I first saw the below clip in one of my first film classes a couple years ago.  I don’t remember the context of the discussion at all, but I do remember wanting to cry when we watched it.  Mr. Rogers is the butt of a lot of jokes in contemporary pop culture, and even though I’m not necessarily against having a little fun with his persona I would argue that the man deserves some recognition for the profound influence he’s had on children’s educational television.

Just watch this clip and tell me you aren’t touched.