Andrew Garfield’s heartfelt conversation with Elmo shows us why we should talk to kids about grief

When it comes to helping children understand grief, Andrew Garfield’s recent appearance on Sesame Street reminds us why it’s so important. The We Live in Time actor sat down with Elmo to talk about his late mother, Lynn, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2019. The honest and open conversation highlights how even the hardest emotions can bring a sense of connection.

In the video, Elmo begins by checking in on Garfield, asking how he’s doing. The actor, visibly touched, shares that he’s been thinking about his mom, expressing, “I just miss her. I miss her a lot.” The exchange between Elmo and Garfield shows the gentle and supportive way we can approach grief, offering children a model for processing their feelings.

Garfield’s message to Elmo, that “sadness is kind of a gift,” emphasizes that it’s okay to feel multiple emotions at once. He explains how remembering his mom’s hugs and cuddles makes him feel closer to her, even in her absence. It’s a reminder for parents: grief doesn’t have to be a hidden or avoided topic with our children. Instead, it can be a way to honor love and memories.

Garfield also noted that celebrating his mom and missing her are intertwined, saying, “I can celebrate her, and I can miss her at the same time.” This conversation, simple yet profound, showcases how children can be taught to see grief as an expression of love—a natural, beautiful part of remembering those who’ve touched our lives.

Using familiar characters like Elmo, Sesame Street has long been a supportive space for children to explore tough topics, and Garfield’s interaction is a perfect example. As parents, engaging our kids in conversations about loss can help them develop emotional resilience and a deeper understanding of love, just as Garfield did on this special episode.