description Roosevelt Franklin Overview
Roosevelt Franklin was a Muppet character on "Sesame Street" who debuted during the show's second season in 1970. He was performed by Matt Robinson, the actor who also originated the role of Gordon on the series. As one of the first African American Muppets on the program, the character taught lessons about race, tolerance, and self-esteem through music and energetic dialogue. Roosevelt Franklin was phased out in the mid-1970s amid concerns that the character relied on negative stereotypes.
help Roosevelt Franklin FAQ
Who performed Roosevelt Franklin on Sesame Street?
Roosevelt Franklin was created and voiced by Matt Robinson, who also originated the human role of Gordon. The character appeared during Sesame Street's second season in 1970.
What did Roosevelt Franklin do in his Sesame Street segments?
Roosevelt Franklin appeared in school and music segments that used rhythmic speech and songs to teach young viewers. His material included a song about the days of the week and other classroom-style lessons.
Why is Roosevelt Franklin historically notable?
He was one of Sesame Street's early African American Muppet characters, appearing when the program was still in its second season in 1970. His presence made the show's cast more representative during the early 1970s.
Did Roosevelt Franklin have his own record?
His material appeared on the children's record The Year of Roosevelt Franklin, credited to Matt Robinson and Rosalind Cash in 1971. A 1974 reissue used the title My Name Is Roosevelt Franklin.
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