Bob McGrath Dead: Iconic Sesame Street cast member dies at 90

Maria Leaf

December 04, 09:30 PM December 04, 10:04 PM

Actor Bob McGrath, one of the original cast members of the children's television show Sesame Street has died at the age of 90.

McGrath joined the PBS show in 1969 and was known to millions as Bob Johnson on the show. He was last seen on the air in 2017, but remained with the company via public appearances in the years following.

The announcement of his death was made on his facebook page by his family.

"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," the statement read.

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Sesame Workshop also honored McGrath's on their social media. "A founding cast member, Bob embodied the melodies of Sesame Street like no one else, and his performances brought joy and wonder to generations of children around the world, whether teaching them the ABCs, the people in their neighborhood, or the simple joy of feeling music in their hearts.

A revered performer worldwide, Bob’s rich tenor filled airwaves and concert halls from Las Vegas to Saskatchewan to Tokyo many times over. We will be forever grateful for his many years of passionate creative contributions to Sesame Street and honored that he shared so much of his life with us," the post read.

McGrath may be best known for his songs on Sesame Street including 'People in your neighborhood', which would highlight the various jobs people in a neighborhood can have.

“Not only is it a great job working with great people, but knowing the impact that ‘Sesame Street’ has had on millions of kids all over the world has to be the most gratifying thing that anyone could possibly hope for. Having the opportunity of doing this has been phenomenal,” McGrath said in a 2004 interview.

Fellow cast member Alan Muraoka shared a photo taken with McGrath last summer in his tribute.

"Just heard the news that dear Bob McGrath has passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Words cannot begin to express what Bob meant to me: a role model, a mentor, a friend. His kindness and wicked sense of humor were such a joy, and I loved him so much. We all gathered in July to wish him a happy 90th birthday, and that was the last time Herb and I saw him. Rest well my friend. You did good."

McGrath leaves behind his wife, Ann, five children, five granddaughters, and three grandsons.