Elmo, the beloved red puppet from Sesame Street, has found himself in an unexpected controversy with New York Knicks fans following a recent social media post about the NBA Finals.

The character, whose fictional home is Manhattan, posted on X, stating, “Elmo hopes both teams have fun!” This seemingly innocuous message has ignited a strong reaction from Knicks supporters, who are currently celebrating their team's first NBA Finals appearance since 1999.

Knicks fans quickly expressed their displeasure, labeling Elmo a “traitor” and accusing him of “fence-sitting.” The team is currently competing in a best-of-seven series against the San Antonio Spurs, and the city has been abuzz with excitement, including street celebrations and watch parties.

The widespread support for the Knicks in New York City has led to a collective expectation for local figures to back the home team.

Social media was flooded with responses to Elmo's post, with many fans expressing their disappointment.

Comments ranged from “Elmo don't forget the streets that raised you” to “Elmo, you can't both sides this one.” The backlash extended beyond individual fans, as New York City government agencies also weighed in.

The New York City Police Department (NYPD) posted a jab at Elmo, comparing him to Times Square impersonators, stating, “Just like in Times Square, we think this Elmo is an imposter.” The city’s transportation department even threatened to remove the official Sesame Street sign in Upper Manhattan.

In response to the criticism, Elmo posted a follow-up message on Thursday, attempting to defuse the situation with a playful tone: “KNICKS that last message!

Elmo didn't mean to SPUR you on!” This development matters to the audience because it highlights the intense passion and loyalty of sports fans, even extending to fictional characters.

Elmo, who first appeared on Sesame Street in 1980, is known for promoting kindness and unity.

However, this is not his first encounter with social media controversy.

In 2022, his long-running feud with the Sesame Street pet rock, Rocco, became a viral meme.

More recently, in 2024, his simple tweet asking “How is everybody doing?” garnered a slew of sarcastic responses.

Last year, Elmo's X account was also compromised by hackers who posted offensive messages, which Sesame Street representatives condemned as “disgusting.” Now, with Knicks fans warning Elmo to be on his best behavior and support the team, the puppet finds himself in a new kind of public scrutiny.