Conservative Criticism of Sesame Street’s Big Bird Reflects Growing Performative Outrage Culture
When Texas Senator Ted Cruz took to Twitter to condemn Big Bird’s announcement about getting the COVID-19 vaccine, many questioned how a beloved children’s character had become a target in the political crossfire. In a lighthearted tweet aimed at educating children, Big Bird shared that he received the vaccine, expressing a bit of soreness but emphasizing the protective benefits. Yet, Cruz and other conservative figures reacted, calling it “government propaganda for your five-year-old” and accusing the character of promoting pharmaceuticals.
Created in 1969 but portrayed as six years old, Big Bird represents the newly eligible five-to-11-year-olds in the U.S. COVID-19 vaccine rollout. His tweet was intended to provide children with reassuring, age-appropriate information, aligning with Sesame Street’s long-standing commitment to educational content. However, in today’s climate of performative outrage, even fictional birds aren’t immune to political backlash.
This episode reflects a broader trend within certain conservative circles, where performative outrage often manifests in unlikely places—even childhood icons. Critics argue that the GOP’s penchant for such performative outrage often overshadows pressing issues, with symbolic battles serving as an outlet for grievances rather than substantive debate.
