image via muppet.wikia.com

ToughPigs.com, a fan forum for adult fans of the Muppets, reports that David Langston Smyrl has died at the age of 80. Credited as “David L. Smyrl” on Sesame Street, he was the second actor to play Mr. Handford, the character who took over Mr. Hooper’s store, after actor Will Lee passed away.

Smyrl wrote two episodes of the Benson TV series, in 1982. He also appeared in several episodes of The Cosby Show between 1985 and 1987. According to ToughPigs.com, he was also a gag writer and warm-up comedian for that show’s live studio audience. The actor’s other TV work includes guest roles on Law & Order and ER.

In the following video, Smyrl discusses his journey.

No further information on Mr. Smyrl’s death is available at this time. We invite you to remember his career, below.