Richard Hunt

Richard Hunt (August 16, 1951 - January 7, 1992) was a longtime Muppet performer who is known for his many characters, his accomplished singing voice, and his warm backstage personality. Hunt brought many popular characters to life, including, Beaker, Janice, Statler, Sweetums, Junior Gorg, Don Music and Forgetful Jones. He also was the voice of Grandpa Grouch, Oscar the Grouch's grandfather.

Hunt died of AIDS-related complications in 1992. Among his last productions were The Muppets Celebrate Jim Henson, Muppet*Vision 3D, and Billy Bunny's Animal Songs (the last of which was released in 1993, one year after his death). Following his death, Scooter was retired and absent as a character in all productions until Muppets from Space. Very few of Hunt's other characters (with the notable exceptions of Beaker, Statler, and Sweetums) were recast with new performers for years. Many of his other characters were relegated to silent background roles, though a few (such as Janice and Gladys the Cow) have been gradually recast since then.