Kevin Clash, the famous voice behind Sesame Street’s Elmo, America’s favorite furry red monster, has taken a leave of absence from his puppeteer duties effective immediately after allegations he had an intimate relationship several years ago with a then 16-year-old-boy continue to plague him.

If the allegations are true – which Clash vehemently denies – it appears  someone should have spent a little less time on his ABC’s and a little more time practicing how to count to 17, the legal age of consent in the state of New York, where the relationship in question occurred.

And just like that, “Tickle Me Elmo” takes on a whole new meaning.

UPDATE: Accuser has recanted his allegations;

“He wants it to be known that his sexual relationship with Mr. Clash was an adult consensual relationship,” according to a statement issued by the unidentified man’s representative, Andreozzi & Associates. “He will have no further comment on the matter.”