‘Sesame Street’s’ Maria Leaves After 44 Years

Sonia Manzano, who has portrayed Maria on Sesame Street for the past forty-four years, is retiring.

Manzano, 65, joined the show back in 1971.  Her character owned a repair shop called the Fix-It shop with husband Luis. At the American Library Association Annual Conference this week, Mazano announced she will not be back next season.

Seasame Street also confirmed the news on Facebook, writing:

Sonia Manzano has announced her retirement from Sesame Street, but she will always be a part of the fabric of our neighborhood. During her 44-year career as the iconic “Maria,” and the first leading Latina woman on television, she was a role model for young girls and women for generations. Sonia’s talents on Sesame Street extend beyond her groundbreaking role on camera; she also earned 15 Emmy awards as a member of Sesame Street’s writing team. We’ll always be grateful for her many years on Sesame Street as a champion of diversity and helping millions of kids grow up smarter, stronger and kinder. – Sesame Workshop

Manzano was also a part of Sesame Street’s writing team, which has won 15 Emmy awards. In addition, she was one of the first leading Latina women on television.

Check out Manzano’s discussion about Sesame Street with the American Library Association below.