Grover From ‘Sesame Street’ Takes On Job As A Journalist—What, In This Economy?
By Mikelle Leow, 15 Feb 2024
Video screenshot via Sesame Street
Sesame Street’s job market has seen some swift changes. First, there was Elmo the unwitting therapist. Now you have Grover the reporter.
The furry blue Muppet known for his many bumbling roles—from being a waiter to a door-to-door salesman, a hot dog vendor, and a flight attendant—is now wielding the pen of a journalist. His announcement, made on social media, has stirred up a mix of reactions, from amusement to poignant reflection on the state of the media industry.
“As a news reporter, I always do my research before I break a story,” Grover proclaims on X (formerly Twitter). “I am confident to report that you are so special and amazing!” This light-hearted message, while intended to spread positivity, also prompted discussions, especially against the backdrop of ongoing media layoffs.
As a news reporter, I always do my research before I break a story. I am confident to report that you are so special and amazing!
— Grover (@Grover) February 12, 2024
Some social media users and journalists have welcomed him with open arms, appreciating the Muppet’s attempt to bring a smile to their faces during tough times.
“Thanks, Grover. Good research. It’s nice to get support from a colleague in my field,” one person responds.
“You are my favorite journalist,” hails another.
However, not all the feedback was rosy. Others couldn’t help but lament the precarious nature of journalism today, with dark humor about Grover facing layoffs or not meeting article quotas reflecting the grim reality many in the industry face.
“It’s going to be a sad day when Grover gets laid off as a reporter,” reads one bleak comment.
“UPDATE: Unfortunately, Grover was part of the latest round of newsroom cuts,” one fan grimly jokes.
“Grover was fired for not hitting his three-story-a-day quota,” shares another.
During a 2023 appearance on The Daily Show with Kal Penn, Grover humorously remarked on his varied career path, saying, “One or two or a thousand,” when asked about the number of jobs he’s tried.
“You just show up in the right place, in the right uniform, and next thing you know, you are a doctor.” Although he left his audience wary by advising newly-minted medical professionals against taking on open heart surgery as their first order of business, it’s his latest role in the editorial field that’s caught the public’s eye.
Grover
— Grover (@Grover) February 2, 2024
Self-portrait, 2024
Marker on paper pic.twitter.com/7T2YlQgMEH
This blend of humor and somber reality highlights the serious challenges confronting journalists and the media industry. Nearly 3,000 journalism jobs were cut in 2023, making it the most challenging year for the sector since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The trend has unfortunately continued into 2024, with further layoffs and some news outlets ceasing operations.
Grover’s foray into journalism, while fictional, strangely serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of supporting and recognizing the vital work journalists do. Now, let’s see if the severance package will properly sustain him as he inevitably seeks out another occupation.
Does anyone have another job I can apply for? pic.twitter.com/xIcnd4Ccbb
— Grover (@Grover) December 5, 2023
[via New York Times, NPR, Radio Milwaukee, images via various sources]