Disney Announces Muppet Show Special for 2026

Disney and ABC announced the return of the iconic variety series The Muppet Show with a teaser trailer for a new special event, set to premiere on February 4, 2026. The one-hour production will feature Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and the classic Muppet ensemble performing music, comedy sketches and backstage antics at the original Muppet Theatre, joined by guest star Sabrina Carpenter.

The special, produced by 20th Television, Disney Branded Television, The Muppets Studio and Point Grey Pictures, aims to recapture the spirit of the original series that aired from 1976 to 1981. That show, created by Jim Henson, ran for five seasons and 120 episodes, blending celebrity guest performances with Muppet-driven humor and production mishaps. Guests like Elton John, Diana Ross and Liza Minnelli appeared alongside segments such as Fozzie Bear's stand-up routines and Gonzo's stunts, emphasizing the chaos and joy of live entertainment.

Directed by Alex Timbers and written by Albertina Rizzo, the new special continues that tradition. Veteran performers Bill Barretta, Dave Goelz, Eric Jacobson, Peter Linz, David Rudman and Matt Vogel will voice and operate the core characters. Goelz, who...