Henson President Halle Stanford Signs First Look Deal!

Halle Stanford, The Jim Henson Company‘s longtime President of Television, is relaunching her production company, 7 Crow Stories.

According to Deadline, Stanford is embarking on a new chapter in her career as an independent producer and writer. 

She signed a first-look producing deal with The Jim Henson Company, where she has been a producer and executive for the past 30 years.

Through her 7 Crow Stories banner, Stanford will develop a diverse range of live-action and animated projects for The Jim Henson Company, targeting preschool, family, and primetime audiences. Her focus will remain on creating engaging, impactful, and imaginative content across various genres. Upcoming projects include the primetime fantasy series Goblins starring Norman Reedus, the primetime animated series Lore Olympus based on Webtoon’s digital comic, and the animated series Adrenaline Lemmings for older kids. She is also set to develop a future production of Fraggle Rock.

As part of the new deal, Stanford will serve as creator, showrunner, and writer for several Jim Henson Company projects that she has personally developed. One major project is the live-action puppet preschool series Jim Henson’s Wowsabout!, set to begin shooting this summer. Co-created by Stanford and Dorien Davies, the show follows Roxy, a guitar-playing hedgehog, and Ronald, a tree-loving pig, as they explore awe-inspiring wonders like the California Redwoods, a sleepover with the Declaration of Independence, and art museums. Davies and John Tartaglia will serve as Co-EPs and puppeteers for the characters of Roxy and Ronald.

Through her first-look deal, Stanford will continue to collaborate closely with The Jim Henson Company’s CEO, Lisa Henson, who leads the Creative Affairs team, alongside Tara Billik (Vice President of Feature Films), Delaney Shiokari (Director of Primetime Development), Tim O’Brien (Production Executive), John Tartaglia (Creative Supervisor for Fraggle Rock), and an upcoming Vice President of Kids’ Development. Brian Henson and Vince Raisa from Brian Henson Productions will also remain involved in developing the company’s film and TV sl

In her statement to Deadline, Lisa Henson said, “Over her decades of work with The Jim Henson Company, Halle has brought to bear the positive influence that television can have on generations of children and has also dedicated herself to developing her own powerful, inspiring, and joyous creative voice. Through her collaborative producing, thoughtful writing, and dynamic leadership, she has built a strong scaffolding for herself as a showrunner for a raft of productions that reflect her deep understanding and mastery of children’s television.”

Chris Lytton, The Jim Henson Company’s COO and President, added, “Having Halle Stanford apply her talent and experience now as a producer and showrunner broadens our capabilities and strengthens our slate overall, as she will provide concentrated firepower and focus to some of our highest-priority projects.”

Stanford recently executive produced Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock, which earned 10 Emmy nominations for its second season, alongside nominations for a PGA Award, WGA Award, Environmental Media Award, and a GLAAD Media Award. Her other EP credits include Emmy winner The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance, Fraggle Rock: Rock On!, Slumberkins, Harriet the Spy, and PBS Kids series like Sid the Science Kid, Dinosaur Train, and Splash and Bubbles. She was also an EP on Julie’s Greenroom, Pajanimals, and Word Party.

Stanford joined The Jim Henson Company in 1993, working on projects like Muppet Treasure Island, Muppets Tonight, Bear in the Big Blue House, and Farscape. She founded 7 Crow Stories, a company focused on children’s content and rebranding franchises, in 2000, and returned to Henson in 2003, creating over 500 hours of programming seen in 150+ countries and earning 100+ awards.

A 12-time Emmy nominee, Stanford has also been recognized with the Cynopsis Top Women in Media Award, the Corporate Visionary Award, and the Cynopsis Kids !magination Award. She is represented by The Gotham Group.

Muppet Stuff - Last Zoloncon at The Fuge!

Join Kurt and I as we dive into the second Zolocon of 2024. But, it's not just any Zolocon; this is the final one held at the historic FUGE building, which used to be an astronaut training facility. We also visit fan-favorite vintage toy store, Joys and Toys.

Get ready to experience the nostalgia, the collectibles, and the unique charm of the event, all while we explore the special atmosphere of the venue that’s made it a standout location for fans and vendors alike. In this special visit, we’ll be looking at everything Zolocon has to offer—whether you’re a die-hard collector or a casual enthusiast. We’ll discover some rare finds, and soak in the energy of a community that’s passionate about all things pop culture. With this being the last Zolocon at FUGE, you won’t want to miss the final chance to witness the magic of this location one last time before the event moves to their new home. So, come along as we give you an exclusive look at this iconic convention. Whether you're a regular attendee or a first-timer, this look a the last Zolocon at the FUGE promises to be a video to remember!

Zolocon's next show is March 1 - 2 at the Valley Forge Casino Resort.

More info:

Zolocon: https://zolocon.com/ The Fuge: https://rentthefuge.com/thefuge/ Joys and Toys: https://www.facebook.com/JoysToysPA/

Be sure to check out even more videos on our Youtube channel.

New The Muppets 70th Ann. Kermit The Frog 1oz Silver Proof Coin!

The New Zealand Mint has a new line of coins called Agora and also a new series of
coins celebrating The Muppets 70th Anniversary.

The first coin in the series is a 1oz Silver proof coin of Kermit's face.

The coin comes in a window box case reminiscent of the classic Muppet Show arches and is one in a series of five.

Below is the official description:

Debuting in 1955 on Sam and Friends, The Muppets—created by Jim Henson and Jane Nebel—have delighted fans for 70 years. This collectible features Kermit the Frog, Henson’s most beloved creation, capturing the heart and charm of The Muppets’ enduring magic. The first collectible out of five in our Disney series celebrating 70 years of The Muppets.

• Made of 1oz 999 pure silver. 

• Legendary mintage of just 1,000. 

• Shaped with vibrant color, the design depicts Kermit and his trademark collar. 

• The coin’s unique serial number is printed on the obverse. 

• Presented in The Muppets-themed packaging with a display window. A Certificate of Authenticity is included on the back. 

• The Public Seal of Niue engraving confirms it as a legal tender coin.

You can order the Agora Kermit coin here. 

SNL Muppet Appearances!

As most fans know, before heading off to make The Muppet Show, Jim Henson's Muppets were featured on Saturday Night Live's first season.

New characters were created for a series sketches called The Land of Gorch. While those characters wouldn't be used again, The Muppet Show and Sesame Street Muppets have made sporadic appearances on SNL since. 

Below are a few:

Weekend Update: Really!?! Pizza Sauce is a Vegetable w/ Kermit the Frog:

    

A Song From SNL: A Christmas Song With The Muppets:

   

Weekend Update: Big Bird on Mitt Romney Ending PBS' Subsidy:

  

Empire's Cookie Meets Cookie Monster on SNL | What's Trending Now (Clip) 

 

Jason Segel and the Muppets Monologue:

  

SNL50: The Anniversary Special airs Sunday at 8pm EST on NBC.

Oscar Trashes Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Oscar the grouch popped up on Jimmy Kimmel Live last night!

Our favorite contrarian was there to meet Kimmel's own personal grouch, Aunt Chippy. You can watch the grouches face off here.

SNL Muppet Parodies!

The Muppets have a long history with Saturday Night Live, literally going all the way back to the very first episode. 

For almost as long, SNL has been parodying our favorite fuzzy friends. As SNL celebrates it's 50th anniversary, here are a few of their Muppet parodies.

Be sure to watch NBC's 3-hour SNL50: The Anniversary Special Sunday at 8pm EST on NBC.

The Muppets Take Mahoning AGAIN, AGAIN, May 3rd!

Set sail for adventure, as The Muppets once again take over the Mahoning Drive-In!

It’s a Muppet Trifecta! We’re back for our third year with one special night of Muppet Madness!!!

On May 3rd, The Mahoning Drive-In Theater, in association with THE BARRETTA BROTHERS VODCAST/PODCAST, is proud to present MUPPETS TAKE MAHONING 3! A double feature of fleece, foam, and fandom with The Muppets on 35mm!

This year we're bringing you more Muppet vendors with even more rare treasures!

In just one evening, you can take a trip to the Big Apple to see a Broadway show and ride the high seas on the Hispaniola with Long John Silver!

Join us for Muppet-themed vendors (that's us!), Muppet-theme Snacks and Merch, special event poster and tee shirt, video introductions by cast and crew members, a Muppet DJ set, a Muppet sing-along at intermission, Muppet raffle, Photo Ops, and books by Gene Barretta on sale!

Plus a costume contest and puppet contest that put YOU in the spotlight hosted by TJ McGlinchey - before sundown! (sign-ups coming soon!)

We open with THE MUPPETS TAKE MANHATTAN, directed by Frank Oz. The third film of the original Muppet film trilogy.

We follow the Muppets as they take their theatrical production of Manhattan Melodies to New York City with their hearts set on a Broadway premiere! What are the chances, after a cranky Kermit causes the gang to go their separate ways? Will they be Together Again? Come and see! The Muppets Take Manhattan also features more 80’s celebrities than a full season of Hollywood Squares.

Followed by MUPPET TREASURE ISLAND, directed by Brian Henson.
We are convinced. If Robert Louis Stevenson had written his classic tale in the 1990s, this is what he would have wanted! With Tim Curry and Kevin Bishop in mind for the lead roles! Hop on the Hispaniola and sail with us, sing with us, and laugh with us. Follow your favorite Muppets, along with several new characters, as they reinterpret this classic treasure hunt that is equally silly and touching.

Gates Open at 6pm. Showtime at Sundown!
General Ticket: $12 (per person) - General+Extended Pass: $22 (per person)
Kids Pricing: $5 General Ticket (under 13years).

All events are Rain or Shine. No refunds or transfers.

If weren't able to join us for the last two events, here's a look at what you've been missing and what to expect!

More information about The Mahoning Drive-In Theater and order tickers here. 

Muppet Stuff - Show Us Your Stuff! Dirk's Collection Tour!

Join me for an exclusive tour of Dirk’s incredible Muppet collection—a treasure trove of Muppet magic you won’t want to miss! Hailing from Belgium, Dirk has spent years curating one of the most unique and internationally focused collections of Muppet memorabilia, featuring rare and exclusive items from all corners of the globe. Whether you’re a lifelong Muppet fan or new to the world of Jim Henson’s creations, Dirk’s collection offers a rare glimpse into Muppet history that’s sure to amaze and inspire. From vintage toys and limited-edition merchandise to international memorabilia that you’ve probably never seen before, this collection is a must-see for any true Muppet enthusiast.

Get ready for a fascinating journey through the world of The Muppets, Fraggle Rock, Sesame Street, Labyrinth, The Dark Crystal, and more—each piece telling its own special story from Jim Henson's iconic legacy. You won’t believe some of the hidden gems Dirk has collected over the years!

Be sure to check out even more videos on our Youtube channel.

2024 Muppet Holiday Gifts!

Join us once again as our fellow fans show off their Henson-related holiday gifts. 

Christy Walk

Got a Fraggle Rock sweater, an Animal Muppet t-shirt, a Kermit and Miss Piggy Stanley Cup, Fragile Rock Back to the Rock Season 1 DVD, a Sesame Street beach ball, two pairs of Sesame Street crew socks and a Miss Piggy Pigs in Space Christmas ornament for Christmas.

Kimberly Keyes
Labyrinth and Dark Crystal the Ultimate 4K editions with a crystal shard and orb.

Annika Abel
Got a a few vintage Sesame Street Gorham figurines, Muppets 70 magnets, Vintage Muppet ornaments, Muppet PEZ, Fozzie Sigma bookend, Super7 Oscar action figure, Muppet Clue (not pictured), and more. 

Gary Arnold
The new Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas single-carded figures by Plastic Meatball.

Carrie Burdick

Kermit Squishmallow, hand made Bunsen & Beaker scarf, and frog slippers.

David Solove

Rowlf plush and t-shirt, Muppet Clue, Kermit RSVLTS shirt, Mini Kermit and Piggy Squishmallows, Muppet Christmas Carol vinyl album, Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock blu-ray, and 3D-printed Fraggle Rock title. 

MuppetHollz

Fraggle Rock blanket, Bag, Back to Rock Mokey and Wembley plush, and "Ultimate Visual History", "Funny Boy" biography.

Justin Talks Puppets

Cookie Monster hat, parody shirt, and other Muppet shirts.

Jayden Libran

Fozzie Geeki Tiki, Kermit and Miss Piggy mini Squishmallows

Justin Reyes

Kermit Tumbler, Muppets Magnets, Muppet Christmas Carol Marley pops, "Funny Boy," Miss Piggy Geeki-tiki, The Muppets Take Manhattan 4k, Sam and Rizzo action figures, and a bunch of shirts. 

Lisa Soares
Swedish Chef wall plaque, Ernie plush, hand made Miss Piggy purse, Labyrinth worm bag, and Animal socks and mug.

Kelly A. Colemen

Got his dog Bark toy's Muppet Christmas Carol "VHS" plush.

Rich Goellinitz

Got his daughter Kermit and Miss plush and a Muppet shirt

Gina Logan

Got Fraggle Rock: Back to The Rock Gobo and Sprocket plush, a vintage Baby Kermit plush, a Kermit the Frog plush, Kermit and Constantine Funko Pop, and a Kermit Cuddleez plush. 

Elisha DeMaria
Got her son Gabriel a Muppet shirt, Elmo and Tango Funko Pop, Fraggle Rock: Back to The Rock plush, and a Little Bird plush.

Kaman Stowell

Received a Palisades Tuxedo Gonzo, Fozzie puppet, Kermit hat, Muppets Most Wanted shirt, 
a Disney Hollywood Studios pack of marshmallows, and an amazon gift card to buy more Muppet stuff.

Josh Hankemeier

Received a Pigs in Space ornament, Alistair Cookie Funko Pop, Super7 Mr. Hooper action figure, and Dr. Loretta Long's "Paw Paw to Sesame Street" book.

Tracy LaValle

Got a Labyrinth Ludo bag from her husband. 

Kevin Hansen

Got a Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock Wembley plush, an Emmet Otter action figure, and mini Kermit Squishmallow.

Sylvia Alexis Munoz

Received The Muppets Clue, Muppet drinkware, Mini Kermit and Piggy Squishmallows, Animal and Kermit Kate Spade purses, and a Muppet Kate Spade shirt. 

Rachel Thorby

Received Labyrinth worm socks and slippers.

Kagan Shepherd

Got Dark Crystal playing cards and a Fizzgig plush.

Laura Wolfe-Bosworth

Got a Muppet Loungefly bag, Kermit cookie jar, Muppet pajamas, and a Kermit shirt. 

And finally, our managing editor Chris Stulz got this hand-made Muppet Stuff sign. 

Thanks everyone for sharing their amazing holiday gifts. 

New Loungefly Muppet Drawstring Mini Backpacks!

Loungefly has two new Muppet drawstring mini backpacks featuring Kermit and Miss Piggy.

The minimalist bags feature metal Kermit and Miss Piggy heads and custom zipper icons. 

Kermit The Frog Drawstring Mini Backpack

It’s not easy being green, but what can we say… he wears it well! Taking inspiration from the top frog himself, this mini backpack pairs the perfect amphibious hue with a trendy silhouette. You’ll even find Kermit as an enamel charm on the bag’s top flap. Whether you’re hitting the stage or the swamp, this accessory will have you leaping through life in style.

Miss Piggy Drawstring Mini Backpack

Places, everyone – it’s time for our next showstopping number! The star of The Muppet Show has arrived with a mini backpack that captures her always-fashionable sense of style. On the bag’s top flap, you’ll even find an enamel charm of Miss Piggy herself. Whether you’re hitting the stage or preparing to meet the paparazzi, this accessory will keep you shining in the spotlight.

Both bags feature the same pattern featuring an illustration of Kermit and Miss Piggy.

You can order these using the links above and at Loungefly.