On Aug. 20, 2001, the last episode of “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood” aired on PBS. At 73, the pioneering children's television host said his goodbye to generations of viewers:
“I’m just so proud of all of you who have grown up with us. And I know how tough it is some days to look with hope and confidence on the months and years ahead. But I would like to tell you what I often told you when you were much younger. I like you just the way you are. And what’s more, I’m so grateful to you for helping the children in your life to know that you’ll do everything you can to keep them safe and to help them express their feelings in ways that will bring healing in many different neighborhoods. It’s such a good feeling to know that we’re lifelong friends.”
After the final episode was recorded, Pittsburgh’s WQED studio was later renamed “The Fred Rogers Studio.”
