Kevin Clash holding his 2009 Day-Time Emmy Award with his created character of the Muppets, the infamous, ELMO

In lue of the current 'Muppet' movie, out in theaters now, I would like to inform of you of the man behind the of the most lovable puppets of all-time (arguably). Yes, I know most of y'all probably know this lil' tid-bit but you'd be surprise how many do not know. Kevin Clash, a native of Baltimore County, Maryland (DMV area stand up!), has won 9, I REPEAT 9, Day Time Emmy awards for his personally created character, Elmo.

I know some of y'all remember the "Tickle Me Elmo" craze way back when it started in 1996; doesn't seem so long ago does it?  I had a hard time find total number sales but I know for fact since then "Tickle Me Elmo," "T.M.X.", & "Elmo Live!" have sold MILLIONS but I don't know if Mr. Clash receives royalties nor am I 100% sure he has the copyrights to the character Elmo (but my intuition is telling me he definitely does), anyway, i'll let you "do the dishes" on that one.....

-juskev