In Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, Kindness Was The Law Of The Land

Won't you be our neighbor?

Those who visited "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" for the 33 years the popular children's show ran on television remember being invited to become a part of Fred Rogers' fictional world with a heartwarming smile and uplifting songs. It was indicative of the kindness that was the basis of the program.

Rogers, the show's host, died of stomach cancer at age 74, two years after the last episode aired. He and his show are remembered for their rare ability to speak directly to children about very adult topics, including death, racism, divorce and assassination.

A documentary about Rogers titled "Won't You Be My Neighbor" was released in theaters earlier this month and is now playing in theaters.

Paul Lally, former director of "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood"