November 2024 marks the 55th anniversary of “Sesame Street.” Since 1969, the show has entertained and educated multiple generations of children, teaching important lessons about shapes, colors, reading, kindness, and more over the course of its more than 4,500 episodes. “Sesame Street” is home to a whole crew of colorful characters that have captured imaginations across the world. Now the Great Pop Culture Debate wants to sweep the clouds away as we attempt to determine the Best “Sesame Street” Character of all time.

Characters discussed: Grover, Elmo, Big Bird, Oscar the Grouch, Count Von Count, Bert, Ernie, Kermit the Frog, Cookie Monster, Zoe, Rosita, Abby Cadabby, Mr. Snuffleuppagus, Guy Smiley, Telly Monster.

Join host Eric Rezsnyak, GPCD panelists Amma Marfo and Karissa Kloss, and special guest panelist Chris Thomas Hayes, the performer who brings to life Hoots the Owl and Elijah Walker on “Sesame Street,” as they debate 16 of the most beloved characters to be featured on “Sesame Street.”

Great Pop Culture Debate is brought to you by Factor Meals. Visit factormeals.com/greatpop50 and use the code greatpop50 for 50% off your first box plus 20% off your next month.

Play along at home by finding the listener bracket here. Make a copy for yourself, fill it out, and see if your picks match up with ours!

For more exclusive content, including warm-up in which we discuss the characters we were bummed didn’t make the bracket, become a Patreon supporter of the podcast today.

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Episode Credits

Host: Eric Rezsnyak

Panel: Amma Marfo, Karissa Kloss

Special Guest: Chris Thomas Hayes, “Sesame Street” cast member (Hoots, Elijah Walker)

Producer: Curtis Creekmore

Editor:  Eric Rezsnyak

Theme Music: “Dance to My Tune” by Marc Torch

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