CBC’s legendary Mr. Dressup, Ernie Coombs, passed away Sept. 18 after a long and respected career as a children’s entertainer. Coombs, who retired in 1996 after 31 years on the air, including 4,000 episodes of Mr. Dressup, was a favorite performer for generations of Canadian children.

A member of the Order of Canada, and winner of multiple Gemini Awards, as well as the Earle Grey Award for Excellence in Canadian Television. Coombs came to Canada from the U.S. in 1963 with Fred Rogers (Mr. Rogers Neighbourhood) to develop a kids show for CBC.

CBC will continue to air reruns of Mr. Dressup.