Elmo Buying Guide

For years, Elmo,  the furry, red Muppet  from Sesame Street  has captured the hearts of children and adults alike. The Elmo craze began with his show, Elmo's World,  which started taking shape during the mid-1980s. By 1996 this adorable character was transformed into a cuddly plush toy  called Tickle Me Elmo,  complete with his trademark red fur, big innocent eyes, and bright orange nose. His trick was one that drove kids to side-splitting laughter and even got parents into the fun. By tickling his tummy, Tickle Me Elmo would burst out into giggles just as if you were really tickling him. The toy became an instant hit and created a never-before seen craze that swept across America like wild fire. This must-have holiday toy quickly became a household name as Elmo himself took to the stage, appearing on talk shows and even starring in his own feature film, Elmo in Grouchland .

Elmo, who has done everything from play rock and roll to dance and sing, has popped up again for the 10th time. After a long-awaited unveiling of the top secret, mystery T.M.X. Elmo  (a.k.a. Tickle Me Extreme or Tickle Me Ten) this anniversary edition of the popular toy was released on September 19th, 2006. Before long, T.M.X. Elmo had proven to be better than any of the Elmo dolls that have come before. There is no doubt that this cuddly, red guy will take America by storm and leave parents struggling to snag one before it's too late. See the video below to see the little guy in action and read on to take a trip down memory lane and learn how Elmo has grown up over the years. Whether it's the way he refers to himself in third person, his cute little face, or his contagious giggle, Elmo is lovable and snugly, sure to capture your heart.

1996: Original Tickle Me Elmo 

The frenzy that rocked the nation over this stuffed toy that giggled and wriggled led parents to fight it out in stores to get their hands on one in time for Christmas.

1998: Walk 'n Talk Elmo 

While this Elmo walks the walk and talks the talk (in third person, of course), he's still just a huggable, lovable plush toy.

1999: Rock'n Roll Elmo 

He's a rootin' tootin', rockin' rollin' kind of guy. Perfect for everyone who loves classic rock and roll music.

2000: Let's Pretend Elmo 

He is the ideal companion for your two or three year old as he spurts out funny sounds and silly phrases.

2001: Tickle Me Elmo Surprise 

Tickle, tickle, tickle! This Elmo has five sweet spots that will make him giggle uncontrollably.

2002: Chicken Dance Elmo 

So cute in his chicken costume, Elmo sings and dances to the Chicken Dance Song.

2003: Hokey Pokey Elmo 

This Elmo knows what it's all about! Dance along and sing the hokey pokey time and time again.

2004: E-L-M-O! 

There's no need to feel down, not with E-L-M-O around! He sings and dances to his own remake of the Village People's 'YMCA'.

2005: Shout! Elmo 

The classic 'Shout' song is Elmo's inspiration as he gets a little bit louder now, gets a little bit louder now...

2006: T.M.X. Elmo 

Top secret no more! Tickle this guy to see him wriggle, writhe, and laugh incessantly. He'll beg you to give him a break and you'll be begging for more!

2008: Elmo Live 

The Elmo of all Elmos?  The Elmo Live doll is an animatronic singer, dancer and storyteller.  Your kids (and you) won't be able to get enough!


Fisher Price Tickle Me Elmo T.M.X.
Submitted by: tarrina
 Votes:6

External Links

  • Sesame Street -- Visit Elmo's World, a place where kids can enjoy educational and interactive games.
  • Wikipedia -- The history of Elmo from Elmo's World to Elmo's NPR debut.