A new trailer for the forthcoming Mr. Rogers documentary, Wont You Be My Neighbor, examines the radical vision that informed one of the most beloved childrens television programs of all time.
The clip teases the myriad ways Fred Rogers tweaked television conventions on his long-running PBS show, Mister Rogers Neighborhood, whether he was using simple sets and low production values or holding frank discussion with kids about issues like divorce and death.
Actor and singer Franois Clemmons who played Officer Clemmons on the show recalled one remarkable 1969 episode where Rogers took a stand against segregation simply by having the two of them soak their feet together in a kiddie pool. My being on the program was a statement for Fred, Clemmons says.
The trailer is also packed with old clips fromMister Rogers Neighborhood, as well as archival behind-the-scenes footage and interviews.The greatest thing that we can do is to help somebody know that theyre loved and capable of loving, Rogers says in one clip.
Oscar-winning filmmaker Morgan Neville (20 Feet From Stardom) directed Wont You Be My Neighbor. The documentary opens in select theaters June 8th.
A first look at Wont You Be My Neighbor. Watch below.