It’s Time to Play the Music: ‘The Muppet Show’ Returns With Star-Studded 50th Anniversary Special
NEW YORK — December 18, 2025 — Half a century after it first redefined the variety show format, “The Muppet Show” is officially returning to its roots. On Wednesday evening, an exclusive teaser aired on Good Morning America, confirming that a highly anticipated anniversary special will premiere on February 4, 2026.
The special event, which will air on ABC and stream on Disney+, is more than just a trip down memory lane. It marks a significant creative collaboration between The Muppets Studio, Disney Branded Television, and Seth Rogen’s Point Grey Pictures.
A New Era of Chaos: Rogen and Carpenter Take the Reins
The upcoming special features a modern twist on the classic formula, with pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter serving as both the guest of honor and an executive producer. Carpenter, whose “Short n’ Sweet” tour recently featured a viral moment where she playfully “arrested” Miss Piggy, is expected to perform musical numbers alongside the felt ensemble.
Seth Rogen, a lifelong Muppet fan, serves as executive producer alongside his frequent collaborator Evan Goldberg. Rogen has reportedly been working for nearly a decade to bring the variety format back to the Muppet Theatre.
Key Details of the Special:
- Release Date: February 4, 2026.
- Platform: ABC (Linear) and Disney+ (Streaming).
- Director: Tony Award winner Alex Timbers (Moulin Rouge! The Musical).
- Format: A variety special blending music, sketch comedy, and behind-the-scenes pandemonium.
The Teaser: Kermit Lights the Lights
The 60-second teaser released this week leaned heavily on nostalgia. Set to a soft, instrumental rendition of “The Rainbow Connection,” the clip features Kermit the Frog walking onto the dark, dust-covered stage of the original Muppet Theatre. As he flips the master switch, the house lights flicker to life for the first time in years. The teaser ends with Kermit setting down his iconic personalized coffee mug—a small signal that he’s ready to get back to work.
Honoring 50 Years of Jim Henson’s Legacy
The special coincides with the 50th anniversary of the original series, which aired from 1976 to 1981. Created by the legendary Jim Henson, “The Muppet Show” was famous for pairing its puppet cast with the biggest stars of the era, from Elton John and Diana Ross to Johnny Cash.
To ensure the classic tone remains intact, veteran Muppet performers are returning to lead the production:
- Dave Goelz: An original performer from the 1976 series, returning as Gonzo.
- Matt Vogel: Performing as Kermit the Frog.
- Eric Jacobson: Bringing Miss Piggy and Fozzie Bear to life.
- Bill Barretta, David Rudman, and Peter Linz: Rounding out the core ensemble.
Is This the Start of a Full Revival?
While Disney is currently billing this as a “one-off special event,” industry insiders suggest it may serve as a backdoor pilot. If the February special garners high viewership, Disney+ may greenlight a full-season revival of the variety show format, moving away from the scripted narrative experiments of recent years like Muppets Now or The Muppets Mayhem.
For fans who can’t wait until 2026, all five seasons of the original Muppet Show are currently available for streaming on Disney+.
Would you like me to compile a list of the rumored musical tracks Sabrina Carpenter might perform during the special?
The Muppet Show | Official Teaser | Disney+
This teaser provides the first look at Kermit returning to the iconic Muppet Theatre as he prepares to “light the lights” once again for the 2026 special.
