On September 21, the Google homepage marked the 51st anniversary of the debut episode of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. An animated video imagined the Presbyterian minister and TV host singing and walking among the miniature town from the opening credits of the original show.
The stop-motion, animated video was created in collaboration with Fred Rogers Productions, The Fred Rogers Center, and BixPix Entertainment.
Set to the iconic opening song of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood (“Won’t You Be My Neighbor”), the Doodle aims to be a reminder of the nurturing, caring, and whimsy that made the show feel like a “television visit” between Mister Rogers and his young viewers. Everyone was welcome in this Neighborhood. Through his honest words, thoughtful songs, and imaginative Neighborhood of Make-Believe stories, Mister Rogers took us by the hand, helping us feel good about who we are. He encouraged us to find positive ways to deal with our feelings, to treat others with respect and kindness, and to appreciate the world around us.
Google posted an article that outlined the process that made the video, including behind-the-scenes photos and storyboards.
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