Most of us would have grown up watching Sesame Street and for good reason.
The show was not only educational, but also entertaining.
Unfortunately, one of the original stars of Sesame Street, Bob McGrath, has passed away at 90 years old.
The cause was complications from a stroke, his daughter Cathlin McGrath confirmed to The Washington Post.
Bob is survived by his wife, Ann, their three children and five grandchildren.
Passing Confirmed on Social Media
News of his passing was shared on his official Facebook page by his family members.
The post read:
“Hello Facebook friends, the McGrath family has some sad news to share. Our father Bob McGrath, passed away today. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family.”
Sesame Workshop, a nonprofit education organization behind Sesame Street, also paid tribute to McGrath on its Facebook page.
In the post, the organization mourned the passing of McGrath who was described as a founding cast member who embodied the melodies of Sesame Street like no one else.
Here’s the full post.
Long-Time Sesame Street Actor
McGrath featured in the pilot back in 1969 and continued to be a main character in over 47 seasons.
He made an appearance in over 150 episodes of Sesame Street and in numerous specials and two feature films, among others.
His last episode on Sesame Street was in 2017, titled Having a Ball.
Though he stopped appearing on screen, he continued his work behind the scenes at the Sesame Workshop.
He also continued to appear at public events for the franchise.
McGrath was widely known for bringing a musical element to the show and helped make original songs for the production, including People in Your Neighborhood, Sing a Song, If You’re Happy And You Know It, and even the Sesame Street theme song.
Fans and friends offer their condolences
Fans and friends of Sesame Street and Bob McGrath took to social media to share their condolences.
Actress Holly Robinson Peete who met Bobo in 1969 when her father starred on the show took to Twitter to say:
“He was the nicest, sweetest, kindest man. My brother and I got to be in this scene with him… Rest in peace, Bob McGrath. You were so loved all over the world Say hello to my pops.”
Screenwriter Brian Lynch also said, “Thank you for everything, Bob McGrath. Rest in Peace.”
Here are some other tributes:
Bob McGrath will undoubtedly be missed.
Featured Image: Facebook (Belle Gaudreau) & Facebook (Bob McGrath)
