Sesame Street features two gay parents for the first time in show history

For over 50 years, Sesame Street has always been a warm, loving space for all children and families to go to for educational entertainment. The popular show has featured cast members of all races and socio-economic backgrounds and has never shied away from educating viewers about inclusivity. Now, they’re adding a new type of family to the neighborhood: two gay dads.

Frank and Dave, played by Alex Weisman and Chris Costa, are parents to Mia, played by Olivia Perez. In an episode that aired last week, they join Big Bird for a party. During the party, one character makes the observation that every family in attendance is different.

“There’s all kinds of different families,” Frank says. “But what makes us a family is that we love each other.”

Alan Muraoka, the actor who plays the owner of Hooper’s Store (he also directed the episode) shared his excitement about the Frank and Dave’s storyline on Facebook.

“I am so honored and humbled to have co-directed this important and milestone episode. Love is love, and we are so happy to add this special family to our Sesame family,” Muraoka wrote. “Happy Pride to all!!!!”

Sarah Kate Ellis, the president of GLAAD, took to Twitter to congratulate Sesame Street for its groundbreaking episode.

“The ‘Family Day’ episode of Sesame Street sends the simple and important message that families come in all forms and that love and acceptance are always the most important ingredients in a family,” she wrote.

Sesame Street isn’t the first children’s show in recent months to represent families with gay parents. It was recently shared that Betty, Phil and Lil’s mom in Rugrats, will be gay in the show’s reboot.

It’s not a stretch to say that Sesame Street has paved the way for making all kids with all different types of families feel seen, heard, and accurately represented. To date, the show has covered a range of issues, including addiction, incarceration, homelessness, autism, and race.

Many, many kids who watch the show have parents who are part of the LGBTQ+ community. We can’t wait to see more of Frank, Dave, and Mia in the neighborhood!