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In a dramatic twist worthy of Oscar the Grouch’s mood swings, Netflix has swooped in to save iconic children’s series Sesame Street just months after it was unceremoniously scrapped by Warner Bros. Discovery.
The legendary show, which first aired in 1969 and has educated and entertained generations of children with its colourful cast of Muppets and magical mix of learning and laughter, faced an uncertain future after a surprise cancellation rocked fans earlier this year. But now, it’s heading to a brand-new home, and fans are breathing a sigh of relief.
Netflix confirmed on Monday that it will become the official new home of Sesame Street, with the highly anticipated 56th season set to debut on the streaming platform in 2025.
But that’s not all, in a treat for nostalgic adults and curious kids alike, the streaming giant will also be adding a whopping 90 hours of classic Sesame Street content to its platform, meaning Big Bird, Elmo, Cookie Monster, and the rest of the gang will be more accessible than ever before.
Credit: PBS
The announcement marks a major milestone in the beloved series' long and winding journey through broadcast history. Originally launched on PBS in 1969, Sesame Street moved to HBO in 2016 under a new deal, before finding itself in limbo following Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision to cancel future seasons, sparking outrage among parents, educators, and celebrity fans alike.
Netflix’s move to rescue the show has been met with widespread celebration online, with fans calling it a "win for childhood education" and praising the platform for preserving the legacy of one of television’s most influential programmes.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote: “Netflix saving Sesame Street is the kind of news we needed. My kids – and honestly, my inner child – thank you.”
Another added: “It’s like saving a national treasure. Sesame Street is childhood.”
The new partnership promises to keep the show’s mission of “helping kids grow smarter, stronger, and kinder” going strong for years to come, while the vast back catalogue offers a comforting dive into the past for those who grew up learning their ABCs with the help of a furry red monster and a singing, counting vampire.
With a refreshed format and a global platform, it looks like sunny days really are sweeping the clouds away, Sesame Street is here to stay.
Credit: REX