Debra Spinney

Debra Spinney is the wife/widow and manager of Caroll Spinney on Sesame Street. She is also the former staffer of the Children's Television Workshop (I don't know when she became a former). She has occasionally been a background and assistant puppeteer in various projects. Debra operated Big Bird's legs in a scene of an episode where Caroll was playing Oscar. She later puppeteered Oscar for a performance at the 1982 Daytime Emmy Awards, while Caroll did Big Bird. It seems that Debra is mostly familiar with performing Caroll Spinney's characters rather than other Muppets. However, she did assist in A Muppet Family Christmas, she puppeteered Simon Soundman during the "Carol Sing" part of the special. Spinney seemed to enjoy being her husband's manager, meaning that she's been with Caroll everywhere they went. I've read that Debra has also appeared on-screen with Jon Stone and Kermit Love in an episode of Sesamstrasse in 1981. She even made cameo appearances in other Sesame Street episodes and productions. Her last known cameo on the show was in Sesame Street's 50th Anniversary Celebration. I'll bet Debra is really upset that her husband passed away after living with an illness for so long. At least she was there when Caroll died, because he died at home. And at least Spinney received credit for Big Bird when they made a video in China. I feel so sorry for Debra being depressed over her husband's death. Caroll Spinney has brought so much life to Big Bird and Oscar and now he's gone but he will never be forgotten. I just hope that she will be alright without her husband by her side. Debra Spinney, you've managed that man very well and made him into a star. I wish you the best of luck to your life and you keep Caroll in your heart. Enjoy your lone life Debra!