There is nothing sadder than hearing about a person being accused of inappropriate relations with a minor. When that person happens to manipulate one of the most beloved children’s characters of all time, sad doesn’t even describe it.
Kevin Clash, the famous voice behind Elmo from Sesame Street, engaged in a relationship with an underage teen. “Sexy” emails were exchanged and Clash, 52, has been caught with more than just fur in his hands. The relationship Clash said he developed with the boy was “between two consenting adults.” It’s the boy who has brought this all to public light.
Clash is currently taking a leave of absence from the show amid accusations and the Sesame Workshop acknowledged on Monday that an investigation into his conduct revealed he had “violated company policy regarding internet usage” and was disciplined.
The Muppeteer, who has been the voice and personality behind Elmo for the last 28 years, reiterated on Monday that he is walking away from his signature role to clear up the damage caused by the scandal.
Andrea
11/13/2012
I actually never liked Elmo. now I know why.
slightly kidding, but Elmo always bothered me. Sesame Street characters encourage learning and there was Elmo with his baby talk. just always bothered me.
Handflapper
11/13/2012
Elmo does NOT talk baby talk! He just doesn’t use personal pronouns. And he’s only four years old, geez.
Andrea
11/13/2012
ouch. Elmo is your 4yo isn’t he? sorry, mom. didn’t mean to offend.
still think our kids could stand to hear complete sentences and personal pronouns and the correct pronunciation of Rs. but I’m not a parent. I don’t know anything at all.
Handflapper
11/13/2012
No no no NO NO NO NO NO.
deana
11/13/2012
The thing that bothers me in this situation is that there is no proof. Its all word of mouth. I will be the first to rally behind punishing this guy if he did do what he is accused of. However, the was society is lately I am afraid that people will do or say anything for attention. Im sorry that children that do enjoy elmo have to suffer.
Lance
11/13/2012
good call, Bobina…no proof
Vinny C
11/14/2012
I thought the same thing. Maybe he’s guilty, maybe he’s not. I’ve always been uncomfortable with the fact that all it takes to destroy someone is the accusation. Sad thing is, even if there’s a chance he’s not guilty, his reputation’s never going to be what it was.
Bre
11/13/2012
I just read on TMZ the accuser recanted his story. I’m sure the damage is already done though.
brahm (alfred lives here)
11/13/2012
I too just read he recanted the story, the accuser conceded he was of legal age at the time.
I think this is something all famous people deal with (okay this is D-List fame, however) – being open to blackmail. Oh and military people too I guess.
Kevin Clash has been an out gay man for ages, so I don’t think his gayness was the issue here, which is good — it was the Elmo factor that was the hook here. Too bad, the poor man will probably have this fake accusation in his obituary now…
Sarah
11/14/2012
Sadly, a lot of the comments I’ve read on the stories of the accuser’s recantment are pissed off to find out “Elmo’s gay”. Which, once again, makes me sad for the American people. The puppet is not gay. The puppeteer is, and being gay is not a disqualifier for being in the industry, or in puppeteering!