Ray Charles performs Bein' Green with a chorus of AM monsters. Among them are Elmo, Natasha, Ruby, Frazzle, and an early version of Merry Monster
The AM monsters (Anything Muppet monsters) are a group of faceless Sesame Street monster puppets whose identities can be changed by altering eyes, noses, tongues, horns or other features as required. The puppets are similar to Anything Muppets in their simple design and interchangeable identities. However, they are also like the Whatnots used on The Muppet Show in that there is usually only one of each kind of monster puppet, whereas there are more than one copy of most Anything Muppets.
During the early years of Sesame Street, monsters needed for brief appearances were usually created by draping fur over parts of the body and head of an Anything Muppet. One of the most prominent monsters created in this manner is Frazzle. Later they were replaced by the AM monsters, allowing for a larger variety of designs.
Some monsters also have features that are rarely removed, such as Kermit the Forg, or had a single identity for an extended period of time (such as Maurice Monster). While most remain background characters, several monsters have developed unique personalities and become main characters, including Humphrey, Natasha, and, most famously, Elmo.
The iPhone app "Elmo's Monster Maker" makes use of the durability of the AM monsters. The puppets make a rare featureless appearance before being given animated body parts and accessories by the player.
Designs
Maurice, aka Kermit the Gorf, Max, Last Emperor, Murray, "Monster Time" monster, Dennis Monster, Boso, Clem
Stuie, "Monster Time" monster
Clancy, "Monster Time" monster
Monster Surgeon, Goody Grouch, Blecka
Imogene, Annette Monster, Rosita's Abuelo, Surprise Monster, Mr. Fuzzlebrush, Dalia
Deena, Granny Monster, Frieda's Mother, Jill, Herry's Granny, Cookie Monster's friend, Humphrey, Potto, Monster Monster
"Elmo's Monster Maker" base model, Enormous Athlete, Beast, Freddy
Deena's original design, Monster Surgeon, Elmo's Great Grandmother, The Silly Sorceress, Noah, "Monster Time" monster, Uncle Jack, Elmo's Grandmother, occasional Grouches
Max the Magnificent, MNN Logo Monster, The Cereal Girl, Rico, Chester's Mom, Ex Ray, Kit, "Elmo's Monster Maker" base model, The Fairy Information Operator
originally used for The Shagri-Las, Piño, Anyone's Nose singer, Norman, Jesse
Merry Monster
Sir Campbell McGrouch, Max, Sally Messy Yuckyael, Uncle Hank, Uncle Talbot
Parker Monster, Greta, Nelson, Izzy, Ricardo
Lila, Spalding Monster, Delly Monster, and the earliest version of Lulu
Muppet Doctor
originally used for Preston Rabbit, "Monster Time" monster
originally used for Grizzy, "Monster Time" monster
Aristotle, Herry's Mother, Spike, Grouch Audience Member, Aunt Chloe, Chef John, Howard
Luca, "Elmo's Monster Maker" base model
(recycled from The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss)
Ethel Bay Mertz
Lulu Lemon
