Produce Pete Dead: Beloved NBC Personality Dies at 80 as Fans Pay Tribute
A cherished television personality known affectionately as Produce Pete has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of decades spent entertaining and educating viewers about healthy eating habits. Peter Napolitano, the man behind the beloved on-screen persona, died at the age of 80, as confirmed by NBC New York management.
Official Announcement and Network Tributes
The sad news was shared publicly by Steven Bognar, the Managing Editor of WNBC-TV, through a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. Bognar wrote with evident emotion, "Sad news to share from the NBC New York family... Produce Pete has passed away at 80. His warmth, kindness, and love for his work will be missed by all of us."
Amy Morris, the Senior Vice President of News for NBC 4 New York and Telemundo 47, offered a heartfelt tribute that captured his enduring impact. She noted, "For more than 30 years, WNBC viewers tuned in on Saturday mornings to watch Produce Pete offer his fruit and vegetable recommendations as well as cooking tips on Weekend Today in New York." Morris further described him as a beloved member of the station family, highlighting his participation in community events like health expos and food drives.
A Life Dedicated to Produce and Public Engagement
Produce Pete was best known for his regular segments on the Saturday edition of Weekend Today in New York, where he shared practical advice on selecting fruits and vegetables alongside cooking tips. Beyond his television work, he was a dedicated grocer who managed his family's produce business for over half a century, bringing authentic expertise to his on-air role.
His signature catchphrase, "If you eat right, you're going to live right," became a memorable part of his broadcasts, encapsulating his philosophy. In a 2025 interview, he reflected on his humble beginnings, stating, "I come from immigrant people. My father came here from Italy. No education, no nothing. And then, you know, I got lucky 35 years ago when someone was in my store and put me on a local show."
Legacy Beyond Television
Napolitano's influence extended far beyond the screen. He was a multiple-book author and hosted cooking classes, actively working to inspire younger generations by speaking at schools about nutrition. His personal life was deeply intertwined with his professional one; he was married to his wife Bette since meeting her at age 16, and together they raised two children and welcomed seven grandchildren, who occasionally joined him on air.
The outlet emphasised that his love for his family was always evident, adding a personal dimension to his public persona.
Outpouring of Fan Tributes
Following the announcement of his death, tributes flooded social media platforms, with fans expressing their sorrow and sharing fond memories. One user on X posted alongside a photo of signed memorabilia, "#RIPProducePete. My mom watched him every Saturday, so did my grandmother. Last summer my Mom and I met him, his wife Betty, and their manager Susan at a signing. Our condolences to #ProducePete’s family and friends."
Another fan remarked, "Rest in Peace Produce Pete.. Another NJ icon…He was 80 years old," while a third added, "Awww. This is sad. I loved watching #ProducePete on the weekends! What a bright spot every time he showed up on air. (And I learned a few things from watching him too!) Thinking of his family."
These messages underscore the significant impact he had on viewers across generations, cementing his status as a cherished figure in television history.
