Joe Negri, 'Handyman Negri' of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, dies at 99
tvMay 31, 2026820
Joe Negri, the jazz guitarist and educator WHO played Handyman Negri on Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, died on May 30, 2026 at age 99. Born June 10, 1926, Negri appeared as himself and as the Neighborhood of Make-Believe handyman across more than three decades of the program and ran Negri's Music Shop. Outside television he maintained a long career as a performing jazz guitarist and music teacher. His gentle on-screen presence and musical expertise helped introduce children to music, craftsmanship, and calm mentorship, making him a lasting figure in American children's television.
