- Television
Bobby Pontillas Drew from His Own Experiences in Designing TJ, the First Filipino Muppet on “Sesame Street”
When Bobby Pontillas was asked to help create TJ, the first Filipino American muppet on Sesame Street, he immediately thought of the physical features that would represent most Filipinos, including himself. Growing up, he did not see himself represented onscreen so designing a Sesame Street character that would reflect his ethnic background felt monumental.