As of Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2012, Kevin Clash, the very well known voice of Elmo the monster from Sesame Street, has resigned.

Clash states backlash from the sexual allegations brought against him have damaged his career. While he initially stated he would be able to continue as the voice for Elmo, things have now changed.

New reports claim a second accuser has stepped forward, citing sexual allegations against Kevin Clash. This second man explains he too shared a sexual relationship with Clash when he was a minor.

Clash shared in a public statement:

“I am resigning from Sesame Workshop with a very heavy heart,”

“I have loved every day of my 28 years working for this exceptional organization,”

“Personal matters have diverted attention away from the important work ‘Sesame Street’ is doing and I cannot allow it to go on any longer. I am deeply sorry to be leaving and am looking forward to resolving these personal matters privately.”

In statements released Tuesday, Sesame Street shared their desire to quickly replace Clash with someone who can provide a similar voice for Elmo. Realizing Elmo is a worldwide brand, they are moving ahead with finding someone new to fill the very big shoes left by Kevin Clash. They stated:

“Elmo is bigger than any one person and will continue to be an integral part of Sesame Street to engage, educate and inspire children around the world,”

If you have ever heard the voice of Elmo the monster, you know it’s a distinct one. Do you think Sesame Street will find a voice that adequately replicate’s Clash’s take on Elmo? How will Elmo as a brand change from here on out?

Sources: Washington Post, E! Online, Fox News

The entertainment business is a complicated business in which to work. Kevin Clash resigning shows how your personal life, as a professional in the public eye will always spill through. While the truth of the allegations against Clash is not yet known, it will eventually become public.