Film Theory: Someone PLEASE Help Elmo! (Sesame Street)

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Do you remember when the battle of the century stormed every social media post? That's right, today I'm diving into the mental battle between Elmo and Rocco... and Zoe. I think Elmo is being manipulated and he is about to BREAK! Theorists, we need to help Elmo. Let's head on down to Sesame Street!
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Credits:
Writers: Matthew Patrick, Mark Hofmeyer and Forrest Lee
Editors:Tyler Mascola and Koen Verhagen
Sound Editor: Yosi Berman
#Elmo #SesameStreet #Zoe #Rocco #Rocko #Meme #Memes #FilmTheory #Matpat #Trailer

[@thekid3947]

I remember watching the Elmo movie. Zoe is literally the cause for all of the conflict, she literally almost got Elmo and his favorite blanket killed

[@tylerstarks5031]

I was thinking the same thing. I just feel Zoe and Elmo always have beef.

[@danielmorales6285]

Imagine if someone on Reddit made a am I the jerk post where it’s just Elmo asking is he the jerk for not liking roco and bringing up all the bad things Zoe’s done

[@Totallyn0tme734]

Bing I own it is all I remember

[@InvasionAnimation]

I made a cartoon where Elmo runs over Zoe in a car. she got what she deserves.

[@sokaize]

I remembered that movie while watching this and feel the same way.

[@Sotryn_Fox]

Dang Elmo laughed at Zoe once for having a rock for a friend, and she gets the whole neighborhood to gaslight him for all eternity about the sentience of a literal rock and the humans just let her

[@TheGigachad159]

😂

[@Pip_NoSqueak]

well, that’s…That’s hella dark

[@Sotryn_Fox]

@@Pip_NoSqueak Exactly! Like wtf Zoe??

[@Monosheep13]

I hadn't heard about this before until now and it hurts.

[@scribblmations]

and thats what you call a prick move

[@amandaredd3057]

I'm with Elmo on this. I was a 90s teen and can honestly say that pet rocks were the dumbest invention ever. Rocco and Zoey can go kick rocks! Love ya, Elmo!

[@MotorcycleCheetah]

Did you know USB Powered Pet Rocks are a thing? Wack right?

[@LadyOnikara]

@@MotorcycleCheetah Man, and i thought having a blue-eyed, app enabled Teddy Ruxpin was odd. (I'm a Ruxpin purist. He is supposed to have BROWN eyes, people!)

[@sherrigood5412]

​@@LadyOnikaraI want him.

[@melissacooper8724]

I remember how pet rocks were a fad in the 1970s. I still don't understand why people went nuts for them! It's the dumbest thing ever!

[@Wolf-dragon_lord]

When you think about it, it makes a lot of sense. Elmo is quite literally being bullied by Zoe to do what she wants to do, but never what he wants to do. Elmo's world is likely a cooping mechanism for him, especially after dealing with Rocco. And when you look at the adults it's clear they favor Zoe over Elmo. It could be because Zoe acts more like a three year old then Elmo, who clearly acts much older, almost like he had grown up faster than Zoe.

[@phoenixthings]

The venom in Elmo’s voice when he says “ Hello, _Rocco._ “ is beautiful and honestly relatable.

[@cristiansantos3715]

Elmo's voice takes me back in time as a child.

[@Magnus_Chase.]

I ruined the likes being at 666

[@WFly101]

Don't say anything about the bots, just report them.

[@agastyasharma2612]

@@WFly101 thanks

[@coolname8148]

@@dodgepuppy1715 Here finnaly kzbin.info/www/bejne/moLaZapvjMyLmbM

[@rachelthornton4442]

It’d be hilarious if one of these days, Rocco just turned to Zoey and said: “You know, I’m tired of being silent. I do not like how you’re treating Elmo.”

[@ladylibraofthehouseoflibra9780]

He better. Even better if he admits he didn't say half the stuff Zoey claimed.

[@canadiangooseok7281]

God I hope that happens

[@siddiqarizwan7718]

Lol I hope that happens and Elmo was like revenge

[@gaycoffeeaddict]

rocco voiced by danny devito

[@just.ur.average.artist.6701]

@@gaycoffeeaddict yes

[@AndisweatherCenter]

This is part of the reason why I could relate to Elmo so much, when I was younger I was bullied a lot, and taken advantage of, and I frequently got in trouble for things I didn’t do because classmates, who didn’t like me would lie and say that I did something when it was really someone else and I have privileges taken away, which led to angry outburst, which led to the perpetrator getting rewarded because I “lost my temper.” It also turned out that the teachers were aware that I was not the one who was doing those things but because I frequently talk back and accuse them of seeing what was going on and not doing anything, they actually did that. And this was why I was able to relate to Elmo so well.

[@NeyamAndyStar]

Wow

[@rayganthetheremind1216]

We should publicly shame your evil teachers and bullies

[@sanshands9829]

Sadly, I have a feeling that Elmo would grow up to be shy, self conscious, and probably closed off from people if this continues. He is getting bullied for simply stating facts and is getting shamed for it. Meanwhile, Zoe will probably become entitled and used to getting her way threw manipulation or complaining because of this treatment. If Rocco ever comes back, I want Elmo to just punt that thing into a sea or something and the adults address the problem with Zoe's behavior.

[@NeyamAndyStar]

Yea...true

[@sarah98917]

Which is ironic, since Snuffy was made real in the show so kids could learn they would be believed if they tell the truth

[@Patchesn0x]

they're 3

[@starlityuna7147]

Oh Rocco did come back. Zoey set up a whole wedding for Rocco and another rock and then forced Elmo to stay and solve all her problems. I wouldn’t be too surprised if Rocco returns with “children” and Zoey forces Elmo to babysit them for a whole episode.

[@jaceradio5274]

Zoe's actions with Rocco could easily be a stand-in for gaslighting behavior.

[@gabef.218]

@here is the full clip ah, yes, another bot sending a link to a random video as free advertising. How fun

[@jamescouncillor7926]

​@@gabef.218 sounds like he Rick rolled you there lolol

[@Rubixqc]

Yup

[@Robotic_Boi]

@@c-e.dbackupdates501 how tho?

[@ld9844]

@@c-e.dbackupdates501 Where does gender come in to play. You do realize boys do the same thing.

[@originality6345]

Elmo deserves better. He isn't even allowed to be angry without people making fun of him.

[@aperson2224]

Four bots

[@originality6345]

So many

[@unreachablesecretary]

"Elmo knows where you live" 🙂

[@spinachcow7496]

It’s just like In real life with school. I know some people in school who aren’t liked and sort of “shamed” when their emotions get the better of them, and I am one of the only people who are their friends. It sucks to see the people I am good friend with get into arguments 7-1

[@kingkat9050]

😅

[@WarpedStone]

Matpat just summarized the two ends of the pendulem between parenting in the 1900 and modern parenting beautifully.

[@blueturtle3623]

I work at a preschool, primarily with 2 year old kids. When I saw that scene, I was genuinely concerned for what was being taught. I have a little girl whose main personality trait is "spoiled rotten." We've been working very hard to teach her that sometimes the answer is "no" and we need to respect our friends. I hope she doesn't see this episode.

[@mattheuscontreras]

Now I understand why there is an "Elmo's World". His world might be a defense mechanism from the emotional abuses from his environment. #justiceforelmo

[@4no407]

That's some theory material

[@aaaaahhhhhhhh8425]

That makes sense considering the fact that Elmo's "house" is made out of doodles

[@dragonrayz7527]

Yeah I think you have an idea for a new film theory for matpat.

[@InsertCreativeusername_]

And maybe Mr.Noodle and Mr.Noodles brother are neighbors that play along with him or imaginary friends

[@justarandompersonwhofindsj1223]

That actually makes sense, hopefully he'll make a theory on this...

[@FloWoodEnT123]

Another situation you didn't mention: Elmo came up with a joke. When he told Zoey, she loved it and went around telling EVERYONE the joke, without giving Elmo credit. Each time Elmo tried to tell someone his joke, they would already be laughing and calling it "Zoey's joke". That girl is evil lol

[@gabsterart]

i remember that scene and was really sad because i've seen that irl growing up and it hurt.

[@CelticVictory]

@@gabsterart I've literally had that happen to me.

[@JohnYakooza]

r/fuckzoey

[@susanmarr6251]

Once when I made food with my friend and my friend’s little sister was the most ANNOYING kid I have EVER MET

[@xdratio561]

@@susanmarr6251 remove the sister

[@Jenny-it9iz]

Wow, at first I thought this video was gonna be about Elmo being racist of rocks , but it’s actually just about toddlers being manipulative while grown ups encourage them. Great video !

[@geekygamergirl7259]

At first I was laughing because all I knew was the introduction of Rocco. But, sadly you're right. It feels like they're teaching Zoey if she talks through Rocco, she can get away with anything! As long as Rocco says it, it's okay. Very bad lesson to teach kids that if they're talking for their imaginary friend, they can get away they want.

[@blacktigers98]

They REALLY need the “adults” to address Zoe’s behaviour cuz for all the kids who might relate ti Elmo, it’s just reinforcing that they have to go with the flow and not establish boundaries. Not to mention it teaches kids that being like Zoey WORKS. and it shouldn’t

[@artistotaku8344]

Fr, Zoe reminds me of all the kids that I've seen that throw a "tantrum" over not getting the toy or candy they want. Because they know that if the scream or cry enough it'll get them what they want anyways.

[@JCasR3]

THIS

[@johnthompson6374]

Zoe reminds me of a certain group of people that constantly use their imaginary deity to control other peoples personal and private lives. Whether it be who they can love, when they can show their love, or even to how they can show their love. About time someone called out Zoe and her enablers, good job. Peace/JT

[@annbuena5710]

Bro i relate to Elmo in a personal level, he’s my favorite and memorable character, when i watched smth with Zoe, i have this itch of disliking her even tho idk why

[@L16htW4rr10r]

@@artistotaku8344 This remind me of myself. My mom told me that when I made a tantrum and basically cry, she would ignore me. And after seeing this video, I'm grateful for what she did

[@KingsNerdCave]

I believe this is the most accurate interpretation for the rock. Zoe is a child just like Elmo, so yes she's using her non-living rock to get things he wants, but that gets reinforced by the the adults. They so badly want to appease her imagination, Elmo gets the short end constantly thus grows angry even though he's technically in the right. Elmo is more patient so he's less likely to throw a fit over Zoe, but that's still unfair to him when more attention is just given to the kid who will throw the fit.

[@MagrisHal]

One day he'll throw a huge tantrum worse than Zoe ever has and we'll be there watching!

[@Early90sBabyEntertainment]

I Máke beťter cóntent Than The Film Theorists 👎

[@Tyeler80]

bots are growing oh yea elmo deserves better

[@8footspidercrab]

Why are there so many bots dude

[@henryapplebottom7231]

I relate.

[@shannonwilliams295]

Also if you look at the Elmo movie grouch land, she loses Elmo’s favorite blanket. He explicitly tells her how important it is and she reassured him but them miraculously loses it after bullying him to get it.

[@tristanneal9552]

I LOVED Snuffelupugus as a kid. Had no idea there was so much history to the character 😅

[@thatonelonghairedguy764]

"....What else does Toothpicky have to say?" "That I deserve a raise." "Your toothpick friend is stupid, Dan." best skit on FT

[@whodvethunk6525]

he insulted toothpicky...no-one. insults. toothpicky

[@divinegaming128]

@@whodvethunk6525 lol

[@user-tq9sg6lv6q]

Dan does deserve a raise for that skit.

[@wollywogholder3313]

Futurama?

[@chinchujojo3204]

@@whodvethunk6525 yhjiuy

[@evilangel8061]

When I was a little kid, I always thought Zoe was a horrible friend to Elmo. In the Elmo in Grouchland movie, she took his most prized possession, his blanket without permission. Everyone blamed Elmo for not being able to share.

[@IpushironAgkyra]

Some things, as a child or an adult, are just not things you share, because they mean so much to you, or because of the situation. Parents need to understand the difference between when they *can* tell their child to share, and when they really shouldn't. It is the *worst* when you're young, and you have a toy you cherish, and some kid with dirty hands wants to play for it and your parents force you to share it. That happened to me once, I had to throw it away after :/ I never got a replacement for it.

[@CharizardFlame]

What’s worse is that he DID share! He was hesitant, sure, but he eventually gave in and let Zoe hold it to help her calm down! It was ZOE who abused that kindness and refused to return it when asked and on top of that, she FIGHTS Elmo for it and RIPS IT. But when Elmo snapped at her for damaging the one item he deemed more important than anything, HE’S the bad guy for “not sharing”?! And ZOE’S the victim because he snapped at her DESPITE HIM LITERALLY HAVING EVERY RIGHT TO DO SO?! Honestly, Elmo and Zoe’s “friendship” nowadays is a perfect encapsulation of society when it comes to male victims. No matter WHAT Zoe, the female, does, ELMO, the male, is treated as the lesser when things go south even if HE’S the one that was wronged! The adults completely IGNORE HIM and COMFORT HER EVEN THOUGH HER ACTIONS ARE COMPLETELY REPREHENSIBLE! Elmo, the male, is never the victim in the eyes of the society that is Sesame Street, even if he actually IS the victim!

[@Finny41]

i agree

[@pundertalefan4391]

I KNOW! And she didn't even say sorry!

[@ileburns6089]

@@CharizardFlame dude chill it, it's just a kid's show Then again your absolutely right

[@davidroddick91]

Just to be clear, Elmo and Zoe have not been 3 for 50 years. Zoe joined the show in season 25. Elmo's beginnings are harder to trace, because the unnamed puppet appeared as a sort of extra going back to 1980, and he went through many changes before finally becoming the Elmo we know. I am a member of the first generation of Sesame Street kids, and I never heard of Elmo or Zoe until my niece and nephew were watching it.

[@Galaxxy707]

To summarize: Elmo is being gaslighted by everyone

[@disneyvillainsfan1666]

Okay, Zoe having A Rock for an Imaginary Friend is one thing, but hosting an entire wedding for Rocco that likely costs hundreds of dollars is just insane.

[@mr2meows]

its a funny tv show tho

[@hubertnnn]

Rocco will pay for it. He is secretly a diamond under a thin layer of stone.

[@reedomu]

Why is "A Rock" and "Imaginary Friend" capitalized? I feel like that's unnecessary.

[@aether6293]

It's on the same scale as the dude that married a DS and streamed the whole event

[@gatorayds]

I hate bots

[@dennisbuchanan1529]

At this point, I want to see Elmo straight up throw Rocco over a cliff or something.

[@BardTheDragonProductions]

Better yet throw Rocco into a lake

[@katatumboproductions]

facts

[@dust8286]

Well it's a kid show so I don't think I see that happening

[@SerenityL22]

I think they should get rid of rocko

[@SerenityL22]

I hate Rocco he's just a Rock 🪨🪨🪨🪨🪨🪨🪨

[@russellshackleford6769]

“Rocco says hello!” “Elmo didn’t hear anything!” I’m dying 😂

[@JustJazzy25]

Elmo has always been my favorite character since I was a baby and I never liked Zoe or rocco because I loved Elmo so much. Never thought there was actual lore behind it.

[@mas8705]

Suddenly, I feel like Elmo's World was something Elmo invented for himself due to neglect from all the adults favoring Zoe's Rock over him.

[@eyes_espresso4803]

Which would explain Mr. Noodle, the only adult that ever validated his needs! But only in Elmo's isolated world!

[@runedoom]

So omori is just a retelling of sesame street? Of course! That explains everything!

[@flynns5807]

Hence why Mr. Noodle is the best character

[@-Skidisme.Iamskid-]

@@runedoom Not everything is related to eachother y'know? I get that it's a joke but it's in my opinion so annoying when something gets brought up that has nothing to do with the topic.

[@briannguyen1227]

@@-Skidisme.Iamskid- it’s just a coke, you don’t need to feel so annoyed about it

[@GanonGhidorah]

If they ever _drop_ this plotline, it needs to climax with Elmo realizing that Zoey is being a toxic friend and he's better off _without her._

[@fyrelorde]

Elmo: you know what Zoey? Elmo is tired, Elmo doesn't like Rocco. And because, because you never let Elmo have my fun. Then you are not my friend, goodbye Zoey. Zoey: uh-huh, uh-huh, Rocco says- Elmo: STOP LYING ZOEY! ITS NOT FUNNY! YOU are the one that says things! Never Rocco, because ROCCO is a ROCK! And if you want to be my friend, then leave.

[@silverblaze8766]

@@fyrelorde unfortunately that is not going to happen in that way because Sesame street is still a children show unless their willing to retire Zoey- which honestly they can do because her characrer is generic girl and there are thousands of those in show- the rocco problem is not going to have a satisfying conclusion

[@nahim2lazy653]

Would be even better if it just ends with elmo throwing rocco, never to be seen again

[@RayRayJams]

It technically already happened... Notice that Elmo now hangs out with Abby and Zoe is really no longer in the picture

[@AmbrotosArkhon]

@@silverblaze8766 So the message to send to kids is that gaslighting and abusing genuinely good people is acceptable and inevitable? What you're saying makes absolutely zero sense especially considering that they have indeed had satisfying resolutions to ongoing abuse with Big Bird/Snuffleupagus. The fact that Sesame Street is a children's show makes it even more important for there to be justice for Elmo.

[@masonpyle5929]

Rocco is like the imaginary friends Manny (Greg Heffley’s evil little brother ) had in Diary of a Wimpy Kid the Third Wheel. The only rock that can move is Rocky.

[@Caitilizzie]

10:19 I laughed way too hard at “He’d rather jump”, it caught me so off guard because I took the meaning in a very different and dark way

[@glitrahasconsumedme7421]

Zoe's shown to act similarly even without Rocco present, too. (Speaking over Elmo, refusing to acknowledge his wants/needs, etc) I remember watching the Elmo in Grouchland movie as a kid and hating Zoe for how poorly she treated Elmo

[@amandapanda5087]

Poor Elmo. Looking back on it now, he really was treated unfairly

[@tysargent9647]

@CheeseBiscuits Well, we still see Zoe on Sesame Street, just not as much these days.

[@juliafaith06]

same! my sister loved elmo in grouchland but i hated it bc of how zoe treated elmo (and bc i found grouchland scary but that’s not the point)

[@PilloTheStar]

Abby is so much better anyway

[@Hussienberkznuts_420]

@@tysargent9647 that's good because Zoe is just Sakura second and 1000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 tiimesssssssss wooooorsssstees

[@AlienKnightAsher]

It always felt like the adults were going along with it because they knew Zoey would throw a fit. Elmo was so patient and kind that it was easier on the adults to make him compromise than to confront the much louder and more temperamental Zoey. As one of four kids, this happened constantly in my family. If one kid is gonna throw a fit, they'd bend over backwards to appease them, even at the expense of the other kids.

[@thefarmking9924]

let me guess you re the middle child

[@rtyuik7]

the sad part is, it even happens in the Workplace, as well as 'family' situations...one of my coworkers is absolutely Terrible at her job-- complaints from customers, unfinished tasks, the whole nine yards...but if you Call Her Out on it, suddenly YOURE the bad guy, "insulting her character" or whatever...so most of the time, its just Easier to just wait until her shift ends, to Finally catch up on all the stuff i need to do... (and for the record, were a little too short-staffed to Fire her, otherwise she wouldve been gone MONTHS ago)

[@sameelabdullah5979]

Can relate to this as the older child

[@mii_kay4514]

It's almost as if a single set of parents isn't capable of raising a horde of children that outnumber them. And I say that knowing well that SOME people are patient and hard-working enough to have 3 or 4 well-raised children, but the average person just isn't prepared for parenthood

[@anapplepie306]

Same my brother was always the one to throw temper tantrums when he didn’t get what he wanted, so my parents always tried to make him happy. My sister and I were more mature, and were left without the same special treatment, which was very frustrating at times.

[@WHAT_THE_FUCK_IS_A_KILOMETER69]

"No it cant eat like your mother" And i took that personally

[@Coolcam168]

"what else does toothpicky have to say?🤔" "That I Deserve a raise😡" 💀

[@meggubravo8373]

Elmo: everything deserves love Rocko: *exists* Elmo: ALMOST everything deserves love

[@magdakozakiewicz304]

This would work if you said anything BECAUSE ROCCO ISNT A PERSON, IT'S A THING, A ROCK

[@jayvhoncalma3458]

@@magdakozakiewicz304 and rocks are used to make cement but rocko would be better as target practice for AMSR (Anti Material Sniper Rifle)

[@loladownz5117]

Who else read that in elmos voice and dialect?

[@meggubravo8373]

@@magdakozakiewicz304 fixed, thanks

[@magdakozakiewicz304]

@@meggubravo8373 HAHAHA it's even funnier now

[@lizziefirkey6385]

What makes it even worse for me is that it almost feels like Elmo is being punished for being upset. Kids (and anyone, honestly) are allowed to be upset when they feel they've been treated unfairly. Should they yell or raise their voice at someone else? Obviously not, but there's nothing wrong with being upset about it. But all these adults act disappointed in him. And they don't seem happy until he gives in and, depending on the issue, apologizes. That's a HORRIBLE message to send to kids. There are tons of kids that end up developing complexes, feeling that even the slightest bit of disappointment makes *them* bad for causing someone else to feel that way. That's *horrible* . No kid should be punished for being upset with the threat or follow through of disappointment. What's the lessen there? That they're only good when they can make everyone around them happy? Anyway, all that aside, it's interesting that the writers knew Elmo would hate the rock. I hope they have an episode in the future where they acknowledge Elmo's feelings about all this. It would be good and, likely, very validating for some kids.

[@fossa4259]

You're absolutely right, in fact modern child psychologists say exactly that

[@EverettBurger]

That synopsis reads like an episode of Thomas And Friends

[@sayba6766]

yea

[@mister_whiskers6705]

Lesson*

[@shadowwatcher5042]

I get the seriousness of the topic but in an attempt to lighten the mood, Remember that elmo is at least 20+ years and needs to stop acting like a 5 year old.

[@Karma-ej7gl]

Yk what’s funny , as a kid I never like Rocco or zoe either but when anyone asked me i didint know why, but now I think it was because I understood that Rocco was js a rock and how Elmo felt and cs I also loved Elmo 😭

[@StrawberryMilk72]

“What does else does toothpicky have to say?” “That I deserve a raise” “Your toothpick friend is stupid Dan”

[@MusicGal672]

There’s also a huge parentification of Elmo, which is often seen in older siblings. They’re left in charge without being asked/agreeing to it, they have to “be the grown up” and be a role model for their younger siblings. Their feelings on a situation aren’t validated because they’re supposed to be more mature. Elmo is being parentified towards Rocco, and sadly it’s a really common thing amongst children.

[@zadock6370]

This is why I hate most parents. they don't do a good job and I don't think they even try.

[@yodoctor6175]

Ong here kzbin.info/www/bejne/n363ZnyGmNqhn5Y

[@libra.wayyyy]

Yeah, kind of like what Sav and Cole are doing to Everleigh.

[@sophiebyers5496]

@Lilyva The messed up part is that Elmo and Zoe are the same age.

[@daisy87657]

I DESPISE the show Max and Ruby for a similar reason. It's literally just a show about two neglected children whose parents are never around where the older sister is actively parentified despite her being like canonically around 8 I think?

[@lilyaronia168]

This is less of a theory and more of a precise unpackaging of a problematic lesson being taught to children and I think it's VERY important to do just that.

[@davidwallace5645]

Yeah, 100%. I clicked on the video with a very clear picture in my mind and this just supported it lol. Zoe was a horribly abusive and controlling girlfriend, and Abby is far better for elmo.

[@cruisingscenesandtakingbea4197]

You mean to tell me that we’re sending wrong messages to todays children? It’s 2022, morality is an abstract concept in the US. Gaslighting is only wrong if the hivemind thinks it’s wrong, and the hivemind doesn’t think it’s wrong so tough luck, I guess.

[@e.9874]

i think it works super well because it actually discusses the meta of the situation- what was going through the writers heads behind the scenes. i feel like film theory in the past has had a habit of using the thermian argument which makes some theories seem like reaches. but this one makes perfect sense because it acknowledges the series as a creative work with a team of writers behind it. like even early on the idea of zoe just being somekind of "evil abuser" or whatever was talked about, but dismissed because youre not meant to engage with the material on that level and its simply too face-value of a conclusion. it makes much more sense to look at the choices that lead the writers there and what the moral they would be imparting to children would be, because its a kids show after all.

[@paulsiegal9877]

I literally was saying this to myself and saw this comment lol

[@violacarey7057]

"now I'm curious what else does toothpicky have to say." "That I deserve a raise." "Your toothpick friend is stupid Dan."

[@CourtRobGray]

I felt pity for Elmo. No-one except me realises what he's gone through. Having the whole town of sesame street against him just for a rock.

[@TheAdvertisement]

I love how this goes from a slightly crazy conspiracy theory, to actually making sense, to a genuine theory about why the show was written this way.

[@naomiadeyemi3602]

basically how every film theory goes lol

[@jesusramirezromo2037]

@@naomiadeyemi3602 Not really, most go full wacky halfway

[@qyiara2631]

Yeah.

[@rhforno6696]

Yaa

[@ILovePanta123]

@Robert Anderson The thing is you actually need to be harder on special needs kid EXCEPT if they are so special they can't function but Zoe isn't like that, she functions just fine. With functional special needs you need to be harder because its harder to keep them in check. I don't mean be rude or anything of the sort but you must always make sure to tell them what they did wrong and give a punishment and since she is 3 the best punishment can be no sweets. Eventually they learn "Hey if I act this way, I can't have sweets"

[@RandomCorvid]

Zoey is extremely good at gaslighting Elmo to the point that it makes him look like the bad guy. It is impressive watching the adults take Zoeys side because she knows that if she riles up Elmo enough, they will believe he is being the unreasonable one.

[@RandomCorvid]

@@loturzelrestaurant well that was a better advertisement for a youtube channel than all those bots telling me that Markiplier is garbage, sure I will go check them out.

[@loturzelrestaurant]

@@RandomCorvid Uhm, are you sure these robots meant to... sell him to you? I mean, i cant tell but kinda sounds like an odd advertisement for Markiplier.

[@RandomCorvid]

@@loturzelrestaurant lol, if you go into Mark's comments you will usually find bots saying "Markiplier is garbage, MY channel is way better" or something like that.

[@shdowhdgehg404]

I’m mean can you blame him? Even I would side with him about it being what it is a “rock” if get a bit upset If I had group of friends and the one of them pulls out a rock to decide what to for fun as if “it’s” part of the group it’ll be crazy to think but some kids can’t understand especially when One acts a certain way to get what they want

[@bakedbaker9882]

Yes! Makes you wonder how and why she became like this. Also, Zoe acts a lot like my own lil sister does. And she wonders why I don't talk to her anymore? If only the people around them grew wise and stood up. This is what happens when those people decide to turn a blind eye to who is clearly a troubled child, the child, if not receiving help, will grow into a manipulative, gas lighting sociopath. And then they wonder what went wrong as if they had nothing to do with it?! I'm sorry, it just hurts a lot.

[@treybrewer1629]

6:07 The way Elmo looks at the camera is interesting to me. because it's a bit funny but also because he knows he's in a show at (almost) all times.

[@meganshaw1949]

You know, Elmo’s reactions are reasonable. From his perspective he’s trying to be Zoe’s friend or that he’s doing a task that was asked of him, but every time Rocco or Zoe is around he gets deprived. I don’t think that she’s doing that to be mean, she’s not a cruel character-she’s just very young, imaginative and somewhat insensitive. Yeah, the adults should have stepped-in, but after a while Zoe should have become a bit more sensitive knowing how Elmo felt about Rocco.

[@timwoods2852]

I remember seeing these episodes with Rocko and dreading every time Zoe was on screen with Elmo for fear that she'd use that stupid rock to screw him over. Especially since Elmo has some of the best behavior in the show. He truly cares about his friends and is more than willing to appease their whims and wants when they interact normally with him. There was one episode where he was having a Red Monster Parade, but every time one of his friends wanted to join he would amend the title to include them until it go so long that he just called it the Anyone who Wants to be in a Parade Parade. And you touched on it with his observations being validated, but everybody playing along is worse because he might end up thinking that the rock somehow is alive (I'm pretty sure we've seen rocks with the googly eyes and mouths during some song segments) and he's the crazy one for not being able to hear or see Rocko doing anything.

[@faridayeasmin6050]

This is what I've wanted to type but didn't know how. I really hope that later in the show a responsible adult finally steps in and confronts the others, teaching children important lessons. Zoey honestly was my least favorite character in the entire show, even when I was little cause I hated when she would always interrupt Elmo. Elmo is still my favorite character and I hope Zoey and the other adults get humbled or taught a lesson at some point.

[@lord_snaxx5117]

Nice thesis bro 👌

[@OmegaQuinn]

I’m surprised at how many of you grew up with Sesame Street. When I was younger I just watched a bunch of different VCR and CD’s in my room while my family would watch the news or game shows in the living room. I had A LOT of Elmo’s World VCR’s It took up a whole shelf out of the Wiggles, Whinnie the Pooh and Disney movie VCR’s. And CD’s.

[@alyissaaragon6943]

He's being gaslit

[@Early90sBabyEntertainment]

I Máke beťter cóntent Than The Film Theorists 👎

[@xiximagicramen]

It’s sad when you realise too, in Elmo’s movie “Elmo in grouchland” Zoe flat out breaks Elmo’s favourite thing (his blanket) and doesn’t even have to take responsibility for it. He had respectfully told her he didn’t want to share it with her, and when he begrudgingly gave it to her for a moment, he then wanted it back and she wouldn’t give it to him. He got mad at her, but that is really the only consequence she had to face in that movie

[@queeniebee7759]

I'm surprised it wasn't mentioned! It was just plain cruel 😢

[@sussymcsusserson8058]

I bloody love that movie

[@spongeintheshoe]

Meanwhile, Elmo learned a lesson about how you should share your things.

[@TikoVerhelst]

As a child you learn "Share things, be nice, say sorry if someone feels bad because of you." As an adult/teenager you learn; "Stand up for yourself, learn to say no, don't try to please everyone/you can't please everyone." Parents, can y'all please teach these lessons AT THE SAME TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@nathanhembree5853]

I like how nonchalantly MatPat say episode numbers in the 4,000 range, like wow, how long has Sesame Street been on the air.

[@OtterTuna]

they analyzed the relationship between elmo, the puppet, and a rock.

[@TwentyTwo0809]

The fact that Zoe being a child uses Rocco to control Elmo kind of reminds me of a youngest member of the family using their preciousness to the parent to control their older sibling.

[@gammarayburst675]

Don't say it. His name alone makes me want to break something

[@likelyunfortunatezz5730]

@@gammarayburst675 ｡

[@gammarayburst675]

@@likelyunfortunatezz5730 yeah that's me? What's up?

[@nettart4924]

given this is a kid's show that's probably what it actually is

[@Lunchablez]

oh how I hate the youngest child stereotype

[@YourBoyDonald]

When I was younger I found Elmo’s dislike for Rocco to be very relatable because my friends and siblings used imaginary friends to excuse their actions. Granted I’m not entirely sure how much of that was real and how much was a child’s interpretation of the world, but I still connected deeply with Elmo on this matter.

[@Mortal_Remi]

At 6:29 I just glanced at the article and I see, "lmo famous furry"

[@Rose-yx6jq]

13:28 Actually, I think that was the better thing because they both got to do what they want. Jumping while saying the alphabet. That absolutely diffuse the situation. And they both got to do the activity they want. But that seems to be the only times that they actually freaking do anything.

[@eloyvega4570]

I love how matpat just casually says "episode 4,000 and something" as if it's normal. for a show to have over 4,000 episodes

[@Grandmother628]

It is.

[@howdoyouspace5425]

“Days of Our Lives” has almost 14,000

[@impudentstrumpet2655]

It is for Sesame Street, haha

[@trippinbawls88]

@@howdoyouspace5425 Marlena done been hypnotized and kidnapped 20 times since I've been born lmao

[@IUseRandomPfps]

Doesn’t One Piece have a thousand episodes?

[@AyosDesignz]

Lol I always thought it was obvious that Zoey was doing it to bother Elmo. She's had other times outside of Rocko where she's controlling and unapologetic. The one time I can remember, but not well, was Zoey essentially stealing Elmo's blanket or toy because she wanted it for a bit. Losing it, not bothering to help Elmo find it and then claiming to forgive Elmo for being stingy after he found his property that she lost while taking it without permission. And I'm pretty sure no one said a thing to her about it then either.

[@medusathedecepticon]

It was his blanket. At least in that situation she actually felt bad later. I still have that movie and now feel like watching it.

[@MrEtherOck]

That's insane I am so glad I stopped watching. Stuff like this never happened on Barney

[@amberjo5052]

I came here to bring this up! Elmo in Grouchland was my kid's favorite. Zoey was a little jerk there, too! I remember even explaining the movie to my kid, how it's totally okay to tell your friend no when they want your special item. Elmo even offered Zoey a soft washrag to cuddle with instead of blankie. And she ripped his blankie out of his hands.

[@yeemawheaver1387]

I think there was a movie where Zoie made Elmo rip his blanket actually. She wanted to see it so bad, but Elmo said no so she tried to pull it from him and ut ripped. Then Elmo went on an adventure cuz the blanket somehow got lost.

[@yeemawheaver1387]

@@medusathedecepticon I wish I had the movie. I used to watch it all the time.

[@GoofyGoober840]

Since I'm the oldest of my siblings, I can confirm that this is similar to my everyday life. The youngest ALWAYS gets their way.

[@THE_FAILURE666]

I love how elmo's patience is broken by a rock

[@barryhadley6194]

No. NOT just a theory. You are ABSOLUTELY correct!!! Some dangerous behavior being championed by Sesame Street. Allowing Zoey to get away with manipulating everyone for her own gain while poor Elmo is being antagonized and trespassed against! Unthinkable, unacceptable, and inexcusable!!!

[@pudgesnextturnaround3112]

You kinda made a spelling mistake

[@SHOIOTERB]

​@@pudgesnextturnaround3112Its Just very sad for elmo

[@greg-hq6mv]

Yes

[@vipprincess5770]

You are Elmo aren’t you?

[@RoomsAdventurer]

It's... it's... disgraceful! Disgusting! And depicable!

[@MoonWielder]

The fact that people find Elmo relatable because he doesn't handle stupidity well, can be brutally honest at times, and have enough common sense to understand when people take things too far, like Zoe’s imagination, makes him unique in many ways.

[@user-jm6qe6sz2p]

ж

[@eliethorn1109]

Elmo definitely deserves better I agree he can't even get angry but his friends can this is just unbelievable

[@SpeedyGamerTV]

I feel like his anger of rocco at the beginning of the episode is him going, "OH NOT THIS CRAP AGAIN!!!"

[@josephtretter851]

I always felt like Zoey was the little sister that always got her way no matter what. Like if you went somewhere with your friends you had to take her no matter what.

[@alexiayearty8105]

You can say DW nobodys judging.

[@sophiebyers5496]

@@alexiayearty8105 Ugh, Arthur is like a free babysitter to her and Kate

[@alexiayearty8105]

@@sophiebyers5496 Yup, thatll get brought up in therapy later.

[@glamrockbonnie5983]

DW MUCH

[@poopetcrab3099]

@@alexiayearty8105 DANGIT I WAS JUST ABOUT TO MENTION HER!

[@H3y_Im_Rob]

While I agree that it was bad how they treated Elmo over this, let me remind you all that they have RARELY showed Zoey on the show nowadays. She got replaced by Abby and Julia as Elmo's BFF's. So yeah, no more Zoey = no more Rocco = Elmo no longer has to deal with all that baggage.

[@bpsara]

That makes me happy for Elmo and all the kids watching. They get to see the different relationships and learn what works better/is healthier

[@Allanapolis83232]

This is why Elmo is best friends with Abby Cadabby nowadays. He's also friends with Cookie Monster, Big Bird, Snuffy, Telly, Baby Bear, and Grover.

[@FairbrookWingates]

Oh good, thank you for letting us know this!

[@thisisasupersayin376]

Good for him

[@bichnguyen-uc4ys]

ok

[@RheylixWise]

And this is how narcs are born. Zoe is well on her way to NPD, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, establishing a pattern of controlling those around her, trampling on certain people, and when they finally have had enough, she will pose as the surprised victim. This is how this starts.

[@mizjay247]

"What's the back story? IS there a back story??" ME: ITS A ROCK!!!! (got your back Elmo)

[@pauljs75]

It's surprising Elmo hasn't flipped from all the gaslighting and cognitive dissonance happening at the same time. He's been cooler than he ought to be.

[@adamgremban8780]

he might have. Elmo's World suddenly makes a lot more sense for existing now. The perfect safe space in a kid's mind and room

[@bakedbaker9882]

@@adamgremban8780 This! I experienced something similar as a child, and the way I coped was to disassociate and retreat into my mind, into a better place where my traumas and those who intentionally caused it or not weren't there. It's the only way I haven't gone insane yet.

[@xmanroberson753]

True that

[@kursatemekse9737]

@@bakedbaker9882 i hope you get better

[@DoritosForDays]

Look out mr. Patty I might be making a puppet TV show too😉

[@winteryuki_onna8172]

Not only Child neglect had been shown in this child show but Parental favoritism is when one or both parents display consistent favoritism toward one child over another. It can include more time spent together, less discipline, and more privileges. Which is happening with Zoey, while Elmo is toss on the side line even though adults do ask if Elmo wants to do something else he just give into what Zoey want over his need, which can mess up a child believing that no one is going to spend time with you because they are going to spend more time with the other kid/sibling. poor Elmo

[@MysteryMusic512]

The shows got a lot of mature topics that play off quite well in a kids show, even to the point of characters DYING. (Rest in peace Mr. Hooper) that show can get DARK man

[@catherinebaldwin6580]

Luckly I had parents who didn’t had favoritism, but a lot of the other adult in childhood did. A lot of my teacher favored my bullies because they claim I was always lying. 9 years later it was found I was born with schizophrenia. Thanks Dr. C, for breaking a tween heart, Especially after a family death. So glad to have my current circle of friends and family. But some adult still don’t care.

[@ArtIsMySin19]

It's crazy that a theory video about Elmo and a rock is making me think about what neglect can do. It's made me reflect on relationships I've experienced where my feelings have been so invalidated.. I really hope that the writers have the awareness to validate Elmo's emotions and acknowledge the trauma this can cause if not addressed.

[@funtimefredboi4456]

Caillou, Caillou

[@micahbirdlover8152]

it's just a rock🤨

[@TotallySans]

0:47 the custom intro

[@jacobpugpoirier3350]

15:17 it was this thing, and the vacuum from Teletubbies that scared me as a kid.

[@elenas3571]

Finally! A video that focuses on the adults in the show! So far I’ve seen the argument that Zoe is manipulative and gas lighting Elmo or that Elmo has anger issues and can’t play along. This is the first video I’ve seen that highlights the adults enabling Zoe while ignoring Elmo’s needs.

[@Foxy02016]

Absolutely, people keep blaming Elmo People seem to hate the person who is the way they are because of what those people have done to them

[@elmo2560]

🍿

[@mii_kay4514]

could there be a sexist reason? The adults we see here are all female. Could it be they unintentionally treat the little girl better, because they see themselves in Zoey?

[@elmo2560]

@@mii_kay4514 Elmo thinks that he agrees

[@2chrisby]

@@mii_kay4514 It's the writing. Next she will be flying in from off screen and healing someone with her power

[@Jjdogstein]

Even as a kid I thought Zoe got her way unfairly. I used to love the movie where his blanket gets thrown into the trash, but I hated that Zoe NEVER faced any consequences. As someone who grew up with a similar situation where my parents would only believe my sister, I sympathized with Elmo so much. It's the same deal with shows like Kid vs Kat. Took years to be able to mend things with my folks. MatPat hit the nail on the head.

[@aceorb1996]

IIRC, Elmo actually ends up apologizing to Zoe in the movie too! But Elmo was in the right here I thought, he didn't want to share his blanket, but Zoe was super insistent... Like, girl, Elmo has shared many things with you, he does not have to share his very special and sentient blanket.

[@Cameron_Maguire]

I'm glad you were able to mend things. Screw off bots.

[@BioshadowX]

It's a metaphor for

[@sophiebyers5496]

@@aceorb1996 I think Elmo feels more guilty for yelling at Zoe and saying that she is not his friend

[@sallyphilpin1104]

My parents would keep me home for school to feed all the animals on the family smallholding. I had to bottle feed 3 lambs at once (one bottle in each hand and the 3rd one gripped between my knees), 300 pigs, then let 40 hens & 2 cockerels out of the henhouses and feed them, put the lambs into their secure grazing area and finally collect any eggs from the henhouses. This would happen when my mum was ill, she had migraines, and I started doing that when I was only 12 years old. They would tell people that my sister's education was more important than mine so she very rarely had to stay home, she is just over a year older than me, then they wondered why I rebelled against them as much as I could. They also used to say they had me to keep my sister company as there's a 5 year gap between her and the next eldest sister, then roughly a year between that one and my eldest sister. Their plan backfired as we don't get on as she's still the 'golden child'. They say it's because my brother (their 1st born and only son) died at 13 months old, the next 2 were girls so when the 3rd girl was born dad didn't even look at her for 6 weeks. They've been 'making up for it' since and treating me differently. Us girls organised a party for them about 20 years ago and in his speech he said, roughly, "I'd like to thank 'eldest sister', 'next one down' and '3rd one' for organising this fantastic surprise party". Guess who he left out? Yep, he had to be reminded I was even there. I nearly walked out but my children were having a good time playing with their cousins, but I've never forgotten or forgiven especially as they caused something even worse in my life 31 years ago. Sorry for the rant but this is the 1st time I've even written this stuff down, let alone where strangers can read it.

[@InternetChatter]

They should introduce a new character named Luigi the concrete worker. Elmo can bring Rocco to a job site and throw him in the concrete mix and laugh and laugh and laugh some more.

[@awesomekidstv5290]

I am giving you all the props two you for outstanding work on the most watched theory on the sesame street tv show

[@NiViBee]

This is what I understood as a child. Everyone enabled Zoe to not crush her imagination, but Elmo was being crushed in the process. I didn't understood how it was fair to Elmo and why no adults told her that she should prioritize her real alive friends.

[@frostprism7267]

For sure!

[@user-en7dx1qp3k]

I suppose that the Rocco series was more of a lesson for the parents watching with their children on what can happen when you let a kid do manipulative things so as to not cause a scene than it was a lesson for the children watching.

[@NiViBee]

@@user-en7dx1qp3k I would agree if they ever called out Zoe but they never did

[@Early90sBabyEntertainment]

I Máke beťter cóntent Than The Film Theorists 👎

[@jamesbondjr4902]

That's Y she lost me 😎👌💪💯💞

[@alittlekittycat21]

Although this beef with Rocco is really funny-- I am so glad I am not the only one starting to hate Zoe and Rocco for abusing Elmo. #Justice4Elmo

[@nutellacelery8830]

I don't think you should hate Zoe. Ultimately like Matpat says she is just a child and as someone who's had to deal with toddlers, this is how some of them behave. Kids are incredibly selfish, in fact almost everyone has probably thrown a tantrum or cried over not getting what they want as a child. The blame falls on the adults for not correcting that behaviour because the kids don't know what they're doing is wrong. Almost every child put in Zoe's position would act like Zoe, even you or me.

[@alittlekittycat21]

@@nutellacelery8830 I don’t like kids in general-

[@nutellacelery8830]

@@alittlekittycat21 Yeah, but even if you don't like them you can recognize that shitty kids only exists due to shitty adults.

[@rishanochannai5103]

@@alittlekittycat21 So you hate yourself huh i get ya i have some reccomendation for therapist if you need ;) im here for you

[@elmo2639]

yes

[@MooneyDawn115]

Elmo was and always be my favorite character

[@JKPippa]

I don’t know how I ended up watching this video but now I have to watch until the end.

[@stickshiftstarship]

As a kid who grew up with a controlling, favoured sibling, this was surprisingly validating.

[@THEPAST-NEVERDI3Z]

Same ngl

[@butterflywarrioredits]

Same!!!

[@chrisohtonen7188]

wait a minute Zoey is the golden child the one who could do no wrong so toxic

[@Rebvie]

Me too but this time it's my older brother

[@annabellahenao3470]

Me to its my 7 year old brother

[@electricrainbowskull]

I didn't see many Rocco episodes growing up, but I did watch the Grouchland movie. The message of the movie was to learn to share with your friends and not be selfish/greedy with your stuff, but the whole opening of the movie was about how important Elmo's blanket is to him, he goes and make Zoey laugh after she wasn't able to go to the zoo and immediately after she grabs his blanket without asking to see it and Elmo states and is visibly upset at her actions and wants the blanket back but she keeps holding it and it turns into tug of war ripping the blanket and then it ends up in Oscar's trash can. Zoey is sorry for losing the blanket and apologizes but it always felt weird and now looking back it's because yes it's important to share with your friends but it's also important to ask first and respect boundaries of what's okay to borrow from a friend And yeah they're three this when they should be learning things like this at this age, but even as little kid Zoey's actions that started the movie's adventure never sat right with me *** EDIT AND ANOTHER THING TO TAG ONTO THE ADULTS IN SESAME STREET when Elmo is looking in the trash can screaming for Oscar to give the blanket back the adults tell him to calm down and just wait for Oscar to comeback which yeah good call except no one goes to look Oscar or asks where he went after he threw the blanket in the trashcan and walked away. They pretty much said this situation that has you panicking this much doesn't need to be solved right now And after Elmo storms a few steps away the adults start to coddle Zoey when she starts showing remorse, but as she starts to explain the chase after the blanket Elmo disperses the crowd telling them to leave, and for second I couldn't figure out why, and then it hit me They were actively listening to Zoey explain and letting her let her emotions out right after they told him to calm down and try to not be upset about what just happened, they dismissed his worries and turn around to coddle her, I wouldn't blame him if he made everyone leave just so he wouldn't have to immediately apologize for getting mad at her before he's ready to forgive her cause they'd think the blanket falling in the trash can would be his fault in their eyes. ***One more thing of note just cause Elmo states he needs to get his blanket home, and that says to me that his blanket rarely if ever leave his house

[@Echoingsunflowers981]

Yeah I agree, zoey needed to be disciplined. Stuff like that needs to be nipped in the bud

[@TheOdst219]

Oh yeah I'd forgotten about that. Huh.

[@wes4736]

I freaking grew up with the Elmo in grouchland movie. Core memories have been unlocked

[@silverfisherman4622]

I vividly remember crying and not wanting to watch the rest of it because of the beginning alone.

[@emmettduggar4522]

My favorite movie as a kid was Elmo in grouchland

[@popshoppacks]

When you're a kid, other kids will do things which seem silly or downright ridiculous and the adults around you will choose to just go along with it (much to your frustration). I think Rocco helps kids learn how to navigate frustrating situations with patience and tact, even when you want to throw the dumb rock off a cliff.

[@bananaguymike]

i love how he just turns a kids show character, that they probally annoyed elmo with for laughs. into a full blown investigation and theory. keep it up

[@strelitziamystery21]

As a kid I never liked Zoe... I now know why. I really hate bratty characters who do the wrong thing and then everyone bends over backwards for them. Zoe was just the start of that hatred for me.

[@bluebird1914]

Yeah bratty characters are a real hit and miss. Reminds me of Angelica from Rugrats, but at least she had understandable reasons for being bratty, and every other episode she would get called out.

[@jocirayne7316]

Yea same, Zoe reminds of those mean girls on the playground who always thought they were the best, then grew up to be total jerks

[@hashiramasenju1067]

Relatable

[@SCP-469]

Manny…

[@abcdefghijkmnop]

Me too

[@passedthevibe-check141]

I was not expecting the genuine pyschology stuff this theory. Well done on your research here, MatPat.

[@realkingqueens5577]

@time to leave earth should do one of bear in the big blue house

[@h0m3st4r]

@@realkingqueens5577 That's one of at least 20 different spam bots used by that pest, fantastic flavours. Report it, its owner, and every other bot you see spamming that link, and don't stop until they're all gone forever.

[@sp4c1ng_0ut8]

@@OvertMysteryChannel "The purpose of this conditioning, is for kids to accept the illogical and irrational opinions of others in order to spare their feelings. Even if it goes against the child's self interest." This^^^ A huge example of this is gendered clothing and gender in general tbh. Its such an abstract concept, and it ultimately serves no purpose but to separate us from each other. Like 'boy clothes' or 'girl clothes', 'boy hobbies' or 'girl hobbies', 'boy colors' or 'girl colors'??? They are just things, they have no gender. And yet, people are shamed or prevented from doing things they love. Good point my dude

[@sp4c1ng_0ut8]

@@OvertMysteryChannel Funnily enough, My position doesn't use subliminal messaging or underhanded tactics to get kids to adhere to some decades-old social standard that should have died the moment it was conceived. Nah, we just present people with choices. "Feel free to flip this...its a good argument, you will likely not be able to come up with a better one." That was an argument in the same way heating up a frozen pizza is cooking; barely fucking counts. You didnt make a point. You waved your supposed moral superiority in the air and left. Life is short. Luckily it only takes 2 minutes to type out a response to a comment that sounds like it was formulated by a 10-year-old. And by the way, it's *waste, not waist.

[@baconjester7077]

Honestly, this episodes intro is probably the best one

[@keiomemeadows240]

As soon as you mentioned Snuffy my mind snapped exactly into seeing where you were going!

[@krisamity498]

I hated Zoe growing up, still do, and I would literally cry for Elmo's sake when I was little. Even now as an adult and seeing the miss treatment with that stupid rock, it still hurts. Poor Elmo! I bet this doesn't hit hard for all of those middle kids having to watch their golden child sibling get everything they ever wanted and the middle ended up paying for it in the end.

[@alexismyers6053]

I haven’t watched Sesame Street in YEARS and I wanted to cry for Elmo just seeing those clips! When MatPat started by try to make us what mins of picture is being painted on the surface, it just didn’t sit right with me. Like, I remember Elmo talking to Dorothy and laughing at Mr. Noodle’s antics, singing a song, sprinting random babies to teleport to, just being lovable and cuddly. It felt weird seeing him angry. At least MatPat sees what’s going on. Hopefully someone at Sesame Street miraculously sees his video and has a good long think about Zoey and Rocco.

[@nottnoahlol]

EXACTLY HOW I FEEL FINALLY SOMEONE UNDERSTANDS ME AND ELMO!!!

[@TheOriginal_Unaleska]

Yeah I never liked Zoe either. Now I know why.

[@Freshest_Water]

Even as the oldest literally everyone but me gets what they want and I get left out

[@zadock6370]

This is why I am glad I am an only child and I will make sure that if I ever have kids, I will only have one kid (unless I get twins or something)

[@zderpydiamond4800]

As someone who lives around toddlers practically 24/7, I can say for a FACT that if the adults finally told Zoey to let Elmo have a turn (and presuming that this wasn't a TV show designed to teach kids good lessons) Zoey would absolutely just throw a fit about how "ROCCO NEEDS IT!!" "ROCCO DESERVES IT MORE!!" "ROOCO HAS FEELINGS TOO!!!" And just go off forever with no end In sight.

[@Echoingsunflowers981]

👆👆👆👆👆100% also I’m sure that they know this and just don’t want to deal with a potential tantrum so they have Elmo be the mature one so they don’t have to

[@zderpydiamond4800]

@@Echoingsunflowers981 LOL!! True!

[@RunicRasol]

​@@Echoingsunflowers981 Which is still abusive. It's effectively telling Elmo that HIS feelings don't matter. That other people's feelings will ALWAYS come before his, and that overall, his emotions are simply not valid. This grooms people into the toxic trait of being a "people pleaser". People like this often wind up with am implosive temper, which we already see Elmo demonstrating. It's also abusive to Zoey, because it teaches her that she is allowed to act without boundaries, as long as she has the latent threat of a temper tantrum. This will NOT serve her well in the long term.

[@zankudragon]

Then it's the adult's (yours?) job to grow up and deal with the situation and teach the kid that they can't just throw a tantrum to get their way. You need to nip those bad toxic habits in the bud before they become an even bigger problem.

[@hiimluna2069]

Not to mention, If it wasn’t a so positive hehehaha children’s show they’d probably blame zoe for throwing a tantrum if they DO suddenly decide to change which is not helping anybody.

[@arthurandmeimeischool]

Interview: News: Elmo, what is your opinion on Rocco? Elmo: He’s malicious!

[@justinparke1159]

i love these skits keep up the work

[@DeviouslyKITT]

Given that my grandmother did the exact same thing to me (just with her pet dogs), yeah I can totally understand why Elmo gets mad every time he sees Rocco or has to appease said rock.

[@luckyduchesse8924]

Well a dog is alive and need care, but I understand that you felt less important to your grandma than her dogs

[@OvertMysteryChannel]

The purpose of this conditioning, is for kids to accept the illogical and irrational opinions of others in order to spare their feelings. Even if it goes against the child's self interest. I would wager that the people who write that stuff have embedded other programming into this show and others they have worked on.

[@chaossynergy9768]

@@luckyduchesse8924 Well a child is alive and needs more care than a dog. And a grandma who cares more about a dog than her grandchild is one shitty grandma.

[@chaossynergy9768]

@@OvertMysteryChannel And yet they didn't spare elmo's feelings, so I say nay, the purpose is pure favourism of one child over the other child. Elmo here got bullied, gaslighted, and abused by the adults. That's like the opposite of any sensitivity training.

[@luckyduchesse8924]

@@chaossynergy9768 I don't say otherwise, of course grandma needs to take care of the child! I'm just saying that dogs can't be compared to a rock.

[@serenitygarcia869]

Now I'm just imagining Zoey growing up to be a Karen because everything was handed to her and Elmo growing up to need therapy because the adults never gave listen to him when it comes to him and Zoey

[@thomasfoster4370]

Rocco wants to speak to the manager

[@MrSirWivd]

​@@thomasfoster4370ill introduce rocco to the manager. rocco, meet mr. jackhammer.

[@AverageKaijuGamer]

Poor Elmo I get how he feels being pushed to the side when someone else is being favored while that person treats you like crap is so annoying and depressing.

[@agent4ww191]

That will be insane

[@abrarahmad-mw4dk]

Thank God she is still 3

[@epicyoutuber1244]

0:02 BALLOON BOY MOMENT!11!!!!!!111!!1111

[@brycenwolfe499]

Uh oh how unfortunate uh oh how unfortunate

[@sirdoxxthe3rd]

​@@brycenwolfe499that DeeDee not balloon boy

[@thesupernaturalhouse]

I always saw it as Zoey pushing her trauma into Rocko. Shes saying what she wants to say through rocko because shes to scares if SHE says it shell get backlash, so she uses rocko as a wall of sort. In case something goes wrong, she can backtrack, if someone gets mad their gonna yell at rocko instead of her And i think the others are allowing this because they know, but elmos is Zoeys same age so probably doesnt realize it And you can see it to, Zoey says rocko wants to dance bit shes dancing, she says he says 12 but shes saying it, etc etc

[@holdingontohope23]

Zoe reminds me of the spoiled rotten child that always gets away with terrorizing someone and gets their way with anything in general. This someone seems like it’s always poor Elmo. What’s so awful is that everyone joins in on Zoe’s little Rocco charade/bullying Elmo. Those scenes would make me so frustrated/upset for Elmo too. I understand that this is an example of imagination,but using imagination to bully someone precious like Elmo,makes me mad,I agree with Matt #justiceforelmo

[@thesupershinymegagengar2034]

Ah, so she basically D.W. from Arthur.

[@nope0921]

My name is Zoey!!!😭😭😭

[@randomnoob101flyhightweek]

@@nope0921 my name is Zoe, i have it one letter worse. *cri*

[@fukuhana3974]

I totally agree with you

[@lazyvincy13666]

No matter how much anyone tried, they can’t get me on her side. I often feel like my family loves our a**hole dog more than me, and I’m absolutely going against someone making anybody feel like that. Elmo deserves better.

[@hellomynameis3619]

Never thought a theory about a puppet hating a rock could get so deep

[@Louis-fx6rv]

me to but hey its just a theory A FILM THEORY

[@nandonandez1795]

There's the Industry and our Government for ya

[@FilmPassionprod]

Well again Sesame Street is supposed to reflect towards real kids who are watching this. You wouldn’t be surprised when you see real kids having to deal with real situations

[@joelgittens6857]

This is the first stage of the Karen evolution line. First the Abigail stage which evolves into Becky and learns sassiness at level 16 and finally Karen at level 35.

[@GoofyGoober840]

It's not a theory, it's a fact.

[@myleswelnetz6700]

One of the MANY shows of my childhood. It ages like wine.

[@TheBlindFurry]

Why is this one of my favourite FT Intros-