Larry David grabbed Elmo’s face during a TODAY segment on February 1, 2024, apologized on air, then joked about the encounter with Seth Meyers: “And you know what? I would do it again.” David’s explanation was that he had been waiting to be interviewed while Elmo talked about mental health; the exchange played as comedy, and the available accounts do not independently establish his motive.
What happened on the TODAY show?
On February 1, 2024, TODAY was moving toward Al Roker’s weather report while Elmo appeared in a segment with his father, Louie. USA TODAY’s account says David went behind the couch and grabbed Elmo’s face. The show’s official clip documents the apology that followed.
Co-anchor Savannah Guthrie told David, “Larry, you’ve gone too far this time.” He replied, “Somebody had to do it.” David then addressed Elmo directly: “Elmo, I just want to apologize. I’m really sorry.” Elmo accepted the apology.
What did Larry David tell Seth Meyers?
Later that day, David recounted the encounter on Late Night with Seth Meyers. He said he had been waiting to be interviewed while Elmo was talking about mental health: “Elmo was talking, OK? I was waiting to be interviewed.” He described approaching and throttling the puppet, then delivered the punch line: “And you know what? I would do it again.” The show’s official clip covers the story; contemporary reporting also transcribed his remarks.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- SESAME STREET ELMO PLUSH: This adorable 13” plush toy features everybody’s favorite Muppet with super-soft shaggy red plush and his wide, friendly smile. Bring home your favorite Sesame Street characters with the GUND official plush collection
- SOFT & HUGGABLE: This adorable Sesame Street plush toy features surface-washable construction for easy cleaning and is made from a soft, premium material that meets our famous GUND quality standards. Appropriate for ages 1 and up
- GIFT GUND: Our stuffed animals, teddy bears, and sensory toys make timeless birthday and baby shower gifts, home decor, and gifts for every other occasion. Our official Sesame Street collection is crafted for kids, fans and collectors of all ages
- Quality Cuddles: Our plush toys feature timeless designs and durable fabrics that stay soft for years. From cute stuff like baby toys, decor, and playsets to anime merch and more, GUND toys are made to be collected, loved, and cuddled for a lifetime
- Premier Plush: As one of America’s first teddy bear makers, GUND has crafted unique and classic stuffed animals and soft toys for 125 years. Today we proudly carry this legacy and stand by our toys, known worldwide for their quality and innovation
Was Elmo’s viral post the reason?
Elmo had recently posted a social-media check-in asking people how they were doing, which contemporary coverage described as viral. That provides context for the conversation about mental health, but the available accounts do not establish that the post caused David to grab Elmo. David’s explanation on Meyers was that he was waiting his turn to be interviewed; his delivery and “I would do it again” line were presented as a comic retelling, not a verified account of private intent.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Includes: Elmo interactive plush toy.
- Interactive Fun With Elmo: Enjoy play with the Sesame Street Sing-Along Plush Elmo toy, that serenades kids with "The More We Get Together" and encourages kids to sing along with a cuddly friend in a colorful goldfish T-shirt.
- Melodies, Phrases, and Flashing Light: Squeeze Elmo’s left hand to hear Elmo sing, laugh, and say fun phrases. "Let's sing together!" An LED light in his chest flashes along with the sounds.
- Inspires Imaginative Play: Preschoolers will love making up stories and Sesame Street adventures with this lovable Elmo plushie.
- Sustainable Plush Stuffed Animal: This 13-inch Elmo plush preschool toy is made with irresistibly soft fabrics and is stuffed with 100% recycled fill for less impact on the environment. Little ones will want to snuggle with huggable Elmo during nap time, story time, bedtime, or play.
Rank #4
- TOOTHPICK ELMO PLUSH: Elmo’s here to play This irresistibly soft, huggable Elmo stuffed animal features bright red plush and his famously friendly, excited expression. Each Elmo plushie also has a bean-filled bottom that helps him sit upright
- SESAME STREET TOOTHPICK PLUSH: This cuddly collection is inspired by Toothpick, a GUND classic teddy bear These soft toys measure 15” and feature slender, posable bodies with long, playfully floppy limbs that make them fun for on-the-go play
- GIFT GUND: Our stuffed animals, teddy bears, and sensory toys make timeless birthday and baby shower gifts, home decor, and gifts for every other occasion. Our official Sesame Street collection is crafted for kids, fans and collectors of all ages
- Quality Cuddles: Our plush toys feature timeless designs and durable fabrics that stay soft for years. From cute stuff like baby toys, decor, and playsets to anime merch and more, GUND toys are made to be collected, loved, and cuddled for a lifetime
- Premier Plush: As one of America’s first teddy bear makers, GUND has crafted unique and classic stuffed animals and soft toys for 125 years. Today we proudly carry this legacy and stand by our toys, known worldwide for their quality and innovation
Rank #3
- Includes: Elmo plush toy.
- Take-Along Sesame Street Friend: The Sesame Street Friends Plush assortment features favorite characters as small, 8-inch plush toys that are perfect for kids to take anywhere.
- Cuddly Plush Pal: The Sesame Street Friends Plush Elmo stuffed toy is made entirely of soft, huggable fabrics and 100% recycled fill. Awesome for anytime snuggles!
- Inspires Imaginative Play: Preschoolers will love making up stories and Sesame Street adventures with this lovable Elmo plushie. Cheerful Elmo has a big, happy smile and is ready to be every kid’s best friend.
- Collect Them All: Collect all the Sesame Street Friends Plush toys and have a Sesame Street neighborhood block party! Look for Elmo, Cookie Monster, Big Bird, Ernie, Bert, Oscar, and Abby Cadabby, each sold separately.
Rank #2
- ELMO TAKE ALONG BUDDY: Elmo is here as a cuddly plush perfectly sized for adventure This adorable 13” plush features Elmo with embroidered facial details, super-soft bright red plush, and floppy limbs that make him perfect for playtime anywhere
- SOFT & HUGGABLE: This adorable Sesame Street plush toy features surface-washable construction for easy cleaning and is made from a soft, premium material that meets our famous GUND quality standards. Appropriate for ages 1 and up
- GIFT GUND: Our stuffed animals, teddy bears, and sensory toys make timeless birthday and baby shower gifts, home decor, and gifts for every other occasion. Our official Sesame Street collection is crafted for kids, fans and collectors of all ages
- Quality Cuddles: Our plush toys feature timeless designs and durable fabrics that stay soft for years. From cute stuff like baby toys, decor, and playsets to anime merch and more, GUND toys are made to be collected, loved, and cuddled for a lifetime
- Premier Plush: As one of America’s first teddy bear makers, GUND has crafted unique and classic stuffed animals and soft toys for 125 years. Today we proudly carry this legacy and stand by our toys, known worldwide for their quality and innovation
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
