From Sesame Street's Latest Film, 'Follow That Bird,' to Christmas! A Look at Where Our Beloved Muppets Are Now
The other day, I was walking down the street when I spotted a familiar, giant yellow bird... only to realize it was a parent and child in an incredible Big Bird costume! It hit me: this year, there's been no shortage of Sesame Street buzz. And now, with the new movie 'Sesame Street Presents: Follow That Bird' hitting theaters, the fan anticipation is through the roof. Plus, the city is already decked out for the holidays. It got me wondering—how are the old gang from the Street spending the season? You have to admit, it's a nice thought.
The Heartwarming Comfort of "Home" in 'Follow That Bird'
The title alone, 'Follow That Bird,' is a total heartstring-puller, right? Whether Big Bird gets lost or embarks on a journey to find his way home... the full story is still under wraps. But judging from the trailer, it looks like a full-blown adventure with all of Sesame Street teaming up to find him. There's even a shot of that grouchy trash can dweller, Oscar, reluctantly joining the search party—and honestly, that contrast got me. It's moments like these that make the Muppets feel even more "human" than actual people.
The Philosopher of the Trash Can? A Look at the Grumpy Yet Lovable Oscar the Grouch
Speaking of which, Oscar the Grouch is easily one of the most distinct and wonderfully quirky Sesame Street Muppets. Living in a trash can, preferring "gloomy" weather, and genuinely loving garbage as a gift—he's a character. But here's the thing: Oscar is a big reason why Sesame Street is such a great place to learn about diversity. It teaches us that it's okay to be different from everyone else, and that feeling grumpy is a valid emotion. In a way, he might be the most modern character, showing kids that it's perfectly okay to have "negative" feelings.
- Big Bird: The gentle, slightly naive, but fiercely loyal leader of the group.
- Oscar the Grouch: The iconic grouch who calls a trash can home. Secretly a team player?
- Cookie Monster: The cookie-obsessed, forever-hungry monster. Lately, we've even seen him grapple with health-conscious eating.
- Elmo: The cheerful, giggly little monster. A favorite among children (and adults!) worldwide.
Looking at this list, it's clear they're a bunch of originals.
This Christmas is All About 'A Sesame Street Christmas'!
And the best part? The movie drops in December. That means the holiday season is shaping up to be a full-on Sesame Street Christmas. Around this time every year, TV channels start airing classic Christmas specials, and you'll spot plenty of homes with a Big Bird ornament tucked away on the tree. But thanks to the new film, we're also seeing a wave of official Advent calendars and exclusive merchandise hitting the scene. It's going to be a challenge for kids and adults alike to resist emptying their wallets.
Just the other day, I heard about a surprise collaboration with a pro basketball team! Apparently, Oscar showed up at the arena, popping his head out of his trash can during the game to grumble, "Can you keep it down out there?" The blend of sports excitement with the Muppets' laid-back humor had the whole crowd in stitches.
Timeless and True: The Street Is Still the Place to Be
What's the secret behind a show that's been beloved since its start in 1969 for over 50 years? It's likely the way it imparts lessons about "caring for your neighbor" and "celebrating who you are" without ever feeling preachy or forced. Big Bird, Oscar, and even this new film remind us of the simple, profound warmth of "home."
This winter, why not spend the holidays with the neighbors from Sesame Street? Whether peeking out from a trash can or soaring on big yellow wings, they're sure to bring a little extra magic to your street, too.