Remembering Uncle Floyd Vivino: Celebrated Comedian and New Jersey TV Icon Passes Away at 74
‘Uncle Floyd’ Vivino in New Jersey in 1984.
Credit :
MPIRock/MediaPunch via Getty
NEED TO KNOW
- Floyd Vivino has died at age 74
- He hosted New Jersey’s long-running The Uncle Floyd Show, which inspired musicians including David Bowie, and passed away following “ongoing health issues,” according to his brother
- The show debuted in 1974
Floyd “Uncle Floyd” Vivino, the beloved New Jersey television personality whose audience spanned from local children to rock icons like David Bowie and John Lennon, has died at the age of 74. His brother, musician Jerry Vivino, announced the news, reporting Floyd passed away peacefully on January 22 after battling health issues for two and a half years.
“With a heavy heart I am sad to announce the passing of my brother and everybody’s favorite uncle, Floyd Vivino,” Jerry Vivino wrote on Facebook. “Rest in peace big brother. You will be missed, but always remembered by friends, family and your loving fans.”
Following his passing, Floyd’s official website now displays a tribute featuring his image and the dates “1951-2026.” A private funeral will be held for family members, with plans for a public celebration of life to be announced later.
‘Uncle Floyd’ Vivino in 1984.
MPIRock/MediaPunch via Getty
Vivino, born in Paterson, New Jersey, gained notoriety as the host of The Uncle Floyd Show, a cult-favorite cable program that aired from 1974 until 1998. The show blended childlike comedy with subtle satire of children’s programming, featuring puppetry, musical performances, and original music from Vivino himself. Over the years, it showcased notable musical guests including Jon Bon Jovi, Tiny Tim, Cyndi Lauper, and Blue Öyster Cult.
Floyd’s influence extended beyond television, with fans like Lennon and Bowie. The latter even referenced Vivino and characters from his show in the 2002 song “Slip Away,” featuring mentions of Floyd and puppets Oogie and Bones Boy.
‘Uncle Floyd’ Vivino performs at The Bottom Line in New York City on Dec. 12, 1997.
Ebet Roberts/Redferns
In a 2016 interview with radio station New Jersey 101.5, Floyd recounted Bowie’s first attendance at his performance in December 1980, shortly after Lennon’s death. When Floyd inquired how Bowie had learned of him, Bowie responded, “John Lennon told me. He said, ‘Check this show out.’” Floyd elaborated on their shared appreciation for authenticity, stating that both musicians favored lesser-known venues over popular chains.
In his tribute to Floyd, Patterson Mayor Andre Sayegh noted the comedian’s impact on the community, stating, “One of the funniest Patersonians to ever live has left this life. May Floyd Vivino rest in eternal peace.”
‘Uncle Floyd’ Vivino attends the 2016 Lucas Foundation Golf And Dinner Awards on Aug. 22, 2016.
Bobby Bank/WireImage
Apart from his television acclaim, Floyd also appeared in films like Good Morning, Vietnam and in shows such as Law & Order, and he reportedly performed up to 300 comedy shows annually. The heavy metal group Hostile Rage honored him on social media, expressing gratitude for being guests on his show, while actor Joe Piscopo dubbed him an “Italian American New Jersey Legend.”
