Peter Napolitano, the beloved television personality known as “Produce Pete,” has died at the age of 80. He was a weekend fixture on NBC New York’s Saturday morning shows for more than three decades, offering tips on selecting the best fruits and vegetables, along with recipes and cooking recommendations.
NBC New York announced his death on Monday. The cause of death has not been made public. Napolitano was known for his catchphrase, “If you eat right, you’re going to live right!”
Amy Morris, Senior Vice President of News for NBC 4 New York and Telemundo 47, said: “For more than 30 years, WNBC viewers tuned in on Saturday mornings to watch ‘Produce Pete’ offer his fruit and vegetables recommendations as well as cooking tips on ‘Weekend Today in New York.’ He was a beloved member of our station family.”
Napolitano is survived by his wife, Bette, their two children and seven grandchildren. The New Jersey native often spoke about growing up working with produce in his family’s small store, which he later grew into a successful seasonal operation before it closed in 2006.
In 2024, he released his third book, “In The Kitchen With Bette & Produce Pete,” following his 1994 almanac and his 2023 memoir. Tributes poured in on his Facebook page, where one user wrote: “Rest in Peace Produce Pete! Thank you for educating us on picking out the best tasting fruit and vegetables!”
