Netflix has introduced a novel partnership with the children's show 'Sesame Street', resulting in a crossover merchandise collection with the streaming service's acclaimed series 'Stranger Things'. This announcement was made via social media, teasing audiences with the message, "Watch out for the grouchogorgon. It’s time for sƃuᴉɥʇ ǝɯɐsǝs." The collaboration is set to coincide with the highly anticipated final episodes of 'Stranger Things'.
The exclusive merchandise collection, available through the Netflix Shop, comprises nine items, including apparel and accessories. The launch is strategically timed to align with the release of 'Stranger Things' final episodes. The items feature Sesame Street characters reimagined in the darker aesthetic of 'Stranger Things', with Oscar the Grouch transformed into a Demogorgon-like figure called the "Grouchogorgon" and Bert and Ernie donning the iconic looks of Steve Harrington and Dustin Henderson from the series.
The Sesame Street logo has been redesigned in the distinct 'Stranger Things' font, ensuring that all products bear official licensing from both properties. The collection spans a range of categories such as T-shirts, hoodies, blankets, mugs, and stickers, with sizes catering to babies, toddlers, and children. This merchandise launch builds upon a "Sesame Things" social media campaign shared across Netflix, 'Stranger Things', and 'Sesame Street' platforms.
However, the collaboration has arrived amid controversy surrounding 'Stranger Things'. One scene from the season finale, in particular, has been widely discussed for its depiction of the villain Vecna restraining an unconscious boy and introducing a tentacle-like appendage into his mouth to implant alien parasites. This imagery has led to comparisons with child assault and has been criticized by figures such as Jack Posobiec, who has also commented on the series' evolution over recent seasons.
The series finale is scheduled for a New Year's Eve release, marking the end of the long-running show. It follows the release of the first seven episodes of the fifth season. Notably, the episode titled "Chapter Seven: The Bridge," which includes a scene where character Will Byers reveals his homosexuality, has become the lowest-rated episode of the entire series on IMDb.
The Netflix and 'Sesame Street' crossover represents a unique blend of children's programming with more mature themes. This innovative approach has sparked a discussion among audiences and critics alike, reflecting the evolving landscape of entertainment and consumer expectations.
