The red monster who often speaks in the third person is Elmo. The small, furry Muppet typically says “Elmo” instead of “I,” a speech pattern that is central to his childlike personality on Sesame Street.
Elmo is presented as a cheerful preschooler and is self-described as three-and-a-half years old. His high-pitched voice, giggle, and bright red fur made him one of the show’s most recognizable characters. He became especially prominent through “Elmo’s World,” a segment designed around topics that interest toddlers, such as pets, music, and everyday activities.
Elmo began as a supporting background character before developing into a major Sesame Street figure. Kevin Clash performed him for many years, and Ryan Dillon took over the role in 2013. The third-person speech is not an accidental grammar mistake: Sesame Workshop has explained that it imitates how some young children speak before they consistently use pronouns such as “I.” Elmo also has a pet fish named Dorothy and a puppy named Tango.