Bill Barretta

Born:June 19, 1964

Place of Birth:Yardley, Pennsylvania, USA

Known For:Acting

Biography

Bill Barretta is a talented puppeteer and actor known for his extensive work with the Muppets. His journey with the Muppets began in 1991 when he brought to life the character of Earl Sinclair on the beloved show Dinosaurs. This role marked the beginning of a long and successful career within the Muppets universe.

Throughout his time with the Muppets, Bill has showcased his versatility by creating memorable characters such as the hilarious Pepe the King Prawn, the smooth-talking Johnny Fiama, and the lovable Bobo the Bear. These characters have become fan favorites and have solidified Bill's status as a key player in the Muppets franchise.

Not only has Bill developed his own Muppet characters, but he has also taken on the challenge of stepping into iconic roles previously performed by Jim Henson himself. From Dr. Teeth to Rowlf the Dog, Bill has seamlessly integrated himself into the Muppets legacy, bringing these beloved characters to life for new generations to enjoy.

In addition to his work in front of the camera, Bill has also made significant contributions behind the scenes. He has produced two Muppets television movies, including the festive favorite It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie and the whimsical The Muppets' Wizard of Oz. These projects have further showcased Bill's dedication to the Muppets and his ability to bring their magic to audiences worldwide.

Originally hailing from Yardley, Pennsylvania, Bill Barretta's passion for puppetry and performance shines through in every character he brings to life. His commitment to the Muppets legacy and his ability to infuse humor and heart into his performances have made him a beloved figure among fans of all ages.

With his unique blend of talent, creativity, and dedication, Bill Barretta continues to captivate audiences around the world with his Muppet creations. Whether he's voicing classic characters or introducing new ones, Bill's contributions to the Muppets universe have left an indelible mark on the world of puppetry and entertainment.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Muppets

Swedish Chef / Rowlf / Teeth / Pepe / Bobo / Muppet Gary (voice)

2011

When Kermit the Frog and the Muppets learn that their beloved theater is slated for demolition, a sympathetic human, Gary, and his puppet brother, Walter, swoop in to help the gang put on a show and raise the $10 million they need to save the day.

The Happytime Murders

Phil Philips / Junkyard / Boar

2018

In a world where human beings and puppets live together, when the members of the cast of a children's television show aired during the 1990s begin to get murdered one by one, puppet Phil Philips, a former LAPD detective who fell in disgrace and turned into a private eye, takes on the case at the request of his old boss in order to assist detective Edwards, who was his partner in the past.

Muppets Most Wanted

Pepe the King Prawn / Rowlf the Dog / Dr. Teeth / The Swedish Chef / Bobo the Bear / Big Mean Carl / Baby Boss / Carlo Flamingo / Leprechaun Security Guard (voice)

2014

While on a grand world tour, The Muppets find themselves wrapped into an European jewel-heist caper headed by a Kermit the Frog look-alike and his dastardly sidekick.

Muppets Haunted Mansion

Pepe / Rowlf / Dr. Teeth / The Swedish Chef

2021

Gonzo is challenged to spend one night in The Haunted Mansion on Halloween night.

Muppets from Space

Pepe the Prawn / Bobo as Rentro / Johnny Fiama / Bubba the Rat / Cosmic Fish #2 (voice)

1999

When Gonzo's breakfast cereal tells him that he's the descendant of aliens from another planet, his attempts at extraterrestrial communication get him kidnapped by a secret government agency, prompting the Muppets to spring into action. It's hard to believe Gonzo's story at first, but Kermit and friends soon find themselves on an epic journey into outer space filled with plenty of intergalactic misadventures.

Muppet Treasure Island

Clueless Morgan / Swedish Chef / Blind Pew (hands) / Pirate / Pig / Skulls (voice)

1996

After telling the story of Flint's last journey to young Jim Hawkins, Billy Bones has a heart attack and dies just as Jim and his friends are attacked by pirates. The gang escapes into the town where they hire out a boat and crew to find the hidden treasure, which was revealed by Bones before he died. On their voyage across the seas, they soon find out that not everyone on board can be trusted.

The Muppets' Wizard of Oz

Toto / Dr. Teeth / Johnny / Lew Zealand / Swedish Chef / Rowlf

2005

A young woman named Dorothy Gale dreams of becoming a singer but is unable to pursue her dreams. After being swept up by a tornado with her pet prawn Toto, Dorothy embarks on a journey to meet the Wizard of Oz, the person who both Dorothy and the citizens of Oz believe can help make her dream come true.

It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie

Pepe the King Prawn / Bobo the Bear / Johnny Fiama / Swedish Chef / Lew Zealand / Howard Tubman / Rowlf the Dog / Elvises (voice)

2002

The owner of a bank (Miss Bitterman) wants to own the Muppet Theatre so she can build a nightclub over it. After she tricks Pepe into giving her the only copy of the contract between her father and the Muppets, she changes it so the Muppets have very little time to pay a debt they owe. Meanwhile, the Muppets are trying to put on a Christmas show. After the Muppets are confronted by Bitterman, they make a lot of sacrifices to save up so they can keep the Theatre.

Production