(YouTube link)
Sesame Street premiered on November 10th, 1969, which makes it 40 years old today! The above clip is from a promotional show aired to introduce the series two days before the premiere. Sesame Street was originally intended for inner-city children, but became a hit with the preschool set all over the globe. Many people don't realize how much the show has changed in 40 years. The early seasons are available on DVD with a disclaimer that says:
"These early 'Sesame Street' episodes are intended for grown-ups, and may not suit the needs of today's preschool child."
In those early days, Cookie Monster smoked a pipe. He also ate things that weren't edible, much less nutritious. Oscar the Grouch was much grouchier. And children rode bicycles without helmets! You won't see those things on this season's Sesame Street. Link
More Sesame Street Links
Today's anniversary episode features guest star Michelle Obama.
Caroll Spinney, who plays Big Bird, is still going strong at almost 76 years old.
8 Memorable Sesame Street Celebrity Cameos.
Sesame Street videos on YouTube.
The 101 Muppets of Sesame Street.
The Cookie Monster Interview.
Big Bird Sings at Jim Henson's Funeral.
"God has a hard-on for Marines because we kill everything we see! He plays His games, we play ours! To show our appreciation for so much power, we keep heaven packed with fresh souls! God was here before the Marine Corps! So you can give your heart to Jesus, but your ass belongs to the Corps! Do you ladies understand?" -Gunnery SGT Hartman, Full Metal Jacket
Happy 40th, Sesame Street!
Meanwhile, stuff like this used to happen:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ul7X5js1vE
-T
Check out this funny list of the Top 10 Celebrity Guests On Sesame Street Who Were Abusers, Boozers & Losers
http://www.tvtango.com/news/detail/id/114