Caroll Spinney, the puppeteer behind "Sesame Street" characters Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch, dies at 85, according to Sesame Workshop, December 8, 2019. /VCG Photo

He passed away at his home in Connecticut after years of battling dystonia, a common movement disorder causing involuntary muscle contractions. /VCG Photo

Known for his "kind and loving view of the world," the legendary puppeteer has brought to life two of the show's most iconic characters adored by generations of fans around the world. /VCG Photo

In an interview with the New York Times in 2015, he said, "playing Big Bird is one of the most joyous things of my life." /VCG Photo