Inspiring Words, Elmo Style
The fuzzy red monster/superstar agrees to an interview.
It was a mob scene when Elmo stepped out of his limo at our offices for this interview. Adoring fans, bodyguards, and the paparazzi were all on hand. No surprise; the furry red one is the "it" puppet. He has his own segment — "Elmo's World" — on Sesame Street, one of the longest-running daytime TV shows. He's guest-starred on The West Wing and The View, and, like any seasoned celebrity, he talks about himself in the third person.
He's also refreshingly candid and sweet. Over a lunch of pizza and bananas (Elmo's favorites), we chatted about his latest DVD project, Elmo's World: Opposites, in which Elmo helps kids explore the concept of opposites. Elmo told us he approached this role in the same way he does all his screen work: with fun in mind. "He makes a game out of learning and using his imagination," says close friend and puppeteer Kevin Clash.
After lunch, Elmo shared some of his favorite things and that famous childlike wisdom with us. Enjoy!
Parent & Child: Describe an ideal day on Sesame Street.
Elmo Monster: Elmo likes to wake up in the morning and feed Elmo's goldfish, Dorothy, and then Elmo likes to have a play date with Abby Cadabby. Elmo loves hearing Oscar say, "Have a rotten day" as Elmo rides by on Elmo's tricycle.
P&C: You have appeared on many TV shows. Do you enjoy the experience?
Elmo: Elmo loves to meet new friends. Elmo especially loved meeting Mr. Martin Sheen on The West Wing; he played the president of the United States, you know. He's big time.
P&C: What is the most important message you would like to share with kids?
Elmo: Elmo thinks it's important for kids to listen to their parents because they can learn a lot from them.
P&C: What is the most important message you would like to share with parents?
Elmo: Elmo thinks it's important for parents to listen to their kids because they can learn a lot from them. Ha, ha, ha.
P&C: Name the one trait you like best about yourself.
Elmo: Elmo loves Elmo's laugh. It makes Elmo laugh!
