‘Sesame Street’ debuts first Filipino American Muppet

‘Sesame Street’ debuts first Filipino American Muppet

‘Sesame Street’, the beloved children’s TV show, has introduced its first Filipino American Muppet. The character, named “Jasmine,” was unveiled in a special episode that aired on May 18, 2023, during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Jasmine is a four-year-old girl who loves to dance and sing. She joins the diverse cast of ‘Sesame Street’ characters, which includes Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and Abby Cadabby, among others. The show has a long history of promoting diversity and inclusion, and the addition of Jasmine is a testament to that commitment.

The creation of Jasmine was a collaborative effort between the show’s producers and a team of Filipino American writers, educators, and artists. The character’s appearance, personality, and interests were all carefully crafted to reflect the experiences and culture of the Filipino American community.

In a statement, ‘Sesame Street’ executive producer Ben Lehmann said, “We’re thrilled to introduce Jasmine to our viewers and celebrate the diversity of our audience. We hope that Jasmine will resonate with Filipino American children and their families and provide them with a sense of representation and inclusion.”

The addition of Jasmine has been welcomed by the Filipino American community, who see it as a significant step forward in the representation of their culture and heritage in mainstream media. Many took to social media to express their excitement and gratitude, using the hashtag #JasmineOnSesameStreet.

The introduction of Jasmine is part of a broader effort by ‘Sesame Street’ to promote diversity and inclusion. In recent years, the show has introduced characters with autism, LGBTQ+ identities, and different abilities, among others.

As ‘Sesame Street’ continues to evolve and reflect the changing demographics of its audience, it remains a vital resource for children’s education and entertainment. The addition of Jasmine is yet another example of the show’s commitment to promoting a world where everyone is welcome and celebrated.