Katy Perry's cleavage proves too much for 'Sesame Street'

Producers of the hit children's television show Sesame Street yesterday cancelled an appearance by the cleavage-baring pop singer Katy Perry following feedback from parents.

Perry, who rose to stardom in 2008 with the single "I Kissed A Girl," was set to appear on the premiere of the programme's 41st season on 27 September, performing her song "Hot N Cold" alongside the lovable puppet Elmo.

But after the segment appeared online on Monday showing Perry in a bright yellow bustier, Sesame Street decided not to air it. The song, originally about an elusive lover, was rewritten for the segment in which Elmo is unsure about playing a game of dress-up with Perry. "In light of the feedback we've received on the Katy Perry music video which was released on YouTube only, we have decided we will not air the segment on the television broadcast of Sesame Street, which is aimed at preschoolers," the show said in a statement, adding it valued the opinions of viewers, particularly parents.

The video can still be seen on Perry's website. It also is still available on YouTube.

Sesame Street producers noted the show has a long history of working with actors, athletes, musicians and artists, and has always been written on two levels – for children and adults.