Produce Pete Napolitano, Beloved Fruit and Vegetable Expert, Dies at 80

The longtime New York TV personality was known for his friendly produce advice and family anecdotes.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 4:39pm

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Peter Napolitano, affectionately known as 'Produce Pete', passed away at the age of 80. For over 30 years, Napolitano shared his expertise on fruits and vegetables with viewers on New York television, building a loyal following with his down-to-earth personality and family stories. Napolitano owned a produce store in New Jersey for many years before becoming a TV personality, and continued working in the industry until recently.

Why it matters

Napolitano was a beloved figure who helped educate generations of New Yorkers on how to select and prepare fresh produce. His long-running TV segments made him a celebrity in the city, and he inspired fans like Tina Fey. His passing marks the end of an era for a unique local media personality who connected with viewers through his passion for food and family.

The details

Napolitano began his career selling produce door-to-door for his father's business as a young child. He later took over the family's Napolitano's Produce store in Bergenfield, New Jersey in 1970. Napolitano's TV career started in 1989 when he was invited to discuss food safety concerns on a local talk show, and he went on to join WNBC-TV in 1992 as 'Produce Pete', sharing weekly segments on fruits and vegetables. Even after retiring from the produce store in 1997, Napolitano continued working in the industry and making TV appearances until last year.

  • Napolitano began selling produce door-to-door for his father's business at age 5.
  • Napolitano's parents opened Napolitano's Produce store in Bergenfield, New Jersey in 1959.
  • Napolitano took over the family's produce store in 1970.
  • Napolitano joined WNBC-TV as 'Produce Pete' in 1992.
  • Napolitano retired from the produce store in 1997.

The players

Peter Napolitano

Also known as 'Produce Pete', he was a fruit and vegetable expert who gained fame for his long-running TV segments on New York television.

Peter Napolitano Jr.

Napolitano's son, who took over the family's produce store after his father retired.

Bette Napolitano

Napolitano's wife, known as 'Bette', who co-authored a cookbook with him.

Tina Fey

A fan of Napolitano's who met him during a segment on 'The Today Show'.

Pat Battle

A WNBC anchor who was familiar with Napolitano's on-air persona.

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What they’re saying

“If it feels like you're holding a piece of paper, it ain't good inside.”

— Pat Battle, WNBC anchor (Interview)

“You're my Beyoncé.”

— Tina Fey (The Today Show)

“It was all about family with Pete. Telling us about broccoli or spinach or watermelon was one thing, but he always included these anecdotes about his family that drew people to him. He was so authentic and genuine.”

— Pat Battle, WNBC anchor (Interview)

The takeaway

Produce Pete Napolitano's passing marks the end of an era for a beloved New York media personality who connected with viewers through his passion for fresh fruits and vegetables and his warm, family-focused storytelling. His decades-long career inspired fans and helped educate generations of New Yorkers on how to select and prepare the best produce.