It was on this day in 1969 that Sesame Street premiered, forever changing children’s television, popular culture, and society in the process. But as much of a part of our world as the series is now, the series was considered a risky proposition when it debuted fifty years ago. Would children respond to a learning-focused television show taught by a diverse group of human and muppet characters? That was the question that show creators Joan Ganz Cooney, Lloyd Morrisett and Jim Henson faced all those years ago. Fortunately the answer was a resounding yes, and for generations of television viewers there have been nothing but “sunny days sweeping the clouds away” ever since.
Throughout this week we will be celebrating this television milestone with articles honoring the series and how it has impacted our lives. But first, we want to hear from you. How has the show personally touched you? Have you shared it with your children, and grandchildren? What are your favorite human and Muppet characters from the show? Name some of the songs from the series that you love the most. What Sesame Street toys did you play with growing up? Consider the comments section to be a place to share all of your Sesame Street memories, and be sure to check back for more articles about the series all week long!