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Why the Move of ‘Sesame Street’ to HBO is a Loss for Everyone
In the grand scheme of things, HBO’s acquisition of Sesame Street may not seem catastrophic, but it signifies the end of an era that successfully worked to bridge the socioeconomic gaps faced by our youngest children. This change is more than just a shift in programming; it feels like a loss for everyone involved.
Since its debut in 1969, Sesame Street has played a pivotal role in bringing public access television into the mainstream. For countless children of color, it offered representation in ways that traditional shows had not. The neighborhoods depicted on the show began to reflect the diversity of urban life instead of the typical suburban settings dominated by cul-de-sacs.
As someone who grew up in a low-income household, I can relate to the feelings of disconnect when watching classic TV shows. They often featured lifestyles and experiences that were far removed from my own reality. While I enjoyed shows like The Cosby Show and Happy Days, they never mirrored the life I knew. Sesame Street and Roseanne were the exceptions, providing glimpses into lives that resonated with me.
Sesame Street has contributed far beyond teaching kids their ABCs and 123s. It has introduced children to music, art, and dance—elements that many in low-income families, like mine, didn’t experience firsthand. I may not have been able to visit museums or attend performances, but Sesame Street opened my eyes to the beauty of art. Was seeing the “Mona Lisa” on the show the same as seeing it in person? Obviously not. But it inspired hope and a sense of belonging.
You might think I’m overreacting, believing that this shift to a paid platform won’t impact our children significantly. However, I remember the frustration of not being able to watch Fraggle Rock when it aired on cable. The show tackled important issues like prejudice and spirituality, but I missed out simply because my family couldn’t afford cable. The exclusion from such cultural touchstones created a divide that I felt deeply in social situations. If Sesame Street becomes primarily accessible to children from wealthier backgrounds, it risks creating a similar divide for today’s kids.
From a business perspective, this transition makes sense. It secures funding for a beloved show that might otherwise struggle to survive. The deal allows PBS to air episodes for free nine months after they premiere on HBO. While that sounds like a solid plan for PBS, there are significant drawbacks.
Waiting nine months for new episodes may not seem like a big deal, but it undermines the show’s ability to address timely issues. Sesame Street has been there for children during challenging times, like 9/11, helping them process fear and uncertainty. A delay of nine months means that PBS viewers may miss vital messages when they need them most. Old episodes won’t resonate in the same way as fresh content that directly addresses current events.
While I appreciate that this move may help preserve Sesame Street, I can’t help but grieve for what feels like the loss of a cherished public television gem. Sesame Street was designed specifically to support low-income children, providing them with opportunities for learning and exposure that their more affluent peers already enjoyed. Although it may still teach foundational skills, the survival of this cultural icon comes at a cost that impacts our children’s access to vital resources.
In summary, while HBO’s involvement may ensure Sesame Street’s financial viability, it raises concerns about accessibility and the potential widening of socioeconomic gaps. The show’s legacy as a bridge for low-income children could be threatened, leaving them with fewer resources to navigate the world around them.