Emilio Delgado, who played Luis the Fix-It shop owner in Sesame Street for 40 years, has died at the age of 81. His wife told TMZ the star had slipped away on Thursday, having battled blood cancer.
Carol Delgado said her husband was with his loved ones at the time in his New York City home.
According to TMZ, he had been diagnosed with the blood cancer Multiple Myeloma in December 2020.
He had recently gone into a hospice to be cared for there.
Emilio starred in several productions over the decades, but he was perhaps best known for his role on Sesame Street, which he played since 1971.
As well as his wife Carol, Emilio leaves behind two children – son Aram from his previous marriage, and daughter Lauren, who he shared with his widow.
A fan page for The Muppets paid tribute to the late actor, writing: “We are heartbroken to report the passing of Emilio Delgado; best known as Luis Rodriguez on Sesame Street, who joined the series in 1971.
“Thank you for all of the wonderful memories.”
The Daily Muppet also took to the platform to write: “We here at the Daily Muppet are saddened to report the death of Emilio Delgado, who played the role of Luis on Sesame Street for almost 50 years.