Rumors of her possible attachment to the project had been speculated, and even had her renegotiating her terms with other films, but this is the first official confirmation of her involvement.
Sesame Street has had two theatrical releases before. In 1985, we had Follow that Bird, and 1999 saw the release of Elmo in Grouchland. Much like those films, Jonathan Krisel the writer and director for the movie has also confirmed this will be a musical, though this will be about getting lost in New York City.
Makes sense, right?
@mashable Cause when I think I’m lost, I think Big Bird, Oscar and Anne Hathaway.— oxXVirtueXxo (@oxXVirtueXxo) 1549478684.0
@mashable Hmmm, now getting lost with Anne Hathaway does not sound like the worst thing that could happen to you in New York...— stonecreek (@stonecreek) 1549474891.0
Krisel, who has worked in multiple roles on Baskets, Saturday Night Live, and Portlandia, gave out some details about the project. He said the film is "going to be big" and that Sesame Street has an enduring charm.
Krisel said in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter:
"Sesame Street never sold out. Yes, it's on diapers and it's a brand, but it never got cheesy.
"For 50 years, it has never lost its sheen. That's why it's daunting. You don't want to be the guy who does that to Sesame Street,"
Hold on, did we say it's turning 50? 50?!
Wow!! A fave childhood TV show turns 50, the same year I will. Feel old. "'Sesame Street' Turns 50: Go Behind The… https://t.co/AosopheUJ5— Plan B Counselling (@Plan B Counselling) 1549531383.0
Why isn’t the cast of Sesame Street hosting the Oscars? They’re celebrating 50 years this year you’d think someone… https://t.co/WqMLcH7m8p— no one you follow (@no one you follow) 1549515637.0
@ThomasRhett @sesamestreet Here’s to 50 more! 🥳 https://t.co/ur80zuKl38— 🦋 Toni (@🦋 Toni) 1549480072.0
Sesame Street isn't just focused on the movie though. The company has other ways to celebrate out right now.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar wrote about his long relationship with Sesame Street. Abdul-Jabbar was a guest on the show in its very first year, and has reappeared multiple times.
He jokes that his friendship with Big Bird is one of the best because,
"It's nice to have someone I can look straight in the eyes without bending my neck."
And seemingly out of nowhere, Cookie Monster did a Reddit AMA (Ask Me Anything) that was incredibly wholesome.
"What's the best way to get crumbs out of your fur?" - SQUIRTISPEE
"Me usually have them as snackie for later." - Me_CookieMonster
"If you were a cookie what kind of cookie would you be?" - kingshmiley
"Chocolate chippie! You know what they say...you are what you eat!" - Me_CookieMonster
"Do you like your cookies crispy or soft?" - Dookman
"Yes." - Me_CookieMonster
"Is there anything you won't eat? I mean, I've seen you eat a typewriter before..." - iclewis09
"Me stay away from anything in Oscar's trashcan. Otherwise me not picky." - Me_CookieMonster
"What's the hot gossip on Sesame Street these days?" - dcbluestar
"We celebrating our street's 50th birthday this year! Me can't wait to celebrate with you! Maybe even share cookie with you.
Also, Oscar still a grouch..." - Me_CookieMonster
As the year goes on, Sesame Street is sure to have more surprises in store. The nonprofit has been a huge part of many peoples lives, we can only hope it continues for another 50 years.