When you think of an icon as big as Big Bird, you almost forget that there is an actual person under those yellow feathers. For over 40 years, Caroll Spinney has been the man behind Sesame Street’s Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch. I AM BIG BIRD: The Caroll Spinney Story features never before seen footage of Spinney’s early career and his collaborations with Jim Henson. From bullied child to childhood icon.

Now 80, Spinney is showing no signs of retiring from playing his beloved Sesame Street characters. I AM BIG BIRD will be available on iTunes and On Demand May 5, and opening in select theaters May 6.