In a strategic move that expands its global footprint while honoring its public television roots, “Sesame Street” will begin streaming new episodes on Netflix later this year, while continuing to air on PBS and the PBS Kids app, the companies announced Monday.
Under the new agreement, fresh episodes of the beloved children’s series will debut simultaneously across Netflix and PBS platforms. A specific launch date has not yet been disclosed. In addition, select classic episodes will become available to Netflix subscribers worldwide, broadening access to the show’s extensive educational library.
The transition marks a significant shift for the iconic program, which has aired on HBO and Max since 2016. That partnership concluded last year when Warner Bros. Discovery opted not to renew its distribution deal for new episodes, although existing content will remain on Max through 2027.
“This unique public-private partnership will enable us to bring our research-based curriculum to young children around the world with Netflix’s global reach, while ensuring children in communities across the U.S. continue to have free access on public television to the ‘Sesame Street’ they love,” Sesame Workshop said in a statement.
Sal Perez, executive producer of “Sesame Street” and a Sesame Workshop vice president, said the upcoming season will emphasize character development and emotional wellness. Episodes in Season 56 will be centered around a single 11-minute story arc, a structure aimed at deepening engagement and retention for young viewers.
“The more kids want to hang out with our characters on ‘Sesame Street,’ the more they’re going to take in those lessons,” Perez said, noting that viewers can also expect updates to the show’s visual presentation. The new season will offer an expanded look at the show’s vibrant neighborhood, including scenes set inside the iconic brownstone at 123 Sesame Street, home to Elmo, Bert, Ernie, and other beloved characters.
PBS President and CEO Paula Kerger emphasized the show’s continued importance to the network’s mission. “I strongly believe that our educational programming for children is one of the most important aspects of our service to the American people, and ‘Sesame Street’ has been an integral part of that critical work for more than half a century,” she said. “We’re proud to continue our partnership in the pursuit of having a profound impact on the lives of children for years to come.”
Since its debut over 50 years ago, “Sesame Street” has become a cornerstone of children’s television, airing in more than 150 countries and earning over 200 Emmy Awards, along with Grammy and Peabody honors and a Kennedy Center recognition for lifetime artistic achievement.
Now, with its inclusion on Netflix, the show’s iconic characters—Big Bird, Oscar the Grouch, Cookie Monster, and more—will share digital real estate with modern children’s programming favorites like Ms. Rachel, Blippi, and the cast of “CoComelon Lane.” According to Netflix, content aimed at kids and families currently accounts for 15% of its total viewing.
