The man behind a beloved Muppet is calling it quits.

Steve Whitmire, who provides the voice of Kermit the Frog, is giving up the job after 27 years, reports Muppets fan site Tough Pigs.

Whitmire, who has worked with the Muppets for nearly 40 years, has voiced Kermit since 1990 when Muppets creator Jim Henson died. It's unclear why he is stepping down now.

Matt Vogel, a Muppets veteran since 1996 who has done the voices of Floyd, Lew Zealand and the Count, will replace Whitmire. His debut will take place next week on a "Muppet Thought of the Week" video.

Whitmire's departure also leaves a void when it comes to some other characters. He voiced Statler, Rizzo and Beaker. It's not yet known who will take them on.

You can get a look at Whitmire performing as Kermit below.

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