In a groundbreaking move, Netflix has officially acquired the beloved children's series "Sesame Street" as part of a new streaming deal. This partnership not only ensures that the iconic show continues to reach its audience but also maintains its long-standing relationship with PBS, where it has aired since its inception over 50 years ago.
Key Takeaways
- Netflix will premiere new episodes of "Sesame Street" while keeping it available on PBS and PBS Kids.
- The upcoming 56th season will feature a new format with episodes focusing on single character stories.
- The deal allows for a unique public-private partnership, enhancing educational outreach globally.
- Netflix plans to develop video games based on the "Sesame Street" franchise.
A New Era for Sesame Street
The announcement, made on May 19, 2025, marks a significant transition for "Sesame Street," which has been a staple of children's programming since 1969. The show will now have its 56th season available on Netflix, with episodes also airing simultaneously on PBS stations and the PBS Kids app. This dual availability aims to ensure that children across the U.S. continue to have free access to the educational content they love.
The decision comes after Warner Bros. Discovery opted not to renew its deal for the show, leaving Sesame Workshop in search of a new home. The partnership with Netflix is seen as a lifeline, allowing the show to reach a broader audience while still honoring its roots in public broadcasting.
What to Expect in Season 56
The new season promises to bring fresh content and a revamped format:
- Episode Structure: Each episode will focus on a single character's story, lasting approximately 11 minutes. This change is designed to cater to the shorter attention spans of younger viewers.
- Character-Driven Content: The episodes will emphasize character development and emotional well-being, with segments featuring fan favorites like Elmo, Big Bird, and Cookie Monster.
- New Segments: Viewers can look forward to the return of popular segments such as "Elmo’s World" and "Cookie Monster’s Foodie Truck," along with new explorations of the iconic Sesame Street neighborhood.
The Importance of Public-Private Partnerships
This collaboration between Netflix and Sesame Workshop is being hailed as a unique public-private partnership. It aims to leverage Netflix's global reach to enhance the educational impact of "Sesame Street" while ensuring that children in the U.S. continue to receive free access to its programming.
Paula Kerger, president and CEO of PBS, expressed pride in the ongoing partnership, emphasizing the importance of educational programming for children. The deal is expected to bolster PBS's efforts to provide commercial-free, educational content amidst ongoing funding challenges.
Expanding the Sesame Street Universe
In addition to new episodes, Netflix plans to develop video games based on the "Sesame Street" franchise, further expanding its reach into interactive content for children. This move aligns with Netflix's strategy to enhance its kids and family programming, which currently accounts for 15% of its total viewing.
As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, the addition of "Sesame Street" to Netflix's lineup represents a significant step in the ongoing effort to provide quality educational content to children worldwide. With its rich history and commitment to learning, "Sesame Street" is set to thrive in its new digital home, ensuring that generations of children can continue to grow smarter, stronger, and kinder.
Sources
- 'Sesame Street' moves in with Netflix, but will stay on PBS, Spectrum News.
- Netflix steps in to save ‘Sesame Street’, Yahoo.
- 'Sesame Street' moves to Netflix for new season, previous episodes, Yahoo.
- 'Sesame Street' moves to Netflix as streamer grows its preschool programming clout, Yahoo.
- Sesame Street is moving to Netflix, KSWT.