Matt Robinson, American actor and screenwriter (d. 2002)

Matthew Thomas Robinson Jr. (January 1, 1937 – August 5, 2002) was a multifaceted American talent, leaving an indelible mark as an actor, writer, and television producer. His career spanned several iconic productions, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to storytelling, even in the face of significant personal challenges.

Pioneering Role on Sesame Street

Robinson achieved widespread recognition for his groundbreaking work on the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) children's television program, Sesame Street. When the show first premiered in 1969, Robinson was the inaugural actor to portray the character of Gordon Robinson. Gordon was one of the show's central human characters, often serving as a calm, wise, and authoritative figure who helped introduce children to numbers, letters, and important social concepts. His portrayal was particularly significant as one of the earliest and most prominent positive representations of an African American man on children's television.

Beyond his on-screen presence as Gordon, Robinson's contributions to Sesame Street were far more extensive. He also lent his distinctive voice to the puppet character Roosevelt Franklin. Roosevelt Franklin was a spirited, often mischievous, and highly articulate purple monster who loved to scat sing and recite poetry. He was particularly notable for often teaching about emotions, the alphabet, and the importance of school in a uniquely engaging style. Furthermore, Robinson was instrumental behind the scenes, serving as one of the show's original producers, helping to shape its innovative educational curriculum and overall direction during its formative years.

He remained with Sesame Street until 1972. In the years following his departure, the character of Gordon continued to be a foundational part of the show, subsequently played by actors Hal Miller and then Roscoe Orman. As the character evolved, producers opted to honor Robinson's original contribution by officially adopting his real-life last name, "Robinson," for the Gordon character, solidifying his legacy within the beloved program's lore.

Film and Television Writing & Producing Career

In the early 1970s, Matthew Thomas Robinson Jr. expanded his creative portfolio into film. He wrote and produced two significant motion pictures: Save the Children (1973) and Amazing Grace (1974). Save the Children was a documentary concert film that captured performances from the 1972 Operation PUSH Expo in Chicago, featuring prominent African American artists and addressing social and political issues relevant to the Black community. Amazing Grace was a comedy film starring legendary entertainers Moms Mabley and Slappy White, notably being one of the early mainstream films produced with a predominantly Black cast and crew.

His writing talents also extended to popular television sitcoms. Robinson authored multiple scripts for the widely acclaimed NBC comedy series Sanford and Son, which was a top-rated show throughout its run, known for its sharp humor and exploration of family dynamics. He also contributed scripts to Eight Is Enough, a popular family dramedy that resonated with audiences for its portrayal of a large, bustling family navigating everyday life and challenges.

The Cosby Show and Battle with Parkinson's Disease

In 1983, Matthew Thomas Robinson Jr. joined the highly anticipated and soon-to-be massively successful NBC sitcom, The Cosby Show, as a producer and staff writer. His involvement contributed to the show's critical acclaim and immense popularity, which celebrated and normalized the portrayal of an affluent African American family. This period marked a significant professional achievement for Robinson, though it coincided with a profound personal challenge.

By the time he began his tenure on The Cosby Show, Robinson was starting to exhibit the initial symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain, leading to motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, slow movement, and balance issues, as well as a range of non-motor symptoms. Despite the increasing difficulties posed by his illness, Robinson demonstrated remarkable resilience and dedication, remaining an integral part of The Cosby Show team for an impressive seven seasons.

Matthew Thomas Robinson Jr. ultimately succumbed to complications from Parkinson's disease on August 5, 2002, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 65. His career stands as a testament to his multifaceted talents and his enduring spirit in contributing to significant cultural touchstones in television and film.

Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew Thomas Robinson Jr.

Who was Matthew Thomas Robinson Jr.?
Matthew Thomas Robinson Jr. was an influential American actor, writer, and television producer best known for being the first actor to portray Gordon on Sesame Street and for his work as a producer and writer on The Cosby Show, among other notable contributions to film and television.
What was Matt Robinson's role on Sesame Street?
Matt Robinson was the original actor for the character Gordon Robinson on Sesame Street. He also provided the voice for the puppet character Roosevelt Franklin and served as one of the show's early producers, playing a key role in its initial development.
When did Matt Robinson leave Sesame Street?
Matthew Thomas Robinson Jr. left Sesame Street in 1972, three years after the show's debut.
What other significant TV shows and films did Matt Robinson work on?
Beyond Sesame Street, he wrote and produced the films Save the Children (1973) and Amazing Grace (1974). He also authored scripts for popular TV series like Sanford and Son and Eight Is Enough, and served as a producer and staff writer for seven seasons on The Cosby Show.
What disease did Matt Robinson suffer from?
Matthew Thomas Robinson Jr. battled Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, for many years, continuing his work despite the challenges, until his passing from the disease in 2002.