Ad Council's Elmo PSA Suggests Humming to Calm Anger

Feeling angry and frustrated? Hmm? Maybe you should try humming the tension away.

That may sound simplistic, but simplicity’s a virtue in an Ad Council PSA starring Elmo and his Muppet pals.

We’re not talking about solving all the world’s woes. Just breaking kids’ negative thought patterns and, perhaps, keeping bad feelings in check.

That tune sounds awfully familiar.

“The growing mental health crisis is one of the most pressing issues for parents today and children’s needs can so often be overlooked,” says Samantha Maltin, EVP, chief marketing and brand officer for Sesame Workshop. “We know that caring for a child means supporting their whole circle of care, whether that’s parents, teachers or other caregivers.”

Of late, the Muppet gang’s appeared in more brand campaigns. Those are fun. But PSAs are where they truly shine.

Such outings feel true to Sesame Street’s mission of lifting up youngsters with love, kindness and gentle wisdom. The Muppets make great messengers because they own a place in almost everyone’s heart. Their efforts carry special gravitas that few other media franchises can match.

As for this outing, well, there’s not much to it. That’s fine. It’s comforting to know the beloved characters are out there in 2024, ready to help kids (of all ages) in any way they can.