What I Wish Jim Henson would say to Bob Iger

Jim Henson: Bob, it’s a pleasure to speak with you. I’ve always admired your work with Disney. But I can’t help but feel that the Muppets have been a bit underutilized in recent years. What’s your take on that?

Bob Iger: Jim, the pleasure is mine. Your creation, the Muppets, is legendary. I agree that we’ve had some missed opportunities with them. The Muppets are such a beloved franchise, but integrating them into today’s media landscape has been challenging.

Henson: Challenging, yes, but I’m not sure that’s the whole story. The Muppets have been sidelined for far too long. It’s frustrating to see them relegated to occasional appearances and half-hearted projects. They deserve better, Bob.

Iger: I understand your frustration, Jim. We’ve tried various approaches, from TV shows to digital content. But finding the perfect formula that resonates with both old fans and new audiences has been tricky.

Henson: With all due respect, Bob, it seems like the efforts have been inconsistent at best. The Muppets need a dedicated and consistent push, not just sporadic attempts. It’s disheartening to see them treated as an afterthought rather than the iconic brand they are.

Iger: I hear you, Jim. We’ve had some successes, but clearly, there’s room for improvement. What do you think is the key to making them relevant again?

Henson: Staying true to their essence while evolving with the times is crucial. The Muppets are about heart, humor, and a bit of irreverence. But more importantly, they need to be a priority. It feels like they’ve been put on the back burner, and that’s unacceptable.

Iger: You’re right, Jim. We need to make them a priority. Disney+ is a great platform for the Muppets, and we should leverage it more effectively. What kind of stories do you think would resonate today?

Henson: Stories that are both timeless and contemporary, but it goes beyond just stories. It’s about consistent branding and visibility. The Muppets should be a staple, not an occasional novelty. They should have a strong, ongoing presence in our content lineup.

Iger: I agree. Engaging with fans is crucial, and we’ve seen success with other franchises by creating content that feels fresh yet familiar. Do you think bringing back some of the original Muppet performers or collaborating with new talent would help?

Henson: A blend of both would be ideal, but it needs to be done with real commitment. The original performers bring authenticity, but new talent can infuse fresh energy. However, without a genuine push from the top, these efforts will fall flat.

Iger: Crossovers could create buzz, and leveraging Disney’s other properties might attract more viewers. It’s about finding that balance between innovation and staying true to what made the Muppets special in the first place.

Henson: Exactly, but it’s also about respect for the brand. The Muppets have always been about creativity, collaboration, and fun. If Disney can’t see their value and invest accordingly, we’re missing a huge opportunity. It’s disheartening to see potential wasted.

Iger: You’ve given me a lot to think about, Jim. The Muppets deserve to shine, and I’m committed to finding the best way to make that happen. Thank you for your insights.

Henson: Thank you, Bob. I hope to see real action, not just words. The Muppets’ magic lies in their ability to bring joy and laughter to all ages. Let’s keep that magic alive, and not just as a passing thought.