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Background[]
Frank Oz ( b. 25 May 1944 ) is an English actor, director, and producer but is best known for his extensive work as a puppeteer―using his skills in bringing various puppets to life both physically and via voice as well. He has appeared in live action cinematic roles as himself; as well as behind-the-scenes as a puppeteer for a number of live action television and cinematic roles accompanied by voice acting performances.
He is famous for his partnership and long collaboration with the innovative Jim Henson for decades and Oz is credited with helping develop many of the varied and most eccentric and iconic Muppets alongside Henson. Oz has portrayed a number of incredibly popular and beloved Muppets such as Cookie Monster, Bert, and Grover from Sesame Street as well as Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, and Animal on the Muppet Show for many years.
He was highly regarded for his amazing on-screen chemistry with Henson. The duo often paired up with Henson playing his signature Muppet characters of Ernie or Kermit the Frog interacting with Oz portraying Bert, Miss Piggy, or Fozzie Bear.
However his most renowned and venerated role has been as the puppeteer and voice of the legendary Jedi Master Yoda from the Star Wars Franchise which he has reprised numerous film, TV series, and other media for decades.
Biography[]
Personal Life[]
Filmography[]
- Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
- Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983)
- A Muppet Family Christmas (1987)
- Inside Out 2 (2024)
Trivia[]
- Both his parents were puppeteers too.
Quotes[]
- "I was born in Hereford, England, in 1944. We moved when they had an opportunity to get a visa, about 1950. My dad always thought Europe was a bit too small for him. He wanted to see the United States... The typical immigrant story. He wanted a better life for his children, too. He always tried to get the visa, and it didn't come up."
- "In order to be a star performer you have to have someone to play against."