Beloved TV personality Peter Napolitano, more popularly known by the nickname “Produce Pete”, has died.
His death was announced in a social media post on Monday, January 26, 2026, by WNBC-TV’s Managing Editor Steven Bognar. The post read, “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”.
Napolitano had appeared on Saturday editions of “Weekend Today in New York” for 33 years. His segments focused on sharing his knowledge of produce, demonstrating recipes, and educating his audience on how to live a healthier life. Many viewers remember him for his iconic catchphrase, “If you eat right, you’re going to live right!”.
Napolitano shared many stories of his life, especially his childhood, during his segments. He also spent over 50 years working for his family’s grocery store, Napolitano’s Produce. During his career as “Produce Pete”, he published 3 books, including a biography titled “ They Call Me Produce Pete”. Napolitano was also a guest speaker at many schools, educating students on healthy eating habits and sharing his love of produce.
It is clear “Produce Pete” will be severely missed. Many fans took to social media after learning of his death, sharing their condolences and appreciation for all Napolitano had done. One post read, “So sorry to hear this sad news! I loved watching his segments on Saturdays. I greatly appreciated his knowledge of produce. He was like the guy next store. He will be missed!”.
Another thanked “Produce Pete” for “teaching us about the foods we need to eat and how to pick a good one!”.
Amy Morris, the Senior Vice Preseident of News for NBC 4 New York, also shared her thoughts, “He was a beloved member of our station family, and our viewers felt the same way — visiting him at our Health Expo, our Feeding our Families Food Drives, or the many farmers markets across New Jersey where he always felt right at home”.
Peter Napolitano’s cause of death has not been made publicly available. He is survived by his wife, Bette, their two children, and their seven grandchildren.
