Why is every new season of Sesame Street called an “experimental” one?
Sesame Street has remained a leader because of our commitment to always being a radical experiment. No two seasons are the same. Before each new one, we ask ourselves how we can meet children where they are today and how we can centre their evolving needs and experience of the world.
For the next season, we have an opportunity to not only educate and surprise children but to focus on their unique point of view. Our goal? For kids to feel like they’re being taken by the hand and pulled into the day’s story, which couldn’t happen without them. We’re going to give viewers more comedy, more playability, and a better understanding of what they can expect when they watch an episode of their favourite show, Sesame Street.
What can we expect to see in season 56, which comes to Australia in 2026?
The format will be changing, with an 11-minute adventure story, a 5-minute animated episode of the all new “Tales from 123,” and a second 11-minute adventure. This longer format gives us the real estate to tell stories with even more character-driven humor and heart. Stories will centre around Elmo, Abby, Cookie Monster and Grover to allow opportunities for deeper character development. But don’t worry, the other beloved Sesame Street friends will all be featured. The new episodes will be emotionally immersive and visually engaging—putting viewers at the heart of the story.
Tell me more about “Tales from 123.”
We’re so excited about this new animation which invites the audience inside the iconic stoop’s doors of 123 Sesame Street. The series focuses on what happens when monsters, fairies, people, animals, shapes and talking food call the same roof home!
We’re also seeing a lot of fun collabs with other children’s brands on your YouTube channel. How did those come about?
We’re always looking to deliver fun, unexpected collaborations to our fans on YouTube and on our social media channels. There’s no one formula, but we’ve been fortunate to partner with some of the most beloved preschool content creators. Our characters have had the best playdates with Ms. Rachel, Blippi, Meekah, The Wiggles, HiHo Kids, and Baby Shark, to name a few.
Can fans expect more collabs?
Is Elmo ticklish? It’s a resounding, “yes!”
Sal Perez — Executive Producer at Sesame Street
