Henson Family Pleased with Disney Ownership of Muppets
Disney’s relationship with the Muppets has been a long and winding road, filled with creative collaborations, near acquisitions, and ultimately, a historic deal. The March 14, 2004 issue of Eyes & Ears, Disney’s internal cast member publication, highlighted the official acquisition of The Muppets and Bear in the Big Blue House by The Walt Disney Company.
With Muppet*Vision 3D soon closing its doors, it’s a fitting time to revisit this moment in Disney history. Below is the official 2004 press release announcing the acquisition, shedding light on how the Henson family viewed Disney as the rightful home for Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, and the rest of the beloved characters.
The Walt Disney Company and The Jim Henson Company recently announced an agreement under which Disney will acquire the Muppets and “Bear in the Big Blue House” properties from Henson.
The transaction includes all Muppet assets, including Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, Animal and other famous characters; the Muppet film and television library; and all associated copyrights and trademarks; as well as all “Bear in the Big Blue House” characters, television library, copyrights and trademarks.
The companies signed a binding purchase agreement and expect the transaction to close within two months, subject to receiving the necessary regulatory clearances. The transaction does not include the “Sesame Street” characters, such as Big Bird and Elmo, which are owned separately by Sesame Workshop.
The deal does include non-exclusive production and consulting agreements under which Henson will develop potential new programming featuring the “Muppets” and “Bear in the Big Blue House” for Disney.
Michael Eisner, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, said he’s excited to welcome the Muppets to the Disney family.
“Since the time I worked with Jim Henson on the first Muppets TV special in the 1960s, it was obvious to me that his characters would make a deep imprint on the hearts of families worldwide, and this announcement is the culmination of a long-time desire to welcome them into The Walt Disney Company,” Michael said. “ … We are honored that the Henson family has agreed to pass on to us the stewardship of these cherished assets. We are also pleased that this transaction puts us in a position to work with the Henson company on future projects.”
Brian Henson, who with his sister Lisa is Co-chair and Co-chief Executive Officer of The Jim Henson Company, said, “Michael Eisner’s long-standing passion and respect for the Muppets gives me and my family even more confidence in Disney as a partner.”
Lisa seconded Brian’s sentiments, adding, “In the months before his death in 1990, my father, Jim Henson, pursued extensive discussions with The Walt Disney Company based on his strong belief that Disney would be the perfect home for the Muppets. As such, is the realization of my father’s dream.”
What Do You Think About the Current State of the Muppets?
The Muppets’ journey to Disney was a long and emotional one, but for the Henson family, it was a decision that honored Jim Henson’s original vision. Two decades later, the Muppets remain a cherished part of Disney, appearing in theme parks, television specials, and streaming content.
With the upcoming closure of Muppet*Vision 3D, it’s a bittersweet time for fans. What are your thoughts on Disney’s stewardship of the Muppets over the years? Do you think Jim Henson’s vision has been honored, or do you wish things had turned out differently? Share your thoughts in the comments below!