Original ‘Blue’s Clues’ Host Steve Burns Finally Addresses His Sudden Departure in Viral Twitter Clip – Variety

Original “Blue’s Clues” host Steve Burns has finally clued the world into why he left the popular children’s show in 2002. In a viral clip posted to Nick Jr.’s Twitter account, Burns explained that he decided to go to college.

“You remember how when we were younger, we used to run around and hang out with Blue and find clues and talk to Mr. Salt and freak out about the mail and do all the fun stuff?” Burns said. “And then one day, I was like, ‘Oh hey, guess what? Big news, I’m leaving. Here’s my brother Joe, he’s your new best friend,’ and then I got on a bus and I left and we didn’t see each other for like a really long time? Can we just talk about that? Because I realize that was kind of abrupt.”

Burns continued, explaining that he left to pursue higher education: “I just kinda got up and went to college. And that was really challenging by the way, but great because I got to use my mind and take a step at a time and now I literally am doing many of the things that I wanted to do.”

Sporting the same green shirt and hat as he did on the series, Burns then directly addressed the viewer in an unexpectedly emotional and validating way.

“And then look at you, and look at all you have done, and all you have accomplished in all that time. And it’s just, it’s just so amazing, right?” Burns said. “I mean, we started out with clues, and now, it’s what? Student loans, and jobs and families? And some of it has been kind of hard, you know? I know you know.”

Burns continued on that tender note, thanking those who watched him for helping him get to where he wanted to be in life.

“I wanted to tell you that I really couldn’t have done all of that without your help. And in fact, all the help that you helped me with when we were younger is still helping me today, right now. And that’s super cool,” Burns said. “I guess I just wanted to say that after all these years, I never forgot you. Ever. And I’m super glad we’re still friends.”

Burns then ended the clip with a dose of humor, saying: “You look great by the way. Whatever it is you’re doing, is working.”

Burns’ sudden departure from “Blue’s Clues” in 2002 sent the rumor mill churning, with many speculating that he had died from a car accident or drug overdose. Burns even appeared on “The Rosie O’Donnell Show” and “Today” to dispel the falsehoods. Since leaving “Blue’s Clues,” Burns has released an album and held several minor acting roles.

Burns has also appeared in Nick Jr.’s on-air promotions recently in celebration of the 25th anniversary of “Blue’s Clues.” But the Twitter clip sent social media roaring, with many reminiscing on the impact Burns had on their childhood and discussing the video’s emotional nature. View some of the best Twitter reactions below.

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