History of Emilio Delgado in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 15, 2025

Emilio Delgado was an American actor renowned for his portrayal of Luis, the owner of the Fix-it Shop, on the beloved children's television program Sesame Street. He became a cast member in 1971 and continued in the role until his contract concluded in late 2016. His departure was a result of Sesame Workshop's decision to revamp the series.

May 8, 1940: Emilio Delgado's Birth

On May 8, 1940, Emilio Delgado was born. He would later become a celebrated actor.

1965: Deployed to Watts Riots

In 1965, Emilio Delgado, serving in the California Army National Guard, was deployed to the Watts riots in Los Angeles.

1968: Began Professional Career

In 1968, Emilio Delgado began his professional career in Los Angeles.

1968: First Equity Job and Soap Opera Role

In 1968, Emilio Delgado received his first Equity job in a summer stock play and was later cast in the first Mexican-American soap opera, Cancion de la Raza.

October 1970: Guest Role in Storefront Lawyers

In October 1970, Emilio Delgado had a guest role in an episode of Storefront Lawyers.

November 1970: Cast as Series Regular in Angie's Garage

In November 1970, Emilio Delgado was cast as a series regular in Angie's Garage, a children's series focused on Mexican-American children.

1970: Artistic Director of Mexican-American Centre of Creative Arts

In 1970, Emilio Delgado became the artistic director of the new Mexican-American Centre of Creative Arts, teaching Chicano high school and college students.

1970: Enrolled at CalArts

In 1970, Emilio Delgado enrolled in the new theatre program at CalArts.

1971: Debut on Sesame Street

In 1971, Emilio Delgado debuted on Sesame Street as Luis, the handyman, alongside Raul Julia.

1972: Performed with Jackson Symphony Orchestra

By 1972, Emilio Delgado joined Sesame Street's live events, performing with the Jackson Symphony Orchestra.

1972: Coordinator of Children's Television Workshop's Bilingual Task Force

In 1972, Emilio Delgado was named the coordinator of the Children's Television Workshop's Bilingual Task Force.

1988: Luis and Maria's Wedding on Sesame Street

During Sesame Street's 19th season in 1988, the characters Luis, played by Emilio Delgado, and Maria, performed by Sonia Manzano, got married on the show.