as warm and comforting as I remembered it to be when I was a child.

    Kids today really need shows like this. Hell, this show. What do kids have today to teach them that it’s okay to be how they are and have that one person who they feel really cares about you for you, that they can watch and learn from? Dora? Spongebob? I don’t think so.

    Mr. Rogers was obviously a fine man and if he wasn’t some sort of saint, second coming, or buddha, I’d be shocked.

    posted by 2D on 5-28-2009 at 3:50 pm

  319. Mister Rogers
    How could I ever forget you…

    posted by Jill on 6-1-2009 at 10:42 pm

  320. Bu Ne Ya!

    posted by Sohbet Muhabbet on 6-20-2009 at 2:57 am

  321. I always think of a story my mother told me:
    The first time Mom saw Mr. Rogers Neighborhood, she thought, “This guy is so ridiculous.” Then one day she saw me watching the show. Mr. Rogers was saying, “You’re special, just the way you are.” I was enraptured, clearly accepting every word as addressed to me, personally. Mom says she almost started to cry, thinking, “This guy’s wonderful.”

    posted by HesterC on 6-24-2009 at 4:44 am

  322. Can’t watch Mr. Rogers Neighborhood today without juxtaposing it with some of Eddie Murphy’s “Mister Robinson’s Neighborhood” old SNL parodies.

    Murphy’s character wasn’t cruel, but funny. As legend has it, Mr. Rogers didn’t mind the skits.

    So it’s a true testament to his sense of humor and not taking himself too seriously either!

    posted by DixonSteele1on1 on 7-12-2009 at 1:44 pm

  323. yeah he was cool my dad once told me about when his friend was hitchhiking in the snow and mr. rogers picked up him and he asked where he was going and then he answered “University of Chicago..” Then Mr. Rogers said, “don’t you just love the snow?” and my dad’s friend just that he was trying to be smart and he looked over and it was Mr. Rogers!!!

    posted by izzy on 9-26-2009 at 11:22 am

  324. Three Mr. Rogers stories:

    in the late 80’s OPB (Portland, OR) ran his show in the late afternoon. The time we moms of small kids called Arsenic Hour. I would turn on the show and start fixing supper; the children aged 3 and 7, would sit down and watch. It was in real time and gave us such pause…I decided then he was a bodhisatva.

    At about the same time, my sister was development director at the PBS TV station in Seattle. She was his escort when he came to town for the fundraising. She, also, reported that he was just the same and that everywhere they went, hotels, restaurants, etc people would come up and be in awe…thank him for his presence in their childhood..she called him a saint.

    In the mid-90s I attended a conferece of family foundation members…these are people of wealth, often inherited, who have created foundations to give away money…they have heard it all. At the time he was ill..he addressed a plenary session of perhaps 1500..within 10 minutes the hush in the room was palpable, reverential, unique…I felt so blessed to be in his presence…a saint/bodhisatva for sure.

    So sad that now his show is off the air in many places.

    Yipes, I could really go on here, but will stop. He made his life a gift…

    (golly…the captcha is enter-leaved :))

    posted by Aurora on 9-28-2009 at 2:05 am

  325. Mr Rogers, thank you just for being you. You really made my childhood afternoons a brighter time. Sure miss you.

    posted by sherry on 10-6-2009 at 10:59 pm

  326. A colleague told me about this great blog and I had to check it out. While I did not have the opportunity to work with Fred, I now work at WQED in Pittsburgh where Fred’s production company Family Communications, Inc. filmed Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

    There are so many great comments on here that I thought I should let all of you know that WQED is re-setting the Neighborhood of Make-Believe for the last time November 7 & 8 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. for the public to tour. Mr. McFeely will be here to sign autographs and there will be family-friendly activities.

    We are also asking the public to submit their favorite memories of the show at: http://www.wqed.org/neighborhood-of-make-believe/memories_form.php

    More information about the Tour can be found at: http://www.wqed.org/neighborhood-of-make-believe/

    Hope to see you there neighbor!

    posted by Maria Pisano on 10-29-2009 at 10:51 am

  327. If you wonder what it means to be a saint or a bohdisattva,look at the life and work of this man

    posted by Loren on 10-31-2009 at 2:20 am

  328. This may sound silly to some, but I was in an abusive marriage and started watching Mr Rogers with my daughter. I took great comfort in the messages he brought, even though I had heard it all before. His show was an oasis of peace in an otherwise chaotic life. Thank you Mr. Rogers.

    posted by Dixie on 11-6-2009 at 4:59 pm

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