Sesame Street is officially joining Netflix. The beloved children’s program will debut its 56th season on the platform later this year—marking a big shift after parting ways with HBO and Max.
This new partnership brings Sesame Street to a broader audience, as episodes will also continue airing for free on PBS and the PBS Kids app. It’s a return to the show’s mission of being widely accessible to families everywhere.
The upcoming season will feature a new, more focused format with 11-minute character-driven stories designed to help kids connect emotionally. Fan-favorite segments like Elmo’s World and Cookie Monster’s Foodie Truck are returning, along with a brand-new animated series called Tales from 123.
In addition to new episodes, Netflix will also offer over 90 hours of past Sesame Street content, making it easy for new generations to discover the show’s classic moments. The deal also includes plans for video games based on the show and its spinoff Mecha Builders, expanding Sesame Street into interactive experiences.
The move comes at an important time for Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit behind the series, which has faced recent financial struggles. According to The Washington Post, the new Netflix deal is expected to provide stability and renewed opportunities for growth. Meanwhile, Vulture reports that the streaming partnership also opens the door for future creative development and digital expansion.
Since its debut in 1969, Sesame Street has become one of the most iconic and influential children’s television programs in history. Known for its innovative use of puppetry, animation, live-action, and music, the show pioneered educational television by blending entertainment with essential life lessons, literacy, and emotional development. Its diverse cast and inclusive themes helped reflect a changing society and contributed to cultural conversations around race, disability, and community.
Generations have grown up with the likes of Big Bird, Elmo, Bert and Ernie, Oscar the Grouch, and Cookie Monster—characters that have become part of the fabric of childhood. The show has won over 200 Emmy Awards and has been recognized globally for its positive impact on early childhood education.
With this shift, Sesame Street is stepping into a new era—one that combines its rich legacy with the reach of modern streaming, ensuring it continues to educate and entertain families worldwide.
