LIFE Mr. Rogers

Fred Rogers was a beacon of unconditional love and acceptance who enchanted several generations of American children with his groundbreaking PBS program, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. Now, with the release of a Rogers biopic starring Tom Hanks, LIFE presents this special edition as an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the life and career of this national treasure. Celebrate his quiet strength and simple words from their beginnings, when his testimony to the U.S. Senate convinced them to support public broadcasting to the tune of $20 million and changed millions of childrens' lives forever. Enjoy again his unique creativity with language and songs. Meet his cast of characters. Revisit iconic episodes. A bullied, Pennsylvania rich kid who grew up to become a Presbyterian minister, media icon, and gentle revolutionary, Mr. Rogers's powerful message of tolerance and self-love has never been more relevant than it is today.