The Characters In British Sesame Street

Eric Feurer
Slackjaw
Published in
2 min readApr 21, 2019

Sesame Street has been an educational programming staple for countless American children over the years, but did you know that over twenty countries around the world have their own version of the show? Each one puts it’s own cultural flair on the beloved puppets we cherish. Today we explore the characters in British Sesame Street.

Oscar The Grouch — Oscar The Curmudgeon

His billy is right chuffed that you bothered him in his waste bin without calling first. He would have put on the rubbish kettle had he known. His catchphrase is ‘Hard cheese, I know my onions, and I’m right bent as a nine-bob note!’

Big Bird — Rather Large Fowl

One of the Queen’s peacocks. Is rather large, but no one talks about it because it’s quite impolite to share feelings. Teaches the letter of the day, which is and always will be ‘zed’.

Cookie Monster — Biscuit Beggar

A street urchin boy who will shine your shoes for 2 pence and a crumpet. Don’t give him a name or he’ll follow you home! Sings the catchy song ‘B Is For Biscuits, And Also I Have Rickets.’

Bert & Ernie — Bert & Ernie

In British Sesame Street, Bert and Ernie are just on holiday from the states.

Elmo — Reginald Elmo (who does NOT enjoy being tickled, not one bit)

In contrast to the American Elmo, Reginald Elmo teaches about the importance of never being touched ever, for any reason whatsoever. Loves to do fun activities with his friends, like standing in queues and practicing polite coughs.

The Yip Yips — The Indeed Indeeds

Creatures from another planet who marvel at ingenious British devices such as grandfather clocks, pastries, and maintaining a rigid class system.

The Count — The C-Word

A hooligan bookie who’s not pleased with Chelsea United’s chances in the Premiere League this season. Spends his time downing pints at the local pub and furiously scribbling numbers into a small black book.

Snuffleupagus — Brexitwasamiss

A giant imaginary creature that only adults can see. Makes huge messes.

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