Emilio Delgado, Sesame Street's Beloved Luis Rodriguez, Dead At 81

Emilio Delgado, who played Sesame Street's Luis Rodriguez for nearly 50 years, has died.

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Delgado's wife tells TMZ that the actor died Thursday, surrounded by family members, at their New York City home. She says her husband was diagnosed with a form of blood cancer in December 2020.

Delgado will be forever remembered for his role as Sesame Street's Luis Rodriguez, the most popular repairman on the block. A proficient guitar player and proud Mexican-American, Luis made his debut in 1971, then married his wife Maria (played by Sonia Manzao) in 1988. One year later, they welcomed a daughter named Gabi.

Take a stroll down memory lane (and down Sesame Street) with footage of Luis and Maria's Season 19 wedding below:

Outside of Sesame Street, Delgado appeared in a number of well-known TV shows, including (the original) Hawaii Five-O, Falcon Crest, Law & Order, House of Cards and Law & Order: Criminal Intent.

How will you remember Delgado? Drop a comment with your thoughts below.