From workout classes to happy hours, our lives have pretty much gone virtual thanks to social distancing. And now, Elmo is joining the (online) party.
Sesame Street just announced that the fan-favorite Muppet is hosting a virtual party for children on Tuesday, April 14. The half-hour special, titled Elmo’s Playdate, will feature several celebrity guests, including Lin-Manuel Miranda, Anne Hathaway and Tracee Ellis Ross.
Sesame Street: Elmo’s Playdate is part of the franchise’s “Caring for Each Other” initiative and is, therefore, designed to connect kids during these times of uncertainty. In an attempt to reach as many families as possible, WarnerMedia is simultaneously broadcasting the special across all of its networks, including HBO, HBO Latino, TBS, TNT, truTV, PBS Kids, Cartoon Network and Boomerang. (It will also air internationally in Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom.)
“WarnerMedia recognizes how difficult these isolation efforts are for families, especially ones with children,” said Bob Greenblatt, chairman of WarnerMedia Entertainment and Direct-to-Consumer, in a statement. “With Sesame Street: Elmo’s Playdate airing simultaneously across our networks, we are confident that this special will bring family members together for a unique in-home viewing experience that will provide laughter, joy and relief during this challenging time.”
