In an unexpected yet delightful crossover between children's entertainment and elite sports, Sesame Street's beloved red monster Elmo sat down with Team USA hockey stars Matthew and Brady Tkachuk at the Olympic Village during the Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. The interview, which captured the hearts of fans across generations, showcased the lighter side of Olympic competition while highlighting the unique brotherly bond that these two athletes share.
The Tkachuk brothers have become central figures in the American hockey lineup, not just for their on-ice prowess but for their rare distinction as siblings playing on the same forward line. This familial connection adds a compelling narrative to Team USA's quest for Olympic glory, and Elmo's interview peeled back the layers of their relationship both as professional athletes and as brothers.
When asked about the experience of being linemates throughout the tournament, Matthew Tkachuk's face lit up with enthusiasm. "It's been crazy so far," he admitted, his voice carrying the weight of both disbelief and gratitude. Representing the United States on hockey's biggest stage is a dream for any American player, but doing so alongside family elevates the experience to something truly extraordinary. Matthew emphasized the pride he feels wearing the red, white and blue, a sentiment that resonates deeply with patriotic fans back home.
Brady Tkachuk echoed his brother's excitement, but added another dimension to their Olympic journey that many fans might not consider: they're not just teammates on the ice, but roommates off it. The brothers are sharing living quarters throughout the Games, an arrangement that Brady described with genuine affection. "So that's been a lot of fun," he shared with Elmo. "Brings us back to when we were kids. And just been a lot of laughs."
This nostalgic throwback to their childhood days reveals the foundation of their chemistry. The shared history, the inside jokes, the comfortable familiarity—these elements translate directly into the intuitive understanding they display during games. When two players know each other's tendencies as only siblings can, it creates a synergy that coaches dream of and opponents struggle to defend against.
However, the roommate situation isn't without its challenges, as Matthew was quick to point out with a grin. He confessed that one of the difficulties of sharing a room with Brady is dealing with his brother's snoring. This candid admission prompted an animated reaction from Elmo, who couldn't resist drawing a parallel to Sesame Street's most famous roommates. "That kind of sounds like Bert and Ernie!" Elmo quipped, referencing the iconic duo's living arrangement. The comparison drew laughter from the brothers and perfectly encapsulated the universal experience of sharing space with someone, whether you're a professional athlete or a Muppet.
The interview then transitioned into a segment that showcased the brothers' personalities and their deep knowledge of each other. Elmo introduced "The Brother Test," a rapid-fire question game designed to reveal which Tkachuk brother best fit various descriptions. This lighthearted competition gave viewers insight into their individual characters while maintaining the fun, accessible tone that Elmo is known for.
The first question immediately set the tone for the game: "Who is a cookie monster?" Without hesitation, both brothers pointed at each other, a simultaneous gesture that spoke volumes about their competitive yet affectionate relationship. This moment of perfect synchronization delighted Elmo and highlighted how well-matched they are, both in appetite and in humor.
As the questions continued, fans learned more about the brothers' off-ice lives and personalities. Elmo probed into areas that sports journalists rarely explore: who possesses the best dance moves, who is more likely to call their mom, and who claims superiority in the kitchen. These questions humanized the athletes, showing them not just as hockey players but as sons, dancers, and aspiring chefs. Their answers, delivered with playful banter and good-natured ribbing, painted a picture of a relationship built on mutual respect and constant teasing—the hallmark of many brotherly bonds.
The final question of the test brought the focus back to the reason they were all gathered: the Olympic mission. Elmo asked, "Who's ready to win a medal and make Team USA proud?" In a powerful show of unity, both brothers enthusiastically raised their hands, their competitive differences set aside in favor of a shared goal. Matthew's closing words captured the sentiment perfectly: "We're gonna make you proud, Elmo." This promise, delivered with sincerity and determination, connected their personal journey to the broader American dream of Olympic success.
The significance of this interview extends beyond its entertainment value. In an era where athletes are increasingly seen as brands and personalities, moments of genuine authenticity resonate deeply with fans. The Tkachuk brothers' willingness to engage with a children's character, to laugh at themselves, and to share personal details creates a connection that transcends the typical athlete-fan dynamic. It reminds us that behind the helmets and jerseys are real people with families, quirks, and childhood memories.
Moreover, the pairing of Elmo with Olympic athletes represents a strategic bridge between generations. Young children who adore Elmo are introduced to the excitement of the Winter Olympics, while adult sports fans are reminded of the joy and simplicity that characters like Elmo represent. This cross-promotional opportunity serves both Sesame Street's educational mission and the Olympic movement's goal of inspiring youth participation in sports.
For Team USA, having the Tkachuk brothers as both literal and figurative faces of the squad provides a compelling narrative. Their story is one of family, dedication, and shared dreams—values that align perfectly with the Olympic spirit. As they chase medals on the ice, they simultaneously embody the ideals of sportsmanship and brotherhood that make the Games more than just a competition.
The interview also highlights the evolving media landscape surrounding major sporting events. No longer confined to traditional press conferences and post-game analysis, athletes now engage with diverse media platforms and personalities. This democratization of sports coverage allows for more creative, accessible content that can reach audiences who might not otherwise follow the Games.
As the men's hockey tournament progresses at Milano Cortina 2026, all eyes will be on the Tkachuk line to see if their brotherly chemistry can translate into offensive production and, ultimately, victory. The pressure is immense, but if their relaxed, confident demeanor with Elmo is any indication, these brothers are thriving under the Olympic spotlight. They've managed to maintain their sense of humor and connection to family despite the high stakes—a balance that often separates good athletes from great ones.
In conclusion, Elmo's interview with Matthew and Brady Tkachuk serves as a heartwarming reminder of what makes the Olympics special. It's not just about the medals or the records; it's about the stories, the personalities, and the connections formed along the way. The Tkachuk brothers, with their blend of elite skill and down-to-earth charm, represent the best of what Team USA has to offer. And thanks to a certain red Muppet, fans of all ages now have one more reason to cheer for them as they pursue their Olympic dreams.