Sonia Manzano, widely recognized as “Maria” from the iconic children’s television show Sesame Street, is a pioneering figure whose impact extends far beyond the screen. As a first-generation Puerto Rican, Manzano’s journey from the South Bronx to becoming a beloved television personality and accomplished writer is an inspiring narrative of talent, dedication, and cultural representation. Her portrayal of Maria has touched the lives of millions of children and families, making her a significant contributor to educational television and a role model for Latino communities.
Born and raised in the vibrant yet challenging environment of the South Bronx, Sonia Manzano’s artistic inclinations were nurtured by encouraging teachers who saw her potential. This support led her to audition for and be accepted into the prestigious High School of Performing Arts in New York City. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her acting career, setting the stage for her future success. She further honed her skills at Carnegie Mellon University before returning to New York, where she landed a role in the original off-Broadway production of Godspell. This early theatrical success showcased her talent and versatility as a performer.
In 1971, Manzano’s career took a transformative turn when she joined Sesame Street. Initially, she was hired as a member of the writing staff, but her on-screen charisma soon led her to become “Maria,” a friendly face and relatable character on the show. Her contributions to Sesame Street are immense, both in front of and behind the camera. Over her 44-year tenure, she became an integral part of the show’s fabric, earning 15 Emmy Awards for her writing work. Maria’s character became a fixture in the neighborhood, known for her warmth, intelligence, and ability to connect with children from all backgrounds.
Beyond her iconic role on Sesame Street, Manzano has demonstrated her artistic range across various platforms. She has graced the New York stage in productions such as The Vagina Monologues, The Exonerated, and Love, Loss, and What I Wore, showcasing her dramatic and comedic talents to adult audiences. Her writing extends beyond Sesame Street as well. She contributed to the Peabody Award-winning children’s series Little Bill and authored several acclaimed children’s books, including No Dogs Allowed, A Box Full of Kittens, and the young adult novel The Revolution of Evelyn Serrano, which received a Pura Belpre Honor. Her memoir, Becoming Maria: Love and Chaos in the South Bronx, published in 2015, offers a deeply personal account of her life journey.
The beloved cast of Sesame Street, featuring Maria (Sonia Manzano), Elmo, Big Bird, and Cookie Monster, in a joyful group photo celebrating the iconic children's television show.
Sonia Manzano’s remarkable career has been recognized with numerous accolades. She received the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Award and the Hispanic Heritage Award for Education in recognition of her positive impact on the Latino community. Her induction into the Bronx Hall of Fame in 2004 further cemented her status as a hometown hero. She has also been honored with honorary degrees from prestigious universities like Notre Dame, Tufts, Carnegie Mellon, and Lehman College. In 2016, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Daytime Emmys, celebrating her pioneering role in Latino representation on television and her enduring contribution to children’s education.
Big Bird from Sesame Street playfully interacts with a child on a slide, highlighting Sesame Workshop's commitment to early childhood education and positive impact.
Although Sonia Manzano retired from Sesame Street in 2015, her portrayal of Maria continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Episodes featuring Maria remain available on air and online, ensuring that her legacy continues to inspire and educate new generations. Sonia Manzano’s journey from the South Bronx to a celebrated figure in children’s television is a testament to her talent, resilience, and the power of representation. “Maria” on Sesame Street is more than just a character; she is a symbol of warmth, intelligence, and inclusivity, embodying the positive impact of diverse voices in media.
