The creators of Sesame Street have firmly stated that the beloved puppets Bert and Ernie, despite many online petitions advocating for their marriage, are simply “best friends” and do not have a sexual orientation.
At Change.org, over 5700 individuals have signed a petition calling for the duo, who famously share a bedroom and have a long-discussed sexuality, to be permitted to wed.
“We are not requesting anything crude or disrespectful from Sesame Street,” states the petition.
“It could be approached in a tasteful manner. Allow us to promote tolerance towards those who are different.”
However, the non-profit organization Sesame Workshop announced on Facebook today that a wedding is not in the works.
“Bert and Ernie are best friends,” the Workshop clarified. “They were designed to demonstrate to preschoolers that individuals can maintain friendships with those who are quite different from themselves.
“Although identified as male characters and showcasing many human-like traits and qualities (as is the case with most Sesame Street Muppets), they are ultimately puppets and do not possess a sexual orientation.”
Additionally, the petition proposed that Sesame Street consider introducing a transgender character, a show that has been on the air since 1969 via the Public Broadcasting Service.
Accompanying the online campaign is a dedicated Facebook page.
“Part of me laughs, while another part is in tears,” one comment read. Another quipped, “Will Elton John perform at the wedding?”
by Debbie Dot