Having the world's most respected global ambassador sounding like you has given Cooks quite a boost. I believe Dikembe Mutombo just explained how his voice came about - I think he has a gorgeous voice.
There was a time when the producers of Sesame Street wanted to get rid of The Cookie Monster - they thought he was too extreme for kids. So they brought in Elmo to take his place. Good thing they had second thoughts, getting rid of Cooks would have ripped the heart out of Sesame Street.