For decades, whispers circulated among grown-up fans of Sesame Street about a mysterious episode. It was an installment so frightening, so unnerving, that it was reportedly aired only once and then locked away, never to be seen again. This wasn't just playground lore; it was a real event that created an unintentional piece of television history.

The year was 1976, and the date was February 10th. Children across America tuned into Episode 847 of their beloved show, expecting the usual blend of learning and laughter. Instead, they were greeted by a familiar yet terrifying face: Margaret Hamilton, reprising her iconic role as the Wicked Witch of the West from The Wizard of Oz.

A Witch on Sesame Street?

Hamilton's portrayal of the Wicked Witch was legendary for its ability to strike fear into the hearts of moviegoers. Bringing that character to the seemingly safe world of Sesame Street was a bold creative choice. The plot involved the Wicked Witch losing her broomstick and wreaking havoc as she tried to retrieve it from Big Bird.

Her signature cackle, green skin, and menacing demeanor were all present. The intent was perhaps to help children confront their fears in a controlled environment. However, the reality proved far different from the production team's expectations.

The Unintended Consequences

The immediate aftermath of the broadcast was unprecedented. The Children's Television Workshop (CTW), the creators of Sesame Street, were inundated with letters and phone calls from concerned parents. Their feedback was clear: the episode had genuinely terrified their young viewers.

Reports poured in of children crying, hiding, and experiencing nightmares. The vivid imagery and intense performance were simply too much for the target audience. It was a stark reminder that even well-intentioned educational content could misjudge the emotional resilience of preschoolers.

Parents reported children's screams and tears.
Many children were visibly distressed by the Witch's presence.
The character's intensity overshadowed any intended lessons.

Pulled from the Airwaves

Faced with such an overwhelming negative response, the CTW made a swift decision. Episode 847 would not be re-aired. It was effectively pulled from syndication, disappearing from public view for decades. This decision solidified its status as an urban legend among fans – a forbidden chapter in Sesame Street history.

For years, the only way to experience this infamous episode was through archived copies, primarily at the Library of Congress. Its absence from regular broadcasts only added to its mystique, fueling speculation and curiosity among generations of viewers who had only heard whispers of its existence.

The Witch's Return

However, the internet, as it often does, eventually brought the lost episode back into the light. In 2019, clips of the episode were shown during a special 50th-anniversary event for Sesame Street. Then, in June 2022, the full, complete Episode 847 mysteriously surfaced online, allowing a new generation to witness the broadcast that once sparked so much fear.

Watching it now, with adult eyes, the episode provides a fascinating look into television history and the delicate balance of creating children's programming. It serves as a testament to the powerful impact of media on young minds and the careful consideration required when introducing potentially frightening elements, even from a classic like The Wizard of Oz.

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