The New York Times has just reported that the man who accused Elmo voice actor Kevin Clash of beginning a sexual relationship with him when he was underage has recanted his allegations.

In a statement from the law firm representing the accuser, the relationship was described as one between consenting adults:

"[The anonymous accuser] wants it to be known that his sexual relationship with Mr. Clash was an adult consensual relationship. He will have no further comment on the matter."

In response, Clash released a statement reading: "I am relieved that this painful allegation has been put to rest. I will not discuss it further." Clash maintained from the beginning that their sexual relationship began after the accuser had turned 18.

Now that the alleged brothel has at last been shuttered on Sesame Street, the program can go back to being what it's always been: a tax-payer funded advertisement that glorifies common letters.

[NYT // Image via AP]