Jerry Nelson

Born:July 10, 1934

Place of Birth:Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA

Died:August 24, 2012

Known For:Acting

Biography

Jerry Nelson, born on July 10, 1934, left an indelible mark on the world of puppetry and entertainment until his passing on August 23, 2012. His career spanned decades, and he became a beloved figure for his incredible talent and versatility as a puppeteer. Nelson's contribution to the Muppets franchise solidified his place in pop culture history.

With a career that included iconic characters on shows like Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, and Fraggle Rock, Jerry Nelson's puppetry skills knew no bounds. His ability to breathe life into a diverse range of Muppet characters showcased his immense creativity and dedication to his craft. Whether he was voicing a grumpy old man or a whimsical creature, Nelson's performances were always captivating.

One of Nelson's standout qualities was his exceptional singing voice, which added another layer of depth to his characters. His musical talents shone through in various Muppet productions, enriching the storytelling and leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. Nelson's ability to infuse emotion and personality into his puppetry work set him apart as a true master of his art.

Beyond his work on screen, Jerry Nelson's behind-the-scenes contributions to puppetry and character development were invaluable. His creative input and collaboration with fellow puppeteers and creators helped shape the Muppets into the beloved and enduring franchise it is today. Nelson's dedication to his craft and his commitment to bringing joy to audiences of all ages were truly commendable.

Throughout his career, Jerry Nelson's passion for puppetry never wavered, and his commitment to excellence was unwavering. His work on numerous Muppet movies and specials showcased his versatility and range as a performer, solidifying his reputation as a true talent in the industry. Nelson's ability to seamlessly transition between different characters demonstrated his skill and artistry.

Jerry Nelson's legacy lives on through the timeless characters he brought to life on screen, each one etched in the hearts of fans around the world. His impact on the world of puppetry and entertainment continues to be felt, with his contributions serving as a source of inspiration for future generations of performers. Nelson's talent, dedication, and creativity remain a testament to his enduring influence on the Muppets and beyond.

In his memory, fans and colleagues alike remember Jerry Nelson not only for his iconic Muppet characters but also for the joy, laughter, and magic he brought to countless lives through his work. His legacy as a pioneering puppeteer and performer endures, ensuring that his contributions to the world of entertainment will never be forgotten. Jerry Nelson's influence on the Muppets and the art of puppetry remains a cherished part of his lasting legacy.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Dark Crystal

High Priestess / Dying Emperor (voice)

1982

On another planet in the distant past, a Gelfling embarks on a quest to find the missing shard of a magical crystal and restore order to his world, before the grotesque race of Skeksis find and use the crystal for evil.

The Muppets

Telethon Announcer (voice) (uncredited)

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 Muppet Movie

Floyd Pepper / Robin the Frog / Crazy Harry / Lew Zealand / Camilla / Dr. Bunsen Honeydew (assistant) (voice)

1979

A Hollywood agent persuades Kermit the Frog to leave the swamp to pursue a career in Hollywood. On his way there, he meets a bear, a pig, a whatever – his future muppet crew – while being chased by the desperate owner of a frog-leg restaurant!

The Muppet Christmas Carol

Tiny Tim Cratchit / Jacob Marley / Ghost of Christmas Present / Lew Zealand / Ma Bear / Mouse / Mr. Applegate / Penguin / Pig Gentleman / Pops / Rat (voice)

1992

A retelling of the classic Dickens tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, miser extraordinaire. He is held accountable for his dastardly ways during night-time visitations by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future.

Muppets Most Wanted

Announcer (voice) (uncredited)

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 from Space

Robin / Statler / Ubergonzo (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

Statler / Blind Pew / Mad Monty / Floyd Pepper / Lew Zealand / Tomato / Pirate / Skulls / Trelawney's Butler / Screaming Cat (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.

It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie

Robin the Frog / Statler / Announcer / Pops / Floyd Pepper

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.

The Muppets Take Manhattan

Camilla / Lew Zealand / Floyd / Bear / Chicken / Crazy Harry / Dog / Dr. Julias Strangepork / Granny / Penguin / Pops / The Count (voice)

1984

When the Muppets graduate from Danhurst College, they take their song-filled senior revue to New York City, only to learn that it isn't easy to find a producer who's willing to back a show starring a frog and a pig. Of course, Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy won't take no for an answer, launching a search for someone to take them to Broadway.

The Great Muppet Caper

Floyd Pepper / Pops / Lew Zealand / Crazy Harry / Louis Kazager

1981

Kermit and Fozzie are newspaper reporters sent to London to interview Lady Holiday, a wealthy fashion designer whose priceless diamond necklace is stolen. Kermit meets and falls in love with her secretary, Miss Piggy. The jewel thieves strike again, and this time frame Miss Piggy. It's up to Kermit and Muppets to bring the real culprits to justice.

Follow That Bird

Count von Count / Herry Monster / Additional Muppets (voice)

1985

Big Bird is sent to live far from Sesame Street by a pesky social worker, who thinks it would be better for him to live with other birds. Unhappy, Big Bird runs away from his foster home, prompting the rest of the Sesame Street gang to go on a cross-country journey to find him.

Production

Muppets Most Wanted

In Memory Of

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.