List of Sesame Street Muppets


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Jim Henson, creator of The Muppets, in 1989.

The Muppets are a group of puppet characters created by Jim Henson, many for the purpose of appearing on the children's television program Sesame Street. Henson's involvement in Sesame Street began when he and Joan Ganz Cooney, one of the creators of the show, met in the summer of 1968, at one of the show's five three-day curriculum planning seminars in Boston. Author Christopher Finch reported that director Jon Stone, who had worked with Henson previously, felt that if they could not bring him on board, they should "make do without puppets".[1]

Jim Henson was initially reluctant, but he agreed to join Sesame Street for social goals. He also agreed to waive his performance fee for full ownership of the Sesame Street Muppets and to split any revenue they generated with the Children's Television Workshop, the series' non-profit producer.[2] The Muppets were a crucial part of the show's popularity and it brought Henson national attention.[3] In early research, the Muppet segments of the show scored high, and more Muppets were added during the first few seasons. The Muppets were effective teaching tools because children easily recognized them, they were stereotypical and predictable, and they appealed to adults and older siblings.[4]

During the production of Sesame Street's first season, producers created five one-hour episodes to test the show's appeal to children and examine their comprehension of the material. Not intended for broadcast, they were presented to preschoolers in 60 homes throughout Philadelphia and in day care centers in New York City in July 1969.[5] The results were "generally very positive";[6] children learned from the shows, their appeal was high, and children's attention was sustained over the full hour.[5] However, the researchers found that although children's attention was high during the Muppet segments, their interest wavered during the "Street" segments, when no Muppets were on screen. This was because the producers had followed the advice of child psychologists who were concerned that children would be confused if human actors and Muppets were shown together. As a result of this decision, the appeal of the test episodes was lower than the target.[6][7]

The Street scenes were "the glue" that "pulled the show together",[8] so producers knew they needed to make significant changes. The producers decided to reject the advisers' advice and reshot the Street segments; Henson and his coworkers created Muppets that could interact with the human actors,[8][9] specifically Oscar the Grouch and Big Bird, who became two of the show's most enduring characters.[10] These test episodes were directly responsible for what writer Malcolm Gladwell called "the essence of Sesame Street—the artful blend of fluffy monsters and earnest adults".[8]

Since 2001, the full rights for Muppets created for Sesame Street have been owned by Sesame Workshop (as the CTW was renamed in 2000).[11]

A

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Abby Cadabby Leslie Carrara-Rudolph[12] (2006–present) A three-year-old fairy who was created to increase the number of female Muppets. Daughter of a fairy godmother (who is spoken about but never seen), she "has her own point of view and is comfortable with the fact that she likes wearing a dress". She was designed by Ed Christie and built by Rollie Krewson.[13]
Alice Snuffleupagus Judy Sladky (1988–present) Baby sister of Aloysius Snuffleupagus ("Snuffy"). She has "luxurious, pale-golden fur", long eyelashes, and a blue-checkered hair ribbon.[14] She is half Snuffy's size. Her arms and legs are controlled by a Muppeteer, while her eyes and mouth are controlled remotely.[15]
Alistair Cookie Frank Oz (1980–1999) Played by Cookie Monster, he appeared in the parody Monsterpiece Theater. At first, he appeared with a pipe that he later ate. The pipe was removed because according to executive producer Carol-Lynn Parente, it "modeled the wrong behavior".[16] He is a parody of Alistair Cooke.
Amazing Mumford Jerry Nelson A "W.C. Fields-esque"[17]magician made from a Live-Hand Large Lavender Anything Muppet whose magic tricks often go awry. His catch phrase, and most-often used to produce his tricks, is "A-là-peanut butter sandwiches". He was designed by Jim Henson and built by Don Sahlin.[18]
Anne Phibian Fran Brill (Episode 4201) A newt made from a Green Anything Muppet who is the announcer of the game show "Find the Amphibian" which was played by Elmo and Abby Cadabby.[19]
Anything Muppets Various Performers (1969–present) Writer Christopher Finch called Anything Muppets "unadorned puppet torsos and heads" [20] used for a single role or purpose. This ever-expanding troupe of Muppets came in all shapes, sizes, and appearances.[21]
AM Monsters Various Performers (1969–present) Short for "Anything Muppet Monsters," the AM Monsters are customizable Muppet Monsters like the Anything Muppets and the Whatnots from The Muppet Show. According to writer Louise Gikow, Elmo started out as an AM Monster.[22]
Aristotle Richard Hunt A blind monster. He was designed by Michael K. Frith and built by Ed Christie.[23]
Arlene Frantic Fran Brill (1970) Appeared in the Sesame Street sketch "What's My Part". She is a parody of Arlene Francis.[24]
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B

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Baby Bear David Rudman "Borrowed from the endearing Goldilocks and the Three Bears story",[25] Rudman uses a "babyish lisp" when he voices Baby Bear.[18]
Barkley Toby Towson (1977-1978), Brian Muehl (1978-1984),[26] Fred Garver (1984-1993), Bruce Connelly (1993 – present)[27] Originally named "Woof-Woof", he is a "large, friendly, shaggy dog" owned by Linda. He was designed by Michael K. Frith and built by Susan Moore.[18][28]
Beautiful Day Monster Jim Henson, Frank Oz Appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show, this puppet was used interchangeably with Cookie Monster the first season of Sesame Street. He later crossed over to The Muppet Show.[29]
Bennett Snerf Jerry Nelson (Monster version), Caroll Spinney (Anything Muppet version) (1970) An Anything Muppet that appeared in the Sesame Street sketch "What's My Part". The first one seen is a monster that was made from a Fat Blue Anything Muppet while the second one seen was a human that was made from a Lavender Anything Muppet. He is a parody of Bennett Cerf.[24]
Benny Rabbit Kevin Clash The "irascible" rabbit who works as a bellhop at the Furry Arms Hotel (which was part of the Around-the-Corner set expansion of the 1990s).[30]
Bert Frank Oz (1969–present),[31]Eric Jacobson (1997–present)[32] (1969–) Ernie's best friend, he collects paper clips and bottle caps and is fascinated by pigeons and oatmeal. Unlike Ernie, he is tense and easily upset. His catchphrase is "Yes, I do mind!" His sketches were made by Jim Henson and he was built by Don Sahlin.[33][34]
Betty Lou Jim Henson, Frank Oz (Episode 67), Marilyn Sokol (Episodes 808 and 810), Lisa Buckley (1993), Fran Brill A Hot Pink Anything Muppet girl who has blonde braided hair, is "friendly and unassuming",[35] and owns several dolls of many sizes and elasticities.[36]
Biff Jerry Nelson[37] One-half of the Muppet construction worker duo, Biff is an "Archie Bunker-style blue-collar loudmouth" who was made from a Live-Hand Large Lavender Anything Muppet. He and his partner Sully made for a "classic comedy team". Whenever they encountered a problem, Biff would ask for Sully's opinion but interrupt him before Sully could answer, and then Sully would be the one to come up with the solution.[38]
Big Bad Wolf Jerry Nelson (1971-2002), Kevin Clash (1980s), Joey Mazzarino (1990s-2006, Episode 4309), David Rudman (Episode 3001), Martin P. Robinson (1990s-2006), Tyler Bunch (Episodes 4145, 4266), Matt Vogel (Episode 4318) The Big Bad Wolf of fairy tales that appeared occasionally. Although the Big Bad Wolf had started out blue, there had been other variations of the Big Bad Wolf with the color either being green, purple (the current one), orange, brown, and gray.[39]
Big Bird Caroll Spinney (1969–present),[40]Matt Vogel (understudy)[41] A large yellow bird that was developed during the 1968 curriculum seminars. Designed by Jim Henson and built by Kermit Love and Don Sahlin, Big Bird is a 8-foot-2-inch tall big yellow bird with a slightly quirky and naive outlook on the world. He was the first Muppet to appear on the show[42] and represents a 6-year old child who questions everything.[43][44]
Big Jeffy Jim Henson (puppeteer), Jerry Nelson (puppeteer), Kevin Clash (puppeteer, 1980s), Jeff Moss (voice) A bearded hippie made from a Fat Blue Anything Muppet who's a member of the band "Little Jerry and the Monotones". He sometimes appears as a member of "Little Chrissy and the Alphabeats". Big Jeffy's name was dedicated to Jeff Moss.
Bip Bippadotta Jim Henson The wild-haired puppet featured in the Muppet segment "Mah Nà Mah Nà". He resembles Mahna Mahna from The Muppet Show, but sports sunglasses and is made from different Anything Muppets.[45]
Bruno the Trashman Caroll Spinney Created by Spinney as a way to allow Oscar to move around and talk at the same time, Bruno is a silent trashman who doesn't talk much.[35][46]
Buster the Horse Martin P. Robinson Forgetful Jones intelligent horse, who often helps his master get out of difficulties.[35][47]
Brad Richard Hunt Bert's nephew.
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C

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Captain Breakfast Brian Muehl[48][49] (Episode 2159) An Orange Gold Anything Muppet superhero that helped promote breakfast.
Captain Vegetable Jim Henson (1982), Richard Hunt (1983-1984) A strange pink rabbit superhero who encourages people to eat their vegetables. His home base is a garden somewhere in New Jersey. He was made from a Lavender Anything Muppet during Jim Henson's portrayal and later made from a Live Hand Large Lavender Anything Muppet for Richard Hunt's portrayal.[50]
Chicago the Lion David Rudman A vegetarian lion. He was designed and built by Ed Christie.[51]
Chip and Dip Chip: Kevin Clash
Dip: Richard Hunt (1980s-1992), David Rudman (1992)		 Two cats who appeared occasionally.[52][53]
Chuckie Sue A real hamster Telly's pet hamster who was originally named Chuckie until Telly discovered she was pregnant. Afterwards he renamed her Chuckie Sue but has continued to call her Chuckie.
Clancy Richard Hunt, Brian Muehl (Episode 1405), Frank Oz, Martin P. Robinson A dark-green AM Monster who appeared occasionally.
Clementine Brian Muehl (1979-1984), Kevin Clash (1985-1988), Camille Bonora (1988-1992) A cowgirl made from a Green Anything Muppet that is Forgetful Jones' girlfriend. She would tend to get frustrated with Forgetful Jones' bad memory.[54]
Colambo Joey Mazzarino A black lamb detective inspired by Columbo. Joey Mazzarino originated this character in his audition script for "Sesame Street."[35][55]
Cookie Monster Frank Oz (1969–present),[56]David Rudman (2001-present)[57] As Sesame Unpaved says, "At first glance, Cookie Monster appears to be a monster with a one-track mind. He is deeply, emotionally, physically and spiritually attached to cookies". He was designed by Jim Henson and built by Don Sahlin.[58] He also likes to eat healthy foods.[59]
Count von Count Jerry Nelson (1972–2012), Matt Vogel (2013–present) Count von Count is a number-obsessed vampire who craves counting with a single-focused passion. He was made from a Live Hand Large Lavender Anything Muppet. He has lavender-fleece skin, bat-shaped ears, a flat black hairpiece, a red spade tongue, and wears caped formalwear. Nelson based the Count's character and exaggerated European accent on Bela Lugosi's Count Dracula.[60] An "impressive crack of thunder and flash of lightning", along with his trademark laugh, accompany his counting.[61]
The Countess Fran Brill (1980) Count von Count's actress girlfriend who was made from a Live Hand Large Lavender Anything Muppet. She has a dog named Masha. Modeled after Marlene Dietrich.[35][62]
Countess von Backwards Fran Brill (Early 1990's) Camille Bonora (1996-1997) A Live Hand Large Lavender Anything Muppet that Counts everything backwards. A loud wolf cry usually accompanies her counting.[63]
Curly Bear Stephanie D'Abruzzo[64] (2003–present)[65] Baby Bear's little sister. Created to address the issue of sibling rivalry, Curly calls her brother "Bebo" and has a very loud growl. She was designed by Ed Christie and built by Rollie Krewson.[65][66]
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D

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
David Letterguy Matt Vogel (Episode 4125) An Orange Gold Anything Muppet who is the host of "The Alphabet Roadshow". His name is a reference to David Letterman.[67]
Deena Karen Prell A red and pink monster. Described as "hyper-active", Karen Prell reported that her performance was deemed "over-the-top", so the character didn't last long. She was designed and built by Ed Christie.[68]
Dexter Kevin Clash A large monster juggler. Being a Live-Hand Muppet, Kevin Clash was assisted in performing Dexter by Fred Garver who performed Dexter's hands
Dingers Various Performers Like Honkers, Dingers communicate only through the noises they make from the bells on their head.[69]
Don Music Richard Hunt An Orange Gold Anything Muppet. He is a piano-playing composer who required assistance from Kermit to complete the lyrics to his songs. When frustrated, he would say, "Oh, I'll never get it! Never, never, never!" and bang his head on the keyboard. He had a bust of Beethoven on his piano, and as an inside joke, a framed photo of Joe Raposo hanging on the wall. He was designed by Jim Henson.[38]
Donald Grump Martin P. Robinson A Grouch that is modeled after billionaire real-estate developer Donald Trump.[70]
Dorothy A real fish Elmo's pet goldfish (born 1998). Dorothy is featured mostly on "Elmo's World".[71]
Dr. Feel Steve Whitmire (Episodes 4073 and 4077) A Pumpkin Anything Muppet who is a spoof of TV personality and author Dr. Phil McGraw.[70]
Dr. Nobel Price Brian Muehl (1979-1984), Kevin Clash (1984-1988) (1979–1988) A Live Hand Large Lavender Anything Muppet who works as an inventor. Price's inventions consisted of things, like gravity, that had already been invented. Author Louise Gikow called Price a "misguided inventor" and the "bane of reporter Kermit's existence.[69]
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E

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Elizabeth Stephanie D'Abruzzo A pig-tailed, Green Anything Muppet with a Brooklyn accent who loved the number 732 and her cat, Little Murray Sparkles.[64]
Elmo Brian Muehl (1979-1981), Richard Hunt (1981-1984), Kevin Clash (1984–2012)[72] A furry, three-and-a-half year old red monster. Created in 1979 and called "Little Monster", Elmo was performed by several people. It wasn't until Clash took over the role that Elmo became a "phenomenon" according to Clash. He was designed by Caroly Wilcox.[73][74]
Ernestine Unknown Ernie's baby cousin who was made from a Pumpkin Orange Anything Muppet. Her laugh sounds like Ernie's laugh.[75]
Ernie Jim Henson (1969–1990),[76]Steve Whitmire (1993–present)[77] Orange-colored, oval-headed, and always grinning, Ernie is a "free spirit" and a "trickster". His best friend is Bert where they share a basement apartment at 123 Sesame Street and his signature song is "Rubber Duckie". His sketches were made by Jim Henson and he was built by Don Sahlin.[78][79]
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F

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Farley Jerry Nelson A Green Anything Muppet boy with short orange spiked hair and a yellow sweater.[80]
Flo Bear David Rudman[81] A bear writer.[82]
Fluffy the Elephant Martin P. Robinson (puppeteer) Oscar the Grouch's pet elephant whose trunk is only seen sticking out of the trash can.[83]
Forgetful Jones Michael Earl Davis (1979-1981), Richard Hunt (1981-1992) A "simpleton cowboy" made from a Live Land Large Lavender Anything Muppet.[38] Forgetful Jones is the "most forgetful cowboy in the Wild Wild West".[84]
Frazzle Jerry Nelson Large orange monster Muppet with big teeth. He started out as an Anything Muppet before a permanent puppet was made for the character. Frazzle owns a pet Hot Pink Anything Muppet named Pickles.[80]
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G

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Gladys the Cow Richard Hunt (1973—1992), Jennifer Barnhart (2003—present) With her "piercing operatic voice", Sesame Street Unpaved calls her "a theatrical ham (even though she's a cow)".[85]
Googel Stephanie D'Abruzzo A purple monster who is a member of the Monster Clubhouse. She was built by Michael Schupbach.[86]
Granny Bird Caroll Spinney (voice) Big Bird's grandmother who had watched over him when he was a little bird.[87]
Granny Fanny Nestlerode Jim Henson An old lady Muppet who appeared in season 2 and was made from a Live Hand Large Lavender Anything Muppet.[88]
Grover Frank Oz (1969-present), Eric Jacobson (2001-present)[89] A "valiant, caring blue monster".[90]Sesame Street Unpaved describes Grover as "the Muppet we'd all like to be—self-confident, furry, cute, capable, and intelligent. Well, self-confident, furry, and cute, at least".[91]
Grundgetta Brian Muehl (1982—1984), Pam Arciero (1984—present)[92] Oscar the Grouch's "trashy girlfriend';[92] she calls him "Oskie". Like Oscar, she likes all things trashy and rainy.[93] She wears tattered hats and veils.[35]
Gulliver Joey Mazzarino (Episode 4021) A Seagull whose bigotry towards Snuffy resulted in being confronted by Big Bird. Gikow states that his episode was inspired by the events of 9-11.[94]
Guy Smiley Jim Henson (1969-1990),[95]Eric Jacobson (2008-present)[89] An Orange Gold Anything Muppet who is the "Extremely enthusiastic"[96]game show host with a "wide, grinning mouth and his desire to explore the lives of others without revealing his own" as Sesame Street Unpaved describes him.[97]
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H

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Harvey Kneeslapper Frank Oz A blonde and wild-eyed Live Hand Large Lavender Anything Muppet. Harvey likes puns and playing practical jokes on others.[98]
Harvey Monster Jim Henson, Richard Hunt, Frank Oz, Jerry Nelson An AM Monster who appeared occasionally. Appeared in the sketch "Near and Far" with Elmo, Clancy, and Kermit the Forg.[99]
Herbert Birdsfoot Jerry Nelson A bespectacled Lavender Anything Muppet. He is a lecturer who often appeared with Grover.[100]
Herry Monster Jerry Nelson,[101]Matt Vogel (1970—)[102] Herry is blue, big, and burly monster who doesn't know his own strength. He appears in many unscripted scenes with children, and "is written to represent a monster with the psychological age of a six-year old".[103] At first, Herry's nose was covered with light-blue fur, but in 1971, it was replaced with a non-furry blue nose, and finally with a "recognizable" purple one.[102]
Homer Honker Kathryn Mullen (1983), Tim Gosley (1985) A green Honker with blue hair.[104]
Honkers Various Performers Like Dingers, they communicate only through noises by hitting their noses where noise comes out of the horns on their heads.[69]
Hoots the Owl Kevin Clash[105] Sesame Street writer Mark Saltzman described Hoots as "the saxophone-playing jazz owl".[45] His signature song is "Put Down the Duckie". Kevin Clash based Hoots the Owl's voice after Louie Armstrong.[105]
Horatio the Elephant Joey Mazzarino An often-dancing elephant that walks on two legs. He was designed and built by Ed Christie.[106]
Howie Fran Brill A purple rabbit with pink ears and a buck tooth who was made from a Lavender Anything Muppet. Rarely featured on Sesame Street.".[104]
Humphrey David Rudman (1994–present) A monster who is the father of Natasha. He and his wife Ingrid are the hotel managers of the Furry Arms Hotel which was part of the Around-the-Corner set from 1994 to 1998.[30]
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I

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Ingrid Joey Mazzarino A monster who is the mother of Natasha. She and her husband Humphrey are the hotel managers of the Furry Arms Hotel.[30] She is a recycled version of Mona Monster and was designed by Cheryl Blaylock.
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J

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Jamie Fox Joey Mazzarino (Episode 4111) A fox who along with Elmo and Jamie Foxx try to figure out who is the real "Jamie Foxx" and sing the alphabet together.[107]
Joe Hundred Guy Joey Mazzarino (Episode 4063) An Orange Gold Anything Muppet who is a spoof of the reality show Joe Millionaire.[108]
Joey and Davey Joey: Joey Mazzarino
Davey: David Rudman		 Two monkeys that appeared occasionally. They are known to quote "bananas."[109][110]
Mr. Johnson Jerry Nelson Also called "Fat Blue", Mr. Johnson is a Fat Blue Anything Muppet who usually appears with Grover in restaurant skits as his harried customer (usually at Charlie's Restaurant).[111] Grover made up this rhyme about him: "In a hurry to be fed, beady eyes and big, blue head!"[112]
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K

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Kermit the Frog Jim Henson (1955–1990), Steve Whitmire (1990—present) One of the first Muppets designed and built by Jim Henson.[113] Borgenicht called Kermit "funny, ironic, and always the voice of reason amidst the insanity around him; the calm in the eye of the storm".[114]Gerald S. Lesser, CTW's first Advisory Board chairman, called him "the saturnine but gentlemanly puppet frog".[115]
Kingston Livingston III Kevin Clash A young African-American boy who is smart and cool, and who prefers to do his own thing.[18] Named after his father and grandfather.[116]
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L

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Lefty the Salesman Frank Oz[117] A shady-looking salesman who speaks with a whispery voice and was made from a Green Anything Muppet. He is usually performed by Frank Oz except in 2 sketches of Season 1 where he was performed by Caroll Spinney.
Little Bird Fran Brill Wise, soft-spoken, and matter-of-fact little bird who is good at explaining concepts for his friend Big Bird. He is a refurbished version of the Kenner Gooney Bird from the Kenner Toys commercial.[18][118]
Little Chrissy Jim Henson (performer), Christopher Cerf (voice) A Fat Blue Anything Muppet who is the lead singer of "Little Chrissy and the Alphabeats," he was one of the earliest Muppets based upon an actual person (Cerf).[119] Little Chrissy was also one of the Frazzletone members desgined with the early version of Harvey Monster as his monster variant[120]
Little Jerry Jerry Nelson A Green Anything Muppet who is the lead singer of the rock group "Little Jerry and the Monotones". Many of their songs were written by Jeff Moss.[119]
Little Murray Sparkles Stephanie D'Abruzzo (1998) Elizabeth's beloved pet cat.[64]
Liz Lemon Stephanie D'Abruzzo (Episode 4168) A lemon parody of Tina Fey's 30 Rock character of the same name.[121]
Louie Bill Barretta Elmo's dad. He made his first onscreen appearance in Sesame Beginnings.[122]
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M

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Mama Bear Alice Dinnean (1991-2002) Jennifer Barnhardt (2003–present) Baby Bear's mother and part of the three bear family from the fairy tale. She is the least frequently appearing member of the family. She is a recycled version of Flo Bear.
Maurice Monster Jim Henson, Richard Hunt, Jerry Nelson A light blue shaggy monster with a light green nose. He is the only Muppet to have been around that long without becoming a main character.
Mel Kevin Clash A gibberish-speaking blue monster with a mop of hair and yellow horns who is a member of the Monster Clubhouse.[86]
Meryl Sheep Camille Bonora A sheep who is a spoof of Meryl Streep. She was built by Richard Termine.[123]
Mona Monster Cheryl Blaylock A monster who is Telly Monster's sister. She was built by Cheryl Blaylock.[124]
Monty Martin P. Robinson An Orange Gold Anything Muppet. He pays a tribute to Monty Python's Flying Circus.[69]
Mr. Chatterly Jerry Nelson A Live Hand Large Lavender Anything Muppet who is the genial host of Alphabet Chat. His name is a reference to the D.H. Lawrence novel Lady Chatterley's Lover.
Mrs. Grouch Martin P. Robinson Oscar's mother, who will, literally, drop in on occasion to make sure her son is still grouchy.
Murray Monster Joey Mazzarino Host of the "Word on the Street" segment,[125] Murray is an energetic, quick-witted, outgoing, inquisitive, furry and orange Muppet.[126]
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N

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Narf Joey Mazzarino An orange monster with a blue nose who is a member of the Monster Clubhouse.[86]
Natasha Kevin Clash An infant monster who speaks only in gurgles. Natasha's parents are Humphrey and Ingrid.[18][127]
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O

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Oscar the Grouch Caroll Spinney (1969–present) Sesame Street's resident Grouch. Oscar is the ultimate pessimist, but has a soft spot for his worm Slimey.[128] One of the first Muppets created for Sesame Street, Oscar gives kids "permission to feel grouchy—and to demonstrate differing opinions". He was designed by Jim Henson and originally built by John Lovelady.[129]
Ovejita Carmen Osbahr (2008–present) A little lamb, Ovejita accompanies Murray to various schools in the segment "Murray Had a Little Lamb."[130]
Oinker Sisters Ivy Austin, Heidi Berg, and Cheryl Hardwick (voices) (1985–present) A trio of pigs based off The Pointer Sisters who sing and dance to numerous "original" songs. Their lead singer is Sooey Oinker. "The Days of Swine and Roses" is the title of an Oinker Sisters album. The pigs are known to wear sparkly green dresses with green roses on them and a sequined green bow on their 60's style hair. They have great noses.
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P

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Papa Bear Joey Mazzarino Baby Bear's father and a member of the three bear family from the fairy tale. He works at the honey factory.
Pearl Brian Muehl A brown monster who is Deena's caretaker.[131]
Phoebe Alice Dinnean (2001), John Tartaglia (2002) A green monster who is a member of the Monster Clubhouse. She was originally called Groogel in Season 32, but was later called Phoebe in Season 33.[86]
Placido Flamingo Richard Hunt An operatic flamingo who sings at the Nestropolitan Opera. He was designed and built by Richard Termine.[132]
Prairie Dawn Fran Brill A little Hot Pink Anything Muppet girl whose psychological age is that of a precocious seven-year old,[133] Prairie is methodical, driven, and a natural leader. She is famous for writing and directing pageants featuring her friends (with the pageants mostly featuring Ernie, Bert, Grover, Herry Monster, and Cookie Monster).[134]
Preposterous Kevin Clash A Groucher Spaniel that is owned by Oscar the Grouch.
Preston Rabbit Jim Martin A rabbit who often gives presents to everyone which don't normally help the person.
Prince Charming Frank Oz, Martin P. Robinson (Episode 3542) An Orange Gold Anything Muppet that resembles "Guy Smiley in prince's clothing". he is the "self-involved" prince who appears in Muppet fairy tales.[37] Another one was a Large Lavender Live Hand Anything Muppet who appeared in episode 3542.
Professor Hastings Frank Oz A bespectacled and old Fat Blue Anything Muppet professor with white hair who gives comically confused lectures, losing track of the subject and falling into short naps. Kermit often acts as his assistant, keeping him awake and reminding the absent-minded professor of the topic of his lecture.[135] He was removed from the show because he was too dull.[136]
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R

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Roosevelt Franklin Matt Robinson (voice) A little reddish-magenta Anything Muppet who attended Roosevelt Franklin Elementary School and was so popular, he recorded his own album. He was removed from the show because "he was thought by some to be a negative cultural stereotype".[136]
Roosevelt Franklin's Mother Loretta Long (voice) A purple Anything Muppet who is the mother of Roosevelt Franklin.[136]
Rosita Carmen Osbahr (1991—present) The first bilingual Muppet on Sesame Street, Rosita speaks both English and Spanish. She is a "good-natured, intelligent turquoise Muppet" and her full name is Rosita, la Monstrua de las Cuevas (translated as "Rosita, the Monster of the Caves").[18] She was originally envisioned as a fruit bat, but later redesigned as a normal monster. She was designed and built by Ed Christie.[137]
Roxie Marie Fran Brill A Lavender Anything Muppet who is the niece to construction worker Biff.[69]
Ruby Camille Bonora A yellow monster that is always curious and loves to conduct experiments. She also likes to play with toy trucks.[138]
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S

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
SAM the Robot Jerry Nelson A robot who is supposedly perfect, SAM is prone to silly mistakes. His name is an acronym for "Super Automated Machine". He was designed by Jim Henson.[48]
Sherlock Hemlock Jerry Nelson Based on Basil Rathbone's movie portrayal of Sherlock Holmes, Sherlock is a Green Anything Muppet detective who solves mysteries by "concentrating on the little clues and overlooking the big ones" that his dog Watson tends to find.[35]
Sherry Netherland Julianne Buescher (1993-1996), Alice Dinnean (1996-1998) The "Leona Helmsley of the Furry Arms Hotel" where she is its owner. She rules with "an iron fist, a heart of gold, and a brain of oatmeal". Her name is a reference to the Sherry-Netherland Hotel in New York City. She was designed and built by Mark Zeszotek.[37]
Simon Soundman Jerry Nelson (1970) A Fat Blue Anything Muppet who first appeared in season 2. He uses sounds in sentences. Example: "I would like to buy a "POUND! POUND! POUND!" (referring to a hammer). In one sketch at Charlie's Restaurant where Simon Soundman was waited on by Grover, it was implied that Simon Soundman is the brother of Mr. Johnson.[88]
Slimey the Worm Jerry Nelson (1970–1978), Michael Earl Davis (1978–1980), Martin P. Robinson (1980–present),[139] Dick Maitland (voice)[140] A worm who is the smallest and smartest character on Sesame Street. When he first appeared, he spoke in just squeaky sounds. He later became the only Muppet not voiced by a puppeteer.[141]
Aloysius Snuffleupagus (AKA "Snuffy") Jerry Nelson (1971–1978), Michael Earl Davis (1978–1980), Martin P. Robinson (1980–present), Bryant Young (rear end)[139] (1971–) Created to represent the psychological age of a four-year old, Snuffy at seven feet tall and twelve feet wide is the largest Muppet on Sesame Street. He was Big Bird's "imaginary friend" until 1985, when he was finally revealed to the adult cast.[142][143]
Sonny Friendly Richard Hunt (1986-1992), David Rudman (1992-2000) The Pat Sajak of Sesame Street, whom he resembles, he is "America's Friendliest Game Show Host".[37] His catch phrase is, "Are we having a nice day or what?"[144]
Stuie Monster Richard Hunt (Episode 812) A maroon and yellow monster who appears in the song "Fur".
Sully Richard Hunt (1973-1992), David Rudman (1992-present) A Pumpkin Anything Muppet who is one-half of the Muppet construction worker duo and Biff's silent counterpart. He is oe of Richard Hunt's most "understated and complex" characters.[38]
Stinky the Stinkweed Joey Mazzarino A talking stinkweed[disambiguation needed] plant that lives in a smelly lot. Despite being a stinkweed plant he is actually very friendly and does not mind asking for a favor.
Super Grover Frank Oz (1969-2001), Eric Jacobson (2001-present) Grover's superhero alter ego who often more well-meaning than helpful.[90]
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T

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Telly Monster Bob Payne (1979), Brian Muehl (1979-1984), Martin P. Robinson (1984–present) Originally named "the Television Monster" because he was obsessed with TV, his name was changed to Telly and his obsession became triangles. Telly is "the Woody Allen of Muppets: the neurotic one, the one who overthinks everything, the worrier". The original Telly Monster puppet was built by Bob Payne.[145]
The Twiddlebugs Thomas Twiddlebug: Jim Henson (1973-1990)
Tessie Twiddlebug: Frank Oz (1973-1990)
Tina Twiddlebug: Jerry Nelson (1973-1990)
Timmy Twiddlebug: Richard Hunt (1973-1990)		 (1973-) A family of cute and innovative bugs (consisting of Tina, Thomas, Timmy, and Tessie) that live in a flower box on Ernie's windowsill.[37] They use tiny found objects as their furniture and toys. The Twiddlebugs later appeared in CGI by 2006 where they were animated by Magnetic Dreams Animation Studio and were all voiced by Rickey Boyd.[146]
Two-Headed Monster Right Head: Richard Hunt (1980-1992), David Rudman (1992 – present)
Left Head: Jerry Nelson (1980-2002), Joey Mazzarino (2003 – present)[37][81]		 A purple monster with two heads. They teach young viewers how to cooperate while speaking in a baby-like, gibberish language. They were designed by Jim Henson and built by Caroly Wilcox.[37]
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W

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Watson Kevin Clash Sherlock Hemlock's faithful dog. He is named after Dr. Watson.
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Y

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Yip Yips (1971)[49] Jim Henson, Frank Oz, Jerry Nelson, Richard Hunt, Martin P. Robinson, Kevin Clash, David Rudman, Julianne Buescher, John Tartaglia, Eric Jacobson, Matt Vogel, Leslie Carrara-Rudolph Nickname for Martians with a jellyfish-like appearance who speak in simple, declarative phrases that are a mixture of Martian and English.[147] They "valiantly explore our world despite their frequent terrifying encounters with everyday objects like telephones, clocks, and computers".[148]
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Z

Character Actor/Muppeteer Description
Zoe Fran Brill (1993—present) Introduced to increase the number of strong female characters on Sesame Street, Zoe is an orange monster who is "simultaneously dainty and strong, practical and impulsive".[149] She loves dancing and ballet and usually wears a bright tutu since 2002. She was designed by Ed Christie and built by Rollie Krewson.[150]
Zostic Joey Mazzarino An evil monster that is the primary antagonist of the "Super Morphin Mega Monsters" segments. He would use his power to cause young monsters to do bad things until it is undone by the Super Morphin Mega Monsters (consisting of Elmo, Rosita, Telly, and Zoe)
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See also

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Notes

  1. ^ Finch, p. 53
  2. ^ Davis, p. 5
  3. ^ Morrow, p. 93
  4. ^ Morrow, pp. 94–95
  5. ^ a b Lesser, p. 164
  6. ^ a b Finch, p. 39
  7. ^ Gladwell, p. 105
  8. ^ a b c Gladwell, p. 106
  9. ^ Fisch & Bernstein, pp. 39–40
  10. ^ Fisch & Bernstein, p. 40
  11. ^ Retsinas, Greg (May 8, 2003). "Hensons Buying Back the Muppets for $89 Million". The New York Times. Retrieved 2011-12-07. 
  12. ^ "Abby Cadabby". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-24. 
  13. ^ Dominus, Susan (August 6, 2006). "A Girly-Girl Joins the 'Sesame' Boys". New York Times. Retrieved 2009-06-19. 
  14. ^ Hellman, Peter (November 23, 1987). "Street smart: How Big Bird & Co. do it". New York Magazine 20 (46): 48. Retrieved 2009-06-20. 
  15. ^ "Alice Snuffleupagus". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-25. 
  16. ^ Heffernan, Virginia (November 18, 2007). "Sweeping the Clouds Away". New York Times. Retrieved 2010-11-04. 
  17. ^ "Mumford the Magician". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-11. 
  18. ^ a b c d e f g Borgenicht, p. 132
  19. ^ "Sesame Street Amphibian Show". New York Times. Retrieved 2010-11-05. 
  20. ^ Finch, p. 64
  21. ^ Lesser, p. 127
  22. ^ Gikow, p. 100
  23. ^ Gikow, p. 181
  24. ^ a b Episode 0131 (1970-11-09), in Old School, Volume 1 (Disc 2) [DVD] (2006), Children's Television Workshop
  25. ^ "Baby Bear". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-26. 
  26. ^ Gikow, p. 70
  27. ^ Gikow, p. 93
  28. ^ "Barkley the Dog". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-26. 
  29. ^ Gikow, p. 41
  30. ^ a b c Gikow, p. 207
  31. ^ Finch, p. 59
  32. ^ Chapman, Grace (2009-11-06). "Behind the Scenes of Sesame Street". The Independent. Retrieved 2011-07-25. 
  33. ^ Finch, p. 61
  34. ^ "Bert". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-24. 
  35. ^ a b c d e f g Borgenicht, p. 131
  36. ^ "Betty Lou". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-26. 
  37. ^ a b c d e f g Borgenicht, p. 133
  38. ^ a b c d Davis, p. 242
  39. ^ http://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/tv-shows/Sesame-Street/Big-Bad-Wolf-/
  40. ^ Gikow, p. 48
  41. ^ Gikow, p. 141
  42. ^ "Big Bird". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-24. 
  43. ^ Borgenicht, p. 33
  44. ^ Gikow, p. 51
  45. ^ a b Gikow, p. 231
  46. ^ "Bruno". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-26. 
  47. ^ "Buster the Horse". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-24. 
  48. ^ a b Gikow, p. 92
  49. ^ a b Gikow, p. 105
  50. ^ "Captain Vegetable - Muppets". Sesame Street. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  51. ^ "Voice of Chicago the Lion". Behind The Voice Actors. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  52. ^ "Voice of Chip". Behind The Voice Actors. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  53. ^ "Voice of Dip the Cat". Behind The Voice Actors. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  54. ^ http://www.sesamestreet.org/muppets/clementine
  55. ^ "Colambo". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-27. 
  56. ^ Davis, p. 246
  57. ^ Fischer, Shoshana Lewin (2008-05-29). "The Town that Bunnies Built". Jewish Journal. Retrieved 2009-09-09. 
  58. ^ Borgenicht, p. 65
  59. ^ Davis, p. 239
  60. ^ "Count Von Count". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-27. 
  61. ^ "Countess Darling von Darling". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-27. 
  62. ^ "Countess Von Backwards". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-27. 
  63. ^ a b c Gikow, p. 134
  64. ^ a b Gikow, p. 164
  65. ^ "Curly Bear". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-27. 
  66. ^ Whitlock, Natalie Walker. "How Elmo Works: Elmo's World Episode Guide". Discovery.com. Retrieved 2010-11-15. 
  67. ^ Howard, Brendan (August 20, 2006). "Puppeteer Loved to 'Rock'". Home Media Magazine. Retrieved 2009-10-11. 
  68. ^ a b c d e Gikow, p. 104
  69. ^ a b "Donald Trump becomes a Muppet, Donald Grump". CBC News. February 11, 2005. Retrieved 2010-11-19. [dead link]
  70. ^ Whitlock, Natalie Walker. "How Elmo Works: Behind the Scenes of Elmo's World". Discovery.com. Retrieved 2009-09-09. 
  71. ^ Clash, p. 2
  72. ^ Clash, pp. 1–3, 9
  73. ^ "Elmo". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-27. 
  74. ^ "Ernestine". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2012-04-10. 
  75. ^ Davis, p. 166
  76. ^ Twardzik, Cathleen (200–02–22). ""Who is the fellow that's fluffy and yellow?"– Caroll Spinney". Somerville News. Retrieved 2009-10-12. 
  77. ^ Borgenicht, pp. 21, 25
  78. ^ "Ernie". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-30. 
  79. ^ a b Episode 0536 (1973-11-17), in Old School, Volume 1 (Disc 3) [DVD] (2006), Children's Television Workshop
  80. ^ a b Gikow, p. 103
  81. ^ "Voice of Flo Bear". Behind The Voice Actors. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  82. ^ "Fluffy - Muppets". Sesame Street. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  83. ^ "Forgetful Jones". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-30. 
  84. ^ Borgnicht, p. 134
  85. ^ a b c d "Monster Club House - Muppets". Sesame Street. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  86. ^ "Granny Bird". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2012-03-21. 
  87. ^ a b Episode 0406 (1972-11-27), in Old School, Volume 1 (Disc 3) [DVD] (2006), Children's Television Workshop
  88. ^ a b Gikow, p. 140
  89. ^ a b "Grover". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-30. 
  90. ^ Borgenicht, p. 46
  91. ^ a b Davis, p. 322
  92. ^ "Grundgetta". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-03. 
  93. ^ Gikow, p. 161
  94. ^ Gikow, p. 43
  95. ^ "Guy Smiley". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-03. 
  96. ^ Borgenicht, p. 98
  97. ^ "Harvey Kneeslapper". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-03. 
  98. ^ Whitlock, Natalie Walker. "Introduction to How Elmo Works". Discovery.com. Retrieved 2010-11-05. 
  99. ^ Episode 0276 (1971-11-08), in Old School, Volume 1 (Disc 2) [DVD] (2006), Children's Television Workshop
  100. ^ Borgenicht, p. 102
  101. ^ a b "Herry Monster". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-05. 
  102. ^ Borgenicht, p. 103
  103. ^ a b "Behind The Voice Actors - Fran Brill". BTVA. Retrieved 2011-08-04. 
  104. ^ a b "Hoots the Owl". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-05. 
  105. ^ Gikow, p. 63
  106. ^ Spin Staff (July 26, 2006). "Legend, Foxx Hangin' on 'Sesame Street'". Spin. Retrieved 2010-12-24. 
  107. ^ Sheff, Jean (May 2004). "Sesame Street Turns 35 -Part 3". Parenthood.com. Retrieved 2010-12-25. 
  108. ^ "Voice of Joey Monkey". Behind The Voice Actors. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  109. ^ "Voice of Davey Monkey". Behind The Voice Actors. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  110. ^ Gikow, p. 197
  111. ^ "Mr. Johnson". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-30. 
  112. ^ Finch, p. 37
  113. ^ Borgenicht, p. 89
  114. ^ Lesser, p. 113
  115. ^ "Kingston Livingston III". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-08. 
  116. ^ Gikow, p. 45
  117. ^ "Little Bird". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-08. 
  118. ^ a b Gikow, p. 226
  119. ^ Monster variant of Little Chrissy
  120. ^ Williams, Mary Elizabeth (October 12, 2010). "The Viral Genius of "Sesame Street"". Salon. Retrieved 2011-01-06. 
  121. ^ "Louie - Muppets". Sesame Street. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  122. ^ "Voice of Meryl Sheep". Behind The Voice Actors. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  123. ^ "Voice of Mona Monster". Behind The Voice Actors. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  124. ^ Gikow, p. 150
  125. ^ "Murray Monster". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-11. 
  126. ^ "Baby Natasha". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-24. 
  127. ^ "Oscar". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-11. 
  128. ^ Gikow, p. 157
  129. ^ Gikow, p. 133
  130. ^ "Voice of Pearl". Behind The Voice Actors. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  131. ^ "Placido Flamingo - Muppets". Sesame Street. Retrieved 2012-11-01. 
  132. ^ Borgenicht, p. 76–77
  133. ^ "Prairie Dawn". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-11. 
  134. ^ "Professor Hastings". IMDB.org. Retrieved 2011-12-12. 
  135. ^ a b c Borgnicht, p. 135
  136. ^ "Rosita". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-11. 
  137. ^ http://www.sesamestreet.org/muppets/ruby
  138. ^ a b Gikow, p. 94
  139. ^ Gikow, p. 34
  140. ^ Gikow, pp. 34, 36
  141. ^ Borgenicht, p. 38
  142. ^ "Aloysius Snuffleupagus". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-03-24. 
  143. ^ "Sonny Friendly". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-11. 
  144. ^ Borgenicht, p. 78
  145. ^ "The Twiddlebugs". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-12. 
  146. ^ Borgenicht, p. 73
  147. ^ "The Yip-Yips (Martians)". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-11. 
  148. ^ Borgenicht, p. 87
  149. ^ "Zoe". Sesame Street.org. Retrieved 2011-04-12. 
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References

  • Borgenicht, David (1998). Sesame Street Unpaved. New York: Hyperion Publishing. ISBN 0-7868-6460-5
  • Clash, Kevin, Gary Brozek & Louis Henry Mitchell (2006). My Life as a Furry Red Monster: What Being Elmo Has Taught Me about Life, Love and Laughing Out Loud. New York: Random House. ISBN 0-7679-2375-8
  • Davis, Michael (2008). Street Gang: The Complete History of Sesame Street. New York: Viking Penguin. ISBN 978-0-670-01996-0
  • Finch, Christopher (1993). Jim Henson: The Works: the Art, the Magic, the Imagination. New York: Random House. ISBN 0-679-41203-4
  • Fisch, Shalom M.; Lewis Bernstein, "Formative Research Revealed: Methodological and Process Issues in Formative Research". In Fisch, Shalom M. & Truglio, Rosemarie T.. G" is for Growing: Thirty Years of Research on Children and Sesame Street. Mahweh, New Jersey: Lawrence Erlbaum Publishers. ISBN 978-0-8058-3394-2.
  • Gikow, Louise A. (2009). Sesame Street: A Celebration—Forty Years of Life on the Street. New York: Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers. ISBN 978-1-57912-638-4.
  • Gladwell, Malcolm (2000). The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference. New York: Little, Brown, and Company. ISBN 0-316-31696-2
  • Lesser, Gerald S. (1974). Children and Television: Lessons from Sesame Street. New York: Vintage Books. ISBN 0-394-71448-2
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Last modified on 18 May 2013, at 23:25