Rocco, the pet rock of Sesame Street, might not have fur, feathers, or even the ability to move on his own, but this unassuming character has cemented his place in the hearts of fans for over a decade. As Zoe’s steadfast companion, Rocco has become more than just a stone; he’s a personality, a scene-stealer, and a surprisingly complex figure in the vibrant world of Sesame Street. Let’s delve into why Rocco the Rock has become such a beloved and enduring part of the show.
Since his debut in Sesame Street’s third decade, Rocco has been a constant presence, often taken for granted, much like a… well, a rock. Voiced by the talented puppeteer Ryan Dosier, Rocco is far from a passive prop. This basalt rock has showcased remarkable acting range. He’s donned a tutu to become a ballerina, put on a white coat as a doctor, and even laid down a groove on the bass guitar with the Rock Rock Band. Rocco’s family, including Rocky, Rockmoninov, Uncle Rock, Aunt Rock, and Little Rock, frequently visit to celebrate his birthday, demonstrating the strong family values even rocks uphold in Sesame Street. They are, naturally, incredibly proud of Rocco’s successful career in show business.
However, Rocco’s most compelling narrative arc arguably revolves around his interactions with Elmo. It’s through Rocco that we see Elmo’s less saccharine side emerge. Jealousy, frustration, and outright disbelief are common reactions from Elmo when Rocco is involved. Zoe often playfully exploits this dynamic, suggesting Rocco might prefer a trip to the park over alphabet practice, much to Elmo’s chagrin. Yet, true aficionados of Rocco know he is a rock of culture, secretly appreciating the finer points of phonics. This playful rivalry adds depth to both characters, making Rocco an essential catalyst in Elmo’s character development.
Rocco’s quiet charm has cultivated a dedicated fanbase. The outpouring of affection for this stony thespian is evident in interviews with Sesame Street luminaries like Fran Brill (the voice of Zoe) and Kevin Clash (formerly the voice of Elmo). Fran Brill’s fondness for Rocco is so strong that she even launched a Facebook fan page dedicated to him, which Rocco himself (or at least his fans) has utilized to connect with admirers. This Facebook page is a treasure trove of Rocco-centric content, detailing his interests, which include “skipping, spelunking, rappelling, ’40s swing music, and decent masonry.” It also humorously notes his occasional appearances in “embarrassing costumes (not his choice)” and highlights his talents as a “great raconteur” with “side-splitting jokes.”
Rocco’s impressive body of work, his adaptability across roles, and his subtle yet effective comedic timing have solidified his legacy as a true Sesame Street icon. While his career trajectory continues to ascend, glimpses of his broader work have even surfaced in unexpected places. Rumor has it Rocco had a cameo in the Academy Award-nominated film 127 Hours. He was reportedly considered for the role of the boulder, but ultimately, producers opted for a larger, perhaps more traditionally “boulder-like” actor.
What’s next for Rocco? The possibilities are as limitless as imagination itself. To keep abreast of this steadfast performer’s journey, becoming a fan on his Facebook page is highly recommended. After all, while a rolling stone gathers no moss, there’s no reason it can’t collect a few Facebook likes along the way.
The Muppet Mindset by Ryan Dosier
