Uncle Floyd, Beloved Comedian Floyd Vivino, Passes Away at 74

Floyd Vivino, renowned for his comedic persona Uncle Floyd, passed away at the age of 74. His brother, Jimmy Vivino, confirmed that Floyd died on Thursday in a Hackensack, New Jersey rehabilitation facility due to complications from a stroke earlier in 2023.

Legacy of Uncle Floyd

Floyd Vivino, famous for his porkpie hat and stride piano playing, gained popularity through his low-budget television variety show. Running from 1974 to 1998, the show featured a unique mix of music, skits, puppetry, and local parodies. This format struck a chord with audiences, especially in New Jersey, Floyd’s home state.

• The show was known for its unrehearsed style and absurd humor.
• Featured characters included Oogie, the wooden clown, and Bones Boy, a skeleton.
• Floyd’s quirky attire included plaid jackets, colorful hats, and bow ties.

Cultural Impact

Uncle Floyd attracted a diverse fan base, spanning children to young adults. His fan club peaked at 13,000 members, and the Friends of Floyd group on Facebook currently has 7,400 members. His whimsical comedy bears similarities to other beloved figures like Soupy Sales and foreshadowed the era of Pee-wee Herman.

Musical Guests

Floyd’s show hosted numerous well-known musicians, which contributed to its cult status. Notable guests included:

• Cyndi Lauper
• Jon Bon Jovi
• Elvis Costello
• The Ramones
• Blue Oyster Cult

Bon Jovi expressed his gratitude on Facebook, stating that Floyd gave him an opportunity before he became famous.

Early Life and Career

Floyd John Vivino was born on October 19, 1951, in Paterson, New Jersey. He came from a musically inclined family; his father was an architect and musician, while his mother played piano.

Floyd’s performing career began early. He showcased his talents at various venues, including amusement parks and nightclubs. In high school, he excelled in theater and musicals.

Television Journey

Floyd’s television journey commenced in 1974 with “Uncle Floyd and His Friends.” The show evolved over the years and garnered a loyal following beyond New Jersey. By 1982, it reached a wider audience through NBC late-night broadcasts.

After the NBC stint, the program returned to local UHF public television and continued until 1998. Throughout his career, he maintained a busy schedule, performing live shows and hosting events.

Family and Final Years

Floyd is survived by his brother Jimmy, another brother named Jerome Jr., and several children from previous marriages. His family carries on his legacy, remembering the joy he brought to countless fans.

Vivino’s final years were marked by continued public engagements and performances, solidifying his role as a cherished figure in entertainment.

As fans remember Uncle Floyd, his contributions to comedy and television will endure, celebrating the whimsical spirit he brought to the stage.