The television world is mourning the loss of a beloved weekend fixture as Peter Napolitano, affectionately known to viewers as "Produce Pete," has died at the age of 80. The longtime NBC personality passed away after a career spanning more than three decades on air, where he became a cherished source of culinary and nutritional wisdom.
A Weekend Staple for New York Viewers
For over 30 years, Napolitano was a regular presence on NBC New York's Saturday morning programming, most notably on "Weekend Today in New York." His segments focused on helping viewers navigate grocery stores to select the finest fruits and vegetables, while also offering practical recipes and cooking recommendations. He concluded each appearance with his memorable and heartfelt sign-off: "If you eat right, you're going to live right!"
Station Family and Community Impact
Amy Morris, the Senior Vice President of News for NBC 4 New York and Telemundo 47, confirmed the sad news on Monday, though the specific cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. Morris highlighted Napolitano's integral role within the station family and his deep connection with the audience.
"He was a beloved member of our station family and our viewers felt the same way," Morris stated, noting his participation in community events like the Health Expo, Feeding our Families Food Drives, and numerous farmers' markets across New Jersey where he always felt completely at home.
From Family Store to Television Fame
A native of New Jersey, Napolitano often shared stories of his humble beginnings, working with produce in his family's small store. He successfully expanded this into a seasonal operation that ran until its closure in 2006. His television career began 35 years ago when a chance encounter with someone in his store led to an appearance on a local show, a moment he described as getting "lucky" during a 2025 Today show interview.
"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," Napolitano recalled with pride.
Literary Contributions and Personal Life
Beyond television, Napolitano was also an author. In 2024, he released "In The Kitchen With Bette & Produce Pete," a cookbook that followed his 1994 almanac "Produce Pete's Farmacopeia: From Apples to Zucchini, and Everything in Between," and his 2023 memoir "They Call Me Produce Pete." He is survived by his wife, Bette, their two children, and seven grandchildren.
Outpouring of Tributes and Legacy
Following the announcement of his passing, an outpouring of tributes flooded his Facebook page, where his last post in November wished followers a happy holiday season. Fans expressed their sorrow and gratitude for his decades of service.
"Rest in Peace Produce Pete! Thank you for educating us on picking out the best tasting fruit and vegetables!" one user wrote, while another added, "So sorry to hear this sad news! I loved watching his segments on Saturday's. I greatly appreciated his knowledge of produce. He was like the guy next store. He will be missed!"
Peter "Produce Pete" Napolitano's legacy endures through his timeless advice, his catchphrase that encouraged healthier living, and the fond memories he created for countless viewers over his remarkable career.
