Things are changing on Sesame Street as the man who has brought Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch to life since 1969 announced his retirement.

Generations of kids have grown up enjoying the fun of Sesame Street, especially the two characters Oscar the Grouch and Big Bird. They are arguably two of the most recognizable puppets from the show and have brought kids and adults a lot of laughs over the years. Since 1969, that is all thanks to one man, Caroll Spinney.

Spinney has spent nearly half a century as the puppeteer behind Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch, but the 84-year-old man has officially decided to retire, ending the decades he spent bringing magic to life for kids. Sesame Workshop issued a press release announcing the puppeteer’s retirement.

And while many of us didn’t know who Spinney was before his announced retirement, most of us have fond memories of growing up watching Sesame Street and laughing and learning along with Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch. And according to Spinney, that’s something that will always mean a great deal to him.

As Spinney said in the press release, “Big Bird brought me so many places, opened my mind and nurtured my soul. And I plan to be an ambassador for Sesame Workshop for many years to come. After all, we’re a family!”

The fact that Sesame Street has been a part of so many generations of kids is amazing, and it’s even more astounding to think that one man was responsible for bringing two beloved characters to life for generations as well. It shows how important the series was and still is to those behind Sesame Street. Though it’s sad to say to see someone aligned with the show step away after so many years of bringing joy to kids, Spinney said he hand-picked the puppeteers who will be taking his place.

We’re excited to see what these new puppeteers bring to the characters and the memories that kids today and kids in the future will make with the beloved characters on Sesame Street.