Don't Tickle Me Elmo

Another day, another fallen hero. You have undoubtedly stumbled across the documentary "Being Elmo" on Netflix and, if you are like me, you fell in love with Kevin Clash, the man behind Sesame Street's Elmo. Today news broke from Sesame Street that a 23 year old young man has come forward saying that he had a seven-year relationship with Clash, starting at the age of 16. Clash is admitting to the relationship, but he denies that it was of a sexual nature until the boy was of age. And it should be noted, no allegations were made about Elmo's involvement in the relationship. Even though we all know how much that muppet likes to be tickled and touched. Either way, I can't help but feel a bit skeezed out and disappointed as this case of "show me on this muppet where he touched you" unfolds.
The accuser's lawyers are from Andreozzi and Associates, the same firm that represented one of Jerry Sandusky victims. The lawyers have accused Sesame Workshop of trying to "discredit the victim in order to protect its employee and the image of one of its most valuable characters. This approach places a greater value on a puppet than the well being of a young man." Well, Clash has spent all these years with his hand up the tush of a childlike furry monster, it's going to be hard for him to have a lot credibility in fighting these allegations. Kevin Clash (and I assume his red furry alter ego) will be taking a leave of absence from Sesame Street to deal with this. Perhaps opening more screen time for Telly Monster. I always felt like Telly Monster was under appreciated.