It looks like we faithful Muppets fans may get our reward, finally. After so many years since their television heyday, and 19 years since the last attempt to put them on a weekly show, the Muppets are making a triumphant return to the small screen on ABC.
Maybe. Cross your fingers, because right now all that’s happening is a pilot is being produced, and the trash bins of Hollywood are full of pilots that were never picked up. This one has a lot of promise, not just because the Muppets still have a loyal following, but also because the pilot is being co-written by Bill Prady, co-creator of The Big Bang Theory. Whatever your opinion of that show, it’s a certified hit, and Prady’s name attached to anything is bound to give it a good shove towards green-lighting. (Prady also worked on The Muppets Celebrate Jim Henson following Henson’s death in 1990, and failed in an attempt to revive the franchise on TV before striking gold with The Big Bang Theory.)
Let’s hope this happens. It’s been too long since there was a new scripted comedy TV show that was genuinely funny, and far too long a break for the Muppets on TV.
Photo of Kermit the Frog: Disney.
Photo of Bill Prady: Bill Prady (via Wikimedia Commons).
I think that the decision to fill “Muppets Tonight” was largely driven by changes in the voice cast; with the passing of Jim Henson and gradual retirement of Frank Oz, the new Muppeteers were under a microscope with regard to the old characters; I think the producers figured they would be more accepted in new roles. Sadly, most of the new characters were either annoying or pretty forgettable. Now that the cast is a lot more experienced and audiences have gotten used to their version of the characters, it makes sense to revert to the classic Muppets.
I will watch it for as long as Dave Goelz plays Gonzo. After that, all bets are off.
I wish this wasn’t being led by Prady. The Muppets are too funny to fall into the hands of a Big Bang Theory creator. Sure, his involvement helps it’s greenlighting, but I’d much rather see actual funny people behind the scenes, like Phil Lord and Chris Miller or one of Disney’s own like an Alex Hirsch type.
Luckily, Bob Kushell’s involvement may help lead the humor away from BBT blandness.