The debut of Sesame Street’s Season 40 has left viewers with a mix of excitement and contemplation. The standout segment, undoubtedly, was the reimagined “Elmo’s World: Frogs.” It’s clear why this segment took time to develop – it was a refreshing and engaging update, punctuated by a delightful cameo from the iconic Kermit the Frog. Far exceeding expectations, Kermit’s appearance wasn’t just a fleeting moment in the opening montage; it was an integral and charming part of the segment itself. Adding to the nostalgic charm was a nod to the beloved Camp Wannagohoma in Elmo’s E-Mail, making this episode arguably the best “Elmo’s World” installment since the “Food” episode. For viewers tuning in, resisting the urge to change the channel during this segment is highly recommended – even the most dedicated Mr. Noodle enthusiasts would agree that a Kermit the Frog cameo on Sesame Street is a must-see moment.
However, beyond the brilliance of “Elmo’s World,” the overall format of the season premiere introduces some elements that feel less classically “Sesame Street.”
A Shift in Format: Echoes of the Past, Questions for the Future
The most noticeable change in Season 40 is the new “block” format. This structure bears a resemblance to Season 33, where the focus seemed heavily weighted towards daily Muppet segments, with films primarily reserved for letter and number education. This approach highlights a challenge Sesame Street has navigated in recent years: balancing a wealth of content within a one-hour timeframe, especially when “Elmo’s World” consistently occupies a significant 10-15 minute portion.
“Abby’s Flying School,” despite initial reservations, proved to be a surprisingly strong addition. Its clever writing, including a subtle nod to “Fractured Fairy Tales” and a humorous reference to Zsa Zsa Gabor, delivered genuine laughs. Yet, the integration of “Abby’s Flying School,” alongside segments like “Ernie and Bert’s Great Adventures” within a single episode, contributes to a feeling that the show is evolving into something different. While undeniably good, it raises the question of whether this new direction fully captures the quintessential “Sesame Street” essence. The episode, thankfully, avoided lengthy and less engaging segments featuring children engaged in activities like sushi making or yoga – a potential pitfall Sesame Street has sometimes encountered.
Murray’s World: Modern Host or Missed Opportunity?
Murray’s role as a framing device presents another layer of complexity. His “Murray Goes to the Real World” segments, featuring improvisational interactions with children, are genuinely reminiscent of the innovative spirit of Jim Henson. However, the “Coming Up Next” style introductions sometimes lean into a 1990s Saturday morning TV host persona, which may feel slightly out of sync with the classic Sesame Street pacing. His handling of the letter and number segments, however, is a positive and seamless integration.
Anniversary Aspirations: Where’s the 40th Celebration?
Despite being the 40th season premiere, the episode lacked a strong sense of anniversary celebration beyond featuring the number 40 prominently as the number of the day. While subtle nods like the puppet parrot potentially referencing Poco Loco or H. Ross Parrot, and Bob walking Barkley, are present, they feel understated. There was an expectation, perhaps, for more overt acknowledgements of Sesame Street’s rich history and beloved characters, a feeling that Big Bird should have perhaps shared goodbyes with a wider range of classic personalities.
Early Impressions: A Season of Potential
It’s still early in Season 40, and a comprehensive assessment requires viewing more episodes. However, this premiere offers a glimpse into a season that is navigating a path of evolution. While certain format choices and the overall tone may diverge from established Sesame Street norms, the episode undeniably delivers moments of brilliance, particularly in “Elmo’s World.” Whether Season 40 ultimately strikes the right balance between honoring its legacy and embracing new directions remains to be seen, but the premiere episode certainly sparks curiosity and anticipation for what’s to come.
