Sesame Workshop, the non-profit organization behind “Sesame Street,” has produced a new 30-minute special. The new content is part of Sesame Workshop’s new Caring for Each Other initiative, which is designed to support families through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“‘Sesame Street’ has reacted incredibly quickly to the COVID-19 situation, supplying helpful, comforting resources and content for families in line with the brand’s values of friendship, care, wellbeing and kindness,” says Rob Corney, managing director, Bulldog Licensing, which manages “Sesame Street’s” consumer products in the U.K. and Ireland. “With its rich heritage, ‘Sesame Street’ is well-placed to support children and their families during this time, offering familiarity and reassurance in a time of great uncertainty.” 

“Sesame Street: Elmo’s Playdate” sees characters Elmo, Grover, Cookie Monster and Abby Cadabby joined by some famous faces on a virtual playdate. Actress Anne Hathaway, American composer Lin-Manuel Miranda and actress Tracee Ellis Ross join “Sesame Street’s” characters as they discover new ways to play and learn together. The special aired as a simulcast in the U.S. last month and has been broadcast in more than 30 countries around the world including Australia, New Zealand and Japan. It’s also available on BBC iPlayer.

“Elmo’s Playdate” celebrates everyone who is helping families during this time. It also highlights simple pleasures such as baking at home in a video call, which will feel very familiar to today’s viewers. The celebrities and characters sing songs, play games and take dance breaks. Children will get a visit from their “Sesame Street” friends and parents and can utilize the learning opportunities from the special at home.

The special will air on BBC One on May 30 at 1:30 p.m. GMT, having previously aired on CBeebies on May 8.