Generations Of ‘Sesame Street’ Fans Are Reacting To The News Of Big Bird Actor Caroll Spinney’s Death

On Sunday afternoon, Sesame Street broke the news of Caroll Spinney’s death on Twitter and in an official statement. The actor and puppeteer, who was 85 years old, had joined the program back in 1969 and helped to create and perform the characters Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch from then on to his retirement late last year. Now, Sesame Street fans of all shapes, sizes, and generations are reacting to the show’s sad announcement on social media.

— Sesame Street (@sesamestreet) December 8, 2019

Many came from journalists and writers who, whether for numerous profile pieces or their own edification, had had the privilege of meeting and speaking with Spinney.

— Dave Itzkoff (@ditzkoff) December 8, 2019

The amazing Caroll Spinney, the puppeteer of both Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch, has died. I once had the incredible experience of talking with him—and Oscar—at a party as he switched between voices. "I'm having a rotten time!" Oscar said. ❤️https://t.co/TwA72tS6Dw

— Sarah Larson (@asarahlarson) December 8, 2019

I had the pleasure of speaking with Caroll Spinney on many occasions and was always touched by the interest he took in other people. After telling him a story about my love of Big Bird as a kid, he left me a voicemail—as Big Bird—that I'll never forget. https://t.co/qrKz36LqvE

— Jennifer M. Wood (@j_m_wood) December 8, 2019

Others were written by actors and various Hollywood professionals, like Seinfeld‘s Jason Alexander, Frozen 2‘s Josh Gad, and more.

— jason alexander (@IJasonAlexander) December 8, 2019

For close to three generations Caroll Spinney has taught us kindness, love, respect, joy and friendship. Thank you for your brilliance. May you and Jim Henson find eachother and make the heavens smile. pic.twitter.com/PsxYJMNtdH

— Josh Gad (@joshgad) December 8, 2019

And while a few fans who were able to meet Spinney at various conventions and other gatherings began sharing their photos with the puppeteer…