Sesame StreetstarBob McGrathhas died aged 90, according to a post on his official Facebook page.

A follow-up tribute from the Sesame Workshop added that the nonprofit “mourns the passing of Bob McGrath, a beloved member of theSesame Streetfamily for over 50 years.”

“A founding cast member, Bob embodied the melodies ofSesame Streetlike 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,” it added.

ZACH HYMAN/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images

Rosita, Abby Cadabby, Bob McGrath, Elmo, Zoe and Grover attend SESAME WORKSHOP’S 7th Annual Benefit Gala

“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 toSesame Streetand honored that he shared so much of his life with us.”

Children’s Television Workshop/Courtesy of Getty Images

‘Sesame Street’ hosts Matt Robinson (Gordon), Will Lee (Mr. Hooper) Loretta Long (Susan) and Bob McGrath (Bob) stand with Big Bird in a promotional still on the set of the educational public television series, circa 1969

The Illinois native appeared in the 1969 pilot episode ofSesame Streetand continued to work in the show for 47 seasons as friendly music teacher Bob Johnson. His last episode was “Having a Ball” in 2017.

McGrath later returned for the show’s50th anniversary in 2019.

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In addition to singing theSesame Streettheme song, McGrath also sang other well-known children’s tunes on the iconic show such as “If You’re Happy And You Know It,” “Sing a Song” and “People in Your Neighborhood.”

source: people.com