Netflix announced a deal to stream both new and archived episodes of “Sesame Street” starting in 2025, following the Trump administration’s decision to block federal funding for PBS. The agreement comes as the children’s program faced an uncertain future after Warner Bros Discovery opted not to renew its HBO distribution agreement.

The streaming service will offer subscribers access to the reimagined 56th season along with 90 hours of previous episodes. New content will simultaneously air on PBS stations and PBS KIDS digital platforms, maintaining free access for American children despite the funding cuts.

“Sesame Street episodes will now center on one 11-minute story, allowing for even more character-driven humor and heart,” Netflix stated in its announcement.

Earlier in May, President Trump issued an executive order blocking federal funding for PBS and NPR, citing what he called “biased and partisan news coverage.” Subsequently, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting terminated a federal initiative that provided financial support for children’s programming, including “Sesame Street.”

Content Expansion

The acquisition aligns with Netflix’s increased focus on children’s content, which currently represents 15% of viewing on the platform. The company simultaneously announced new episodes of “Peppa Pig” and a mobile game featuring the character.

Sesame Workshop, the global nonprofit behind the show, will continue to produce the series. Sal Perez and Kay Wilson Stallings will serve as executive producers, with Emmy-nominated Halcyon Person joining as head writer.

The deal represents a shift in children’s media distribution as streaming platforms compete for legacy content with established audience loyalty. “Sesame Street” brings Netflix both its half-century-long brand recognition and an educational framework developed by childhood development experts.