The Life Of Caroll Spinney!

Welcome to a SPECIAL EDITION of the Piece Of Advice Newsletter!

Good morning! I hope you had an amazing Christmas! Today is the birthday of the late and great, Caroll Spinney who originated and portrayed iconic Sesame Street characters like Oscar the Grouch and Big Bird. I was able to ask a  few questions to his beloved widow, Debra Spinney and to his ex coworkers and friends of many years, Pam Arciero, Alan Muraoka, and Sonia Manzano!

Caroll Spinney, the legendary puppeteer behind Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch, brought heart, humor, and imagination to millions of children for nearly 50 years on “Sesame Street”. From the show’s very first episode in 1969, Caroll’s warm, thoughtful portrayal of Big Bird helped young viewers navigate the world with curiosity and compassion, while his grouchy; but lovable; Oscar offered comic relief and a lesson in accepting all kinds of personalities. His talent and heart made him one of the most treasured figures in children’s television history.

In addition to his groundbreaking work on “Sesame Street”, Caroll collaborated with Jim Henson and the “Muppets” team on countless specials and public appearances. Whether in costume on stage or voicing characters behind the scenes, Caroll’s range and dedication made him a standout performer. He was honored with numerous awards over his career, and more importantly, he earned the deep love and respect of audiences around the globe.

Caroll’s personal life was just as inspiring as his professional one. He met his beloved wife Debra in the early 1970s at a “Sesame Street” event, and their connection was immediate. Debra later joined him on tour, supporting his physically demanding work and becoming an integral part of his life and career. Their relationship was filled with love, teamwork, and shared creativity; making them a beloved duo behind the scenes of Big Bird’s adventures.

Caroll passed away in 2019, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of kindness, laughter, and unforgettable characters. Debra continues to hold his memory close, often speaking fondly of their life together and the joy they shared in bringing magic to children’s lives. Through her stories and the continued impact of his work, Caroll Spinney’s spirit lives on; reminding us all to look at the world with wonder, no matter our age.

Bonus Question for Sonia Manzano, Alan Muraoka, and Pam Arciero:

Giancarlo: What was it like working with Caroll Spinney?

Sonia Manzano: Working with Caroll Spinney was a joy! He was kind and thoughtful in every way.

Pam Arciero: Caroll was the most warm, funny, and delightful weirdo. He truly was Big Bird and he truly was Oscar. It made for so much fun to be with him. And he was a wonderful storyteller. I still miss him everyday.

Alan Muraoka: Caroll was one of the kindest people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing, working with, and being able to call my friend. I met Caroll my very first day on set 27 years ago. I was so nervous because he was a hero of mine as well, but he put me at ease so quickly.

I remember we had a screening of my very first episode during lunch on set. Caroll was sitting in front of me, and when the episode finished Caroll looked back at me with tears in his eyes and smiled a huge smile. I knew I was a part of the Sesame family because he had embraced me.

Bonus Questions for Debra Spinney:

Giancarlo: Which character did Caroll love playing the most and why?

Debra Spinney: Caroll loved Big Bird the most because it was closer to who he was. A compassionate soul. But he did love playing Oscar as well. In this case, because he was so different from himself. He felt Oscar was cool and therefore, so was he! That is something he never felt in real life! It was also important to Caroll that Oscar actually had a soft spot in his heart!

Giancarlo: What is your favorite behind the scenes “Sesame Street” story involving you and Caroll?

Debra Spinney: Getting to do some of the “off” Sesame Street projects was fabulous. Making “Follow That Bird” in Toronto. Making “Big Bird in China” in China. Spending weeks in China with Bob Hope for his road special. Making “A Muppet Family Christmas” in Toronto with Jim Henson and all the Muppets; even I puppeted on that one. Conducting symphony orchestras around the world. So many adventures together.

Piece Of Advice:

Giancarlo: What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Sonia Manzano: Be yourself!

Pam Arciero: To know that it is always you who people want to know. So be yourself, the real you. And treat everyone with love and respect.

Debra Spinney: “Follow your heart.” (Mom and Dad). I did and it lead me straight to Sesame Street and the love of my life. My Caroll.

Alan Muraoka: Caroll never gave me advice per se, but I was able to just watch him around guests and children and how kind he was and how he spent time getting to know the children and their parents. He always had patience, empathy, and a beautiful sense of humor. I try to emulate that when I am out in public.

Thank you for tuning in and I hope you’re having a great week! We’ll catch you with another fun one on Monday!

-Giancarlo