Sesame Workshop, the non-profit behind Sesame Street, is undergoing significant changes after cutting staff to address financial challenges. In an email to employees, President and CEO Sherrie Rollins Westin explained that the organization faces a “perfect storm” of economic and policy issues, including the end of its distribution deal with Warner Bros Discovery.
The company’s largest expense is personnel costs, which means it must reduce staffing to ensure its future success. Westin described the changes as “necessary to ensure that Sesame Workshop continues to deliver on its mission.” However, she acknowledged that these reductions will have a human impact.
Meanwhile, over 200 employees at Sesame Workshop have declared their desire to form a union with the Office and Professional Employees International Union. The group aims to secure better job security, fair pay, and a stronger workplace voice.
Sesame Street’s cast, crew, writers, and other staff members are already unionized, citing the importance of embodying values like kindness, fairness, and standing up for what is right in their own workplace. As the organization navigates this challenging period, its employees will continue to advocate for a more supportive and inclusive environment that reflects the show’s core principles.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/mar/06/sesame-street-workshop-layoffs-union