After more than 50 years on and off screens, Sesame Street is back, this time on Netflix, and it’s ready to charm a whole new generation of kids.
The streaming platform has reinvented the classic show as an interactive experience, keeping all the heart and lessons that made the original a hit when it first launched in the late 1960s.
Big Bird, Elmo, Oscar the Grouch, and Cookie Monster are all returning to teach counting, sharing, kindness, and community values—but now in a way designed to engage kids like never before.
The first four episodes are already live, each 11 minutes long, and the series has gone global, available in more than 30 languages.
Executive producer Sal Perez, who’s been part of the Sesame Street family for over 15 years, said the new season “reimagines Sesame Street”, bringing children into stories that are fun, heartfelt, and full of learning moments.
A Legacy of Lessons and Laughter
Even after five decades, Sesame Street remains focused on kindness and compassion, which Perez says is more important than ever.
Through song, games, and storytelling, kids are invited to experience lessons that are both educational and deeply relatable.
Yet, the show’s history hasn’t always been sunshine and rainbows.
Over the years, it has faced scandals, controversies, and criticism, some of which are long forgotten—but they still form part of its complex legacy.
Elmo’s Voice and Past Controversies
One of the biggest storms hit in 2012 when Kevin Clash, the voice of Elmo, stepped away amid allegations of inappropriate relationships with underage boys.
Clash consistently denied any wrongdoing, insisting relationships only occurred once the individuals were adults.
Sesame Street labeled the situation a “distraction” and replaced him with Ryan Dillon, who has voiced Elmo ever since.
Though no criminal charges were ever filed, the controversy shook long-time fans and cast a shadow over the show’s family-friendly image.
Characters and Cultural Debates
The show has also grappled with cultural representation.
Roosevelt Franklin, introduced in the early 1970s, was meant to bring a black perspective to Sesame Street but was removed after concerns about promoting negative stereotypes.
Similarly, debates have swirled around Bert and Ernie for decades, with questions about whether they are a couple or just roommates.
Writers have given different takes, but Sesame Workshop has maintained that they have no sexual orientation, leaving fans to interpret the characters as they wish.
Addressing Real-World Issues
Sesame Street has never shied away from tackling tough topics.
In 2002, the show introduced Kami, a five-year-old HIV-positive Muppet, to help reduce stigma and show that kids with HIV can still play and belong.
The inclusion sparked debate among parents and politicians about whether such topics were appropriate for preschoolers, but the intention was always to educate and normalize difficult conversations.
Cookie Monster, too, underwent a transformation in 2005.
The beloved cookie-loving monster was updated to promote a balanced diet, reminding kids that treats are fine in moderation and that fruits and vegetables are important too.
Celebrity Guest Controversies
Even celebrity appearances haven’t been without drama.
Katy Perry’s duet with Elmo in 2010, featuring a revealing outfit, was pulled from broadcast after parental complaints, though it was released online.
Perry herself joked about the decision on social media, saying, “Wow, looks like my play date with Elmo has been cut short!”
Online Challenges and Lost Episodes
The show has also had to navigate the digital age.
In 2011, the Sesame Street YouTube channel was hacked, and inappropriate content briefly replaced kid-friendly videos.
The team worked with YouTube to restore the channel and apologized to parents for the disruption.
Some episodes were also pulled from rotation due to complaints.
The 1976 Wizard of Oz special was banned after children were frightened by Margaret Hamilton’s Wicked Witch, and in 1983, the episode Farewell Mr. Hooper explored death after actor Will Lee’s passing, sparking mixed reactions.
Sesame Street Today
Despite its ups and downs, Sesame Street continues to evolve, staying relevant and educational for modern audiences.
With its Netflix reboot, the show is set to delight children globally while keeping the spirit of learning, kindness, and fun alive.
The new season is available to stream now, bringing a fresh take on the classic street we all remember and love.