Celebrating 70 Years of The Muppets: A Legacy of Joy, Creativity, and Iconic Cinema
By Natalie McCarty
Alright, you got me—I might just be THE Muppets’ number one fan. I did even write a college paper defending The Muppets (2011) as one of the greatest films of all time (I got a perfect score by the way. And, yes, I did go to NYU).
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Growing up, I was captivated by The Muppet Show on VHS and then DVD. For me, the Muppets are synonymous with childhood memories: guest hosts like Julie Andrews and Elton John, vibrant colors, the audacious and wonderful Miss Piggy, and Kermit the Frog bringing me to tears with his rendition of “Rainbow Connection.”
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When I think about the Muppets, I also think of one of the greatest achievements in film history: James Bobin’s 2011 masterpiece, The Muppets. The Oscar-winning song “Man or Muppet” is a testament to the film’s brilliance—it’s an unironically deserved win. This phenomenal movie, with its great original songs and lovely evolution of the characters, has carried me into adulthood. It holds a very special place in my heart. I truthfully can recite the entire film from memory.
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This year marks the 70th anniversary of The Muppets, a beloved franchise that has enchanted audiences for decades with its unique blend of humor, heart, and creativity. From their humble beginnings on Sam and Friends in 1955 to their status as cultural icons today, The Muppets have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. As we celebrate this milestone, it’s a perfect time to reflect on how The Muppets have evolved over the years and the significant role they’ve played in shaping both television and film—and me, of course.
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The Birth of The Muppets: A Legacy Begins
The Muppets were the brainchild of the late, great Jim Henson, a visionary puppeteer whose creativity knew no bounds. Henson’s first foray into puppet entertainment began with Sam and Friends, a five-minute television show that aired on a local Washington, D.C. station in the mid-1950s. Among the characters on this show was a familiar face—Kermit the Frog—who would soon become the de facto leader of The Muppets.
From there, The Muppets grew in popularity, eventually leading to Sesame Street in 1969, where characters like Big Bird, Oscar the Grouch, and Elmo became household names. But it was The Muppet Show, which premiered in 1976, that truly solidified The Muppets as global superstars. The variety show, hosted by Kermit, featured a mix of puppetry, music, and guest stars, quickly becoming a sensation and earning four Primetime Emmy Awards during its five-season run.
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The Muppets on the Big Screen: "The Muppet Movie"
As The Muppets' popularity soared, it was only natural that they would make the leap to the big screen. The Muppet Movie (1979) was their first feature film, and it remains a staple in the world of cinema. Directed by James Frawley, the film tells the story of how The Muppets met and began their journey to stardom, blending meta-humor, memorable musical numbers, and a cavalcade of celebrity cameos.
The Muppet Movie was a groundbreaking achievement in puppetry and storytelling. It showcased the technical innovations of Henson and his team, particularly in the iconic scene where Kermit rides a bicycle, a feat of puppetry that astounded audiences at the time. The film's humor, which balanced wit and warmth, appealed to both children and adults, making it a perfect family movie. Songs like "Rainbow Connection," performed by Kermit, became instant classics, with the song earning an Academy Award nomination.
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The success of The Muppet Movie proved that The Muppets were more than just television stars—they were cinematic icons. The film laid the groundwork for future Muppet movies, each of which continued to explore the balance between humor and heart that defines The Muppets.
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The Return of The Muppets: "The Muppets" (2011)
After several more films and television projects, The Muppets experienced a renaissance in 2011 with the release of The Muppets, directed by James Bobin and written by Jason Segel and Nicholas Stoller. This film brought The Muppets back to the forefront of popular culture after a period of relative obscurity. It was a love letter to the original series and movies, capturing the essence of what made The Muppets so special while introducing them to a new generation.
In The Muppets, the story centers on a new Muppet character, Walter, who teams up with Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the gang to save the Muppet Theater from being torn down by an evil oil baron. The film is filled with nostalgia, featuring numerous references to past Muppet adventures, while also delivering fresh, witty humor. The musical numbers, including the Oscar-winning "Man or Muppet," were both catchy and heartfelt, resonating with audiences of all ages.
I think about Amy Adams in that film frequently, and I quote at least one of her lines daily. It’s incredible.
The success of The Muppets film was a testament to the enduring appeal of these characters. It proved that The Muppets could still captivate audiences and that their blend of humor, music, and puppetry was as relevant as ever.
I fear I have seen this movie perhaps more than any other movie in the world. And as I should.
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The Muppets' Lasting Impact on Film and Culture
Over the past 70 years, The Muppets have become more than just characters on a screen—they are cultural icons. They have inspired countless creators, entertained millions of fans, and left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Their influence can be seen in everything from modern puppetry to the way family entertainment is crafted, always balancing humor that appeals to both children and adults.
What makes The Muppets so special is their ability to convey complex emotions and themes through simple, yet profoundly effective, storytelling. They teach us about friendship, perseverance, and the importance of following your dreams—all while making us laugh. Whether it's through the antics of Fozzie Bear, the charm of Miss Piggy, or the wisdom of Kermit, The Muppets have a way of touching our hearts and making us feel like kids again.
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A Celebration of Joy
As we celebrate 70 years of The Muppets, it's clear that their legacy is one of joy, creativity, and timeless entertainment. From The Muppet Show to The Muppet Movie and the 2011 revival The Muppets, these characters have continued to evolve while staying true to the spirit that made them beloved in the first place. Here's to 70 years of laughter, music, and Muppet magic—and to many more years of celebrating the wonderful world of The Muppets.
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By the way, if you’re wondering, I am actually the exact blend of Kermit and Miss Piggy’s personality. I got a little Statler and Waldorf energy going on as well.
