Jim Henson's Memorial Service

Following Jim Henson's passing on May 16th 1990, two public memorial services were held. The first (featured here) was held in New York at Cathedral of St. John the Divine on May 21, 1990. The second service was held in London at St. Paul's Cathedral on July 2nd 1990.
Learn more about the services here: muppet.wikia.com/wiki/Jim_Hens...
Watch the full memorial service divided into chapters here: • Jim Henson's Memorial

[@screaminalleycat]

I cannot thank you enough for posting this. I went to this, but I was about an hour late. I walked in right as "Rainbow Connection" started and have always regretted being late. Now, I can finally see the whole thing. There are a few things I do remember from that day. One of them was when Big Bird came out to sing. I was still at the back of the church standing, and there was a mom with her little girl near me. The girl had to have been about three, maybe four, and she was in a bright red dress. When Big Bird came out, this little girl lost her mind and just started dancing and twirling and could not have been more excited. I looked at her and thought, "Yep, this is what he wanted today." It was really sweet.

[@thyvideomaker3063]

Aww thats sweet and i agree 😭 miss jim

[@viksreviews2891]

Even from beyond deaths cruel grasp he gave an innocent child s moment of pure joy.

[@ydoIhavetohaveachann]

Thank you for sharing your anecdote, what a special moment to have been a part of, and I agree that is precisely what Jim would have wanted.

[@screaminalleycat]

@@ydoIhavetohaveachann You're welcome. I lived in Jersey, so it was an easy trip in. I was a senior, and my parents let me skip school to go in for it. My mom understood why I needed to go in. I don't remember a day of my life without him in it. My mom has told me that, at one point, we got Sesame Street three times a day because we had two PBS channels, and I watched it all three times. I can still remember the day I got home from school, and she came into my room to tell me he'd died. I was devastated.

[@ydoIhavetohaveachann]

screaminalleycat I just finished the audiobook version of Brian Jay Jones’ biography, I’d been avoiding the last couple hours because I obviously knew what was going to happen and it was heartbreaking. If you haven’t read it I highly recommend it, the audiobook is amazing, the narrator does great impressions of everyone, Jim, Frank Oz, and even the muppets!

[@Nicky2414]

*"Do not cry because it's over. Smile because it happened."* Doctor Seuss

[@uh1564]

😢bro i swear

[@sralyn]

Yup.

[@Wednesday131O]

I don't know why, but seeing Oscar out of his can made me feel so sad. Oscar was a grouch who would never come out of his can, and yet he did for Jim. The amount of potential that these characters have is mind blowing.

[@bubblezovlove7213]

I felt the same just seeing the Muppets side by side with their puppeteers. It was a breaking of the forth wall that was just sad all on it's own..

[@EmberRain666]

I'm 2 minutes in and this comment has already brought me to tears. It's such a heartbreaking thing to think about, that Oscar wouldn't leave his can for anyone but Jim Henson himself.

[@allisonjohnson6399]

Ok that comment did me in. Simply profound. 💚🤎💚

[@mikey1313saveukraine]

@@bubblezovlove7213 he died from a toxic shock syndrome

[@tripledreigon6417]

I remember saying "where's big bird" as all the muppets started to come out now I realize that Carroll couldn't play oscar and big bird at the same time

[@MsGigglesluv]

Whoever recorded this way back in 1990, thank you

[@jessicacuevas7083]

30 years of Jim Henson's death

[@XJIcequeen]

I think CBS did

[@eriqueclaudin4274]

I was working at Disney World when I got the news. Weeks earlier I had snuck into the soundstage where they were taping the special (The Muppets at Walt Disney World). I got to see Jim and all the legendary Muppet performers, some who are no longer with us do their thing right in front of my eyes. A dream come true.

[@Kruppt808]

Rip JH and all of the other people that made my childhood, teenage and adulthood happier.

[@mrstealurkill2002]

31 years ago today.

[@Alistocrat]

This is what I want my funeral to be like. Yes its sad, but I don't want everyone to wear black. I don't want everyone to stay silent and hold back their laughs. I don't want it to be "respectful" or "proper". I want people to laugh, to sing, to tell stories, to express themselves, to eat as much cake as they can and have, as much as is possible, a good time. This world has plenty of sadness in it as it is. So I want to add as much joy to it as possible, even after I'm gone.

[@lalaleo_lol]

Agreed. Funerals don’t always have to be sad and dark and gloomy, but they should also be filled with happy moments and laughs and joy and memories people will never forget.

[@EmberRain666]

I agree. I am a very bright, bubbly, fun person, and I plan to always be that way whenever possible. Funerals don't have to be sad, they can simply be a celebration of one's life.

[@animdoodle]

@@EmberRain666 Reminds me of Dia de los muertos! The parting of a loved one shouldn’t be filled with sadness, instead with happiness from the memories you had with them ^^

[@GlennDavey]

I imagine they planned this all out thinking "what would make Jim smile or chuckle, let's do THAT" for every choice

[@Deathbird_Mitch]

I always said the same. I want a party celebrating life and our memories shared. When my older brother passed a few years ago I requested people send me photographs and stories of him and them.

[@ClaireScullyClaireBlue]

I love the organ playing Rainbow Connection at the beginning.

[@FireMinstrel]

Yes, that was lovely. What was the song that the band was playing right after?

[@shannonwynne1613]

Just a good old southern funeral dirge

[@quizmaster85]

+FireMinstrel I think the title of that dirge is "Just a Closer Walk with Thee".

[@jackhproductions]

It made me want to cry. 😢

[@ickisdog1592]

yeah I was singing along

[@wonderingnymph142]

I never imagined "Rainbow Connection" to sound so lovely on on organ piano.

[@talkinghead3042]

WONDERingNymph 14 it's just called an organ

[@twist58]

Sounds depressing on organ. The banjo feels more lively.

[@twist58]

Peaches J Jim Henson himself was the one who said in his will that his funeral not have people wear black and that any singing performances reflect on joy, not out of mourning. And I'm simply paraphrasing this, so this isn't word for word.

[@TherealRNOwwfpooh]

@@twist58 While true, his death still deeply affected many, so some sadness & somber moments were to be expected, as is customary at funerals.

[@Kruppt808]

Great comments and info on a once in a generation man

[@taracarroll4218]

The beautiful thing about Frank Oz's speech was how much he and Jim were like Ernie and Bert in real life with their opposites attract. It was like Bert saying goodbye and expressing his love to Ernie.

[@Obsessedwithcookies758]

But just as a friend! I’m talking about Bert and Ernie!

[@Obsessedwithcookies758]

And Jim and Frank!

[@Bleekcastle]

It's a shame this man had to go so soon. Thank you for the memories Mr Henson. Your creativity and brilliance will go on forever. Muppets forever.

[@billyray5232]

Sean Norfleet Couldn't say it any better my friend..

[@jaredeames3736]

He's not really dead if we never forget him

[@catcheek7761]

My father was born with a genetic disability called Osteogenesis Imperfecta. It’s a protein collagen disorder that effects most of your body like organs, muscles, tendons and the big one bones. Back when he was born in the 60’s not much was known about our condition. I inherited it from my father, and we have made such rapid advancements since then that he was able to become a successful lawyer and politician, got married to my mother who is able bodied and had me. I’m 21 and a full time college student with double majors in Psychology and Biology. I say all this to say when my dad was in the hospital in the early 70’s the actors and puppeteers of Sesame Street were near our hometown. They somehow heard about my father and came to the hospital. He has a cast signed by all the main characters and Jim Henson himself. He still has it and it’s amazing to look at!

[@jackob.graphic5143]

After Frank's emotional eulogy, when I heard the first notes of rainbow connection I got goosebumps. When I realized it was Jim singing I started to get really emotional. Thank you Jim Henson for everything that you have given us -The Lovers, The Dreamers, and Me.

[@screaminalleycat]

I went to this, but we were late. We walked in right as "Rainbow Connection" started. I lost it immediately and cried solidly for the rest of the memorial. I remember laughing at parts of the letter that Brian read and thinking how was it possible that I was laughing and crying simultaneously and that my cheeks just burned from the tears.

[@XJIcequeen]

Like his soul was speaking to us

[@Nicky2414]

It's like you hear him singing this song as he ascends into heaven.

[@handsomeloverboy8818]

54:50

[@moniqueunderhill8050]

I swear when Jim Henson died, it's like a piece of all our childhood died with him. RIP Jim Henson. 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

[@DaveFisher-cq2dr]

less tears and more cheer, that's how funerals should be, not just to grieve the death of a person, but to celebrate the life of a person.

[@felixdaniels37]

Ironically that's what makes this even more heartbreaking for me. The usual solemn nature of funerals don't really get to me, but here you're seeing every single person here give it their all just to keep the mood light. You can feel the emotions that each and every person is bringing here, and every time they start to crack, like Big Bird at the end of his performance, it becomes so overwhelming you can't help but cry with them.

[@johnbasden2777]

You can hear Big Bird's voice cracking at one point

[@XJIcequeen]

I understand it. I really wanted to hug him right there and then

[@slapshot68]

He died today R.I.P Carroll Spinney, he’s now reunited with Jim Henson in heaven

[@sydatrixva5806]

That was Caroll Spinney. I know he’s at peace now.

[@kyrellandfriends278]

He's now with Kermit, Robin, Scooter and more of his muppet family...

[@blakearmstrong4783]

He couldn’t take it. Caroll almost cried during the song. When he went backstage, it was like his tears were a person doing a cannonball, and his cheeks were the pool.

[@DensetsuVII]

Thank you to Defunctland and Kevin Perjurer for sending me here to remember this wonderful man. Thanks Jim, and thanks Kermit. You live on still.

[@teddyfurstman1997]

Makes me weep ;( Thanks Kevin Perjurer

[@PrincessAshley972]

im glad im not the only one who came here from that

[@slugworth3111]

They did a great job on that documentary.

[@XMzMaryJaneWhitlockX]

Same here. Thanks defunctland ❤

[@RachelXKnight666]

Can someone tell me what they made about him?

[@danielgdrever]

1:03:20 always gets me when Big Bird Says thank you to Kermit, such a wonderful artist and even though i never grew up in the Henson era I do have a strong connection with him because whenever i see any of his work shown or the new moves i think back to that one man who started it all and allowed it to grow and carry on after his death. I respect every one of those people that went up there and spoke and performed it would not have been easy for them performing those songs without him there singing along with them. R.I.P Jim you are a legend that will always be known throughout future generations as they are shown the muppets etc. by all of there parents and so on.

[@collinnc2001]

Just keep Swimming it sure wouldn't be easy doing this they did such a splendid job

[@TherealRNOwwfpooh]

"if the fans want the Muppets to live on, then they will" to paraphrase Henson himself during the Disney deal (which stalled until 2004 in the wake of his passing in 1990 from a throat staph infection), Richard Hunt's passing in 1992 (he died from complications of the AIDs virus), & the rest who've now joined Jim in the hereafter.

[@LexTan]

Carrol Spinney as Big Bird gave me the most feels...

[@nonsentz5765]

saaaame, i almost died

[@XJIcequeen]

Me too

[@BIGJoshy1]

my heart broke when I saw Big Bird sing "its not easy being green"

[@XJIcequeen]

Mine too

[@martinjohnson7225]

Under any other circumstances everybody would joke about the irony of a character singing that song who is not green. But not in this instance. You couldn't have had a more serious, solemn occasion. It is a heart-rending tribute that Carroll Spinney gave to Jim's memory. A special song associated with Jim's Kermit that has a slow and steady melody that fit the mood of the memorial service. Also he could have just sung it as himself. The fact that he chose to sing it as Big Bird is an added touch that gets everybody thinking about Jim's involvement with Sesame Street from the beginning.

[@DEATHBYFLYINGCDS]

@@martinjohnson7225 Caroll Spinney barely managed to pull it off, according to him he was struggling to sing through the tears.. Tears that he had no free hand to wipe away....

[@angemaidment5640]

Iron Rose Productions mine broke hearing Robin’s voice sing “Halfway Up The Stairs” 😭😭😭

[@slapshot68]

He died just now 😭😭

[@notMessing]

My heart broke when Frank Oz broke down. Such a loss to see him in grief at losing an obviously special relationship-it wasn’t just work. I feel blessed that the Muppets were part of my childhood. God bless your soul Jim Henson - an incredible talent with real humility and a great sense of humour - you are sorely missed! 🙏🏼❤️

[@ChristyWalkautismjourney]

Same here. I cried with him

[@j.s.connolly8579]

@@ChristyWalkautismjourney YEP! I JUST got to see this now... so many years later. And I cried through the ENTIRE THING! I'm 56... I too grew up with Sesame Street and The Muppet Show and THIS REALLY Got to me! When I heard that Jim had passed... It was like I lost a part of my childhood... part of myself! HE WAS BEYOND AMAZING! He was the "WALT DISNEY" of MY age! HE will ALWAYS be MISSED but NEVER EVER FORGOTTEN!

[@ChristyWalkautismjourney]

@@j.s.connolly8579 exactly!!! His work is such a comfort to me in my autism journey. 💕 Whenever I have meltdowns I can watch the Muppets/Sesame Street/Henson Company productions and then I don’t feel like melting down anymore. ❤️

[@PieFights]

@@ChristyWalkautismjourney I was born in 1985 so I was around Sesame Street

[@ratb0y894]

I wasn't alive when he passed away and yet this man: who I have never met and never will, has changed and impacted my life in so many ways. I'm 16 now and studying to do a film degree and I make puppets in my spare time, all thanks to this man. From the age of 2 or 3 I've been obessed with the universe's in which his charater's take hold and I've been inspired. The first time I watched this memorial was when I was 8 years old, I had spent weeks upon weeks researching trying to find anything I could do to be as great as him and I ran into this. Of course I sobbed, I vowed never to watch it again because I was torn, heartbroken. Here I am all these years later, watching it again and crying my eyes out and it hasn't even started- by the gods some things don't change. I want to thank this man so much for so many reasons

[@darrylcarter3691]

I was open a baby! He died a years after I was born.

[@toastertarts2990]

You'll do great things one day and when u make it make sure to shout out gimme toes 😂

[@timwinterhalter5233]

That's passion. Get it then, you little fucker. Jimmy woulda been proud

[@empresatoy738]

I'm doing one of the biggest projects of my life, puppets, stop motion, animation, live action, everything is being used to make it because of this man... this man who gives me from my childhood inspires me to this day with his works that last for an eternity, I just want to make art and send a message but maybe one day I can also look back and just see everything I've done and the people I've made happy....for me just a few friends happy already enough but this man got more than 7 people on a comedy show, he got generations... generations that were inspired by him

[@atheist101]

You should try for a job at his workshop, you sound very dedicated and would be a great fit. People like you are needed to keep his dream and life's work alive so it doesn't get taken over by greedy people just wanting money.

[@cattajk]

So... uhm... I kind of cried right after the organ played "Rainbow connection". I do however love how they make a point out of celebrating his life. And I love how the muppet-actors are laughing and smiling when singing his favorite music. They sing there is no word for old friends that have just met. But there is not even a concept of "old friends that will never meet". I feel that Jim Henson is that kind of a friend to a lot of people. He left us much too soon.

[@billyray5232]

I was 14 when Jim passed away, and I remember sitting at the kitchen table crying...it's funny, even though I never met the amazing man personally I had felt a piece of my childhood had passed away with him..I ate breathed and slept the Muppets, to the point that Kermit to this day was the only celebrity I wrote fan mail to. RIP Mr. Henson, thanks for making my childhood so fun and happy.

[@Forgotten_Cfund]

I was at the funeral I saw people crying

[@carterconway7272]

Your comment was very amazing 🥲😢,I myself was a Jim Henson fan to,even though I wasn’t Born yet when he passed away,but when I started watching his Movies it changed my life forever RIP 🪦 Jim Henson you will always make us Happy and Shine Forever.

[@K.J.S.est1994]

And now R.I.P to Caroll Spinney, at least you’re with Jim now.

[@janetsherbert7741]

Jim Henson and Fred Rogers. Born to leave a deep imprint on the hearts of children young and old. Irreplaceable!

[@Phantomsbreath]

There's a brass band. That's so very Jim, to bring a brass band into a church for a funeral. Such a class act, this guy was. Gone, but not forgotten. Never forgotten. I tell stories, because this guy taught me how and why it's so vital.

[@albertpichardoap]

Anyone know what song they play?

[@booberfraggle]

@@albertpichardoap It’s “When the Saints Go Marching In”

[@weebunny]

@@albertpichardoap Also, the slow song at the beginning was "Just a Closer Walk with Thee."

[@cjkillian6317]

i have HUGE respect for Jim Henson. He was one of the most creative, imaginative people that even lived. He always had a positive attitude and loved his fellow man. As a puppeteer myself (I'm NOT ASHAMED to admit that) i saw how his style of performing is so influential to todays puppet performers. i will always remember him for his creative brilliance and his awesome life. R.I.P Jim, ill miss you.

[@julianathejaded7051]

It really makes me sad that you felt you had to say that... Jim Henson was never ashamed, and the memorial showed how respected he was and what he has done for the profession. To imply you should be ashamed to say you have the same career dishonours him, his work and the memorial really.

[@patrickmanway290]

Why would you be ashamed to admit that?! Puppetry is an amazing art form! Don't let people tell you different!

[@TherealRNOwwfpooh]

@@patrickmanway290 He's not ashamed, read the comment again.

[@TherealRNOwwfpooh]

@Krynek Reread the comment again. The poster says he's NOT ashamed (that is, he doesn't feel embarrassed or ridiculed by his hobby/profession, which is what shame typically does to people) to admit that he does puppeteering. However, there is the nagging underlying unfair stigma that puppetry (much like animation as an art form, if not cartoons overall, as well as comics, storybooks, coloring books & toys, too) is strictly for children/babies. It's not true, but the stigma persists, nonetheless.

[@CatchatoriFung]

Being a puppeteer is super cool man, don’t ever be discouraged to say that

[@superstuv1]

As a child who came from a very dark place, the light that was created by Jim Henson gave me something to latch on to. Sesame Street was the one consistent thing I had (along with Mr. Rogers) and taught me probably every important thing I know.

[@art23428]

Not about you

[@superstuv1]

@@art23428 Cool. Now get back under your bridge!

[@diznyland6214]

I came because Harry Belafonte just passed and stayed for the whole service. RIP to two incredible icons. Oh, oh, so is life!

[@binxboi7156]

2:11:19 My heart breaks into a thousand pieces when they start singing “just one person”.

[@youejtube7692]

Oh my God, I'm sobbing my heart out at the sight of Big Bird walking somberly out to sing Kermie's song... :'(

[@bubblezovlove7213]

Yeah I never thought a giant yellow bird puppet could ever ever be THAT serious, sombre, sad... its surreal but shows the kind of feelings we all had for the Muppets and all the Muppet crews... I never thought a giant bird puppet could ever make me feel like that. Unreal...

[@redpandaman6826]

If big bird's puppet had tear glands you know he would have been crying

[@voluptuousvirgo2028]

Watching this while my 15 month old daughter is watching sesame street, holding an Elmo doll, and a Sesame Street book laid out in front of her. The creativity of this man is continuing to inspire and teach generations. Simply amazing!

[@tomprosser8958]

Y favorite was Ernie.

[@drewbakka5265]

Its beautiful how many lives a person can inspire, with puppets no less

[@sophiarose8018]

I am watching this memorial service to help me deal with my grief from Covid. Three students I knew died. I have been in survival mode for the past year and a half...and this helped me finally be able to cry over what I lost. Who knew that this memorial service would help with grief work, thirty years later? Thank you to Jim and his family and creatives. You are still doing healing work to this day

[@uh1564]

❥❥❥

[@mrstealurkill2002]

I’m so sorry for your loss. COVID is no joke🥺❤️

[@maxalvira7823]

@@mrstealurkill2002 nm m

[@daequanburns2444]

54:51 In loving memory of Jim Henson 1936-1990

[@noahmorrison6562]

Daequan Burns (Crying)

[@tacobelllvrr]

Daequan Burns I’m tearing 😭

[@raddams]

Jim Henson got and his ashes were scattered. Specifically: Scattered at his ranch outside Santa Fe, New Mexico.

[@twilyx3604]

At one point you can hear an echo in the recording. Idk if it is or if the audio really did have some kind of technical problem. But I don’t think it’s any coincidence. There is no point in denying it. That really was the spirit of Jim speaking to everyone.

[@mana4002]

Sniff...sniff...what is this liquid!!! 😭

[@Spindash54]

Here because of Defunctland. Thanks Jim, for everything.

[@murderhill1947]

My wife had a substantial amount of affection for Jim Henson. She doesn't know about this video so I thought to watch it from start to finish so I could give her a preview. She's going to love it. I did. 1990...Good grief! So long ago.

[@kylekeller3398]

R.I.P. Jim Henson (1936 - 1990) 😢😭

[@danieldrattell8418]

28 years later and I still watch this almost every day and I literally cry 😢 every time.

[@andremitreuter5397]

you take two hours every day to watch this?

[@rjskum688]

creepy motherfuckers out there.

[@danieldrattell8418]

André Mitreuter almost every day.

[@tarboss4]

Jim Henson was a big part of my childhood I am grateful for him He made me laugh and cry with his work There will no one else like him

[@allisonjohnson6399]

Just One Person makes me lose it every single time. First when they start putting their arms around Frank Oz....then when everyone joins onstage with their Muppets...then all the hugs after. My heart breaks for Frank. I feel he has never healed from it and will not ever until he meets him again.

[@JohnSmith-uy7sv]

Where will he meet him is the question. Ephesians 2:8-9 8 For by God's grace are we saved through faith; not by works, (or being a firefighter or law enforcement or a hero or a marine or a veteran or a war hero or dying for your country or actor or puppeteer or News reporter/anchor or a soul singer or killed by a terrorist or a sports hero or our heritage or ethnic background or a fashion designer or a rock star or body builder or a writer or cooking show host or walk into a room and lite up a room with their smile or a pioneer or a super pop star or bounty hunter or race car driver or football coach or country music singer or basketball star or civil rights leader or being modest or being humble or a Disney star actor or game show host or making people laugh or making people happy or never killing anyone) 9 it is the free gift of God, not that anyone can boast of their salvation." Eternity will not be about any of us or what we have done. It will all be about Jesus Christ who died on a cross to save us from our sins. We all deserve hell and then the Lake of Fire that burns with sulphur and fire on Judgement day.

[@angryrushfan7725]

Yeah Frank hasn't been the same since 1990 he's become a much more somber and reserved person. My father met him twice, once in 1978 and again in 1999 and said compared to his prior meeting Frank resonated a deep pain.

[@southparkboyproductions6040]

Long live Jim Henson! (1936-1990)

[@caseyedwards8382]

"Jim told me never to follow the bird." Holy crud that was great.

[@Littlebee81]

I just got done reading his Biography and all i could do was cry at the end. he lived such an amazing life and he created so many amazing characters. My childhood is filled with a lot of muppets and so i thank mr. henson for being a HUGE part of my childhood and my growing up. he was a brilliant man!

[@lucky07621]

Littlebee81 I'm reading it now. I love his determination and drive to be successful

[@sha11235]

Littlebee81 It's a great book but it didn't mention his working on the 1985 Sesame Street film. Wonder why?

[@RachelXKnight666]

sha11235 I didn’t even know there was a 1985 Sesame Street movie

[@michaelobrien6843]

I've read it myself. It was sad, yes, but I very much enjoyed it.

[@michaelobrien6843]

Also, Follow the Bird was the first movie I ever saw. I was 2.

[@LL-fd7xn]

What broke me into tears was when all the characters came together to sing. Especially Oscar!

[@slapshot68]

I was hoping all the human characters would join them too like Bob, Luis, Gordon and Maria

[@Dkazakis84]

Frank Oz: That’s when I knew I loved him, and he loved me. Then they go into the Rainbow Connection. I’m not crying, you’re crying. RIP

[@ashleighchance9420]

What makes me sad is that Jim might have been saved if he got help sooner - I think he knew he was dying but he didn't want to bother anyone. R.I.P Henson. Thanks for making part of my childhood. ❤️

[@80sfreak42]

If I could take his place I would...no questions asked...no more pain and torture for me...

[@RachelXKnight666]

That’s what I keep thinking about too. It could have been so preventable :/

[@gabbykeaton373]

@@80sfreak42 I know this comment is two years old, but I hope you're doing alright.

[@marieadams3720]

Yes.

[@OmegaMew2]

Whoever filmed this definitely was a professional, especially that shot at 2:12:44 where you had Jim’s picture looking over all the performers singing “Just One Person”. Amazing shot.

[@DawnMicheleYoung]

I was a middle school teacher at the time at IS44 in Manhattan & I took my home room class to this memorial service...just up the street at St John the Divine Cathedral. It was so moving as I had raised my kids on Sesame Street..They had even had a day of filming on the Muppet's film made in Central Park and sat in Frank Oz and Jim Henson's chairs. Jim's choice of a Dixie Brass Band for the memorial was perfect & was my students' favorite part.

[@barbaraschafer8216]

I was born the same year Sesame Street was first broadcast and I am currently the same age as Jim was when he passed. I have learned so much from Jim, the cast, writers, and those magicians who are connected to the programs and the CTW/Sesame Workshop. Thank you all for creating the magic and keeping it alive. RIP Mr. Henson and thank you. A special thank you to the individuals responsible for filming and posting Mr. Henson's Life Celebration.

[@tvfella]

There is something so profoundly sad in that moment when Big Bird looks up and says "Thank you, Kermit. " It's as if in this moment my childhood ended. Thirty one years later and I'm still crying.

[@ffejgib]

As a child of the 80s, I've been a huge fan of Jim Henson from the time of my birth (1983) until his death in May of 1990 (almost 30 years ago). I have Millennial friends of mine who hate Jim Henson because of the fact that he uses puppets & it breaks my heart every single time I hear them say that to me. 😢 Maybe it's because I grew up in a different time, but Jim was someone who brought his creations to life out of the materials he used. When he died, it almost felt like a member of my own family died because I was a fan to his works on The Muppets & Fraggle Rock. To me, Jim was more of a magician who brings his creations come to life instead of being a puppeteer. I still miss him to this very day. I love you & miss you, Jim Henson & I thank you for all the happy childhood memories you have given me.

[@pogoknight428]

My mother grew up with the muppets. She was 10 or 12 when Henson passed, and she says she cried her eyes out when she was told about it. To this day, at 49 years old, she says she wishes she could’ve been friends with him. My 20-something sister grew up on Sesame Street, I grew up with the street and fraggle rock. My stepdad grew up with the fraggles too, and he has an art piece of the main five in his room, signed by the artists. Less than a month ago, I introduced my significant other to fraggle rock, and he’s been obsessed with it since. It’s been a great comfort to him, and he’s even trying his best to make his own fraggle puppet right now. I’ll always admire every little thing Jim Henson worked on. An amazing man, who still make such a ginormous impact to this day, and left us too soon. My heart will always ache for Frank Oz, outliving his dearest friend, and even recently getting let go from modern Disney plus muppet projects. Rest in piece my dude, may your essence and spirit and silliness continue to touch the hearts of every human on earth for hundreds of years.

[@RedRooster123]

so heartbreaking to watch Big Bird walk off stage in silence and sadness.

[@dontnot419]

The way big bird walks in that must have been harder than you think

[@AnimationNation2004]

2:05:45 this is my favorite moment in this whole thing seeing Frank Oz be physically lifted up by Kevin Clash, Steve Whitmire, and Dave Goelz, to get him though the number is heartwarming.

[@pulpbabe]

I finally was able to bring myself to watch this after 27 years, still crying like a baby:( Merci much for the lessons and the joy, Jim....xx

[@jjgillmen]

The last things Jim Henson created have held up very well over the years: The animatronic puppets and suits for the first two live-action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles films. "The Secret of the Ooze" is dedicated in his memory. What a legend he was.

[@markheil9764]

i know i was young when jim passed on, but even as a adult i still love the magic he gave us.

[@nukacolanut9274]

At the part where they start singing "When the River Meets the Sea" I began to cry and sing along because I love that movie so much.

[@FireMinstrel]

The woman who sang it was always so pretty. And I love her accent. She played the other female pig on The Muppet Show, so she did a pretty good American accent. :)

[@TherealRNOwwfpooh]

Louise Gold (the other pig was the younger Annie Sue, who could've easily been to Robin what Miss Piggy [Lee] had been to Kermit).

[@nancyking]

I think Paul Williams wrote that for the Christmas special, "Emmett Otter's Jugband Christmas" . I cry every time I hear that song.

[@jackob.graphic5143]

I don't understand all of the hatred in the comments. Yes, things have gotten worse now that Jim is gone, but instead of focusing on that we should focus on the incredible legacy that he has left behind.

[@MetroXLR99]

*I don't understand all of the hatred in the comments.* I ask myself this question everytime I read the comments section of anything on KZbin and Facebook. ..and, I still can't understand it.

[@maruku4445]

Worse for Kermit and The Muppet Show maybe. Big Bird and Sesame Street will continue getting better and better.

[@angief6364]

You are right. Being haters, looking always the bad and negative side of everything and disrespecting others is like If we have forgotten Jim's legacy, his messages of love, understanding, happiness and hope for the world and humanity. The shows haven't been the same without him, but that doesn't mean that we should forget what he wanted to leave and teach through his works.

[@kylemorello4787]

Things started getting better when Jason Segal came along. Now we're down that slippery slope again after the ABC show bombed.

[@dillonohlemiller9027]

Kyle Morello segel

[@atheist101]

Jim had a special way of teaching kids difficult subjects in a way they could understand and accept it. He taught me about loss, death, grief, acceptance, bullyin and many other things. He taught it in a way that my 5 year old self could grasp and gave me the tools to deal with these things. Such a great man, all the good die young

[@theohiokid67]

I loved Jim Henson, his cast and all the Muppets. Going home in style to the joyous sounds of a Dixie Band... You can't get more Jim Henson than that.

[@a.katherinesuetterlin3028]

My dad would love "Rainbow Connection" played on the organ! He is 74, but one heck of a big kid, and loved "Dark Crystal" as well as the Muppet Show, Sesame Street, etc right along with me. I am 41 but still watch "The Muppet Movie" and jam along with "Can You Picture That?" But don't ya think Hoots the Owl from Sesame Street should have been in that jazz procession? ;-) Because it looks like everyone put down their duckies to honor Jim Henson like that. :-D

[@kylemorello4787]

Well, he sang You Are My Sunshine.

[@crowtservo]

I was 10 when he died. I remember how huge it was that he and Sammy Davis Jr. died on the same day. I didn’t know who Sammy Davis Jr. was but I loved the muppets and it was hard to believe Jim Henson was really gone.

[@brohugproductions2005]

“Watch out for each other. Love everyone and forgive everyone, including yourself. Forgive your anger, forgive your guilt. Your shame. Your sadness. Embrace and open your love, your joy, your truth, and more especially your heart.” Jim Henson

[@givynadkins2001]

I'm a puppeteer myself, and watching this is very sad. Jim Henson was a great man and super great, crdative, imaginitive man.

[@ArtfullyGifted]

Givyn Adkins I am too. I built a 12 foot long one. Lol

[@JohnSmith-uy7sv]

Has nothing to do with Salvation. Eternity will not be about any of us or what we have done. It will all be about Jesus Christ who died on a cross to save us from our sins. We all deserve hell and then the lake of fire on Judgement day.

[@dannybuttafuoco9529]

Farewell Jim Henson my childhood wouldn’t be what it is without you.

[@MrJoshinJosh]

I really am glad that the puppeteers brought along whatever Muppets that they were able to bring along with them.

[@andrewcolinwilson1]

Yeah so am I except Kermit the Frog wasn't there because Jim Henson performed him until he died and no one other than Jim Henson could have performed Kermit and it was as though Kermit died too until he was brought back to life by muppeteer Steve Whitmire until he got fired and then Matt Vogel.

[@snowflake199414]

ANDREW COLIN WILSON did not know Steve Whitmire got fired

[@RachelXKnight666]

Kiley Carness I only found out today too lol

[@seancashore]

He passed away before I was born. And he still played a major role in my childhood. Sesame street, Fraggle rock, muppets... They were like my role models growing up. R.I.P. 😞😭🥺✨

[@Zacmarie]

I’m 12 and I just came by because the first time I cried over a book was his book,and that was when I was 9,so now I just remembered Jim and I’m now crying (I don’t cry a lot)so this is what I call my idol.Rest Over The Rainbow Jim Henson Kermit,I love you always and forever

[@ronwade5433]

NBC, CBS, ABC, even the infantile FOX, ALL turned down Jim Henson and The Muppet Show. The BBC welcomed him and them and won our viewers and hearts.

[@sparkyphoenix7919]

I still can't believe that every time I heard the ending song, it made me cry. I wasn't even BORN yet when Jim Henson died tragically. It was a good few years before me, my older brother or even my older SISTER were born. And yet I STILL have that place in my heart for Jim Henson, even though I never knew him personally. I only knew him through all his amazing work he did throughout his career. To bring joy, laughter and happiness to all the kids around the world, and inspire them to follow their dreams, also giving them hope. Thank you Jim Henson, for all the wonderful things you have done, to make my childhood- and many other people's childhoods- a very happy one.

[@timdakis2107]

Todays his 30th Memorial this year in 2020. I can't believe he died in 1990 its so very sad. R.I.P Jim Henson (1936-1990). We all really miss you alot. His Legacy will always still Continue.

[@JohnSmith-uy7sv]

until judgement day.

[@user-xb9wq7xv6h]

子供の頃からセサミストリートを観てました。 英語が解らないのに、全ての方のメッセージや歌から言葉が伝わる😭

[@loolylooly81]

We certainly mourned him in Baghdad when he died. The muppet show was a firm of escapism from war and hunger. Thank you Hensen et al.

[@allisoncorona7381]

Baghdad? It's wonderful to know that he had such a great influence throughout the world!

[@Alpha48937]

the most beautiful thing in the world we miss you jim RIP you will always be in our hearts

[@dianelindberg7649]

I cried so hard when I saw the news that Jim had died. I ADORED Sesame Street, and the Muppet Show made me laugh until I cried as a child. He was a special man to come up with these shows, and he cared deeply about children. I also adore Carroll Spinney for his amazing work, as Big Bird & Oscar the Grouch. Thank you Jim Henson for the laughter & entertainment

[@HardRockMiner]

I clicked thinking I'd watch a bit and move on. I watched it all and cried thru a lot. I didn't know you Mr Henson, but you shaped my childhood. I hope you have the same level of joy in every second, that you gave me during The Muppet Show each Sunday. God bless you, sir... and waka waka. 😪

[@JohnSmith-uy7sv]

Ephesians 2:8-9 8 For by God's grace are we saved through faith; not by works, (or being a firefighter or law enforcement or a hero or a marine or a veteran or a war hero or dying for your country or actor or puppeteer or News reporter/anchor or a soul singer or killed by a terrorist or a sports hero or our heritage or ethnic background or a fashion designer or a rock star or body builder or a writer or cooking show host or walk into a room and lite up a room with their smile or a pioneer or a super pop star or bounty hunter or race car driver or football coach or country music singer or basketball star or civil rights leader or being modest or being humble or a Disney star actor or game show host or making people laugh or making people happy or never killing anyone) 9 it is the free gift of God, not that anyone can boast of their salvation." Eternity will not be about any of us or what we have done. It will all be about Jesus Christ who died on a cross to save us from our sins. We all deserve hell and then the Lake of Fire that burns with sulphur and fire on Judgement day.

[@vosreve]

Thank you Mr. Henson without you and Sesame Street escape, childhood would have been tough

[@RoloTonyBrownTown69420]

He was, and still is, such an inspiration. Children’s media would not be where it is now without him. Rest in paradise, Jim Henson.

[@liquidbandit]

Rest in peace to a real master of the arts

[@leocarioshiny]

All the performances were truly spectacular, but my hat goes off to Jim's family. So much talent and bravery, enough to carry his legacy onward and beyond what Jim could have ever expected (I found myself down this rabbit hope after watching the new dark crystal series after all). His wife was such an amazing woman. A hard worker who was Jim's equal in their early partnership and careers, and a matriarch who raised a family of six while their father was away. She passed away in 2013, so to her and Jim, I hope they rest in peace.

[@mardelcheatham]

What beautiful talented soul he was. His work will live on through the ages.

[@twist58]

Mr. Caroll Spinney has now joined his old friend Jim right alongside fellow Muppeteers Richard and Jerry now. Happily reunited with his good friends at those Gates of Heaven. I tip my hat to these men who are of the greats that helped shape my childhood...

[@FoxWeaver]

And now we've lost Caroll Spinney (Big Bird). Right in the goddamn childhood.

[@TCGamer09]

Never forgotten.

[@TheaterServant]

TCGamer09 NEVER

[@Penitant]

TheaterServant EVER

[@TheaterServant]

Penitant I miss him SO MUCH

[@Penitant]

As do I. I grew up with the Muppet Show. I remember when Mr Hooper died. I cried myself dry.

[@TheaterServant]

Penitant I miss him also. By the way do u use Facebook cause I do. We'd have a lot to talk about

[@Farrah300]

Brian has carried on his father's legacy as his other children have. John unfortunately passed in 2014.

[@gooodies4u1]

The most beautiful tribute I have ever seen. I'm 59 going back to this. He has been a part of probably BILLIONS of people's lives. Jim Henson, the true definition of love and acceptance

[@cartoonloverforever5709]

I feel like crying,rest in peace Jim you will never been forgotten.

[@JohnSmith-uy7sv]

until judgement day.

[@surrealdreams5036]

His characters brought so much joy to my childhood. His passing still brings a heaviness but the memories are soothing. Thank you Jim.

[@mpdalyful1]

jim Henson official biography by Brian jay jones was the best thing I read last year. the letters to his children were beautiful. it was a punch in the stomach

[@sha11235]

Mark Daly It's a great book, although I wonder why it didn't mention the Sesame Street film from 1985. He worked on that, right?

[@LifeCrier1]

30 years ago, we lost Jim. It still aches. Still love the legacy he created. Miss him. Still, his gifts remain.

[@agd29ifi]

Harry Belafonte has now joined Jim Henson and Sammy Davis Jr. Rest in peace Mr. Belafonte. 😢

[@beckykennedy6886]

RIP Jim Henson. You left this world way too soon.

[@collinnc2001]

Becky Kennedy I never will forget when this happened even if I was barely 8... the tribute they gave on the muppet show was beautiful. When their together near the end is so good

[@blackosprey2219]

Now THAT is a celebration of life.

[@EnchantedSmellyWolf]

Still leaves thr scar of sorrow. The fact they made The Dark Crystal on Netflix gave me tears of joy only for Netflix to cancel it. I hope they continue in some other way to quell the fanatics.

[@Pugelista41]

im sitting here with tears in my eyes.. and my 4 year old comes up during Big Birds song...and giggles. I think Jim would have liked that.

[@michaeljones9081]

I'm 41 and I'm sitting here crying like a little boy watching this, I'm sad Jim is gone, but in the same breath im so incredibly happy because I had the honor to grow up watching everything muppet related, especially the story teller series, my favorite was "the solider and death" amazing! When I look back, all I feel is happiness and I smile, I'm very fortunate I got to raise my children with the muppets and carry on the happiness and joy. Thank you Jim, From the bottom of my heart, I Love you and Who you were, I cant really put it into words... Thank you💞😊🤪

[@BonaOnofre]

“Henson’s Muppets spoke to the part of kids that was grown up and to the part of grown ups that was childlike”.... 😭

[@kristinewebb8739]

I remember the day he died. I cried on and off all day. Thank you Kermit..

[@InformationEMG]

This was a very sad moment for all of us. Jim died at an age that was way too young during a winter surge of infections (especially during COVID-19 and other pandemic related times right now) and we wish he had a longer life. Rest in heavenly peace, Jim.

[@rosieasmrwhispererzephier7021]

Me too