Pop culture lost a true original.
Beloved comedian and actor Floyd Vivino — known to generations of fans as Uncle Floyd — has died at the age of 74.
The sad news was shared late Thursday night by his brother, Jerry Vivino, who announced on Facebook that Floyd passed away peacefully at 6:05 p.m. on January 22 after a two-and-a-half-year battle with ongoing health issues.
“Rest in peace big brother,” Jerry wrote. “You will be missed, but always remembered by friends, family and your loving fans.” He added that the family plans to hold a private funeral, with a public celebration of life to be announced at a later date.
For decades, Vivino was a larger-than-life cultural fixture in New Jersey, best known as the creator and star of The Uncle Floyd Show, the wildly unpredictable variety series that ran from 1974 to 2001. Sporting his trademark porkpie hat and plaid coat, Uncle Floyd blended absurd humor, offbeat sketches, music, and heartfelt moments — earning him cult status well beyond local television.
The show became a must-watch for music lovers, featuring appearances and admiration from legends like The Ramones, Jon Bon Jovi, and Cyndi Lauper.
Vivino’s influence stretched far beyond New Jersey. He appeared in major projects including Good Morning, Vietnam, as well as television staples like Law & Order and The Cosby Show, introducing his unique comedic energy to a national audience.
More than anything, Uncle Floyd was known for his warmth, weirdness, and unwavering connection to his fans — a performer who never forgot where he came from and never stopped making people laugh.
He was 74.
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