NEW YORK — Peter Napolitano, a cherished figure in New York television known as Produce Pete, passed away on Monday at the age of 80. Napolitano was celebrated for his engaging Saturday morning segments on “Weekend Today in New York,” where he shared his extensive knowledge of fruits and vegetables, helping viewers make informed choices at the market.
Napolitano’s death was announced by Steven Bognar, Managing Editor of WNBC-TV, through the social media platform X. The specific cause of his death was not disclosed.
“For more than three decades, Pete was a staple of wholesome programming on WNBC, commented Amy Morris, Senior Vice President of News for NBC 4 New York and Telemundo 47. “His penchant for educating viewers about fresh produce and his charm on-screen made him a beloved part of their weekend routine.”
Born on February 23, 1945, in Bergenfield, New Jersey, Napolitano was steeped in the world of produce from an early age. His Italian immigrant father established Napolitano’s Produce in 1959, a store in Bergen County that thrived under their stewardship for over five decades. It was here that Napolitano honed the skills that would later define his television career.
Marrying his childhood sweetheart, Bette, in 1967, Napolitano not only shared his life but also his screen time with her, often featuring on his segments. Together, they promoted a philosophy of healthy living with a simple but resonant message: “If you eat right, you’re going to live right!”
Napolitano’s TV career launched in 1992 on NBC New York, quickly becoming an essential weekend morning appointment for viewers. His easygoing nature and depth of knowledge about selecting, storing, and preparing food resonated with both novice cooks and seasoned kitchen aficionados.
Aside from his television work, Napolitano devoted efforts to educate through various mediums. He authored several books, including “Produce Pete’s Farmacopeia” and the more personal “They Call Me Produce Pete,” which provided insights into both his professional and personal journeys.
In 2024, Napolitano, along with his wife Bette, released a cookbook that blended family recipes with lessons in produce selection, demonstrating their shared commitment to promoting healthy eating lifestyles.
Napolitano’s influence extended beyond his broadcast segments. He was a regular presence at food drives, health expos, and especially loved engaging with the community at farmers markets throughout New Jersey, where he felt most at home.
He also played a pivotal role in schools across Bergen County, speaking about nutritional choices and food literacy, which he believed were foundational for lifelong health.
Over the years, Napolitano’s approach to food education garnered a multi-generational audience, turning families into lifelong fans who appreciated not only his culinary expertise but his genuine approach to his craft.
His career, spanning over three decades on the same network, stands as a testament to his enduring appeal and the trust he built with his audience. This trust was rooted in his commitment to education and community engagement, making him a cherished figure well beyond the television screen.
Peter “Produce Pete” Napolitano is survived by his wife, Bette, his two children, and seven grandchildren, who continue to cherish his legacy of passion for produce and healthy living. They, along with countless viewers, celebrate his life and the indelible mark he left on both their dining tables and hearts.