Rowlf the Dog (The Muppets)

According to Muppet Wiki, "Rowlf was the first Muppet to reach national stardom after he appeared on The Jimmy Dean Show. In 1962, he debuted in a series of Purina Dog Chow commercials where he was paired with Baskerville the Hound. He was the first live-hand Muppet built by Don Sahlin. He then appeared as a regular cast member of The Jimmy Dean Show from 1963 to 1966. He also showed up on Sesame Street Season 1 (1969-70), making a cameo appearance in the Song of Nine. He later joined the cast of The Muppet Show as a resident piano player and as the silly surgeon, Dr. Bob on the recurring sketch Veterinarian's Hospital. After the death of Jim Henson, who voiced Rowlf's character, Rowlf continued to appear in Muppet productions. His appearances were usually brief and silent. Later on, Bill Barretta took over the character and gradually transitioned into the popular Rowlf role."

Performers:

Jim Henson (1962-1990)

Bill Barretta (1996-present)