Share

cover art for Bill Barretta

The Toby Gribben Show

Bill Barretta

Season 2021, Ep. 44

Bill Barretta is a puppeteer and producer, who has been performing with the Jim Henson Company since 1991 and has become one of the leading Muppet performers.


His first break came performing the body of Earl Sinclair on Dinosaurs. From suit performance, Barretta transitioned to assisting and supporting roles in The Animal Show, playing multiple small character roles in Muppet Classic Theater and Mr. Willoughby's Christmas Tree, and made his film debut as a principal performer playing Clueless Morgan in Muppet Treasure Island. He later developed several new characters on Muppets Tonight, including Pepe the King Prawn, Johnny Fiama and Bobo the Bear.


Along with having his own Muppet characters, Barretta has taken over several of Jim Henson's roles, such as Dr. Teeth, Rowlf The Dog, Mahna Mahna and the Swedish Chef. On Sesame Street, Barretta originated the role of Elmo's dad Louie who first appeared in Sesame Beginnings (and was subsequently inherited by Tyler Bunch).

More episodes

View all episodes

  • 55. Jordynn

    09:41
    Jordynn is an emerging voice in the realm of suspense fiction, captivating readers with her gripping debut novel, "My Brothers". Born and raised in a small town on the outskirts of Chicago, Jordynn's fascination with storytelling blossomed from a childhood filled with mystery and intrigue.At the heart of "My Brothers" lies the compelling narrative of Joey, a resilient young woman whose life was shattered by tragedy. Orphaned at a tender age following the tragic demise of her parents, Joey finds solace in her twin brother, Joshua. Their bond, forged through shared sorrow and unwavering devotion, sustains Joey as she embarks on the tumultuous journey of adulthood.Fresh out of college and eager to carve her path in the world, Joey lands her dream job, hopeful for the promise of a brighter future. However, the spectre of her past looms large when she receives an enigmatic message that shatters the fragile peace she's built. Suddenly thrust into a web of deception and deceit, Joey grapples with the chilling revelation that her brother's death may not have been the tragic accident it was presumed to be.As Joey delves deeper into the labyrinth of secrets surrounding her family's untimely demise, she unearths startling truths that threaten to unravel her entire existence. With each revelation, Joey's resolve is tested, and the boundaries between truth and deception blur ominously."My Brothers" is a riveting tale of resilience, redemption, and the enduring power of familial bonds. Jordynn's masterful storytelling weaves a spellbinding narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the final, breathtaking revelation. With its intricate plot twists and richly drawn characters, "My Brothers" heralds the arrival of a bold new voice in suspense fiction.