It’s been more than 50 years since audiences were first asked how to get to Sesame Street . Since then, the children’s program has cemented itself as one of the most popular/longstanding series ever created.
Unlike most kids’ shows that paint a rose-colored view of the world, Sesame Street tackles complicated topics head-on. This is why I’m applauding them for embracing diversity by adding an Asian-American character to the show!
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Long before children learn to tie their shoes and count by twos, they learn how to get to ‘Sesame Street’.
The iconic children’s show first debuted all the way back in 1969. The intention was to help provide a fun, informative program that helped kids all over the world learn valuable life skills like reading and writing.
Along the way, ‘Sesame Street’ introduced us to some truly memorable and cherished characters.
Who could forget the adventures of Bert and Ernie; the playful inquisitive nature of Big Bird; and of course — the cultural icon we’ve all come to know as Elmo?!
Now, after more than 50 years on the air, ‘Sesame Street’ aims to break new ground once again.
A brand new character by the name of Ji-Young is set to make her official debut in the upcoming HBO Max special, Sesame Street: See Us Coming Together . The program is set to air on November 25th, 2021 (U.S. Thanksgiving).
In a recent interview published via ‘CBC’, Ji-Young explains the serendipitous meaning behind her name.
“So, in Korean traditionally, the two syllables, they each mean something different, and ji means, like, smart or wise. And young means, like, brave or courageous and strong,” Ji-Young explained .
“But we were looking it up and guess what? Ji also means sesame,” she happily exclaimed.
Ji-Young will be the first Asian American Muppet in the entire Sesame Street canon. Ji is a Korean American driven by two passions: skateboarding and playing the electric guitar.
Not only that, but Ji-Young’s puppeteer is also Korean American as well!
The bulk of Ji-Young’s personality comes courtesy of Kathleen Kim — a 41-year-old Korean American puppeteer. Back in 2014, Kathleen was accepted into a Sesame Street workshop , which then evolved into a mentorship program. She officially joined the team the following year.
Kathleen told ‘CBC’ that working on the show, as well as designing her own Muppet, has been a dream come true.
“I feel like I have a lot of weight that maybe I’m putting on myself to teach these lessons and to be this representative that I did not have as a kid,” Kathleen said .
The idea for Ji-Young to join the ‘Sesame Street’ gang was the culmination of certain events that took place in 2020.
Mainly, the death of George Floyd , as well as the anti-Asian hate that began circulating in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal or purpose behind Ji-Young’s character is to help young children confront issues surrounding racism and prejudice.
Ji-Young also aims to teach kids all about Korean culture.
It’s been confirmed by showrunners that Ji-Young will be heavily featured through the 53rd season of Sesame Street . The plan is to help educate the masses on things such as Korean culture, as well as food!
The news of Ji-Young joining ‘Sesame Street’ has also been embraced by her fellow Muppet cast members.
Other than Ji-Young herself, Ernie is probably the most excited for the young girl to officially become a part of the gang. Ernie’s love for Korean food has been well-documented and he seems eager to try more!
“You know, I’ve tried bulgogi. I really like bulgogi,” Ernie said with excitement.
Ernie also admitted that his old pal, Bert, had most likely never tried Korean food before and that he was anxious to share it with him!
If you’re looking to become acquainted with Ji-Young before she makes her official debut, you can watch her interview on TODAY .
