| Category | Information Detail |
| Episode Title | The Last Straw |
| Season | 48 |
| Episode Number | 4810 |
| Original HBO Air Date | January 20, 2018 |
| Original PBS Air Date | February 11, 2019 |
| Executive Producer | Brown Johnson |
| Senior Producer | Benjamin Lehmann |
| Primary Educational Theme | Conflict Resolution |
| Secondary Educational Theme | Empathy and Friendship |
| Human Cast Member | Alan (Played by Alan Muraoka) |
| Main Muppet Characters | Bert, Ernie, Big Bird, Rosita, Elmo, Abby Cadabby |
| Guest Muppet Characters | The Sheep, Gladys the Cow |
| Muppet Performer for Bert | Eric Jacobson |
| Muppet Performer for Ernie | Peter Linz |
| Celebrity Guest | Josh Groban |
| Guest Choir | PS22 Chorus |
| Letter of the Day | F |
| Letter F Theme | Friendship |
| Number of the Day | 2 |
| Elmos World Topic | Friends |
| Original Song | Hey Friend |
| Classic Song Reprise | Somebody Come and Play |
| Repurposed Animation | Sharing Song |
| Runtime | 28 minutes and 46 seconds |
| Production Studio | Kaufman Astoria Studios, New York |
| Production Company | Sesame Workshop |
Facts
A Modern Take on a Classic Routine
The writers were inspired by the early sketches for this storyline, as Ernie keeping Bert awake is one of the most iconic comedic dynamics in television history. This new version takes the idea even further by getting rid of Bert's apartment altogether, letting the performers try out some new physical comedy moves outside. Taking the bed outdoors meant we could get some new sight gags in.
Peter Linz plays Ernie
This broadcast features Peter Linz playing Ernie. He took on the legendary character during this production cycle. The puppeteer added his own subtle vocal touches to the performance while honoring the foundation built by Jim Henson. Fans loved his lively exchanges with Bert during the crazy musical parts.
Moving the Bed
Moving a big bed around the studio was a real challenge. The art department built a lighter version of the bed to make it easier. The modified prop made it so the performers could safely move the furniture into the nest and Hooper's Store, and the floor managers cleared the cables from the studio pathways to make sure the camera could track smoothly.
Showcasing the Roof Set
Alan moves the bed to the roof of the community center. Directors started using this raised area more often to make the neighborhood look more vertical. The roof set requires puppeteers to work on raised platforms. This angle gives you a great view of the whole city skyline.
The PS22 Chorus Inclusion
The episode includes a musical performance by the PS22 Chorus. This elementary school choir is from Staten Island in New York. The kids then do a sweet performance of "Somebody Come and Play" for the audience. Their involvement brings the educational program to life by connecting it to real community participation.
Josh Groban's Musical Performance
Musician Josh Groban is the star of the celebrity music segment, where he sings "Hey Friend" with Elmo, Rosita, and Abby Cadabby. The producers specifically cast well-known musicians to appeal to adult caregivers with kids, since having both adults and kids watch together can help them remember what they see.
The Reused Animation Assets
Money issues often mean that older animated segments are repurposed. The "Sharing Song" animation first appeared in Episode 4402. The post-production team added this asset to the final cut without a hitch. This strategy helps save money for the complex practical street scenes.
Educational Context for Parents
Primary Lesson
Even the closest friends experience disagreements and feelings of frustration. If you're in a strong relationship, you can get past temporary anger by talking honestly and openly with your partner. Kids need to learn how to recognize when their actions have a negative impact on others. They also need to understand how apologizing and making amends can help rebuild the bond.
Pedagogical Goal
Educators aim to teach fundamental conflict resolution skills while the curriculum models perspective-taking for preschool viewers. Kids learn to recognize disruptive behaviors and understand the need for personal boundaries. The story gives a clear structure for delivering a genuine apology and teaches viewers how to effectively repair broken social connections.
Parental Note
Ernie wants to play his trumpet loud, but Bert needs to rest. He's ignoring his friend's requests for some quiet time. Bert feels totally overwhelmed by the noise, so he drag his heavy bed out of the apartment to get away from it all. Families can use this relatable scenario to discuss personal boundaries. You've got to teach your kids to respect their brothers and sisters or friends' physical and emotional needs.
Ernie doesn't realize his mistake right away. His sheep friends help him think about what he's done. They mention how his loud music bothered Bert. This plot point shows how important reflection is. You can also help your child think about how their actions made the other person feel after a conflict.
Roleplaying helps kids practice empathy. You can use stuffed animals to reenact the disagreement between the two roommates. Have one toy play loud while the other tries to sleep. Ask your child to come up with a solution to the problem. This activity is designed to improve cognitive flexibility and emotional intelligence.
A sincere apology requires more than just saying sorry. Ernie runs to the roof to make amends directly. He admits that his actions were disruptive. He says he'll make sure his friend can nap without any interruptions from now on. You should teach your kids to include these key parts when they're apologizing to others.
Bert accepts the apology right away. He forgives his friend and invites him to go roller-skating. It shows young viewers how to bounce back from tough times in a healthy way. Holding grudges can make it hard for kids to enjoy their social interactions, so it's important for parents to praise kids when they forgive a friend and move forward positively.
