DefunctTV: The History of the Muppet Show

[@JelloApocalypse]

Hearing the backstory of Henson's difficulty securing a greenlight on any kind of adult Muppet production really sheds a light on why so many pieces of Muppet media are about pitching a show, getting a show accepted, and getting a cast back together after they've separated.

[@thehillisalive]

True! People write what they know best.😂 Love me some good meta content. (Also hi JelloApocalypse, always fun to see KZbinrs I watch in each other's comment sections!)

[@FanOfAllThingsAwesom]

Together again~

[@BlamoStramo]

2 movies

[@Viking_Luchador]

he finally got that standard rich & famous contract

[@minibloke4901]

Yeah too bad steve whitmires no longer kermit he did a really good kermit voice

[@littleaussierippa]

It's interesting you mention that Kermit often yelled and screamed and got upset when Jim never did because I always had the opinion that Jim used Kermit as his means of venting his own anger and frustrations.

[@mr.x2567]

I was thinking the same thing!

[@WalkerRileyMC]

Fairly certain I saw an interview with Jim where he said exactly that.

[@warrenbohnke8418]

I've always felt it's his alter ego, he sometimes said things that would make sense to Jim's personal life rather than the show it's self.

[@chumon1992]

I think a LOT of people do this. Especially actors and puppeteers or really anyone who has a chance to portray something other than themselves. I think that's why we see a lot of troubled actors in the business, because acting is a fantastic outlet for someone who struggles with anxiety or depression or substance abuse, or really anything like that. It could be something as simple as with Jim, just an opportunity to vent so that you dont take it out on the people you love. So that ou can go home and feel like your frustrations have been taken care of.

[@EntertainmentFan11]

I mean, that WOULD make a lot of sense.

[@Sthunderrocker]

Can we take a second to appreciate how good those Squarespace commercials have done at replicating early Henson?

[@toxicstarbot6701]

I actually thought that Jim Henson had made it at first-

[@TheRawyan]

Ikr

[@adamdooley8977]

Hmmm.... I assumed they had reused (or licensed) old Henson video and re-recorded the audio. But, yeah, if not, those are awesomely authentic.

[@living_1daat]

The power of squarespace

[@aspetty]

Jim would be proud

[@Ness_Dreemurr]

The part where Muppets and star wars sing a Disney song is probably one of the best real life examples of foreshadowing I have seen.

[@JustYourAverageGirl2002]

The downfall of a franchise we all saw coming. May it rest it peace (but probably not because Disney is going to milk it dry till nobody cares anymore).

[@FreeSpiritPaulette]

​@@JustYourAverageGirl2002 *dude just save it. Disney has in no way shape or form ruined the muppets, but people still hate on them for no reason. Any true muppet fan would know that Jim Henson himself wanted to sell the muppets to disney, and has went on to talk about how fond he was of the company and how beautiful it's theme parks were. In fact, the muppets have been affliated with disney ever since the 70s, when the muppet show aired on one of it's channels. But it wasn't until the 2000s that disney would fully acquire the company. Since disney ruined the muppets so much I'd like you to tell me what's wrong with the muppet christmas carol, muppet vision 3d, the muppets (2011), muppets most wanted, muppet moments, great moments in american history with the muppets, bear in the big blue house, and muppet babies all outstandingly well done productions we wouldn't have Without the astonishing work of disney. You probably won't be able to answer that question. Because... well, gee I don't know-- MAYBE IT'S 'CAUSE DIDN'T RUIN THE MUPPETS!! 😂 it's honestly so hilarious to see people without elaborating (because they can't) on just how terrible disney is with it's handling with companies (because it's not). If there's anyone who ruined part of the muppets it's Warner Bros., now we have to pay to see mediocre episodes of a show they made less good: Sesame Street. So please please please just save it, or why it is at all that you think the muppets are so bad now because of disney. Good grief.*

[@JustYourAverageGirl2002]

@@FreeSpiritPaulette I was referring to his Star Wars reference bruh. He made a be careful what you wish for reference with the Star Wars Muppet crossover when they sing wish upon a star. And I'm more than willing to defend and debate how they ruined Star Wars. But I thought they were also referring to Star Wars.

[@FreeSpiritPaulette]

JustYourAverageGirl ok

[@SeasideDetective2]

I remember watching that and thinking, "Disney must have sued the pants off them."

[@shadowcat6712]

I love how jim henson went from performing commercials for a coffee brand to making puppets sing a song originally used for an Italian sex documentary

[@mevb]

Before he did commercials, he did simple puppet shows on local TV. Sure, he had to include one minute of mentioning the sponsor's products, such as Eskay's pork and bacon sausage (that's how shows got the money in those days, The Bugs Bunny Show had General Foods as their sponsor).

[@EddieMillerStudios]

If I remember correctly, "Just One Person" was also sung at the end of _The Muppets Celebrate Jim Henson_ , when the Muppets "found out" that Jim passed away.

[@CascadianRanger]

Correct. It was also sung at his funeral, with the puppeteers and their muppets all going on stage during the "and more" part of the song, as if to say if you keep getting "one more person" you'll end up with a family

[@kylemorello4787]

@@CascadianRanger let's not get ahead of ourselves! Lol!

[@kylemorello4787]

@Ethan Pitter-Dailey That gets talked about in the last video.

[@coltonc7832]

I wouldn't be surprised if Defunctland was turned into a proper show. This is some of the best content on youtube and it's been incredible seeing the improvements being made over the months. Keep it up, what you're doing is something special.

[@Unreissued]

one of the best things on youtube hands down

[@gazorpalorp6705]

I 100% agree

[@momobobo5430]

This an Ahoy are the best 2 things of KZbin

[@Genevieve0880]

It'd be ironic if that happened, and slowly overtime, the show just dwindled away into such a bad TV show, not learning from literally every ride/TV show/character/theme park/literally anything talked about on the show that failed.

[@MetroXLR99]

Defunctland itself brings me nostalgia watching documentaries on The History Channel whenever it discussed topics that interested me as a kid, like "The History of DisneyLand", and such.

[@herbalizer1978]

Legit one of the best documentary series on the web.

[@uglyteethbakeryandotherstr7333]

You're wrong, it's THE best.

[@momobobo5430]

This is right behind ahoy

[@momobobo5430]

@@uglyteethbakeryandotherstr7333 One of the best* RetroAhoy is the beat documentary KZbin content

[@archstanton9073]

I just wish he would talk a little slower and enunciate more clearly.

[@jasonbowen3842]

@@uglyteethbakeryandotherstr7333w

[@walrus8636]

The ending of the muppet movie makes me cry every time, just reading out the lyrics “Life's like a movie Write your own ending Keep believing Keep pretending We done just what we set out to do” etc. makes me tear up. Such an inspirational and beautiful moment to see when I was young and it still follows and impacts me today.

[@fromlissawithlove]

I literally cried through the rest of the segment. Jim Henson is, was and always will be a true treasure ❤

[@dee8722]

Yes! Whether I'm listening to it or watching it that bit always gets me emotional!

[@SMA2343]

And it was all thanks to the lovers, the dreams and us.

[@flashbackfrank8781]

The scene of Kermit asking the cows how to get to Hollywood. That was just...you could feel the anxious joy. Just...Hope you found a place to create more joy, Henson.

[@chumon1992]

It was so cute how they were so interested and sniffing and trying to lick him. They were probably like is this thing food? Why is it making noise at us?? What is this? XD

[@starberrycupcake]

Kevin. Listen. You have set the bar too high, Kevin. I can't be content anymore with standard youtube content because you go and pull things like this miniseries for free, because instead of just selling random merch and call it a day, you write a book that's not only on brand but great on its own right, because you make adds that make sense with the content of the videos without disrupting them and because you keep improving on your own storytelling, editing and overall content producing. Now I know what youtube can be like and I can't accept less. You've ruined me, Kevin. It's like youtube's version of Plato's cave. Now I know my time is worth good quality content and I can't go back.

[@Defunctland]

Thank you Starberry Cupcake, that’s too nice.

[@LordmonkeyTRM]

Agreed God teir KZbin.

[@BettyMareeHOHCountry]

@@Defunctland can you break down the evolution of Elmo and why the original guy who did elmo got fired. that would be a great episode.

[@duncanclan6186]

Well said ! The Platos cave reference was a nice touch

[@Viking_Luchador]

how many other theme park vloggers have their own page on TV Tropes?

[@DistoryDan]

The Muppets are such an essential part of my comedy soul, it's great to see this fully broken down and really deep dived into. Seeing all these behind the scenes clips of Jim laughing and having a great time makes me incredibly happy.

[@Ironwaterson5219]

Mine are the Muppet's and Monty Python

[@OGamerGirl92]

The muppet show was one of my favorites. I grew up on Jim Henson. Fraggle rock, muppets. Kermie kermie kermie piggy piggy piggy

[@1visualfxguy]

Mine are The Muppets, Monty Python, Mad Magazine, Weird Al Yankovic, and The Simpsons.

[@dillonohlemiller9027]

1visualfxguy it's "Weird Al" Yankovic

[@_sashitheedreamangel24_]

@@OGamerGirl92 I grew up with the muppets and fraggle rock as well but I watched fraggle rock when I was in homeschool

[@magentahoward]

A few years ago when ABC aired the Office-Like The Muppets, I felt the raunchiness went against the goal that Jim Henson had for his muppets. But after learning more about Sex & Violence and Jim Henson wanting to branch off from exclusively children's programming, I feel like the show, follows Jim's vision and modernized the format for The Muppet Show. But not everybody knows these things about Jim Henson, so of course they didn't feel it fit the muppet world.

[@directorjake]

Unironically, the ABC show is one of my favorite pieces of Muppet content

[@zakunick1]

@@directorjakeIt was good and Disney killed it before it could get great.

[@gabe_s_videos]

I don't think raunchiness is the word for it, tho. The Muppet Show itself was pretty raunchy, but in a cheeky, playful way. The Muppets., IMO, was too CYNICAL.

[@theyakkomanguy7522]

@@zakunick1 Disney killed the show's potential and killed Steve Whitmire's career of working with The Muppets after the show ended.

[@EntertainmentFan11]

​@maxmildebrandt2537 MuppetsNOW was pretty good, but the recent Electric Mayhem Disney+ series? Wow, man! That was Muppets, right there! Chaos, musical numbers, plenty of interactions with the human characters... It wasn't perfect, but it was still great! For me, at least.

[@hullinstruments]

30:00 Jim losing it while that cow is trying to lick Kermit in the face… That warmed my dead heart.

[@archstanton9073]

The Muppet Movie was also one of the first to have a post-credits sequence. Waaaaay before the MCU made it popular.

[@ToomanyFrancis]

Am I crazy or were post-credits scenes far more popular before the MCU. 2000-2010 was post-credits scene hell. Any movie with a even remote chance of having a sequel had a post-credits scene. Now you don't really see them outside of Disney movies.

[@CoraCreates]

@@ToomanyFrancis and TerminalMontages YouYube channel (unrelated, but telling the truth)

[@nashvontookus7451]

The first one was from The Silencers in 1966

[@EmilyRitcheson]

That whole segment on The Muppet Movie had me in TEARS.

[@SongbirdAlom]

SAME!!!!

[@Foxy02016]

Emily Ritcheson I hate how they rebooted the Muppet Show on ABC... BECAUSE THEY REBOOTED IT TO BE THE OFFICE WITH MUPPETS!!! They should reboot the Muppet Show as the Muppet Show, do it the way they used to but make new episodes

[@icecreamhero2375]

@@Foxy02016 I know right they tried to copy the office and failed miserably. The Office is pretty funny but the Muppet show was much better it was so inovative instead of copying something else.

[@wednesday181]

I just have to start thinking about the first words to “The Rainbow Connection” and I turn into a blubbering mess. Seeing the behind the scenes stuff and the deeper story didn’t help my state one bit.

[@nowandaround312]

Emily Ritcheson Because you found it moving or because you found it funny?

[@fantasmike]

Bear left, RIGHT FROG! In all seriousness Kevin, this may be my favorite series you've ever produced. As a life long Muppets fan, the amount of effort put into these videos is astounding.

[@TwoWholeWorms]

That "bear left" joke still makes me laugh to this day. xD

[@filmandfirearms]

I immediately thought of rally pace notes, for some reason. I'm surprised Henson never did a skit like that, considering he was making his show during the Audi/Lancia constructor war

[@mrsrobophile]

My mother loves to regale people with the story that as a toddler, I would be in my walker and when the intro “drum roll” would begin, I immediately began to bob up and down and squeal excitedly. I knew it was the Muppet Show and I loved it. They’ve always been part of my life, even if it’s a small part.

[@ShainAndrews]

I blame Animal for getting me hooked on percussion, that and the 20th Century Fox intro.

[@DragonsOfHearts]

That is so cute

[@TheHauntedDriveIn]

We don't deserve Defunctland. This Jim Henson miniseries is absolutely astounding and I'm going to be sad when it's over. These 40 minutes on The Muppet Show made me laugh, cry, and smile so wide it hurt. Just like Jim would've wanted. Thank you.

[@zfalcon44]

This series goes to show how many times people with talent can stumble or face rejection multiple times. But with great perseverance, the right outlook & the right support, people can change the world & create characters & stories that touch millions. Thank you Kevin for doing this series!

[@chumon1992]

Idk why but this reminded me of the whole part in Seinfeld where they go to pitch what they described their own show as to execs in hollywood and they got panned by them despite Seinfeld being and extremely popular show irl. They kept calling it a show about nothing, but that couldn't be farther from the truth. Thw show is and always with be about a guy and his friends and their lives. It's not any more or less complex than that. It's not about nothing, it's about the most important thing. Getting through tough situations with your pals. However strange they might be. Lol

[@ruilmonsezhi4088]

"That had originally been written for an Italian sex documentary" Excuse me, what

[@joverby1]

Mahna Mahna

[@JakeLovesSteak]

Doot-doooooo doo-doo-doo

[@CJdude22]

It's true! kzbin.info/www/bejne/mHOzn4WebrprkKc

[@judibickford5306]

I thought that it was a Swedish documentary.

[@mckstellar1005]

Mahna mahna

[@anone.mousse674]

It’s time to get things started On the most sensational Inspirational Celebrational Cancellational This is what we call DefunctTV!

[@Ragnamune]

*(trumpet noises)*

[@elizabethashley42]

Inspired.

[@clffliese26]

Yes, the tune of the theme song is, now, running through my head and I think it'll be there for the rest of the day.

[@YokiDokiPanic]

PIN THIS COMMENT, KEVIN!

[@GlorianaLovejoy]

*raucous comment applause*

[@gamerg1rl761]

I don’t know if I’m more excited to learn about the history of the muppet show, or see clips of the muppet show.

[@JohnTheMod1]

Both is good. Heck, I got giddy seeing the clip from the Alice Cooper episode, which is my all-time favorite.

[@chrissawyer1484]

Yes

[@meowtherainbowx4163]

I didn’t grow up with this at all, but my mom loves The Muppets, so it’s interesting to see what it’s all about. Virtually all the footage is new to me.

[@umachan9286]

Jim Henson was the true definition of genius. We lost him way too soon.

[@CVC-lh5qi]

He was the greatest puppeteer in this planet.

[@elizabethalvarado8698]

I think the word you're looking for is "legend"

[@Lo444fae]

his death can be used as a lesson, always go to the doctor, there is always time for your health.

[@jamest39]

@@Lo444fae He did. He died in the waiting room.

[@tysargent9647]

@@jamest39 Then that leads to a more relevant lesson: when you feel really sick, don't wait to do something until it's too late.

[@Morgil27]

"...originally written for an Italian sex documentary" Wait, what?!

[@HyperMotionDX]

bruh moment

[@realkingofwales3917]

Stolen :\

[@SirBlackReeds]

About stuff in Sweden.

[@nightnurse777]

I know, I had to rewind, I thought I'd heard it wrong, lol

[@WesternOhioInterurbanHistory]

excuse me what the fuck

[@katmusume]

Honestly I can't believe I'm crying over the Muppets movie's ending

[@disneydarling7573]

Kat S. I was getting teary all throughout the video, so I’m glad I’m not the only one.

[@afkathisguy]

...Star Wars was brought into Jim Henson's world. The episode ended with everyone singing the classic Disney song, "When You Wish Upon a Star", which in hindsight is a perfect illustration of the phrase "be careful what you wish for". It's like they knew.

[@SpongyMemeSauce]

DefunctTV, you should use the sponsorship puppets much more than just this series They should be a mainstay in the defunctTV universe thing

[@cornbreadisbetterthanpizza6866]

It would be cool if he did that sure.

[@EntertainmentFan11]

Agreed.

[@Lumibear.]

It’s a shame this show faded off in popularity, great family entertainment for all ages, kids marvelled at the muppet mayhem, adults also got the more adult jokes or deeper references, we all enjoyed the celebrity guests, and as an adult now I appreciate a lot of the more artistic/surreal moments, too. It was a huge part of my childhood, good memories.

[@updownstranger564]

This Henson series is by and above my favorite ongoing KZbin series. Kudos to you guys.

[@rachel_sj]

“It’s not the End of the World” “If just one person believes in you...” “Life is a movie, write your own ending...” Man, I needed the tender and funny moments of this video to lift me up. I got the news yesterday that I’m being let go from my job this week and having the Muppets and the Optimism of Jim Henson is just perfect to keep me going. FYI, the Star Wars episode was and still is my favorite of the Muppet Show and I cannot wait for the Fraggle Rock episode!

[@MrAlmindore58]

I hope the future finds you better than today has

[@rachel_sj]

MrAlmindore58 Thank you, I think I’ll be moving on to better things too

[@MrAlmindore58]

@@rachel_sj more inspiring words have never been said

[@MrAlmindore58]

@@cooperminion825 my favorite was with John Cleese, because why NOT have the episode with a former Monty Python member be the favorite

[@cooperminion825]

My favorite episode was the one w/ Alice Cooper

[@rosebyanyname]

*It’s DEFUNCT TV, with our very special guest THE MUPPET SHOW! YAAAAY!* 🎶It’s time to say the intro, It’s time to edit right! How the hell is Michael Eisner On DefunctTV tonight!🎶

[@anc2775]

I love it

[@gilition]

Why does he always come here? I guess will never know? Its like a kind of torture, To see him in the show!

[@pikminfan6778]

@@gilition But now let's get things started On the most sensational, Inspirational, Celebrational, Defunctational! This is what we call DefunctTV!!!

[@michaelboydston313]

I cannot tell you why,/But I will reply,/It seems ood for/the DefunctTV show tonight.

[@CouchSpud91]

Five days later, 80 dislikes to 30k likes. Why ANYONE would dislike this is beyond me, but still a damn good record.

[@mawllly]

I gotta say, I didn't grow up with The Muppets, and throughout most of my childhood, I knew very little about Jim Henson and his work. This series has been absolutely amazing. Like many of your videos, you've somehow managed to make me care significantly about things that I never did (theme parks, old kid shows, and now Muppets). In my opinion, this series (and your channel in general) is easily one of the best things on KZbin right now, and I appreciate how much work you put into it. Thank you, Kevin, and everyone else who has helped put this together!

[@diamondstuddedpunchingbag4718]

So as a kid my family watched "Muppets Christmas Carol" every Friday after Thanksgiving...we'd get our tree and eat pizza while watching it!! But I always thought they were so good they should totally have a show...and I didn't find out about the muppet show until I was in my 20s!! Haha!!

[@sharkfan75]

This is kind of a coincidence, but today is the Friday after Thanksgiving! I hope you had a great thanksgiving

[@diamondstuddedpunchingbag4718]

@@sharkfan75 watching it right now!! 😁

[@CryptP]

Muppets Christmas Carol is probably the best adaptation of A Christmas Carol

[@lorddrayvon1426]

It's weird to think but Jim Henson was kinda like a younger Walt Disney albeit it with a much better legacy. Both were nobody's with a dream, both had personalities that were seen as either oddball or aggravating depending on who you asked, both absolutely hated being told no in any form, both are remembered as entertainment legends and both wanted to be remedied as more than just "the guy that made this one thing and nothing else." Henson definitely succeeded more than Walt did in that regard. Walt is just remembered for Disney and Disneyland whereas, even if you don’t know he made them, you know of many of Hendon’s pet projects.

[@superleviathan]

Jim was a less wart-y person than Walt. Jim bristled at criticism, but he seemed to genuinely appreciate the contributions of his employees. He never had his version of the 1941 Disney strike.

[@joeybrodeur548]

I gotta give props to Jim, ending the most popular show on tv in its prime. I think the Simpsons could take a page outta Jim's book

[@YokiDokiPanic]

Groening is already way past making a graceful exit. If he ever decides to pull the plug on the show, it won't be with a bittersweet anticipation of things to come from the audience, but rather an annoyed and exhausted "Finally!!".

[@KairuHakubi]

And you know it was even harder knowing how difficult it was to get everything set up, getting someone to give it half a chance, too often people run things into the ground because they're obsessed with making up for lost time. but you can't ever really do that. lost time is lost.

[@nitrosherbert888]

I still say 5 seasons is way too short

[@joeybrodeur548]

@@nitrosherbert888 it is a bit short, but at least it lived on in the other movies

[@nitrosherbert888]

@@joeybrodeur548 The movies in my opinion were honestly Not that great they were fine but just

[@ChicOnTheCheap]

I'm not crying, you're crying. This was beautiful. 😭

[@aperson3260]

I’m not crying either

[@BleachDemon707]

SILENCE CHECKMARK 🙄

[@long-timelistenerfirst-t-us2yy]

*these "retro-henson" style ads you've created are impressive, they practically could've been done by jim himself.*

[@matthewjones6786]

A talking house segment? Finally, an outlet for my house/building related sense of humor!

[@walkerphillips2818]

It better not be a pane in the glass.

[@coltonadame6282]

Humor has always been evolving, this segment is what all that time has been *building* up to.

[@Supersquigi]

Yeah? Well cooler heads prevailed.

[@brandonjustis]

@@Supersquigi Uncle Philly, is that you?

[@annalisahartmann5661]

"Frogs and dogs and chickens and bears and whatevers..." Sneaking in the Muppets Take Manhattan I see.

[@alb5338]

I just want to take a break out of my convoluted schedule to express how I feel about this amazing miniseries thus far. When I first saw the first episode, it took me back to when I wrote about Jim in high school, which then transferred to me making Muppet-style puppets for a brief time as a hobby. One live hand puppet (which looked embarrassingly crude using newspaper for the overall head sculpt underneath blue polyester felt and googly eyes) was used in a student film for a digital media class as part of a homeschool program I went to for a few years. I even saved some scraps of felt that were tossed in a giveaway pile next to one of the classroom doors to make more puppets. The Sesame Street episode took me back to me being in a local children's choir where I sang "Bein' Green" solo and "Rainbow Connection" from the Muppet Movie. When we sang "I Love Trash" from Sesame Street, I was planning to make a replica of Oscar that would pop out of his metal trash can and yell "Scram!" at the end of the song, surprising the audience, but that never came to fruition. This episode rekindled my interest in Jim after a few years' dormancy, inspiring me to type this comment. As you can probably tell, all throughout my life so far, I've been a Jim Henson fan, and he continues to inspire me in my creativity even though his creation lives on.

[@AnkfordPlays]

Still no DVD release of Season 4 and 5... COME ON DISNEY

[@ericnoble5194]

Ankford They better be on the new Disney streaming service.

[@KidSnivy69]

We all are!

[@Damage_Kase_99]

And those first 3 seasons have been out on DVD for more than 10 years at this point. Like is it really that hard to release two more DVD sets after all this time?

[@samweber9103]

I've heard that the problem is the music rights. Apparently the original contracts for the music didn't include rights for video releases. So, in the ones that have already been released there are numbers that are cut because the owners didn't give permission, and apparently the legal negotiations for seasons 4 and 5 became too difficult. *grumble*

[@jdude9314]

Here’s hoping a solution is found someday.

[@JorrenT]

Please tell me you're going to cover Dark Crystal/Labyrinth as well as the later shows like Storyteller, Jim henson Hour, and muppets tonight. These have been fantastic

[@elizabethsullivan1894]

It was at least teased in this, I think they showed some of Brian Froud's concept art for Labyrinth.

[@Blazo_The_Kilt]

The Muppets still live on and there is no way this documentary series will end before they do. They got 30 years of work left to cover and I'm sure just the 80's will be 2 parts.

[@ryanahr2267]

Exactly what I was thinking. I never get tired of hearing about Henson, and Dark Crystal and Storyteller are my two favorite works of his by far.

[@PrydeWater901]

It’s inevitable

[@Jangobadass]

I think that's the plan. They've already announced at least 2 more episodes.

[@PedricCuf]

What an amazing amount of quality work. Am I talking about Jim Henson or Defunctland? Yes.

[@heyheyitsjae2475]

I've never watched anything with the Muppets aside from Elmo's World and the Treasure Island movie, but throughout this series every time to music kicks up, every time Kermit gives a rousing speech, and every time Jim Henson comes on screen I tear up, because such a rise to fame followed by tragic loss is beautiful, even to an outsider looking in.

[@LilDroidBlue]

When you automatically give a thumbs up to a video before you've even began watching it because you already know it's going to be amazing.

[@KairuHakubi]

I think researching the hard work these performers put in is inspiring to everyone to try to put a little more effort into everything in your life.

[@LilDroidBlue]

@@KairuHakubi Completely agree. I'm actually watching this again for the second time today, and plan to re-watch the whole Jim Henson DefuncTV miniseries when it's completed. The Muppets where a huge part of my childhood, and I still enjoy them to this day. I even have a Beaker and Doctor Bunsen Honeydew light-switch plate that I've had for twenty years now and find myself jamming to Can You Picture That from The Electric Mayhem whenever The Muppets cross my mind. I knew that puppetry, especially The Muppets as they progressed through the years were very advanced and the voice actors/puppeteers were very committed to the craft and Henson in particular wanted everything to be the best it could be. But Kevin and the rest of the Defunctland crews commitment to their work and their excellent research, as well as the terrific narration and Grade-A+ editing work combined... Make this almost like being a fly on the wall, or having a unique window into the writers room and the creative minds of the group that brought this amazing and most beloved program to television screens around the world. Though I wasn't around for the original run, I was lucky enough to be able to enjoy it in syndication in the early 90's, as well as all the Muppet movies on VHS (Except for Sex & Violence, that is...) Just further proof that this channel is one of the absolute best on KZbin. Content that could easily be confused with something aired on PBS in the States or BBC in the UK. Two Felt Thumbs Way Up!

[@minutemaidpeach]

300th like

[@Kaylin777]

The Muppet Show, the most famous show of the 80s, 90s and some of the mid 2000s, brought to you by Jim Henson! Also the intro is still cool.

[@Dummatzen]

As a Swede the Swedish chef is a big favorite of mine. Every time I make popcorn I sing his popcornsong from the Muppet movie. Popicorni poping in the face... in 3D! Love your channel!

[@melissacooper4482]

I remember him singing that in The Muppets Take Manhattan.

[@EntertainmentFan11]

I don't think the song was performed in the films. MOST DEFINITELY not the first one or the 2011 film. I think you meant to say from The Muppets KZbin channel.

[@bartsimpson83]

The next time you hear copyright Nazis complaining about piracy, remember that the uncut season one and seasons four and five of The Muppet Show have been kept in circulation because of pirates. If it wasn't for them, a large chunk of one of the greatest TV series of all time would very possibly be lost forever, as well as the sequel shows The Jim Henson Hour and Muppets Tonight. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude.

[@SirBlackReeds]

Source? Also, the phrase "copyright Nazi" just makes you sound ridiculous.

[@BornAScout]

All 5 seasons were recently added to Disney+ ! 😄😄

[@rigidpoem7914]

@@BornAScout yeah but they aren’t in their original form

[@iHeartsNostalgiaPit]

@@BornAScout minus 2 episodes (unless the Brooke Shields episode has since been added)

[@queenmedesa]

I lo ve pirates!

[@ZimMan2]

Oh! Now I get it! He's called "Cody" cause he codes!

[@warlock1186]

I just realized this now.

[@coreylineberry8557]

It’s actually Codey.

[@jb888888888]

Does he have his own showdy?

[@ChuckWestmiller]

I want to thank you for having only 2 ad breaks in a 40 minute video and for always giving thought to ad placement. It's a small detail that goes a long way to make the videos more enjoyable for the audience. Another great video as always!

[@CJdude22]

When are the mainstream studio execs finally going to get word of your freakin' AMAZING various series here!? Top notch quality, research, and writing as always. I will admit, it IS nice to see you getting away from Michael Eisner.....but only a teeny bit. Best 40 minutes I've spent on KZbin in weeks...I always look forward to watching a new Defunctland episode when you turn up at the top of my subscriptions. Defunctland is the epitome of what KZbin can give us. Thank you for the hours upon hours of great videos and entertainment!

[@scottfrazer7734]

This is the best documentary on Jim Henson, nothing else can compare!

[@craigjensen6853]

Nobody will ever top Jim. He was a true master of his craft. The interaction with humans and the expanse and depth of his characters are only part of what made his work so great. In the behind-the-scenes photos those guys were always smiling and having a blast, you could tell they loved their work and had a true passion for it. You don't realize how hard it is to jam your hand up up there and get the movements and motions _that_ good. That alone personifies them and gives them such life.

[@shrillbert]

"The crew at Elstee Studios was sad to see them go'..." And six months later, many of them would find out they were losing their jobs when ATV was forced to sell the studio to the BBC as part of ATV's transformation into Central.

[@34Nor]

This miniseries is an absolute work of art and talent, and I am always looking forward to the next one. Thank you!

[@sqidgery9960]

“...Originally written for an Italian sex documentary...” IS THAT A THING?? Where on earth did you find this info, that’s gold.

[@queenmedesa]

In Jim Henson 's biography book

[@VictorGreinvolfe48]

Holy crap man! This is a TV-quality documentary style! I LOVE your work!

[@twilyx3604]

Today is when we remember the amazing Jim Henson. It was on this day we lost him, but in the company they remained. And carried on an amazing legacy. And now this series of videos from defunctland ^w^ In Loving Memory of Jim Henson (September 24th 1936 -- May 16th 1990)

[@wendelljohnson3896]

Jim Henson was such a major part of my childhood. Watching this documentary has been so informative on his brilliance and perseverance. Amazing work

[@TalesToShowcase]

No, I haven’t watched the video yet. Yes, it is my new favorite video already, it’s Defunctland talking about The Muppets for 40 minutes... HOW COULD IT NOT BE?!?!

[@oldmanmammoth5364]

*IT’S SO BEAUTIFUL!*

[@justarandomgamer6309]

Tales to Showcase o my gosh I clicked without knowing it was 40min he’s really doing a great job keeping the videos entertaining and stuff cause I had no idea it’s been that long xD

[@mckstellar1005]

Ikr I got lost in Muppets history for so long I think I grew ten feet of beard...... but I'm not complaining😍

[@TalesToShowcase]

Just a Random Gamer It’s crazy! Everyone over at Defunctland has been absolutely killing it lately! Every time there’s a new video that seems perfect they top it with another one; saying ‘I’m excited’ for whatever follows would be an understatement

[@CouchSpud91]

10:50 I love how smoothly Jim manages to get situated with Kermit in the talk show clip, as if it's second nature to him by then. The guy was practically one with his craft by this point.

[@christinafine8640]

I came back from my run wanting to finish this episode...so I opened Netflix to finish it...and then realized that it’s on KZbin. Amazing series dude.

[@lightyearpig12]

Statler: How has the algorithm been this kind to him? He always talks about old junk! Waldorf: If he looked at newer stuff, the comments would be filled with kids going to war with us old-timers. Both: Doh-ho-ho-ho-hoh!

[@maverickREAL]

I heard this in their voices.

[@Lemuel928]

Oh no..

[@kenkaneki9176]

😂😂😂

[@jameshamaker9321]

👍

[@mitchelldraper6487]

Anyone else think that Disney should release the 4th and 5th seasons on DVD? To not feels like insulting the legacy of the show. You can't even find the episodes on KZbin in any decent form.

[@m1j1browning]

They’re coming next month and I cannot wait.

[@SkorpTS]

This series is so well made. It's in-depth and emotional, perfectly rolled into one. I'm a pretty big fan of Jim Henson and co's work, but I never knew a lot of the things you talk about in these episodes. I love this series and am eagerly looking forward to the next part!

[@JayyNation]

This could’ve been 2 hours and it still wouldn’t be long enough! Great video bro love your work

[@energizerbunnn]

I’ve literally been terrified of the muppets since I was little and yet this series makes me so emotional... well done

[@AWlpsSHOW36]

Why where you terrified of the Muppets? I can't seem to find anything about them that could be scary to kids.

[@energizerbunnn]

@@AWlpsSHOW36 I don’t know exactly, what made them scary, I do know in music class one year we watched a single episode of the muppets over and over which was incredibly frustrating. I think the scary factor is a bit of an uncanny valley thing, seeing these almost animals dance around was creepy, especially on the grainy projector.

[@energizerbunnn]

But also… I have now watched the entire muppet series thanks to Defunctland and I love it

[@ahistoric_gamer9716]

The Muppets made me feel uneasy as a kid, I never knew why I was cos I love them now

[@kronk99]

I'm over here crying as the making of the Muppet Move is described. Crying whole tears.

[@TheRepty818]

Channels like yours are the reason I'm so grateful that youtube gives a platform for creative and talented people like you. Jim Henson is one of my idols and you've done an amazing job telling his story. Keep up the amazing work. Both Henson and you Kevin are inspirations.

[@jadeatrophis]

I loved the Muppet Show when I was a kid. Glad to learn the history behind such a great comedy show. Also, Fozzie may or may not be the reason why I love puns.

[@sprybug]

Me too. I was fortunate enough to remember watching the last season or two when it was new (Yeah, I'm that old).

[@MrDeedsly]

The Muppets are for everyone. This is a great channel. Thank you for having great informative content.

[@rosecoloredtimes]

Watching this really shows me how much these characters were such a giant part of my childhood… not just big bird, Kermit and Miss Piggy but the Swedish Chef, Animal and the two older guys who sit off to the side making cynical comments (I didn’t know their names were Waldorf and Statler) as well as countless others (I loved Rizzo the Rat, too) I don’t remember a time when I didn’t know these guys.

[@BlueScarabGuy]

Okay so just your description of the Muppet Movie got me tearing up I might just sob uncontrollably if I actually watch the movie (which as of writing this comment, I never have)

[@kyon813]

I watched it because of this episode. I cried three times (during The Rainbow Connection, I'm Going to Go Back There Someday, and the finale, respectively). That's...not common for me.

[@lewzealand4717]

My favorite opening in cinema. Sure, there may be better ones for this reason or that, but The Muppet Movie is my favorite.

[@WitheredFreddo]

Kermit : *IT'S AN ORANGEE!! AN ORANGE!!! OF COURE IT'S AN ORANEGE!!!!!*

[@smartones100]

Anime Withered Toy Freddy 1987 still my favorite sketch

[@curtiscrane5415]

kermit:OF CORSE IT'S AN ORANGE!!!IT'S NOT A COOKIE,IT'S ORANGE!!!!

[@ballsrgrossnugly]

literally spelled "orange" 3 times and fucked it up twice...

[@brekiel_scripts]

I'm getting weepier and weepier as these episodes come to a close, just because I know what's coming.

[@KairuHakubi]

It's almost like some people know they don't have long, so they cram more living into their lives than the rest of us manage even as we fill out more of a century.

[@CascadianRanger]

Judging by the end of the most recent episode, we are about.... there

[@myfamilyiscrazy]

Emmet Otter is one of my favorite Christmas specials ever. More people should see it.

[@queenmedesa]

It's a charming film

[@Pillsburyjoytoy]

This has to be one of the most uplifting Defunctland episodes! No grief, no heartbreak. Just positivity and following dreams 😊

[@gavry3]

You’re in for a ride in the upcoming episodes, then.

[@LikaLaruku]

"Muppets aren't for children, they're for EVERYONE." 6:15 Muppet dabbing. Some pigs pork chop, others karate chop.

[@IanqueParker]

Dude, this series has been awesome thus far. The amount of passion put into this is evident.

[@traciknights2013]

I'm crying. This series makes me so happy. I have been a Jim Henson enthusiast (tattoos for proof, lol) my whole life. I even have a puppet-based KZbin show and have played Kate Monster in Avenue Q because I just can't NOT do puppeteer work. I also happen to love your work, so it's a win-win. Thank you for doing this series. Genuinely. 💕

[@KidSnivy69]

You mind linking an episode?

[@ghastlyghifin4029]

Man, that ending number of the Star Wars episode really is hilarious in hindsight. Great work on the episode, Kevin!

[@ballsrgrossnugly]

Oh jeez, it's ALL DISNEY NOW! THE END IS HERE!

[@KidSnivy69]

All I could think during that was ERB Stan Lee vs. Jim Henson

[@dub_dub1504]

I feel very fortunate to have grown up with the genius of Jim Henson and his amazing crew. My Dad loved them, I loved them and now all 3 of my kids absolutely love all things Muppets. This is such a brilliant essay in the Muppets. Thank you.

[@hullinstruments]

Good God I guess I could put this series out of my mind completely. The first time I watched it, was a few years ago in the middle of caring for my mother during her bout of cancer. I have been sleeping in my truck well over 100 nights in the hospital parking lot… Because I didn’t have enough energy to go home and come there every day… And little did I know but I had another year and a half ahead of me or I would be doing the same thing. So I was in a real emotional and difficult place, and I watched this series all together in one evening and just remember basically melting into the port of my truck into a sobbing mess. It was the first time I had cried since I was about 12 years old… I’m in my mid 30s now. So much what happened with my mom, and I had no idea how much more was in store for us both. But the last installment in your series hit me like a freight train and I was hysterical for a good 30 minutes to an hour. Realizing that it really helped me show my emotion and release some of that tension that had been building because of the situation with my dying mother It helped me greatly, and now that I stumble across it again… I realize that for the last year and a half I’ve been bawling up all of my emotions once again wait to release them, knowing it might break the dam This is so incredibly well done, I am not usually affected by my surroundings or especially by media. But the fact that it’s helped me twice now get through some of the toughest seasons in my life… And realize that everyone in the world loses things and people that are close to them all the time… And it gives me maybe just a tiny percentage of that positivity that Jim showed his whole life. Because it certainly doesn’t come natural for me.

[@poilaaliop]

Thanks Kevin, these videos have been incredible! Absolutely top-notch quality. I've recommended them to a lot of my friends. Modern TV channels WISH they could make things this well! 💕

[@MetroXLR99]

Looking back, Jim really owed a lot of his success to Lord Lew Grade. The guy had incredible faith in Jim that was very much well placed. The guy was the very definition of "having friends in high places."

[@gleggett3817]

Grade and his brothers (Leslie Grade and Lord Delfont) had a background as theatre and variety talent agents and impresarios They sold that part of their business empire to EMI for 20 million in late 60s. They certainly knew people.

[@DJAvren]

And not a single dislike was found on this video* *Statement accurate at the time of writing

[@dastumpyone6110]

I can only hope the dislikes were simply because it wasn't long enough.

[@CWRoederer]

The scene talking about The Muppet Movie’s parallels to the real life Muppet performers was beautiful-just simply beautiful.

[@freddie1991d]

Wow I’m really glad Jim decided to choose Kermit over Rolf as main character of show. I don’t think I could ever imagine the muppet show without Kermit as host.

[@KendrickHarrisKenfinity]

Finally, I've seen some of the original show, so it was wonderful to see how it fully became the unforgettable variety show we know. Another informative and entertaining video. Keep it up!

[@SD-tl4wf]

Another beautifully done installment in the Jim Henson series! It's awesome seeing you grow as a creator, from covering defunct attractions to a full blown 4 hour documentary. Well done!

[@JamesDaffyBenderDonald]

I hope someone does a fusion mix of the Sesame Street, Muppet show and Fraggle rock themes like you did.

[@theashtubereviews]

Got a bit emotional at what Jim said when his friend died. Amazing video, I learned so much I never knew

[@robertleeluben]

I loved the Muppet Show so much my mom used it as leverage to ensure weekend tasks were complete. Also I never heard my mom laugh harder then when the dancing worm skit premiered. She quite literally shrieked when the little worm gets his revenge.

[@joemama151]

This is part I've waited for. And 40 minutes too!! Kevin you spoil us!!

[@joeybrodeur548]

Boys, it's time to get things started on defunct TV tonight

[@brettvv7475]

Absolutely fantastic mini-doc on Henson and his muppets. Excellent work, Mr. Perjurer!

[@Genevieve0880]

I can't believe there was a sex song in The Muppets. My parents would die laughing from this, since my parents grew up with the show. (My mother has a Ralph puppet. I hate that puppet.) Also I fricking love Gonzo, he's relatable for me. Kermit I'd also a mood, and my second favorite. That's it. Edit: I also forgot about Scooter! I love him. I always used to be so much like him, eager to please.

[@SonicXtreme99akaCreeperMario]

*Rowlf *Muppey

[@queenmedesa]

But Rowlf is so cute !

[@worstxb1playertylerteehc635]

I remember in the mid 90's the Muppet Show returned in the UK and ''Sandra Bullock'' was a Guest and they definitely introduced her as ''Sandra Bollocks'' I even had it on VHS and would show my friends it was hilarious.

[@1upgamer959]

Ya'll aint ready for the end of this. Jim Henson's funeral is one of the saddest things on youtube.

[@MrKennyWilliams]

Nah bro. I still cry, every time.

[@CascadianRanger]

Easily. All the puppeteers and their muppets going on stage while singing the lines "and more" over and over just signifies how important Jim was. He built a family using just imagination and felt