Muppet Stuff Video: Celebrating Richard Hunt and the release of Funny Boy!

Join us as we travel to Museum of the Moving Image to celebrate the life and legacy of Richard Hunt and the release of Max Stein's biography, "Funny Boy." 

This video features clips of Richard's work, close up looks at his characters, insights from Max Stein and more. 

Max Stein’s biography, "Funny Boy: The Richard Hunt Biography," offers an intimate and compelling portrait of a man whose dedication to his craft has left an indelible mark. From poignant moments in Richard’s personal life to his lasting legacy in the film industry, this celebration of his achievements invites you to discover the man behind the stories. 

Whether you are a fan of his work with Jim Henson and The Muppets or simply interested in learning about an extraordinary life in the arts, Stein's book offers an unmissable opportunity to explore the multifaceted career and incredible legacy of Richard Hunt. Join us in honoring Richard Hunt, celebrating the release of "Funny Boy," and delving deeper into the various characters he brought to life. 

You can order your copy of "Funny Boy: The Richard Hunt Biography" by Jessica Max Stein at Rutgers University Press.  

Get more info on The Jim Henson Legacy and Museum of the Moving Image at these links. 

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

Richard Hunt Biography Coming Next Year!

Official Richard Hunt biographer, Max Stein announced on Facebook that her long awaited biography on Hunt will be released next year by Rutgers University Press. 

Stein posted the announcement on what would have been Richard Hunt’s 71st birthday to announce the release. 

On what would have been Richard Hunt’s 71st birthday, I’m proud to announce that Funny Boy: The Richard Hunt Biography will be coming out in 2023 from Rutgers University Press. Thanks to all who have helped and supported along the way.

No release date has been revealed yet, but we're looking to learning more about Richard Hunt when  "Funny Boy: The Richard Hunt Biography" is released next year, 

Rare Muppet Clips Book 2 Vol 5!

 We're back with another batch of rare Muppet performances. 

Again, we do not own these clips, nor do we make any guarantees to how long they'll be available, so watch them while you can! 

First up is Richard Hunt's final performance of Elmo: 

     

After that episode was shot on November 26th, 1984 Richard Hunt literally tossed Kevin Clash the Elmo puppet saying, "Give it a voice, Clash." 

Kevin's first performance of Elmo would be taped later that same day. Below is Kevin's first performance of Elmo:

   

In 2013, Ryan Dillon would take over Elmo. His first performance as teh furry red monster would be at that year's White House Easter Roll.

Editors Note: I couldn't find video of Elmo at the event, so if any readers find it please let me know and I'll update this post. 

Sesame Street Promos from 1970-1975:

 

Friday Night Videos, NBC July 23, 1993: 

Kermit and Clifford appeared on this short-lived series to promote the release of the Muppet Beach Party album. The show premiered the "Kokomo" music video and below you can see Kermit and Clifford performing "Under the Boardwalk" with Branford Marsalis  and the Tonight Show Band.  

The Ed Sullivan Show, October 8, 1967 - Jimmy Dean & The Muppets "Friendship":

We hope you enjoyed these rare Muppet performances.  Join us next time as we present more rare Muppet clips! 

Happy Birthday, Richard Hunt!

Today marks what would have been versatile Muppet performer Richard Hunt's 64th birthday. 

Fraggle Rock's Jr. Gorg was one of the many characters Hunt brought to life. The picture above shows Richard, Jr, and Rob Mills who performed Jr's body during the first 4 seasons of the show. 

Check out this rare, behind the scenes video showing Richard (and Rob) bringing Jr. to life.

Richard Hunt Tribute (August 17, 1951 – January 7, 1992)

On this day 23 years ago the world lost Muppet performer Richard Hunt. 

In 1980, fellow puppeteer Mike Quinn visited the set of The Muppet Show and recorded a "Verbal Autograph" of Richard during a break from shooting. 

You can listen to it here.

Happy Birthday, Richard Hunt!

You can read more about Richard's life at the Muppet Wiki.