Bob McGrath, the iconic original cast member of Sesame Street, was a beloved figure in the world of children’s entertainment. His passing on that peaceful Sunday was not only the end of a remarkable life but also a significant moment for countless individuals whose childhoods were enriched by his contributions. When we dig deeper into Bob McGrath’s legacy, we find a story of dedication, creativity, and lasting impact that transcends generations.
A lifelong commitment to children’s education
From his beginnings on Sesame Street to his later years as a revered icon, Bob McGrath’s journey has been marked by an unwavering commitment to educating children. His career spanned nearly five decades, during which he played a key role in shaping the minds of young audiences.
Bob’s appearance on Sesame Street in 1969 was the beginning of an incredible adventure. He was cast as “Bob,” a character who embodied the qualities he held dear—kindness, patience, and a deep love of learning. His warm smile and friendly demeanor made him an instant favorite among young viewers.
Over the years, Bob’s character has become a role model for children in the United States and around the world. He taught life lessons, encouraged creativity, and imparted valuable knowledge through television. His screen presence was more than entertainment; it was a form of education that resonated with both parents and children.
McGrath appeared in the 1969 pilot episode of Sesame Street.
He then fulfilled his promise for the children’s show by participating in 47 seasons of the popular program until his retirement. “Having a Ball” was the title of his last episode of Sesame Street, which ran in 2017.
McGrath appeared in over 150 episodes of Sesame Street during his tenure on the program. He starred in two Sesame Street feature films along with several straight-to-Sesame Street credits.
Facebook was the venue for social media announcements from McGrath’s family after the icon died last Sunday.
Bob McGrath, our father, passed away today. He died quietly at home, surrounded by his loved ones, according to the performer’s Facebook post.
McGrath was a puppeteer who appreciated using puppets to teach children important skills. As a composer, he has composed numerous songs for Sesame Street, such as Sing a Music, People in Your Neighborhood If You’re Happy and You Know It, and the theme music that has been performed for the show for years.
He was hired as one of the four original actors for Sesame Street when the program first debuted in 1969. Alongside other legendary Sesame Street characters such as Matt Robinson as Gordon, Loretta Long as Susan, and Will Lee as Mr. Hooper, he portrayed his namesake Bob.
McGrath discussed his time on Sesame Street with the Sun-Times in 1998. “We always looked at the kids as little people,” he said. We never underestimated them. I believe we reached the children we wanted to reach. Now they are adults.
They are now 30 years old. They approach me with their own children, our Sesame Seeds, and say, “Thank you very much.” It had a significant impact on our lives.
After he stopped appearing on Sesame Street in 2017, he remained involved in the production as a member of Sesame Workshop.
Peace Be With American Childhood Icon
Edited by Alice Edwards on October 16, 2023
Bob McGrath, one of the original Sesame Street cast members, died Sunday quietly at home “surrounded by his family.” In addition to writing the show’s famous theme tune, the veteran Sesame Street actor starred in 47 seasons of the popular children’s show. He died “peacefully” at his home in New Jersey at the age of 91 after a long career entertaining children as a beloved character on the popular PBS program Sesame Street.
McGrath appeared in the 1969 pilot episode of Sesame Street.
He then fulfilled his promise for the children’s show by participating in 47 seasons of the popular program until his retirement. “Having a Ball” was the title of his last episode of Sesame Street, which ran in 2017.
McGrath appeared in over 150 episodes of Sesame Street during his tenure on the program. He starred in two Sesame Street feature films along with several straight-to-Sesame Street credits.
Facebook was the venue for social media announcements from McGrath’s family after the icon died last Sunday.
Bob McGrath, our father, passed away today. He died quietly at home, surrounded by his loved ones, according to the performer’s Facebook post.
McGrath was a puppeteer who appreciated using puppets to teach children important skills. As a composer, he has composed numerous songs for Sesame Street, such as Sing a Music, People in Your Neighborhood If You’re Happy and You Know It, and the theme music that has been performed for the show for years.
He was hired as one of the four original actors for Sesame Street when the program first debuted in 1969. Alongside other legendary Sesame Street characters such as Matt Robinson as Gordon, Loretta Long as Susan, and Will Lee as Mr. Hooper, he portrayed his namesake Bob.
When McGrath first joined Sesame Street in 1998, he told the Sun-Times, “We always looked at kids as little people.” We never underestimated them. I believe we reached the children we wanted to reach. Now they are adults.
They are now 30 years old. They approach me with their own children, our Sesame Seeds, and say, “Thank you very much.” It had a significant impact on our lives.
After he stopped appearing on Sesame Street in 2017, he remained involved in the production as a member of Sesame Workshop.
In their own social media tributes, other artists such as Josh Gad paid tribute to Bob McGrath.
Gad wrote: “I grew up in McGrath.
We appreciate your help in passing on kindness, respect, love, and empathy. You were as much a teacher to my generation as any of our real teachers. RIP.
Sesame Gang: How We Got to Sesame Street, a documentary released in 2021, covered McGrath’s last appearance on Sesame Street.
McGrath’s surviving family members are his wife Ann, their three children, and five grandchildren.
Tribute to social networks
News of Bob McGrath’s death spread on social media and tributes poured in from fellow performers, admirers, and those whose lives were touched by his work. The outpouring of love and appreciation is proof of the lasting impact of his contribution to the education of children.
Josh Gad, known for his roles in Disney’s “Frozen” and other prominent projects, expressed his gratitude and affection for Bob McGrath on social media. His message resonated with many who grew up with Sesame Street and the beloved Bob.
A lasting legacy
Bob McGrath’s journey has been one of dedication, creativity, and profound impact. His legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those he touched through his work. His contributions to children’s education and the world of entertainment continue to inspire new generations.
When we remember Bob McGrath, we celebrate a life well lived, a commitment to the betterment of young minds, and a legacy that will endure for years to come. His work on Sesame Street remains a beacon of light in the world of children’s television, a reminder of the power of education, kindness, and the joy of learning.
In his memory, we can all strive to embody the values ​​he held dear—to be kind, patient, and loving teachers not only to our own children but to all the young minds we encounter. Bob McGrath’s work will forever remind us of the profound difference we can make in children’s lives, one lesson, one song, and one smile at a time.