Do we like them?

Do we like Elmo?

A character from Sesame Street (1969–present)

Our score: 9 out of 10. Yes, we'd back him. Elmo is endlessly kind and curious, and he cheers on everyone around him. His worst offence is asking too many questions.

Elmo is a small, bright red Muppet monster on the children's show Sesame Street. He is a toddler (the show says he's three and a half) with a high, giggly voice, and he calls himself "Elmo" instead of "I". He started as a background character around 1980. He became the show's central figure after puppeteer Kevin Clash reworked him in 1985 as a warm, loving character. Ryan Dillon has performed him since 2013.

Elmo's job is to be curious. He hosts "Elmo's World", a segment aimed at toddlers where he explores everyday topics like shoes, bananas or birthdays. On the street he plays with Abby, Big Bird, Cookie Monster and the human neighbours. He often learns lessons about patience, sharing and feelings that young viewers are learning at the same time.

He scores a 9 because there is almost nothing to hold against him. He is never cruel and never schemes. He's a little overexcited and sometimes a little impatient, as a toddler would be. He loses the last point only because he's more of a lovable sidekick than a hero who acts. Even so, he's about as easy to back as a character can be.