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Sad Day for Anyone Who Grew Up on ‘Sesame Street,’ as Man Who Created Many of the Show’s Beloved Characters Dies at Age 78

Aug 24, 2012  •  Post A Comment

The man who created dozens of Muppet characters over the past 40 years has died, reports TheWrap.com.

His name was Jerry Nelson, and if you grew up with "Sesame Street," you knew his work. For one, he created Count von Count. And while he retired from being the puppeteer who operated the Count in 2004, he continued doing the Count’s voice until his death. 

In a statement on the "Sesame Street" website, a message from the group read, "The cast and crew of ‘Sesame Street’ and the staff of Sesame Workshop deeply mourn the loss of cast member and creator of dozens of Muppet characters, Jerry Nelson.

"A member of the ‘Sesame Street’ family for more than 40 years, he will forever be in our hearts and remembered for the artistry in his puppetry, his music, and the laughter he brought to children worldwide through his portrayal of Count von Count, Herry Monster, Fat Blue, Sherlock Hemlock, the Amazing Mumford and many other beloved characters. We will miss his extraordinary spirit and the joy he brought to our Street."

Nelson died Thursday at 78 of unspecified causes, People.com reports.

People, citing CBC Radio-Canada, adds: “Besides the non-threatening vampire, Nelson, a Tulsa native who grew up in Washington, D.C., also performed Gobo Fraggle on ‘Fraggle Rock’ and ‘The Muppet Show’s’ Sgt. Floyd Pepper of the Electric Mayhem band; ‘Pigs in Space’ stalwart Dr. Julius Strangepork; Kermit the Frog’s nephew Robin; and Gonzo’s girlfriend Camilla the Chicken, among other roles.”

jerry-nelson-count.jpgJerry Nelson with Count von Count

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