But Oz had also begun to get a handle on the character, finally arriving at a name as he played with the puppet between takes, and developing a better understanding of Grover’s motivation, thanks to some help from his dog, a devoted mutt named Fred. Watching Fred romping buoyantly in the park one afternoon, Oz said, “I noticed the purity of the dog.” It was suddenly clear. “There’s a purity in Grover,” said Oz. “He wants to please.” Grover had arrived.
