Sam Newbury ’67

This year is the 50th anniversary of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

From 1981 to 1986, Sam Newbury ’67 produced the iconic children’s series; he later became director of production for what is now The Fred Rogers Co. Newbury died in 2014 but left a powerful legacy.

Starting as a cameraman in Dallas, he moved to Pittsburgh’s WQED in 1974, where he began his collaboration with Fred Rogers.

In the November 1991 Bulletin, Newbury spoke eloquently on why Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood and its emphasis on imagination resonated with viewers of all ages.

“Pretending is not only the basis for creativity,” he said. “I think it’s a very important way to grow emotionally.”