Bob McGrath, beloved member of the Sesame Street dies

Photo: Sesame Workshop

Bob McGrath, a beloved member of the Sesame Street family for over 50 years, has died at age 90.

In a statement Sesame Workshop, the creators of Sesame Street said 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 neighbourhood, 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.

Photo: Sesame Workshop

Sesame Street Writer Annie Evans said “Bob was one of the most wonderful people to work with.

On the set, he was funny, kind, professional and a joy to be around. He's now off to sing in the celestial choir.”

He was featured in the pilot in 1969, playing hims

elf, and went on to work in an additional 47 seasons. He stopped acting on 'Sesame Street' in 2017.

While Bob stepped away from appearing on-camera for 'Sesame Street' in recent years ... he continued to work with Sesame Workshop -- the company that runs the franchise -- by going to public events and serving as an advocate.

Bob starred in countless 'Sesame Street' productions over the years -- including standalone films, sing-alongs, holiday specials, video games and more. He was one of the longest-standing human adult cast members on the series. He's survived by his wife and kids.