Steven Whitmire, born on September 24, 1958, is an accomplished American puppeteer known for his work with The Jim Henson Company as well as Sesame Workshop. Since the passing of Jim Henson in 1990, Whitmire has taken on the iconic roles of Kermit the Frog and Ernie from Sesame Street. Additionally, he has introduced several original characters, including Rizzo the Rat, Lips (the trumpet player from Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem), Foo-Foo (the cherished pet of Miss Piggy), Wembley Fraggle from Fraggle Rock, and Bean Bunny.
After the untimely death of puppeteer Richard Hunt, alongside Jerry Nelson's exit from the company, Whitmire also stepped into the roles of Beaker and Statler. His versatility extends to voicing Link Hogthrob in the Muppet Party Cruise, showcasing his range within the Muppet universe.
Whitmire's contributions have been pivotal in keeping the spirit of the Muppets alive, ensuring that fans of all ages continue to enjoy these beloved characters. His enduring legacy reflects both his talent and dedication to the craft of puppeteering.
