The beloved chaos of The Muppet Show has burst back onto our screens in a delightful new special, proving that Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the gang still hold a cherished place in our hearts. Premiering on Disney+ from Wednesday 4 February 2026, this one-off episode, executive produced by Seth Rogen, offers a perfect blend of nostalgia and fresh, saucy humour that had this reviewer laughing uncontrollably.
A Timeless Appeal: Why We Still Adore the Muppets
Since the original TV show ended in 1981, the Muppets have remained cultural icons, with memes, Oscar-winning movies, and festive traditions like their version of A Christmas Carol keeping their spirit alive. Jim Henson's creations—those furry anarchists—have a unique ability to unite audiences, transcending generations with their odd, hapless charm. As a self-proclaimed fun-sponge, one might question why these puppets resonate so deeply, but perhaps it's because we see our own flawed, chaotic selves reflected in their antics.
The Grace of Puppetry: A Philosophical Twist
In an 1810 essay, German poet Heinrich von Kleist praised puppets for their pure grace, a weightless unself-consciousness that humans strive for but rarely achieve. While he referred to marionettes, the Muppets, as hand puppets, embody a different kind of grace—one marked by silly, inefficient movements, like Kermit's iconic flapping arms and bouncy walk. It's this very silliness that endears them to us, reminding us that joy doesn't need to be dissected; it's meant to be felt.
The 2026 Special: A Hilarious Trip Down Memory Lane
The new Muppet Show special stays true to its roots, avoiding modern gimmicks like Fozzie on TikTok or Rowlf protesting streaming royalties. Instead, it focuses on the classic premise: the gang trying to put on a variety show, with everything going hilariously wrong. Seth Rogen, as executive producer, fits seamlessly into this world, bringing his comedic flair without overshadowing the Muppets themselves.
Star-Studded Guest: Sabrina Carpenter Shines
Guest star Sabrina Carpenter proves to be a perfect addition, displaying unflappable charm and a saucy wit. In one memorable scene, she fangirls over Miss Piggy, gushing about how she's always loved and even copied the porcine diva's look. Miss Piggy's prim response, "My attorneys have taken note," is a highlight, showcasing the show's meta humour and self-awareness. Carpenter's musical number, backed by a bunch of hens, adds to the electric mayhem, proving she's game for anything.
Behind the Scenes: Chaos and Comedy
The special thrives on its behind-the-scenes chaos, with Kermit politely rejecting acts by saying, "That sounds like fun!"—a subtle way of saying no, as he confides to stage manager Scooter. When the running order becomes overstuffed, fragile egos are at risk, but the Muppets handle it with their trademark lack of false modesty. Miss Piggy, in particular, steals scenes with her energetic antics, from announcing she's on vocal rest to undertaking a water-based romantic rescue mission that ends in a bisexual rug-pull moment.
Skits and Segments: Pure, Unadulterated Fun
The show within the show delivers toe-tapping musical numbers and clever skits, such as the period-drama parody Pigs in Wigs and a science segment about screen time that hilariously concludes with Beaker losing his eyes. Unlike educational shows like Sesame Street, The Muppet Show has no agenda beyond electric mayhem, embracing subversive humour and meta winks that thrill audiences.
Audience and Critics: A Divided Response
While nostalgic parents may be the primary audience, given young people's love for K-pop and makeup tutorials, the special appeals to all. Even the resident theatre critics, Statler and Waldorf—who live in a box and never miss a show—remain unmoved, representing a resentful dependence that adds to the comedy. However, this reviewer must part company with them; the show isn't half bad—it's all great, eliciting more laughs in 30 minutes than one can count.
Conclusion: A Joyful Celebration Not to Be Missed
In the end, The Muppet Show's return is a testament to its enduring magic. With Sabrina Carpenter and Seth Rogen on board, this special captures the essence of what makes the Muppets so beloved: their ability to create pure, unadulterated joy. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their world, this saucy, nostalgic trip is a must-watch, reminding us that sometimes, the best things in life are the silliest.
