Sesame Workshop condemns antisemitic content after Elmo's X account hacked

Sesame Workshop released a statement condemning antisemitic and racist content posted to Elmo's X account after it was compromised by hackers Sunday, July 13.

The organization confirmed that Elmo's social media account was "briefly hacked by an outside party" despite existing security measures. The hack resulted in the posting of what Sesame Workshop described as "abhorrent antisemitic and racist content."

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Sesame Workshop responds to Elmo account hack

Sesame Workshop's official statement addressed the security breach and the inappropriate content that appeared on the popular children's character's social media account.

"We strongly condemn the abhorrent antisemitic and racist content, and the account has since been secured," the organization stated.

Elmo's X account restored after antisemitic posts

The children's entertainment company emphasized that the offensive posts did not represent the values of either Sesame Workshop or Sesame Street. No employees or representatives from the organization were involved in creating or posting the controversial content.

"These posts in no way reflect the values of Sesame Workshop or Sesame Street, and no one at the organization was involved," the statement continued.

Sesame Street distances itself from hacked content

Sesame Workshop's response highlighted the disconnect between the hacked content and the educational mission of Sesame Street. The organization worked to quickly restore security to Elmo's X account following the breach.

Also read: 'Words I never expected...': Elmo’s X account goes rogue with offensive messages, sends netizens into fren

The hack of Elmo's account represents a security incident involving one of children's television's most recognizable characters. Sesame Workshop has not disclosed additional details about the investigation into the account compromise or specific security measures implemented following the incident.