TV: Sesame Street's 'Maria' Sonia Manzano Will Retire After 44 Years

July 2, 2015 12:57 PM EDT

She’s helped generations of children grow up and she’s met many a Muppet in her day. But after 44 years playing human Sesame Street resident Maria, actress Sonia Manzano is retiring.

Manzano, 65, made the announcement on Tuesday during an address at the American Library Association Annual Conference. She has since fielded an outpouring of grief from fans.

An end of an era: @SoniaMManzano / Maria won't appear on the next season of @SesameStreet !
— Nicholas Moreau (@nickmoreau) June 30, 2015

@SoniaMManzano I want to thank you for all of your work on @sesamestreet you truly made an impact on my life growing up.
— MB Mars 8 #Istandwithanimation (@Mbtoon05) June 30, 2015

YOU GUYS. Maria has retired from @sesamestreet! So bummed! @SoniaMManzano Thank you for everything!
— Heathah Feathah 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️✌️🪷 (@NKCoverGrrl) June 30, 2015

This article originally appeared on People.com

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