Ji-Young- Sesame Street’s First Asian American Character

Ji-Young- Sesame Street's First Asain American Character — NYF Video Capture/Sesame Street

Ji-Young- Sesame Street’s First Asian American Character

Kids love to see themselves in their favorite shows. And after 52 seasons, the first Asian American muppet has been introduced to join the cast of the iconic PBS children’s show, Sesame Street. After first airing in November of 1969, the show has become a staple in many households as a fun and educational television show to keep kids entertained while also having them learn important lessons. This new muppet, named Ji-Young, is joining a cast of well-known characters including Bert and Ernie, Big Bird, Elmo, and Cookie Monster.

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Who is Ji-Young, Sesame Street’s New Character?

Ji-Young is a seven-year-old Korean-American. She is described by Sesame Workshop, as a spunky kid who loves to play her electric guitar, play soccer, and roll along the street on her skateboard. Ji-Young will be performed by Sesame Workshop puppeteer, Kathleen Kim.

She will be featured in Sesame Street’s upcoming TV Special, “See Us Coming Together: A Sesame Street Special”, which aims to celebrate the diversity of Asian and Pacific Islander communities. The show is taking important steps to have diversity and celebrate different identities on their show.

Representation Matters

This is not the first time Sesame Street has added a new face to the list of characters already on its program. Over the years, there have been many additions to the cast that have brought more inclusion to the show and addressed important topics. In 2015, Julia was introduced as the first autistic character and in 2011, Lily, the first character on the show who struggled with food insecurity and was also unhoused was introduced.

Representation on screen is so important for young kids growing up. Kids look up to characters on screen and having this new character will help an entire community of small kids by having someone on screen who they can relate to and learn from. Representation often allows kids to form their own identities and understand who they want to be.

Music Together

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Play On! Studios

Play On! Studios offers theater day camps and after-school classes on the UWS that are guaranteed to give kids a summer full of acting, music, and fun they won't soon forget! Young actors will rehearse and perform in a full production, work with professional NYC actors/teaching artists, build up their skills in a nurturing, non-competitive environment and play lots of drama games! Creative Drama Camps are perfect for kids entering grades K-4. Campers will work each week to put on a brand-new show! Each session, they will receive a script, rehearse a production, make a set and costumes, and perform their play. Kids will also play drama games, play outside (weather permitting), and have tons of fun! Musical Theater Camps are aimed at kids entering grades 4-9. In Musical Theater Performance Camp, campers put on a complete musical production in a professional NYC theater! Campers will stretch their skills with drama exercises and games, vocal coaching, field trips, and building a professional set. Our incredible teaching artists and campers come together to put on a truly remarkable show! During the school year, classes are great for beginners or more experienced actors - sing, dance, and put on a play! Whether your child is just starting out, or ready for Broadway, we&rsquo;ve got the class for them. Classes are available for grades PreK-8, after school or on Saturdays! Come play with us. &nbsp;