The Muppets are officially returning to screens with a Disney+ special that doubles as a potential relaunch of the iconic variety show. Produced by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg’s Point Grey Pictures, the project will premiere in 2026 to mark the 50th anniversary of Jim Henson’s beloved series. Pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter is set to guest star, stepping into a long tradition of celebrity appearances that once included Elton John, Diana Ross and Paul Simon.
Disney confirmed the special will serve as a backdoor pilot, meaning strong reception could greenlight a full Muppet Show revival. Filming will take place in Los Angeles with a $1.6 million tax credit secured from the California Film Commission. The show will bring back fan favourites including Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear and Gonzo, as well as the veteran puppeteers who have voiced them for decades.
Albertina Rizzo has written the new script with Tony-winning director Alex Timbers attached, and Carpenter herself is credited as an executive producer alongside Rogen, Goldberg and the Muppets Studio team. Carpenter’s addition is already creating buzz among younger fans, with her VMAs Miss Piggy-inspired look earlier this month circulating widely online as a nod to her excitement.
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The original Muppet Show ran from 1976 to 1981 and became a global hit, earning Emmy, Grammy, BAFTA and Peabody Awards. It remains a pop culture touchstone, and all five seasons are still streaming on Disney+. In recent years, Disney has attempted several reboots, including Muppets Haunted Mansion and Muppets Mayhem, though reactions were mixed.
Fan responses online to the Rogen-Carpenter collaboration have been split. Some commenters are thrilled at the prospect of a return to the classic Muppet Theatre setup, calling it “the comeback we’ve been waiting for.” Others remain sceptical about Disney’s handling of the franchise, with one viral post arguing that “they keep trying to recapture the magic and just don’t have it.” Still, the anniversary timing and Carpenter’s rising star power suggest that this revival may strike the balance Disney has been chasing for years.
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