Julia (Sesame Street)

Julia is a Muppet character on the children's television program Sesame Street, created in 2015 and debuting in 2017 on Sesame Street and in digital form online. She is notable as Sesame Street's first autistic Muppet. Julia is a four-year-old girl with bright orange hair. Her puppeteer is Stacey Gordon, who is the mother of an autistic son.

The character was developed after Sesame Street producers consulted with autism organizations, experts, and families. The intent behind Julia's creation was to increase understanding, acceptance, and empathy towards autistic children. Her storylines are designed to showcase common characteristics associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), such as sensory sensitivities, scripting (repeating memorized phrases), and intense interests.

Julia's appearance on Sesame Street has been widely praised by autism advocacy groups and parents of autistic children. Her presence aims to reduce stigma and promote inclusion by demonstrating that while autistic children may learn and interact differently, they are still valuable members of the community. Storylines involving Julia often focus on how her Sesame Street friends can better understand and support her, and how she can participate in activities in her own way.