Muppet Show Special Watched by Many, May Come Back

A special show bringing back The Muppet Show has been watched by many people. Over 7.5 million viewers saw it in the first 8 days. This good start might mean a new Muppet Show series will be made.
By Newsroom | Television, Entertainment |

A recent special, reviving the beloved "The Muppet Show," has drawn a considerable audience across multiple platforms, generating substantial viewership numbers in its initial eight days of release. The special's performance is being closely observed as it was designed as a "backdoor pilot," potentially leading to a full series revival. Its strong debut across both Disney+ and ABC indicates a promising reception for the iconic franchise's return.

Context and Debut

The "Muppet Show" revival special premiered on February 4, 2026, airing on ABC and becoming available on Disney+. This half-hour special features the Muppets reuniting at the Muppet Theater to stage a new variety show. Notable guest stars included Sabrina Carpenter, Maya Rudolph, and Seth Rogen, with Rogen and Carpenter also serving as executive producers. The special also marks the 50th anniversary of the original series.

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  • Key Dates:

  • Premiere Date: February 4, 2026

  • Reporting Period: First 8 days post-premiere

  • Distribution: Disney+ and ABC

  • Production: The special is produced by The Muppets Studio, Disney Branded Television, 20th Television, and Point Grey Pictures.

Viewer Data and Growth

The special has garnered significant viewership across multiplatform delivery, with reports indicating a substantial increase since its initial broadcast.

  • Total Viewership (8 days): 7.58 million viewers across Disney+ and ABC.

  • Initial ABC Broadcast Viewership: 3.07 million viewers.

  • Growth Percentage: An increase of 147% from the initial broadcast to the total multiplatform viewership over eight days.

  • Platform Dominance: The special ranked as the most-watched content on Disney+ in 59 countries on its release day.

Demographic Performance

Beyond total viewership, the special also performed well in key demographic categories.

  • Adults 18-49 Demo: The special achieved a 0.52 rating in the Adults 18-49 demographic.

  • Broadcast Performance: This rating was reportedly the highest of any show across all broadcast networks on its Wednesday night premiere.

Critical and Audience Reception

Reviews and audience reactions suggest a positive reception to the revival.

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  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: The special has received a perfect score of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes.

  • Viewer Sentiment: Audience feedback highlighted a desire for the Muppets' return, with comments noting the special provided "a great escape" and was "exactly what the original show did."

"People need The Muppets right now." - Viewer feedback cited in media reports.

Potential Series Revival

The "Muppet Show" revival special was explicitly conceived as a "backdoor pilot." Its strong viewership and positive reception are therefore critical indicators for potential future development.

  • Purpose of Special: Designed to gauge interest and feasibility for a new full series run.

  • Industry Observation: Industry sources and media outlets are closely watching the viewership numbers to assess the likelihood of a series renewal.

Key Contributors

Several individuals and entities were instrumental in the production and creative direction of the revival special.

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RoleIndividuals / Entities
Guest StarsSabrina Carpenter, Maya Rudolph, Seth Rogen
Executive ProducersSeth Rogen, Sabrina Carpenter, Evan Goldberg, James Weaver, Alex McAtee (Point Grey), David Lightbody, Leigh Slaughter, Michael Steinbach (Muppets Studio)
DirectorAlex Timbers
ProductionThe Muppets Studio, Disney Branded Television, 20th Television, Point Grey Pictures
Original CreatorsJim Henson, Jack Burns

Conclusion and Outlook

The "Muppet Show" revival special has demonstrated considerable appeal, evidenced by its substantial multiplatform viewership and high critical acclaim. The 7.58 million viewers reached within the first eight days, coupled with a 147% increase in audience engagement and top ratings in key demographics, provides a robust signal of the franchise's enduring popularity. While official confirmation of a full series revival is pending, the special's performance aligns with the objective of serving as a successful backdoor pilot. The project's success is a confluence of nostalgic appeal, modern production, and guest star wattage, suggesting a strong foundation for further endeavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many people watched the Muppet Show special?
About 7.58 million people watched it in the first 8 days on Disney+ and ABC.
Q: Why was this special made?
It was made to see if people would like a new Muppet Show series.
Q: Did people like the special?
Yes, reviews were very good, and viewers said they enjoyed it.
Q: Will there be a new Muppet Show series?
It is possible because the special did so well, but it has not been decided yet.