#23: Sesame Street
Since its debut in 1969, Sesame Street has become a staple in children’s programming, captivating audiences with iconic characters like Elmo and Big Bird. With a season budget of $25 million, it remains a powerhouse in educational entertainment.
Despite its significant production costs, Sesame Street’s revenue from merchandising substantially offsets expenses, with product licenses comprising nearly 70% of its profit in 2004. The show has evolved, introducing characters like Gonger and Abby Cadabby, making it fresh for new generations.