In a segment that parodies her hit "Hot N Cold," Katy Perry was going to be one of numerous celebrity guest stars on the new 41st season of Sesame Street. The segment has been pulled, however, after appalled parents who saw the segment on YouTube spoke their minds to Sesame. Here is the statement issued by Sesame Workshop:
"Sesame Street has a long history of working with celebrities across all genres, including athletes, actors, musicians and artists. Sesame Street has always been written on two levels, for the child and adult. We use parodies and celebrity segments to interest adults in the show because we know that a child learns best when co-viewing with a parent or care-giver. We also value our viewer's opinions and particularly those of parents. In light of the feedback we've received on the Katy Perry music video which was released on You Tube only, we have decided we will not air the segment on the television broadcast of Sesame Street, which is aimed at preschoolers. Katy Perry fans will still be able to view the video on You Tube."
I want to point out the line, "Sesame Street has always been written on two levels, for the child and adult." This statement is interesting. It's true that Sesame has always used parodies and jokes that are quite cute and funny to adults, and that most kids have no idea of the reference. I love this about Sesame Street, and I, as a parent, appreciate the humor. However, these parodies are supposed to be a side note, secondary to the educational entertainment provided to kids. The show is not supposed to be written for adults.
The controversy has of course escalated since Sesame's statement, with many criticizing parents for complaining. The point is, though, that Sesame Street is a show for preschoolers, and parents make the decisions on what their kids watch, so it's their opinion that matters. And, in a kids' show, should there really be any question? Really? What is the point of pushing the boundries?
You can argue all day about whether or not viewing kids will ever in any way be affected by watching Katy run around after Elmo in a sexy looking "dress-up" dress, but in the end, there is no good reason to take the chance anyway. Many parents feel it does send an unwanted message. Period. Just dress characters, even celebrity guest characters, in clothing appropriate for little kids to view. It's not that hard. Sesame Street did the right thing by listening to their audience base (or at least those that make the decision for the base) and throwing it out.
- Vote in a poll about the Katy Perry Sesame Segment
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