Actor Emilio Delgado, The Actor Who Played Luis On 'Sesame Street' For Over 50 Years, Passed Away At 81
Anyone who grew up watching the hit children's television show Sesame Street, might remember one of the neighborhood's original citizens, Luis Rodriguez who ran The Fix-It Shop while teaching Big Bird his ABC's. Emilio Delgado, who played Luis from 1971 through 2017, has sadly passed away at the age of 81 from a blood cancer called myeloma.
What made his role so important was Delgado's Mexican-American heritage, giving representation to a group rarely seen in children's television at the time. With his character of Luis, kids were introduced to the culture and a language they might not have found anywhere else, while giving those who share the same background a relatable character to look up to.
The Sesame Workshop released a heartfelt statement upon the passing of Delgado,
"Emilio Delgado, who played Luis on Sesame Street, passed away on March 10, 2022. A beloved member of the Sesame family for over 50 years, his warmth and humor invited children to share a friendship that has echoed through generations. At the forefront of representation, Emilio proudly laid claim to the 'record for the longest-running role for a Mexican-American in a TV series.' We are so grateful he shared his talents with us and with the world."
Emilio Delgaudo. I had no idea you were so sick. Seeing you a few months ago I told you how cool you looked. And you did. I never thought for a moment you were sick. So sorry for your loved ones. So glad I was able to experience your talent and warm smile.
— Frank Oz (@TheFrankOzJam) March 11, 2022
The California native began his acting career in high school performing in local theater which eventually led to his landing a part on Cancion de la Raza, a Mexican-American soap opera. Not only did he work on Sesame Street, Delgado lent his talents to several popular series outside of children's television. His most recent credits included Person of Interest, The Get Down, and House of Cards.
An activist, along with wife Carole, they worked on the board of directors at New York City's Bayard Rustin Center for Social Justice, which is a community activist center dedicated to providing a safe-space for the LGBTQIA. In his time there he also fought for Chicano rights and racial justice, who awarded him with the Impact Award from the National Hispanic Media Coalition.
Emilio Delgado is truly an inspiration not only to his people, but for the lives of so many children which he helped shape over his illustrious career. Our hearts go out to his family and friends.
