Beloved NJ Comedian, TV Star, Musician Dead At 74

PASSAIC COUNTY, NJ — Family, friends, and fans are mourning New Jersey comedian Florio Vivino, better known as “Uncle Floyd,” after he died Thursday evening.

Family members announced Vivino’s death early Friday morning, saying he’d lost a two-and-a-half year battle with “ongoing health issues.” He was 74 years old.

“With a heavy heart, I am sad to announce the passing of my brother, and everybody's favorite uncle, Floyd Vivino,” his brother, Jerry, announced. “Rest in peace, big brother. You will be missed, but always remembered by friends, family, and your loving fans.”

Born in Paterson in 1951, Vivino would grow up in several New Jersey towns including Point Pleasant, Island Heights, and Glen Rock. He would eventually graduate from Glen Rock High School.

Vivino rose to fame on his television program “The Uncle Floyd Show,” which aired on several channels in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania between 1974 and 1998.

Parodying the likes of “The Pee-wee Herman Show” or “Mister Rogers' Neighborhood,” the program was more often than not delivering adult-oriented jokes under the guise of a children’s show.

“The Uncle Floyd Show” introduced zany characters, including “Doc Pretentious,” “Looney Skip Rooney,” and more. Vivino was also often joined by his puppets, including "Bones Boy" and “Oogie.”

The show also showcased bands and musicians, with Vivino, a pianist, also performing.

The bizarre and somewhat anarchic themes of the television show attracted a cult following, gaining thousands of fans including music icons John Lennon and David Bowie. Bowie mentioned Uncle Floyd in his 2002 song, “Slip Away,” and has said that he thought the show was “a hoot.”

After more than 7,000 episodes, the show ended in 1992, with reruns airing until 1998.

Vivino would continue to perform for several decades on stages across the east coast, bringing back beloved characters and skits from his television show.

Vivino could often be heard on the radio waves as well in recent years, working with stations including Teaneck-based “WFDU 89.1FM.”

“Uncle Floyd was a deeply loved host who brought so much joy to our airwaves with his irreverent humor, boundless love of music, and unmistakable Jersey spirit,” a WFDU statement read. “He was a gifted musician, a comedy genius, and someone who truly loved show business, and it showed in everything he did. He meant the world to everyone at WFDU and to the countless listeners who welcomed him into their lives each week.”

Vivino’s family will be hosting a private funeral with a memorial celebration of life to be announced at a later date.