- Floyd Vivino, aka Uncle Floyd, was a cult TV icon known for his chaotic, fast-talking hosting style on The Uncle Floyd Show, a beloved New Jersey children’s variety program.
- He gained national fame for his scene-stealing role as the unhinged DJ Eddie Kirk in Good Morning, Vietnam (1987), holding his own against Robin Williams.
October 19, 1951 – January 22, 2026
- His show blended slapstick, puppets, and surreal humour, attracting fans from kids to rock stars like David Bowie and The Ramones.
- Vivino battled cancer and a stroke before passing peacefully on January 22, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and eccentricity.
- His unique, unfiltered brand of humour influenced comedians and entertainers across generations, making him a true original in the entertainment world.
Floyd Vivino, the man who turned local New Jersey television into a surreal, laugh-filled carnival, has left the stage for the last time. Known to legions of fans as Uncle Floyd, this madcap genius carved out a niche in entertainment history with his over-the-top, fast-talking hosting style and a children’s variety show that felt like a cross between Pee-wee Herman and a late-night infomercial on acid. His passing at 74 marks the end of an era, but his legacy—one of unapologetic weirdness and infectious joy—lives on.
Uncle Floyd’s claim to fame was The Uncle Floyd Show, a low-budget but high-energy variety program that aired on UHF stations in the ‘70s and ‘80s. Imagine a kids’ show that adults couldn’t help but love—a chaotic, slapstick-filled romp featuring puppets, musical guests, and Vivino’s signature rapid-fire delivery. It was the kind of show that felt like a secret club for those in the know, blending traditional children’s fare with a wink and a nudge to the grown-ups watching. The show’s fan club boasted over 13,000 members across 23 states, a testament to its cult appeal. It wasn’t just kids tuning in; rock legends like David Bowie, John Lennon, and The Ramones were avid fans, drawn to its unique brand of humour and its DIY aesthetic.
Vivino’s signature catchphrases—like “Keep truckin’!” and “It’s a beautiful day in the neighbourhood—NOT!”—became rallying cries for his audience. His ability to turn a 30-second bit about a broken toaster into a 10-minute surreal epic was unparalleled. The show’s charm lay in its absurdity and warmth, a rare combination that made it feel like a family affair, even as it pushed the boundaries of what a children’s show could be.
But Uncle Floyd wasn’t just a local TV star. He made waves in Hollywood with his unforgettable turn as Eddie Kirk in Good Morning, Vietnam (1987). Playing a motor-mouthed, unhinged DJ who goes toe-to-toe with Robin Williams’ Adrian Cronauer, Vivino stole scenes with his manic energy and razor-sharp comedic timing. It’s easy to imagine the casting director watching his tapes and thinking, “This guy’s either a genius or he’s escaped from a carnival. We need him.” His role cemented his status as a character actor who could hold his own against the biggest names in the business.
Vivino also appeared in films like The Adventures of Ford Fairlane and Shakes the Clown, and made guest appearances on TV shows including Law & Order. His versatility and knack for bringing joy through sheer, unfiltered weirdness made him a sought-after performer.
Off-screen, Vivino was a man of deep musical roots and resilience. Born into a musically inclined family in Paterson, New Jersey, he began performing as a child, giving piano recitals and dancing at venues like the 1964 World’s Fair. His father was a jazz trumpeter, and his brothers, Jerry and Jimmy Vivino, became successful musicians in their own right. Despite facing health issues in recent years, including bladder and prostate cancer and a stroke in 2023, Vivino remained active in entertainment through radio shows and live streaming, refusing to let illness dim his creative spark.
His radio programs, such as The Italian-American Serenade, showcased his vast collection of Italian records and his deep knowledge of music. He also set a Guinness World Record for nonstop piano playing, raising money for charity in a 24-hour marathon. His commitment to preserving traditional entertainment forms, like burlesque, further highlighted his passion for the arts.
Floyd Vivino passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, after a two-and-a-half-year battle with health issues. His brother Jerry Vivino announced the news on social media, expressing both grief and gratitude for the life Floyd lived. Tributes poured in from fans and fellow entertainers, including Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh, who called Vivino “like family” and recalled how his humour brought joy to generations.
Vivino’s legacy extends far beyond his television and film credits. He was a pioneer in blending children’s programming with adult humour, influencing comedians and performers from Pee-wee Herman to Howard Stern. His show’s mix of puppetry, music, and slapstick created a template that many have tried to replicate, but few have matched. As one fan remembered, attending a live taping of The Uncle Floyd Show and sitting between Joey and Dee Dee Ramone was a formative experience—a testament to the show’s broad appeal and lasting impact.
If you never caught The Uncle Floyd Show, do yourself a favour and dive down the YouTube rabbit hole. Just don’t blame us if you start talking to your toaster.
Rest in Peice Uncle Floyd—heaven just got a lot louder (and weirder).
