[1787] in Humor
HUMOR: What if Elmo went Hollywood?
daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU (Andrew Bennett)
Mon Dec 30 10:12:39 1996
Date: Mon, 30 Dec 1996 10:08:09 -0500
To: humor@MIT.EDU
From: abennett@MIT.EDU (Andrew Bennett)
From: Espacionaute Spiff domine! <MATOSSIAN@aries.colorado.edu>
http://www.sure.net/~joelavin/elmo.html has:
Elmo Considers Leaving Sesame Street
Sources close to Sesame Street reveal that popular muppet Elmo has
threatened to leave the long running children's television program if
he is not paid $100,000 per episode. Previously a minor cast member on
Sesame Street, Elmo has grown to become one of the most
popular muppets on the show. In recent days, his stature has soared
dramatically due to the popularity of the new Tickle Me Elmo toy.
"I'm big now. People pay 28 bucks just to tickle me for Chrissake. I
don't need any of this Sesame crap." Elmo told reporters this
morning.
There is also a possibility of a bidding war between PBS and Fox
Television. Fox has reportedly offered Elmo a late night slot with
clearance in most of the major television markets. Like the toy, the
Fox show would be called Tickle Me Elmo and would give Elmo "the
opportunity to deal with adult topics not allowed on Sesame Street."
Elmo is also scheduled to star in a film next summer with David
Caruso
and Shelley Long. "It's gonna be big, man." Elmo said.
Still, most industry experts expect Elmo and PBS to come to an
agreement, an agreement that could cause further problems for Sesame
Street. Big Bird has long been the highest paid cast member, and many
speculate that the oversized bird will leave the show if Elmo is
indeed given the $100,000 per episode. Even before Elmo's recent
success, there had been increased acrimony between Big Bird and the
rest of the cast.
"Big Bird? Course I hope he leaves." One muppet who wished to remain
anonymous told reporters from a garbage can on Sesame Street.
"Besides, half the time, he's so drunk he can't even remember his
lines. We don't need the schmuck."
Big Bird could not be reached for comment.
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