John Reardon was an American actor who is best known for Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, NET Opera Theater, and NBC Television Opera Theatre.
Personal and Family Life
John Reardon was born on April 8, 1930, in New York City, New York. He developed a passion for music and acting from a young age. Throughout his life, he formed a close friendship with Fred Rogers, the host of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, which began during their college years.
Career
Reardon had a versatile career that included performances in grand opera with notable companies like the Metropolitan and Santa Fe Opera. He was also recognized for his role in Broadway musicals, particularly for introducing the famous song “Make Someone Happy” in the 1961 musical Do-Re-Mi. Moreover, he was a familiar face on television, often appearing on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.
Death and Legacy
John Reardon passed away on April 19, 1988, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, due to pneumonia at the age of 58. His contributions to opera, theater, and television left a lasting impression on his audience and colleagues. Although his career was shorter than desired, he is remembered for his talent and charm.
Filmography
| Title | Role | Year | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood | Half Moon Reardon | 1968–1986 | TV Series |
| NET Opera Theater | Tomsky | 1969–1970 | TV Series |
| Mister Rogers | Reardon | 1964–1967 | TV Series |
| Directions | – | 1964 | TV Series |
| The Flood | God (voice) | 1962 | TV Movie |
| NBC Television Opera Theatre | Papageno | 1956–1962 | TV Series |
| The Seven Lively Arts | The Balladeer | 1958 | TV Series |