Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey

DocumentaryBiographyFamily

Trailer

Synopsis

This documentary tells the inspiring story of Kevin Clash, the talented puppeteer who brought the beloved character of Elmo to life on Sesame Street. From his childhood in Baltimore, where he built his own puppets, to his rise to work with his idol Jim Henson, the film explores his passion and dedication. Narrated by Whoopi Goldberg and featuring interviews with other Muppet performers, it offers an intimate look into the world of puppetry and Elmo's impact.

Context & Trivia

The documentary explores Kevin Clash's journey from his humble beginnings in Baltimore, where he started building puppets at age 10, to becoming a key figure on "Sesame Street." It highlights how his parents supported his talent, even when he cut up his father's trench coat to make his first puppet. Clash was mentored by Muppet designer Kermit Love and eventually worked with his childhood idol, Jim Henson. The film also reveals how Clash developed Elmo's distinctive voice and personality after another puppeteer, Richard Hunt, became frustrated with the character and handed it over to Clash. Clash decided that Elmo should represent love, hugs, and kisses, giving him an endearing personality that resonated with children. In addition to Elmo, Kevin Clash also performed other characters like Hoots the Owl and Baby Natasha. The documentary includes rare archival footage of Clash in his early years and of Jim Henson, offering a behind-the-scenes look at "Sesame Street" and the Jim Henson Workshop.

Puppeteers

Kevin Clash, Frank Oz, Bill Barretta, Fran Brill, Martin P. Robinson, Caroll Spinney, Matt Vogel, Tyler Bunch, Carmen Oshbar, John Tartaglia, Tau Bennett

Puppet companies

The Jim Henson Company · Sesame Workshop · Constance Marks Productions

Puppet building

Kermit Love · Kevin Clash

Direction

Constance Marks

Writing

Philip Shane, Justin Weinstein

Cast

Whoopi Goldberg, Kevin Clash, Frank Oz, Rosie O'Donnell, Cheryl Henson, Joan Ganz Cooney, Bill Barretta, Fran Brill, Arsenio Hall, Hugh Jackman

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