“Sesame Street” legend Bob McGrath died Dec. 4 at his home at the age of 90.
The McGrath family announced his death with a post to his official Facebook page. “Hello Facebook friends. The McGrath family has some sad news to share,” they wrote. “Our father Bob McGrath, passed away today. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family.” McGrath first appeared on the legendary children’s show in 1969, when the show first aired, according to TMZ.
Sesame Workshop mourns the passing of Bob McGrath, a beloved member of the Sesame Street family for over 50 years.
1/4 pic.twitter.com/juhlmbHo23
— Sesame Workshop (@SesameWorkshop) December 5, 2022
McGrath played the role of himself in the 1969 pilot episode of “Sesame Street,” and went on to appear in an additional 47 seasons of the show. His filmed his last episode of the show, “Having a Ball,” in 2017, according to TMZ.
Fans of all walks of life and varying generations will forever remember the impact McGrath had on the educational children’s program. He left a lasting impression on the children that tuned in to the show over the past several decades.
McGrath often interacted with the puppets, and sang original songs such as “People in Your Neighborhood” and “Sing a Song,” as well as “If You’re Happy And You Know It,” according to TMZ. The star actor also contributed to the theme song for the show that played at the beginning of every episode. (RELATED: )Mom Lawyers Up, Holds Press Conference After Accusing Sesame Street Character Of Being Racist For Snubbing Kids)
‘Sesame Street’ veteran Bob McGrath, who was one of the original human stars of the children’s series dating back to the ’60s, has died. https://t.co/Q642QTkfZQ
— TMZ (@TMZ) December 4, 2022
McGrath continued to contribute to the show well after his last on-screen appearance in 2017. He worked with Sesame Workshop and regularly attended in-person public events on behalf of the franchise, according to TMZ. He was one of the longest-reigning human cast members on the show.
McGrath is survived by his wife and children.