David D. Connell (October 6, 1931 - May 5, 1995) was the original executive producer of Sesame Street for the first three seasons, and Children's Television Workshop's vice-president in charge of production until season 19.
Connell, a former producer for Captain Kangaroo, played a key role in establishing the basic format of the "street" scenes. He was also the principal creative force behind The Man from Alphabet, a series of live action skits starring Gary Owens which failed in child tests and were never aired on Sesame Street. Connell also penned the lyrics for the song "Rub Your Tummy" (with music by Joe Raposo).
Connell's credits with CTW outside of Sesame Street include executive producer of The Electric Company (first season only) and Square One TV. He was also executive producer and co-writer of CTW's animated adaptation of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Credits[]
- Sesame Street Pitch Reel - Executive Producer
- Sesame Street Pilot Episodes - Executive Producer
- This Way to Sesame Street - Executive Producer
- Sesame Street - Executive Producer (seasons 1-3)
- Sesame Street LIVE! - Live Show Producer
- Out to Lunch - Executive Producer
- The Grover Monster - Jean Marsh Cartoon Special - Producer
- A Special Sesame Street Christmas - CTW Production Consultant
- Sesame Street Live shows - Co-writer (with Jim Thurman)
External links[]
- Current: David Connell's talents grew with his gifts to kids, an obituary by Joan Ganz Cooney
- David D. Connell, 64, a Creator of 'Sesame Street' , New York Times obituary, published May 9, 1995.