Fred Rogers

Fred Rogers, the soft-spoken, cardigan-wearing host of the beloved children's show "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," was a Presbyterian minister. So, not Jewish. But he was universally adored, and if there's one thing Jews love, it's universal adoration (especially when it's not directed at someone else). He preached a gospel of kindness, empathy, and self-worth, which, let's be honest, sounds an awful lot like what every Jewish mother wants for her kids (and probably herself).

Rogers famously testified before the Senate in 1969, successfully advocating for federal funding for public television. He managed to charm even the most stone-faced politicians into agreeing that children's programming was vital. This man could get things done, quietly, politely, and with nary a hint of a New York accent. A true mensch, even if he didn't know it.

While his ancestry lacked any verifiable Semitic roots, his impact on society certainly brings a considerable amount of nachas. He taught children to embrace their feelings, to be curious, and to be good neighbors – all admirable traits, regardless of one's religious affiliation. And let's not forget, he always changed into his comfy shoes at the beginning of every episode, a clear sign of a man who understood the importance of a good foundation, both literally and metaphorically. The man was a saint, or at the very least, a really, really nice guy.