As the world eagerly anticipates the premiere of his latest Disney+ documentary, Jim Henson: Idea Man, filmmaker Ron Howard took a moment to reflect on the magic of the Muppets and his personal favorite among them. With a heartfelt tribute to the late Jim Henson, Howard shared his thoughts with Entertainment Weekly, revealing why Kermit the Frog holds a special place in his heart.
Why Kermit Stands Out to Ron Howard
In an interview published on May 30, the Academy Award-winning director didn’t hesitate when asked about his favorite Muppet. "It’s Kermit, which is kind of an obvious choice," Howard confessed to Entertainment Weekly. "But there’s something deeply relatable about Kermit. He’s just a regular guy trying to get by in a world filled with larger-than-life personalities. That’s something Jim Henson understood, and it’s something I resonate with too. Kermit represents the voice of reason in a world that can feel a little chaotic sometimes."
The Bond Between Jim Henson and Kermit
Howard elaborated on the connection between Henson and his most iconic creation. "Jim related to Kermit on a very personal level," Howard explained. "Kermit is this ordinary guy who’s thrust into extraordinary situations, surrounded by these eccentric, high-energy characters. He’s trying to keep things grounded, to bring a sense of calm and order to the chaos. And that’s something Jim experienced in his own life. He was a quiet, introspective person, but through Kermit, he found a way to express himself in a bold, playful way."
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From Humble Beginnings to Iconic Status
Kermit the Frog’s journey to stardom is as fascinating as the character himself. Henson first brought Kermit to life in the 1950s, crafting the early versions of what would become one of the most beloved Muppets. "The thing about Jim was his creativity knew no bounds," Howard marveled. "He wasn’t limited by resources or materials. In fact, some of his greatest innovations came from using what he had on hand. Kermit’s origin story is a testament to that resourcefulness."
The Evolution of Kermit
Kermit’s transformation into the iconic green frog we know today was a gradual process. "Kermit started as a simple puppet made from Jim’s mother’s old coat," Howard shared. "They didn’t even know he was a frog at first. He was just this character that fit Jim’s hand and allowed him to create these funny, endearing reactions. Over time, Kermit evolved into Kermit the Frog, becoming not just a character but an alter ego for Jim. It’s a beautiful story about creativity and self-expression."
Remembering Jim Henson’s Legacy
Jim Henson’s impact on the worlds of animation, puppeteering, and filmmaking cannot be overstated. Tragically, he passed away in May 1990 at the age of 53, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations. "Jim was one of those rare individuals who radiated authenticity," Howard told The Guardian ahead of the documentary’s release. "There was no pretense, no hidden agenda. He was genuinely a good person, a noble soul. He set an example for all of us about what it means to be a compassionate, creative human being."
With the premiere of Jim Henson: Idea Man on May 31, fans and newcomers alike will have the chance to celebrate the life and work of this extraordinary artist. Through the lens of Ron Howard’s filmmaking expertise, the documentary promises to offer a fresh perspective on Henson’s enduring influence and the timeless magic of the Muppets.
