Mr. Hooper

Mr. Harold Hooper (played by Will Lee) was one of the first four human characters to appear on the television series Sesame Street. Created by producer and writer Jon Stone, Mr. Hooper is the original proprietor of Hooper's Store, the neighborhood variety store and diner that serves as a place for Muppets and humans to meet and interact. He ranked first among the show's human characters in recognition by young viewers. Mr. Hooper, who has been described as "slightly cranky but good-hearted" and "curmudgeonly", bridges the gap between the older generation and its young audience. Hooper's Store, "an idealized social institution", is an extension of his personality. He had a close relationship with the Muppet Big Bird.

After Lee died on December 7, 1982, instead of recasting the role, or explaining his departure by saying he had moved, quit, or retired, the writers and producers of Sesame Street decided to have Mr. Hooper die. They created an episode to teach their young audience about the difficult topic of death. Research was conducted to ascertain the messages they wanted to convey and the effect the episode would have on the children who watched it. The writers were advised by experts in child psychology, child development, and religion. Studies conducted after the episode showed that most children understood its messages about death and experienced no long-term ill effects.

The episode, by head writer Norman Stiles, aired on Thanksgiving Day 1983. The cast and crew reported that filming it was a touching experience, with Bob McGrath listing it as one of his two favorites. Setting the standard for dealing with difficult topics on children's television, the show was called heartbreaking yet affirming, and remains one of the proudest moments in the show's history.