Captain Kangaroo's Cosmo Allegretti Dies, Puppeteer Mourned
Cosmo Allegretti, who created and voiced puppet characters on the children's show "Captain Kangaroo" died recently at age 86.
News of the character actor's death arrived Wednesday via his attorney and friend John Munzel.
According to the lawyer, Allegretti died of emphysema in Arizona on July 26, reported the Associated Press. The puppeteer had homes in Hampton Bays, New York as well as New River, Ariz.
At first, Allegretti was working on the set of "Captain Kangaroo" as a painter, but after he volunteered to replace a professional puppeteer, his talents were unveiled.
Allegretti created and provided vocals for some of the show's most beloved characters such as Grandfather Clock, Mr. Bunny Rabbit, Mr. Moose, Rollo the Hippopotamus, Miss Worm and Dancing Bear, among others.
"Captain Kangaroo" starred Bob Keeshan as the Captain and started on CBS in 1955 where it ran for over 30 years.
As proof of popularity of "Captain Kangaroo," the Dancing Bear costume sold for over $200,000 at the Nate D. Sanders Auction House during a special Captain Kangaroo memorabilia auction in June.
On Twitter this week, "Captain Kangaroo" fans are mourning Allegretti's death.
"Dancing Bear, Cosmo Allegretti, has passed away, joining the Captain and Mr. Green Jeans. RIP," wrote John.
"Wow, I always watched Captain Kangaroo and Mr. DressUp," Karen posted.
Harry posted, "Three of my childhood heroes- Mr. Moose, Bunny Rabbit and Dancing Bear, have died."
"Beloved Captain Kangaroo cast member dies," added Laura. "RIP. I loved the silent bunny rabbit."
The children's television series aired weekday mornings and saw several star-studded guest appearances that included Joan Rivers, Dolly Parton, Andy Griffith and Bruce Jenner, to name a few.
Allegretti also worked as an actor and appeared in the film "Prince of the City," among others. He did not have children.
