Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The 23-year-old man who accused Kevin Clash, the puppeteer behind Sesame Street's Elmo, of an improper relationship with him when he was a teenage boy has recanted the allegations that led the children's TV veteran to take time off from the hit show.
Lawyers for the unnamed accuser said he wanted it known that "his sexual relationship with Mr Clash was an adult consensual relationship". According to the Associated Press, Mr Clash responded by saying he was "relieved that this painful allegation has been put to rest".
The claim first emerged earlier this week when Sesame Workshop, the maker of the children's show, said 52-year-old Mr Clash was taking a leave of absence following the allegations.
In a statement this week, the Emmy award-winning puppeteer denied the claims, acknowledging he was gay but insisting the relationship had been one between two consenting adults.
Following the retraction, the producers of the show said: "We are happy that Kevin can move on from this unfortunate episode."
Mr Clash's high-pitched voice was instrumental in Elmo's promotion to one of the prime faces of the hit show. His success won him public acclaim, along with 23 daytime Emmys and a prime-time Emmy, and a documentary profile titled Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments