‘Sesame Street’ actor Emilio Delgado, known for his role as Luis, has passed away at the age of 81 after battling blood cancer.
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The news was confirmed by his wife Carol who said the actor died on Thursday surrounded by loved ones at their home in New York City. Delgado was in hospice care after he was diagnosed with Multiple myeloma in December 2020. Carol said her husband continued working until the coronavirus pandemic and played the lead in the theatre production “Quixote Nuevo” as reported by TMZ.
Delgado is well known for his 40-year role as Luis on Sesame Street and made his debut in 1971. He played as the ‘Fix-it Shop’ owner who captured the hearts of children around the world. He also appeared in Hawaii Five-O, Falcon Crest, Law & Order, House of Cards, and Law & Order: Criminal Intent.
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Fans of the show also offered their condolences to the actor and his family.
RIP Emilio Delgado. Luis and Maria were the first Latinos I ever saw on TV. They were a huge part of my family. They paved the way. #legend QEPD pic.twitter.com/vYKmesjXIN
— Rosy Cordero (@SocialRosy) March 10, 2022
Very sad to hear of the great Emilio Delgado’s passing. The next few years are going to be rough for those of us who grew up on Sesame Street in the 70s and 80s… pic.twitter.com/4J5DsRQqzg
— Ken Plume (@KenPlume) March 10, 2022
Emilio Delgado: Though I never knew you personally, you had such an profound effect on my life. Through every episode of Sesame Street, you helped me to feel as if I was not alone, and I could trust my friends on Sesame Street. Thank you. May you rest in peace.
— Joshua Bennett (@GoldHattedGonzo) March 10, 2022