Kevin Clash, the man who created and has voiced the beloved Sesame Street character Elmo since the muppet's debut on the show has taken a leave of absence following allegations that he had a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old boy. Clash admits to a relationship but claims that his involvement with the accuser was between two consenting adults. The accuser, who is now 23, has hired the same law firm who represented one of Jerry Sandusky's victims. Sesame Workshop, who was first approached about this situation back in June, released a statement on their website today calling the accusations of underage conduct unsubstantiated and that an investigation only revealed that Mr. Clash violated the company policy regarding internet usage. His leave of absence was explained as a need 'to protect his reputation.' This is the first sex scandal associated with Sesame Street in the show's 43-year history.
