New year, new viral debate!
In 2015, the Internet was divided over whether a dress was blue and black or white and gold. In 2018, an audio clip of an automated voice saying “Laurel” or “Yanny” became the big question. And in 2019, a Sesame Street muppet is causing the newest viral uproar: did Grover drop the F-bomb?
At the end of December, a clip shared by journalist J. D. Durkin, showed Grover talking to Rosita, who suggested that they “move the camera.”
In response, Grover cried either “That sounds like an excellent idea!” or “That’s a f—in’ excellent idea!”
Since the controversy was sparked, hundreds of people have weighed in, including Jimmy Kimmel who relied on the help of some adorable children to solve the debate.
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In a clip from Jimmy Kimmel Live! shared on Tuesday, the host had his team speak with several kids at The Farmer’s Market in Los Angeles to find out what they heard and if only adults could catch the curse.
While the first four children didn’t hear anything wrong with the Sesame Street clip, the others noticed the word instantly.
“[He said the] F-word,” said one child, mischievously smiling after watching the clip. “Don’t worry, I hear it at home!”
Another kid was confident that the curse was included in the video. “Yeah, he said the F-word,” she said.
Others were visibly taken aback by the word alone, shaking their heads and widening their eyes.
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Since bringing it to the Internet’s attention, many have debated the audio clip. There was, however, some agreement with users who claimed that people can hear both versions depending on “what they’re listening for.”
According to Nina Kraus, a neurobiology professor at Northwestern University, who spoke with NPR after the “Yanny/Laurel” debate, the brain’s ability to interpret words can be influenced by what one is expecting to hear.
Reps at Sesame Street did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.