STREET SMART: Lessons from a TV Icon

STREET SMART: Lessons from a TV Icon (2025) is a documentary, comedy film directed by Ernie Bustamante.

STREET SMART: LESSONS FROM A TV ICON is a feature documentary about Sonia Manzano — known to millions as “Maria” from SESAME STREET. The film follows Sonia’s remarkable journey, from a young girl in the South Bronx finding refuge in television, to becoming the first Latina on American TV in a regular role, through 44 years on screen on SESAME STREET, and now as a creator of ALMA'S WAY. Featuring interviews with luminaries, original animation, and scripted scenes that blend humor and heart, this inspirational documentary invites viewers to learn once again from this beloved icon.

Cast

Sonia Manzano

Self

Stephen Schwartz

Self

Sonia Sotomayor

Self

Alison Bartlett

Self

Ryan Dillon

Self

Carmen Osbahr

Self

Grisselle Escotto

Sonia

Angelo Kern

Emilio

Andrew Delman

Jon

Jillian Dunn

Sesame Street Writer

Misha Gonz-Cirkl

Ma