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The Muppet Show’ Returns With One-Off Special as Reviews Soar

Disney is treating the 50th‑anniversary episode as a proof of concept that could lead to a full revival.

Overview

  • The 33‑minute special premiered February 4 on Disney+ and aired on ABC, marking a faithful return to the original variety-show format.
  • Early reception has been strongly positive, with a reported 100% Rotten Tomatoes critic score from 26 reviews and enthusiastic fan response.
  • Director and executive producer Alex Timbers framed the episode as “Season 6, Episode 1 in 2026,” using original 1976 set blueprints and staging more than 180 Muppets.
  • Sabrina Carpenter is the featured guest star and an executive producer, with Seth Rogen appearing and serving as an executive producer alongside veteran Muppet performers.
  • Fan-favorite characters Bean Bunny and Rizzo return, now performed by Bradley Freeman Jr., with several reviews noting the brief runtime as a limiting factor.