Bob McGrath facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Bob McGrath
Born	Robert Emmett McGrath (1932-06-13)June 13, 1932 Ottawa, Illinois, U.S.
Died	December 4, 2022(2022-12-04) (aged 90) Norwood, New Jersey, U.S.
Alma mater	University of Michigan Manhattan School of Music
Occupation	Actor singer author
Years active	1954–2022
Television	Bob Johnson on Sesame Street (1969–2016, 2019)
Spouse(s)	Ann Logan Sperry ​ (m. 1958)​
Children	5

Robert Emmett McGrath (born June 13, 1932 – died December 4, 2022) was an American actor, singer, and author. He was best known for playing the character Bob Johnson on the popular children's TV show Sesame Street. He was one of the first human characters on the show, appearing from 1969 to 2016, and again in 2019.

Early Life and Education

Bob McGrath was born on June 13, 1932, in Ottawa, Illinois. His mother played the piano, and Bob loved to sing for his family. He even won second place in a talent show at the Roxy Theater.

He went to the University of Michigan and studied music. While there, he was part of the University of Michigan Men's Glee Club. After college, he joined the United States Army. He spent two years in Germany, performing with the Seventh Army Symphony Orchestra. Later, he earned a master's degree in music from the Manhattan School of Music in 1959.

Career Highlights

Bob McGrath had a long and interesting career.

Singing and Early TV

From 1960 to 1964, Bob was a featured singer on the TV show Sing Along with Mitch. He also became a popular recording artist in Japan in the mid-1960s. He released many successful albums of folk songs sung in Japanese. This was a fun "secret" he shared when he appeared on game shows like To Tell the Truth and I've Got a Secret.

Sesame Street Role

Bob McGrath joined Sesame Street when it first started in 1969. He played the friendly music teacher, Bob Johnson. He was one of the longest-running human characters on the show, along with Loretta Long, who played Susan.

In 2016, it was announced that Bob would not be returning for new episodes. However, he continued to represent Sesame Street at public events. He also came back for the show's 50th Anniversary TV special in 2019.

Bob said his two favorite moments on Sesame Street were the Christmas special Christmas Eve on Sesame Street (1978) and the 1983 episode that talked about the death of character Mr. Hooper. This episode helped many children understand loss.

Bob McGrath in 2007

Other Achievements

Bob McGrath was involved in many other projects.

Charity Work

For 38 years, Bob was a regular guest on Telemiracle. This is a telethon in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan that raises money for people with special needs. He received special awards for his dedication, including the Commemorative Medal for the Centennial of Saskatchewan in 2006.

Children's Books

Bob also wrote several children's books. Some of his well-known titles include Uh Oh! Gotta Go! (1996) and OOPS! Excuse Me Please! (2006).

Awards and Recognition

In 1995, he received an award from the Foundation for Contemporary Arts. His album Sing Me a Story was nominated for a Children's Album of the Year award in 2008. In 2010, he was the first person to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the University of Michigan Men's Glee Club.

Personal Life and Passing

Bob McGrath married his wife, Ann, in 1958. They had five children, five granddaughters, and three grandsons. They lived in Teaneck, New Jersey, for many years before moving to Norwood, New Jersey.

Bob McGrath passed away at home on December 4, 2022, at the age of 90. He died from complications of a stroke.

Filmography

See also

In Spanish: Bob McGrath para niños