Uploaded August 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
A historic television news report announcing the death of actor Will Lee, best known to millions of children as the beloved shopkeeper Mr. Hooper on Sesame Street.
Will Lee died of a heart attack in New York on December 7, 1982, at the age of 74. His passing marked a significant moment in Sesame Street history. The program chose to address Mr. Hooper's death directly with its young viewers, helping children understand and cope with the difficult subject of death.
This vintage news report captures the immediate coverage of Will Lee's passing and reflects the lasting impact he had on generations of children.
Will Lee (1908–1982) — Mr. Hooper, Sesame Street.
A historic television news report announcing the death of actor Will Lee, best known to millions of children as the beloved shopkeeper Mr. Hooper on Sesame Street.
Will Lee died of a heart attack in New York on December 7, 1982, at the age of 74. His passing marked a significant moment in Sesame Street history. The program chose to address Mr. Hooper's death directly with its young viewers, helping children understand and cope with the difficult subject of death.
This vintage news report captures the immediate coverage of Will Lee's passing and reflects the lasting impact he had on generations of children.
Will Lee (1908–1982) — Mr. Hooper, Sesame Street.
