Fred Rogers, more often known as simply Mr. Rogers, was a minister, songwriter, author, and television host. Born in Pennsylvania just southeast of Pittsburg, he first attended Dartmouth College and then transferred to Rollins College in Florida. Rogers’ life changed when he first saw a television in his parent’s home. He was fascinated, yet claims, “I went into television because I hated it so, and thought there’s some way of using this fabulous instrument to nurture those who would watch and listen.” In 1951, he was first hired by NBC and quickly took off as one of America’s most famous personalities.
His most famous endeavor was his show “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” which ran from 1968-2001 and featured his gentle, soft-spoken personality. Rogers was also famous for his advocacy of various public causes and his testimony in front of the U.S. Senate for government funding of children’s television has since become extremely famous.
Rogers became so well known he was named the No. 35 greatest TV star of all time by TV Guide. Rogers was awarded nearly 40 honorary degrees from different universities for his educational programing, a Peabody Award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom!