Larry David Defends Beating Up Elmo During Today Show: “I Would Do It Again”
Published: Feb. 3, 2024, 6:27 p.m. ET
Entertainment
“Seinfeld” co-creator and “Curb Your Enthusiasm” star Larry David shocked the audience when he justified his beat down of “Sesame Street” puppet Elmo.
Speaking on “Late Night” with host Seth Meyers, David expressed his frustration with Elmo’s message about mental health, leading to the assault on the puppet.
Background
During a recent appearance on the “Today” show, Elmo engaged in a conversation about mental health, which seemed to be too much for David to bear. As co-anchor Al Roker gave a weather report, David approached the puppet and grabbed its face, with Elmo screaming in response. David proceeded to take a swing at the character, leaving the show hosts in shock.
David’s Justification
When asked about the incident, David appeared embarrassed but didn’t shy away from defending his actions. He expressed his frustration with Elmo’s monologue on mental health, indicating that he couldn’t handle another second of it.
In a high-pitched voice, David mocked the puppet, saying, “Oh my God, oh my God, I don’t think I can take another second of this!” He then returned to his normal voice and admitted, “And so I got off my chair and I approached him and I throttled him!”
Despite the criticism, David firmly stated, “I would do it again.” He believes someone had to take action and voice their discontent with Elmo’s prolonged discussion.
Viral Reaction and President Biden’s Involvement
Elmo’s question on his social media platforms about people’s feelings went viral. With countless followers sharing their thoughts, mental health became a significant topic of discussion.
Even President Biden felt compelled to join the conversation, recognizing the importance of highlighting and addressing mental health concerns.
Conclusion
Larry David’s outburst on the “Today” show has generated significant attention, sparking a broader debate about mental health discussions in the media. While some criticize his actions, others applaud his willingness to express his frustration at the prolonged monologue.
