‘Sesame Street’ Introduces Character With Autism

Say hello to Julia. 

Sesame Street’s newest muppet is also the first to have autism. Introduced as a digital-only animated character in 2015, Julia will fully join the long-running show in April.

Julia made an appearance 60 Minutes‘ behind-the-scenes look at all things Sesame Street on Sunday night, and also debuted on the show’s YouTube channel (see below). 

Related Stories

Related Story

PBS Chief on 'Mercy Street' Renewal Prospects, 'Hamilton' Special and 'Sesame Street' Move

Christine Ferraro, a Sesame Street writer, told 60 Minutes that Julia is meant to expose the show’s young viewers to children with autistic traits. In Julia’s first appearance, Big Bird and others will attempt to welcome and shake hands with her but come to realize that Julia’s reluctance isn’t rudeness, rather a teaching moment into what autism is.

We’re excited to announce a new friend joining us on Sesame Street! She’s Julia, a 4-year-old with autism! #SeeAmazing pic.twitter.com/xDS3x2a5za

— Sesame Street (@sesamestreet) March 20, 2017