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Today, officially, Sesame Street turns 40. Back in 1969, the children’s show debuted on national television. It was a different show back then. You can purchase the original shows on DVD, but there is a disclaimer on the packaging saying they are for “adults only.”
Katie McLaughlin from CNN.com wrote a great piece about the differences. “The New York Times” did a piece two years ago about the same issues. I wrote about that article too: Old School “Sesame Street” vs. New School “Sesame Street.” Remember when Cookie Monster smoked a pipe? Yup, remember when he would eat the pipe? As a kid in the ’70s I never thought twice about this not being appropriate. It seems crazy, but as a mother I can tell you that if I were to watch the “old” Sesame Street I would have something to say about how inappropriate some of the scenes are. Heck, I have issue with Peanuts on the Charlie Brown specials.
As things continually change on “Sesame Street,” some stay the same. Elmo has been on the show for more than 10 years. When asked in an interview (see video below) how old he was, he replied, “three and a half.” I guess as some things change, others stay the same.
Related:
- Read the CNN story about “Sesame Street’ Been Swept, But The Magic of Show RemainsÂ
- Balancing Motherhood archives, Old School “Sesame Street” vs. New School “Sesame Street.”
- USAToday’s At 40, “Sesame Street'” Is In a Constant State of Renewal
- Official “Sesame Street” Web site
Jean Lewis says
You kids used to sit in front of the TV for hours watching Sesame Street. We thought it was the most appropriate show in the world. Of course most of us parents smoked back in the old days, too. Wonder what will be inappropriate for kids 20 years from now.