Ep 1. The First Week (#1) The First Program (Black & White, 1967)

The Best of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood is a beloved television show that has been enjoyed by generations of viewers. It first aired in 1967 in black and white, and quickly became a hit with both children and adults. The show was hosted by Fred Rogers, who was affectionately known as Mister Rogers, and it was designed to help young children understand and cope with the world around them.

The first episode of The Best of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood is titled "The First Week (#1) The First Program (Black & White, 1967)", and it takes viewers on a journey back in time to the very first episode of the show. This episode is a wonderful introduction to Mister Rogers, his neighborhood, and the many friends he has made over the years.

The show begins with Mister Rogers entering his home through the iconic front door, and changing from his jacket into a sweater. He introduces himself to the viewers and talks about how he's looking forward to spending time with them. He then talks about how he's been thinking about them, and how he wants to know more about them.

Mister Rogers then takes viewers on a tour of his home, showing them his fish tank and his piano. He talks about how he loves to play the piano and how music is an important part of his life. He then shares a song with the viewers, and encourages them to sing along.

After the song, Mister Rogers talks about how he's going to be visiting his neighbors in the neighborhood, and he introduces viewers to some of the many characters they will meet along the way. He talks about Lady Elaine Fairchilde, King Friday XIII, and Daniel Tiger, among others.

Mister Rogers then takes viewers to a local gymnasium, where he meets Betty Aberlin, who plays the role of Lady Aberlin. She shows Mister Rogers some gymnastics tricks, and invites him to join in. He tries a somersault, but ends up landing on his back. This moment is one of many that showcase Mister Rogers' sense of humor and his ability to connect with children.

The episode concludes with Mister Rogers talking about how everyone has something special about them, and how it's important to understand and appreciate those differences. He then sings a final song, and says goodbye to the viewers until his next visit.

Overall, the first episode of The Best of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood is a heartwarming and nostalgic trip back to a simpler time. It's an excellent introduction to the show and to Mister Rogers himself, and it's sure to bring a smile to the faces of viewers young and old.