Benjamin Lehmann to Executive Produce Sesame Street

Sesame Workshop has appointed Emmy-winning Sesame Street alum Benjamin Lehmann as executive producer of the hit show as it approaches its 50th anniversary.

Lehmann is taking over from Brown Johnson, interim executive producer and creative director  of Sesame Workshop. Lehmann first joined Sesame Street as a PA in 2001, eventually becoming a producer in 2007 and then supervising producer in 2015. He has also served as a director for the past three years.

“I am thrilled to have Ben lead our production team as we approach our landmark 50th anniversary,” said Johnson. “His leadership and vision have helped us embrace new production styles, formats and characters, and increase our creative output while staying true to our core brand. He has also worked hard to increase diversity on both sides of the camera, particularly in developing writers, directors and on-screen talent. Ben is an invaluable partner as we continue to evolve the show for today’s—and tomorrow’s—kids.”

“It’s an honor to be named executive producer,” added Lehmann. “On Sesame Street, we work hard to get kids ready for school—and ready for life—while engaging them with some of the greatest characters ever created for television. As I step into this role, I look forward to the challenge of continuing to make an incredible show and creating new media experiences to help kids grow smarter, stronger and kinder.”