The Not-Too-Late Show with Elmo - Hoda Kotb / Ben Platt (S1E9)
Elmo does some hard-hitting journalism to learn about Hoda Kotb's morning routine before challenging her to a game of "Hot Potato." Ben Platt treats Cookie to a song about his very favorite thing. Grover offers his expertise on how to pack Elmo's backpack for school.
| Runtime (min) | 15 |
|---|---|
| Air Date | 2020-07-09 |
| Genres | Talk, Kids, Comedy |
| Network(s) | HBO Max |
Storyline
In this engaging episode of 'The Not-Too-Late Show with Elmo,' Elmo takes on the role of a journalist, interviewing Hoda Kotb to uncover her morning routine. Their playful banter leads to a friendly challenge of 'Hot Potato,' showcasing the fun side of their interaction. Elmo's curiosity drives the narrative, making it both educational and entertaining for young viewers.
Meanwhile, Ben Platt makes a special appearance, serenading Cookie Monster with a delightful song about his favorite thing, which is sure to capture the hearts of the audience. Grover steps in to lend his expertise, helping Elmo pack his backpack for school, offering practical advice that resonates with children preparing for their own school adventures.
What parents say
This episode wonderfully blends humor and learning, making it a great watch for children. Elmo’s inquisitive nature encourages kids to ask questions and explore new routines, mirroring the real-world experiences of morning schedules. The interactive game of 'Hot Potato' adds an active element that children can mimic, promoting physical play and engagement.
Ben Platt’s musical number is a highlight, showcasing the joy of expressing one’s favorite things through song. Music is a powerful tool for children, and this segment emphasizes creativity and personal expression. Grover’s segment on packing a backpack is particularly relatable for parents preparing their children for school, offering practical tips that can make the morning routine smoother.
What kids learn
Throughout this episode, children learn about the importance of routines, particularly morning habits that help start the day right. Elmo's interview with Hoda Kotb highlights how different people have unique ways to prepare for their day, encouraging kids to think about their own routines. This insight not only entertains but also instills a sense of responsibility in young viewers.
Additionally, the playful game of 'Hot Potato' teaches kids about turn-taking and cooperation, fundamental skills for social interaction. Music plays a significant role in enhancing emotional expression, as demonstrated by Ben Platt's song, which encourages children to identify and share what they love. Lastly, Grover's advice on packing a backpack helps children understand organization and preparation, skills that will serve them well in school and beyond.
Parents' top 5 questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What does Elmo learn from interviewing Hoda Kotb? | Elmo learns about the importance of morning routines and how different people have unique ways of starting their day. Through their humorous exchange, he discovers that planning and preparation can lead to a smoother morning, making it relatable for kids who are beginning to understand the concept of daily schedules. |
| How does the game of 'Hot Potato' benefit children? | Playing 'Hot Potato' encourages children to practice turn-taking and social skills. It promotes active play and helps kids learn to share and interact with others in a fun environment. This kind of engagement also boosts their motor skills and coordination while fostering a sense of teamwork. |
| What is the significance of Ben Platt's song? | Ben Platt's song about his favorite thing introduces children to the joy of music and self-expression. It inspires children to think about what they love and encourages them to share their interests with others, fostering creativity and emotional connection through artistic expression. |
| What practical advice does Grover provide? | Grover offers valuable tips on how to pack a backpack effectively, emphasizing organization and preparation. This advice resonates with children who are preparing for school, teaching them the importance of being ready and ensuring they have everything they need for a successful day. |
| How does this episode promote curiosity in children? | Elmo's role as a journalist drives the narrative, encouraging kids to ask questions and explore their surroundings. This episode emphasizes the value of curiosity and learning from others, empowering children to seek knowledge and engage with the world around them. |
Cast
Writing
Directing
| Season # | Episode # | Episode Name |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Before bedtime, Elmo takes on the extra special role of talk show host! And for his very first episode, Elmo welcomes guests Jimmy Fallon and Kasey Musgraves, who sings a Sesame Street classic. |
| 1 | 2 | The Jonas Brothers drop by Elmo's show to compete in a Silly Freeze Dance contest and share a song about brushing those pearly whites. Abby Cadabby's magical fix causes havoc in the control room for Bert and Ernie. |
| 1 | 3 | Elmo looks inside some awesome goody bags before challenging guest John Mulaney to a nail-biting tricycle race and duetting with Lil Nas X. Ernie leads a baaa-ckstage tour right in the middle of the show, and Cookie Monster gets a special visitor. |
| 1 | 4 | Batman is in the house to play a game of Beach Ball Ballyhoo with Elmo. In search of the perfect bedtime story, Elmo welcomes acapella group Pentatonix, who performs a mashup of lullabies. Rosita looks for three sheep so she can tell her favorite sleepy time tale. |
| 1 | 5 | Trainer Nature Nick brings some animal friends on-set to help teach Elmo about nocturnal creatures. Jordin Sparks sings one of her favorite childhood songs and shares the thing she loves most about nighttime. Correspondent Grover takes to Sesame Street to investigate whether or not the sun should be in bed. Correspondent Grover takes to Sesame Street to investigate whether or not it's night. |
| 1 | 6 | Elmo faces off in a nursery rhyme rap battle with Miles Brown, and the Joyous String Ensemble drop by, in their PJs, to play a medley of familiar tunes. Cookie Monster babysits his little niece, who runs loose around the studio before her bedtime. |
| 1 | 7 | Elmo and Cookie Monster talk weird dreams before Blake Lively returns to Sesame Street for a game of "Cookie Monster Says." Dan + Shay perform their own rendition of "I Don't Want to Live on the Moon." Oscar the Grouch prepares to finally get his chance in the spotlight for "Trash Talk." |
| 1 | 8 | Elmo finds out what animal John Oliver would be, and the two compete in the world's slowest and most dramatic race. Sofia Carson joins the slow-mo fun with a lovely lullaby, and Kwame Alexander recites an impromptu poem about - who else - Elmo! |
| 1 | 9 | Elmo does some hard-hitting journalism to learn about Hoda Kotb's morning routine before challenging her to a game of "Hot Potato." Ben Platt treats Cookie to a song about his very favorite thing. Grover offers his expertise on how to pack Elmo's backpack for school. |
| 1 | 10 | Elmo brings in "monster makeover specialist" Jonathan Van Ness to unleash the gorgeous monster inside Sesame Streeter Alan, before Elmo and Cookie unveil hair and makeup transformations of their own. Mykal-Michelle Harris gives hosting a whirl and faces off with Elmo in a "No Laugh Challenge," and H.E.R. performs a song about her beautiful, versatile hair. |
| 1 | 11 | When Grover gets lost on his way to guest-star on the show, Andy Cohen steps up to the plate and pretends to be Grover. As a talk show host himself, Andy knows the need to keep the show going no matter what and through his Grover impressions, Andy fools everyone into thinking he is, in fact, Grover ! Finally, Andy reveals his true identity while Grover still searches for a way onto the talk show set. Josh Groban performs I love Trash with Oscar the Grouch. |
| 1 | 12 | The Count helps Elmo keep an eye on the clock in preparation for jammie time. Elmo welcomes Olivia Wilde for a game of "Teddy Bear Dress Up." Musical guest Sara Bareilles brings out two of her besties -- plus an extra special Sesame Street friend -- to help her perform her very own version of "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star." |
| 1 | 13 | Elmo isn't shy about an important part of his bedtime routine -- potty time; after he challenges Jason Sudeikis to a round of the "Silly Dance Game," Ciara stops by to share an inspiring musical message; Grover shakes things up as he plays usher. |
| Season # | Episode # | Episode Name |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 1 | ‘Tis the season for all seasons as Drew Barrymore swings by to dress up a snowman, and Keedron Bryant joins Elmo and his new friend Skyler to sing a song about summer. Then, it’s time for a “spot the difference” picture challenge! |
| 2 | 2 | “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” and on that farm are celebrity friends Seth Meyers, who challenges Elmo’s new friend Felice to an obstacle course, and Kelly Rowland, who performs her rendition of the classic song! |
| 2 | 3 | It’s a pet party when actor and animal lover Brady Noon stops by for a paw-some game against Elmo’s new friend Jayla that tests their ability to leash a dog. Next, Wanmor “raises the ruff” with a song about how to properly care for pets. |
| 2 | 4 | Rise and shine! While Ernie helps Bert with a morning do-over, Elmo and his new friend Ziva are joined by comedian and TV show host Amber Ruffin for a teeth-cleaning challenge. Then, Bebe Rexha sings about morning routines! |
| 2 | 5 | While Felix and Baby Bear plan a pretend trip to outer space, author and talk show host Jenna Bush Hager squares off
against Elmo’s new friend Nilah in a suitcase-packing challenge, and Sophie Fatu sings about traveling. |
| 2 | 6 | Actor Ames McNamara joins in on the fun in this bathtime-themed episode! Broadway star Leslie Odom Jr. performs the iconic bath time classic, “Rubber Duckie!” |
| 2 | 7 | Sisters Dani and Dannah Lane team up with Elmo’s new friend Lucia to sort mail before the brothers of AJR sing “Heroes in Your Neighborhood.” Then, Cookie enlists his friends for help thanking community workers! |
| 2 | 8 | While Ernie preps Bert for a big football game, actor and tennis lover Rohan Chand suits up for a thrilling timed challenge. Later, country music star Kane Brown steps up to the plate for a song about the topic of the day: sports! |
| 2 | 9 | Elmo forgets his signature tie just in time to teach the audience about… getting dressed! Then, Busy Philipps packs on the winter clothes in a timed challenge against Elmo’s new friend Christian. |
| 2 | 10 | Comedian Aidy Bryant and singing duo Hello Sunday stop by for some babysitting-themed fun as Cookie Monster does his best to keep an eye on his niece. |
| 2 | 11 | “C”is for cook-ing as actor Mackenzie Hancsicsak joins Elmo’s new friend Destin in a Cookie Monster-themed pancake challenge. Later, Juanes sings about navigating the kitchen. |
| 2 | 12 | The studio is abuzz for bug day as actor Sway Bhatia drops by to learn and play games all about insects. Then, it’s buggy boogie time with singer Tori Kelly! |
| 2 | 13 | |
| 2 | 14 | Elmo jams out for musical instrument day with journalist Tamron Hall and guitarist Brandon “Taz” Niederauer. |
| 2 | 15 | Elmo’s new friend Ryan puts his skills to the test against Big Bird and Kelvin Dukes, while Grover helps Baby Bear open his brand-new restaurant! |
| 2 | 16 | Isaiah Russell-Bailey and James Monroe Iglehart show Elmo just how much fun chores can be, while Grover does his best to help Rosita clean up the studio. |
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