For many of us, Sesame Street was a TV show we grew up with. It was part of the fabric of our childhood. We laughed at Bert and Ernie, we learned life lessons with Big Bird, were taught to count with Count and Cookie Monster, played games with Snuffleupagus, and giggled with Elmo. They were good times!
And now that we have our own children we’re watching a new generation of kids enjoy Sesame Street and it’s pretty cool to see those familiar faces all over again.
But Sesame Street is about to change. One of the show’s main characters has retired after an incredible 44 years on the show
Maria is moving out of Sesame Street.
Sonia Manzano, 65, who played Maria since 1971 announced this week that she will not be returning for Sesame Street’s next season.
As well as playing Maria, she was also a writer on the show, winning 15 Emmy Awards for her work.
The news of Maria’s departure has led to an outpouring of tributes on social media, with many expressing their fondness for Maria and Sesame Street from their childhoods.
“Thank you but don’t be bummed!” Ms Manzano later tweeted to disappointed fans, adding that she could return for the show’s 50th anniversary.
Maria first arrived on Sesame Street as a teenager where she worked at the library. She later moved to the Fix-It Shop where she worked with her on-show husband, Luis. Maria and Luis became parents to their on-show daughter, Gabi, who is now grown-up and is still a familiar face on Sesame Street.
