The familiar faces of Sesame Street are set to grace a new digital landscape as the iconic children’s program partners with Netflix, aiming to broaden its reach and impact. This collaboration ensures that the show remains accessible to its loyal audience on PBS while simultaneously tapping into Netflix’s expansive subscriber base. As the streaming giant increases its investment in content for young viewers, Sesame Street secures a modern platform to continue its mission of educating and engaging children. This new venture addresses the uncertainty that arose when Warner Bros. Discovery chose not to renew its deal with the show, paving the way for Sesame Street to continue nurturing a love of learning in children across the globe.

The move to Netflix is largely driven by the evolving media landscape and the need to ensure the show’s continued viability. Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision not to renew its deal with Sesame Street cast a shadow over the program’s future, prompting a search for a partner that could provide a stable and expansive platform. Netflix emerged as the ideal choice, offering not only financial security but also access to a massive global audience.

Netflix’s growing commitment to children’s content further solidified the partnership. With children’s programming accounting for a significant portion of viewing on the platform, Netflix recognized the value of adding Sesame Street to its lineup. The streaming service has invested heavily in creating a diverse range of shows for young viewers, making Sesame Street a natural fit.

The potential to reach a wider audience is perhaps the most compelling reason for the move. Netflix boasts a staggering 300 million subscribers worldwide, providing Sesame Street with an unparalleled opportunity to connect with new children and families. This expanded reach will allow the show to continue its mission of promoting education and fostering a love of learning on a global scale.

The Netflix-Sesame Street deal encompasses both new and existing content. Subscribers will have access to the 56th season of Sesame Street, alongside a vast library of 90 hours of previous episodes. This comprehensive collection ensures that viewers can enjoy both the latest adventures of Elmo and Big Bird and revisit classic moments from the show’s storied history.

Crucially, the deal also ensures the continued availability of Sesame Street on PBS. Episodes will air on PBS concurrently with their release on Netflix, maintaining parity between the two platforms. This arrangement is particularly important for families who rely on free-to-air television for their children’s programming.

Sesame Street’s enduring legacy of education and entertainment is rooted in its innovative approach to childhood learning. Back in the late 1960s, co-founders Lloyd Morrisett and Joan Ganz Cooney collaborated with experts at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education to pioneer a new way of teaching American children. Developmental psychologists analyzed childhood psychology to craft entertaining and educational lessons, while Jim Henson brought to life iconic characters like Big Bird, all set against a backdrop designed to resemble a familiar urban street.

Beyond the screen, Sesame Street has consistently championed important social causes. In 2002, Elmo even addressed Congress about the importance of music education. During the child obesity epidemic in 2006, Sesame Street aired Health Habits segments, promoting healthy diets and exercise. The Cookie Monster famously promoted balanced diets, teaching children that cookies are a “sometimes food,” and former First Lady Michelle Obama filmed a segment on healthy eating at the Sesame Street studios.

Netflix is also expanding its children’s content lineup with other additions. New episodes of Peppa Pig are joining the platform, offering even more options for young viewers. A Peppa Pig mobile game featuring puzzles and coloring activities will also be available, adding an interactive element to the viewing experience.

The partnership between Sesame Street and Netflix signals a new era for the beloved children’s program. By joining forces with a leading streaming platform, Sesame Street is positioned to connect with a new generation of children while upholding its commitment to education and entertainment. The show’s lasting legacy, coupled with Netflix’s expansive reach, ensures that Sesame Street will remain a cornerstone of children’s media for many years to come. This arrangement benefits all involved, especially the children around the world who will continue to learn from their favorite characters on Sesame Street.