Celebrating the Birthday of America’s Favorite Neighbor

March 20 would have been Fred McFeely Rogers’ 84th birthday.  His death in 2001 did not stop his impact that is still felt today in the hearts and minds of children, families, and professionals who continue to be nurtured and inspired by his timeless wisdom.

A puppeteer, musician, TV icon, and ordained minister, Fred Rogers was a fixture of American childhood for 38 years (1968 – 2001) as host of Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood. With a degree in music composition, he wrote 200 songs for the show, including the theme, "It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood." Although the program ceased production after Rogers’ passing, it continues to air on countless PBS stations across the country, including Saturdays at 6 a.m. on WCVW PBS.

Fred Rogers received more than 40 honorary degrees from colleges and universities, but he was most proud of serving the educational and emotionals needs of children. His relentless commitment to all that is best in people led to an induction into the Television Hall of Fame to The Presidential Medal of Freedom.

For full epsiodes of Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, songs, coloring pages and interactive games, visit pbskids.org/rogers.

The video below is a touching tribute produced by member station WQED in Pittsburgh, Mr. Rogers’ local PBS station. It follows Mr. Rogers through the years as he sings his beloved theme song.

In honor of Fred Rogers birthday, we’d like to hear from you: what life lessons did you learn from Mr. Rogers?