Matthew Soberman
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Muppy Award-Winning Senior Contributor for @ToughPigs and curator of @MuppetQuotes. I'm the one on the right, by the way.
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Articles by Matthew Soberman
RIP David Odell
ToughPigs is saddened to report that screenwriter David Odell recently passed away at the age of 83. Odell joined the writing staff of The Muppet Show in its third season, and was nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing in a Variety or Music Program in 1980. He won the award in 1981 along with co-writers Jerry Juhl and Chris Langham.
Report: We Toured Jim Henson’s Creature Shop
Finally, we reached the grand finale: a photoshoot with Red Fraggle! We were completely starstruck, but she was very gracious. (She also helped me work on my rock hockey skills, which was helpful. Once upon a time, to get into Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, you had to be working for Henson or an invited guest. It was a pretty exclusive place, leaving most to only imagine what it was like there.
The Muppets and Sesame Street (and Others) Team Up for the FIFA World Cup Halftime Show
by Matthew Soberman – [email protected] The FIFA World Cup is one of the biggest sporting events on the planet. Teams representing 48 countries will compete in the ultimate men’s soccer tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. And yet somehow, they’ve found a way to make it even bigger by bringing The Muppets and Sesame Street together for one night.
Oscar the Grouch Gets Glad in New Trash Bag Ad
In recent years, Sesame Workshop has collaborated on some advertisements that have felt, to be polite, out of place with what Sesame Street has stood for. But at long last, they found the perfect company to work with… for one character. That’s right, after 56 years, Oscar the Grouch has finally done a trash bag commercial.
How to Be a Muppet Fan at NYCC – 2025 - ToughPigs
New York Comic Con – one of my favorite times of year – is right around the corner. While we tend to wear our geek flags like superhero capes, it’s the time when all pop culture fans get together to celebrate in our shared love of… everything. And yes, “everything” includes the Muppets. Among the superheroes and space knights and anime characters that fill the convention center every year, there are always a few Muppets. And Fraggles and Grouches and Goblin Kings.
Kermit the Frog Sings for Hoda Kotb on Her Final "Today" Show
As journalist and television personality Hoda Kotb said goodbye to Today, the show she’s been part of since 2007, she got a visit from a very special guest: Kermit the Frog. Kermit’s appearance had a special significance, as Hoda brought on her daughters, Hope and Haley.
Synopsis: The Fraggles celebrate the Festival of the Bells, while Gobo’s doubt leads him on a quest to find the Great Bell at the heart of Fraggle Rock. Original air date: December 24, 1984 I don’t think it’s terribly controversial among Muppet fans to say “The Bells of Fraggle Rock” is a great holiday production. For what essentially boils down to a series created with children in mind, Fraggle Rock dealt with some pretty deep subjects, and the starter to season three is a great example.
Life, the Universe, and Yancy Woodchuck
It really is a special time of year. The holidays are a time to see wonder in the world, spend time with loved ones, and slowly lose your mind over a woodchuck. I should explain. Like many of you, I see the holidays as an annual excuse to watch Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas, and lately, I’ve been mesmerized by one particular character: Yancy Woodchuck. His appearance may be brief, but that only adds to his aura of mystique.
Lea Salonga Returns to Sesame Street for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
For many, Thanksgiving is a time for loved ones to get together, even if they haven’t seen each other in a while. And in the case of Sesame Street‘s forty-eighth appearance at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, there’ll be a reunion more than three decades in the making. This year’s guest on the 1-2-3 Sesame Street float is none other than Tony Award-winning actress and singer Lea Salonga. She last appeared on Sesame Street back in Episode 3154 , which aired in 1993.
REVIEW: Labyrinth's "Goodnight, Goblin King"
Back in ToughPigs’ recap of New York Comic Con 2023, I made a promise. I was fortunate enough to get a copy of the Labyrinth book “Goodnight, Goblin King” and I said a review would be coming to the website in the near future. But sometimes life is a funny thing. Sometimes writers don’t get to reviews right away. Sometimes books sit on tables too long, so you move that book to a hardly-used table in a rarely-entered room in your house.
“Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock Live” is coming to theaters across the United States and Canada next year. And if the idea of seeing Fraggles up-close still hasn’t convinced you, we now have a look at the walk-arounds! The Jim Henson Company shared a preview of what the “Fraggle Five” will look like. Gobo, Mokey, Wembley, Boober, and Red look darn good in walk-around form. Gobo sure looks like he’s ready to go exploring wherever the tour takes him. Meanwhile.
Chew On "The Muppet Christmas Carol" BarkBox
I think it’s pretty safe to say The Muppet Christmas Carol is well-liked among humans, but this timeless yuletide classic is reaching a whole new audience: the four-legged kind. BarkBox, a subscription-based pet toy service, has launched a limited-edition box inspired by the 1992 film.
RSVLTS Debuts "The Muppet Christmas Carol" Collection
Muppet fans are on RSVLTS’ nice list this year, because not only did we get a new line of Muppet apparel, but now they’ve launched a new line of shirts inspired by The Muppet Christmas Carol! There are three shirts in the collection, each celebrating a group of characters. The dark blue “Spirits of the Season” showcases the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, along with Statler and Waldorf as Jacob and Robert Marley.
RIP Quincy Jones
ToughPigs is saddened to learn that legendary musician, composer and producer Quincy Jones has passed away at the age of 91. Jones broke into the music industry in the early 1950’s as a touring jazz musician for Lionel Hampton, playing both piano and trumpet. After a tour with his own band left him in fiscal ruin, he took a job as Mercury Records’ musical director in New York City, which set him on a path to being an executive and producer.
Muppet Fan Artists Assemble for "Raised by Rainbows: Puppet Pals"
You know what’s great? Art. You know what’s even better than art? Muppet fan art. And you know what’s even better than Muppet fan art?
Henson Happenings at NYCC – 2024 - ToughPigs
Another New York Comic Con is officially in the books, leaving us with memories of the con that was and dreams of what will await us next year. And folks, personally… we’re dreaming that next year has way more Muppet offerings, because this year felt particularly light. But we’re ToughPigs, and to butcher a phrase from Dr. Teeth, we don’t take “meh” for an answer.
How to Be a Muppet Fan at NYCC – 2024 - ToughPigs
Has it already been a year since the last edition of New York Comic Con? I’m pretty sure folks are still in line for the Futurama panel. Still, the costumes are being assembled, the comic checklists have been written, and the hand sanitizer bottles have been refilled, so it must be time to head back to the Javits Center for another four days of geeky awesomeness.
REPORT: Jim Henson's Birthday Celebration in NYC
On Sunday, September 22nd, Muppet fans descended on New York City to celebrate Jim Henson’s birthday. (Yes, we know his birthday is the 24th, but it’s way more difficult to assemble a bunch of Muppet nerds on a Tuesday.) From singalongs to shopping sprees, there was plenty of fun to be had in the Big Apple.
RIP Kris Kristofferson
ToughPigs is saddened to learn that songwriter, musician, and actor Kris Kristofferson has passed away at the age of 88.
How to Be a Muppet Fan in NYC on September 22
I think that it’s a fair bet that if you’re reading this, you appreciate Jim Henson.
Just a Reminder: ToughPigs Has Always Been Like This
Hi there! You might’ve read recently that ToughPigs has recently decided to endorse Kamala Harris in her campaign for President of the United States. And most of you have been cool with our decision to endorse her, even if you don’t necessarily plan to vote for her yourselves. If you fall under this category, thank you for respecting our autonomy! You probably don’t even need to read this. Feel free to revisit “My Weeks with Muppets Tonight” instead.
Museum of the Moving Image to Host Frank Oz Retrospective
We’ve known Frank Oz is a legend for years. Heck, we knew before Disney did! And now, the Museum of the Moving Image is celebrating the man, the myth and the legend, with a two-month screening series of his works, “The Magic of Oz: A Frank Oz Retrospective.” Running from October 4 through November 30, the retrospective will showcase every feature film Oz has directed, along with some of his performing highlights. Never seen Housesitter or Death at a Funeral?
RIP James Earl Jones
ToughPigs is saddened to learn that stage and screen icon James Earl Jones has passed away at the age of 93. Jones established himself as a titan of theater in stage productions like Sunrise at Campobello, Othello, Fences, and The Great White Hope, the latter of which he would also star in the film adaptation, which proved to be his breakout role. He would also star in such films like The Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars & Motor Kings, Conan the Barbarian, Coming to America, and Field of Dreams.
RIP Phil Donahue
ToughPigs is saddened to learn that television personality Phil Donahue has passed away at the age of 88. Donahue is perhaps best known for being the host of the daytime talk show, The Phil Donahue Show, which ran from 1967 to 1996. He set the standard for daytime talk, unafraid to tackle the big issues like civil and reproductive rights, war, and religion. Most notably, he let the audience ask most of the questions, opening a dialogue that aimed at reaching a mutual understanding.
The Future of Muppet*Vision 3D: What We Know and What We Don't
It’s been a harrowing week to be a Muppet fan, hasn’t it? Once again, the rumor mill has sprung to life and started churning out the claims that Muppet*Vision 3D may finally be nearing its last days at Walt Disney World… only this time, there may be slightly more than just idle prater. At D23’s Disney Experiences presentation, the company announced that a new roller coaster based on the Pixar film Monsters, Inc. would be coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Moana Mini Cake Returns for World Princess Week at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort
Guests visiting Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort can stop by Kona Island or Capt. Cook’s for the returning Moana Mini Cake to celebrate World Princess Week 2024. It will be available through August 31. Vanilla Cake filled with Mango Mousse and covered in a wave of Glaçage, Buttercream, Fondant, and White Chocolate Décor The Moana Mini Cake uses fondant, buttercream, and white chocolate to make it look like Moana is standing atop a waterfall. The decor is held up by buttercream atop the fondant.
SDCC Exclusive Kermit and Elmo Funko Pops! Now Available Online
Two Muppet memes have been immortalized in civilization’s highest artform: Funko Pops! Released at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con, these figures are now available to purchase on Funko.com. Pop! Kermit with Tea – $15.00 If you’ve had enough of the “Tea Lizard,” that’s none of Funko’s business. This figure shows Kermit the Frog, looking less than amused, holding his “kermit.” mug.
RIP Bob Newhart - ToughPigs
ToughPigs is saddened to learn that comedian and television icon Bob Newhart has passed away at the age of 94. Known for his deadpan delivery, he began his career in standup, where he became known for his witty monologues. His 1960 album, “The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart,” was a smash hit, becoming the first comedy album to win the Grammy Award for Album of the Year.
The Implications of "Dawson's Creek" and "Muppets from Space" in the Same Universe
On July 14th, 1999, the world of pop culture was blown wide open. Move over, Detective Munch, and take a seat, Tommy Westphall! A little cameo brought together one of the hottest dramas on television with the timeless world of the Muppets when Joshua Jackson and Katie Holmes appeared as Pacey and Joey from Dawson’s Creek in Muppets from Space. So to celebrate the movie’s silver anniversary, I thought I’d explore the implications of Dawson’s Creek existing within the world of the Muppets.
RIP Richard Simmons
ToughPigs is saddened to learn that fitness icon and television personality Richard Simmons has passed away at the age of 76. Simmons was perhaps best known for Sweatin’ to the Oldies, his series of aerobics tapes. Prior to that, he hosted his own talk show (unsurprisingly centered around fitness), The Richard Simmons Show from 1980 to 1984.
'Labyrinth' Getting New Graphic Novel Adaptation
After all these years, people still love getting lost in the world of Labyrinth, so BOOM! Studios has announced a brand new way to experience the timeless story. Later this year, the publisher will release a graphic novel of A.C.H. Smith’s novelization of the 1986 film. (An adaptation of an adaptation of a movie?
'The Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited' Making Final Stop in USA
After seven years, The Jim Henson Exhibition: Imagination Unlimited is getting ready to say goodbye… at least to the United States. The traveling exhibit, which launched in 2017, has announced it will make its final American stop at the Peoria Riverfront Museum in Peoria, Illinois, running from September 28, 2024 through January 5, 2025. After it closes, the exhibit will set out on a European tour.
Review: Back to the Rock Season 2 – Episode 13 ‘Hope and Socks’ - ToughPigs
After twelve episodes, we’ve finally made it to the season two finale of Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock! So what great message have we been building up to? Something to do with the value of teamwork? A reminder of how our similarities outweigh our differences? A warning about the dangers of urinating in the ocean? It turns out it’s only one word: “hope.” That’s it. The whole season’s conclusion is four letters long.
The Jim Henson Company Selling Studio Lot
After nearly a quarter century, The Jim Henson Company is selling off its historic studio lot in Los Angeles, according to The Wrap‘s Drew Taylor.
Sesame Street Says "Bonjour" to Paris for 2024 Summer Olympics
As the athletes of the world come together in Paris, France for the 2024 Summer Olympics, they’ll be joined by some gold medal entertainment. NBC has announced that the gang from Sesame Street will be heading to Paris for their coverage of the games, which take place July 26 – August 11, 2024. Cookie Monster joined the crew of Today to break the big news, and try some traditional French macarons.
RIP Muppet Movie Producer Martin Starger
ToughPigs is saddened to learn that film and television producer Martin Starger has passed away at the age of 92. As the first president of ABC Entertainment, Starger helped bring such shows to television as Marcus Welby, M.D., Happy Days, Rich Man, Poor Man, and Roots. Moving into feature films, he produced works like Robert Altman’s Nashville and Peter Bogdanovich’s Mask.
Fraggle Rock: 40 Years Later – “Doozer Is As Doozer Does” - ToughPigs
Synopsis: When Wrench Doozer’s construction team is given an important assignment, they celebrate being “rev” by “flooping.” When Wrench realizes that flooping can have dangerous consequences, he has to decide whether he wants to stay “rev” or stand up for himself. Original air date: May 28, 1984 Since its inception, Fraggle Rock has always been about teaching messages.
Just a Reminder: Jim Henson Was a Human Being
With a documentary about him coming out in a matter of hours, there sure seems to be more talk than usual about Jim Henson these days. Some of it’s even from folks who don’t obsess over the Muppets! Hopefully, Jim Henson Idea Man reminds people about just what made him special, from his life to his work to his very nature.
Jim Henson Idea Man: Two SPOILER-FREE Reviews
In celebration of Jim Henson Idea Man and the person who inspired it, I’ve decided to think outside the box and take a different approach in my spoiler-free criticism. That’s right, it’s time to Choose Your Own Review! I’ve written two reviews of the documentary, and you can pick which version best applies to you! If all you know about Jim Henson is that he created the Muppets and died young, read the section under For Casual Fans.
RIP Songwriter Richard M. Sherman
ToughPigs is saddened to learn that Oscar and Grammy-winning songwriter Richard M. Sherman has passed away at the age of 95. Alongside his brother, Robert B. Sherman, Richard created the soundtrack to so many beloved films. Best known for their work with The Walt Disney Company, the Sherman Brothers crafted the songs for movies including Mary Poppins, The Jungle Book, and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.
RIP Dabney Coleman
ToughPigs is saddened to learn that award-winning actor Dabney Coleman has passed away at the age of 92. A skilled performer in both drama and comedy, Coleman was arguably best-known for his role as the misogynistic boss Franklin Hart, Jr. in the 1980 movie 9 to 5. Other notable film credits include his work in Pray TV, On Golden Pond, Tootsie, WarGames, and Cloak & Dagger.
Wave 2 of Super7's Sesame Street ReAction Figures Feature Guy Smiley, Lefty the Salesman and More
Hey, bud! C’mere. How would you like to buy an action figure… because Super7 is getting ready to launch the second wave of Sesame Street ReAction figures! Joining the lineup in wave two are: Oscar the Grouch Guy Smiley (with Bread, so you can reenact a particular installment of “Here is Your Life”) Cookie Monster Lefty the Salesman According to several retailers, these figures will be hitting shelves sometime in late May or early June, with the suggested retail price listed at $20.00 each.
Fraggle Rock: 40 Years Later – “Fraggle Wars” - ToughPigs
Synopsis: It is a period of civil war. Rebel spaceships, striking from a hidden base, have won their first victory against the evil Galactic Emp… wait, wrong wars. Synopsis: While on a camping trip, Mokey discovers Fraggle Cave, whose residents take her prisoner. When Red tries to rally the Fraggles to rescue her, both Fraggle Rock and Cave are set on a path to war. Original air date: April 23, 1984 As the story commonly goes, Jim Henson envisioned Fraggle Rock as a show to end war.
Trailer Released for Jim Henson: Idea Man
Disney has released a trailer for Jim Henson: Idea Man, and we’re getting our first look at the archival goodies that await us. In the trailer, we get to see footage of Henson family movies and an animated reenactment of the creation of Kermit the Frog (RIP Betty’s coat) along with interviews of such recognizable folks as Frank Oz and Jennifer Connelly.
D is for Deal: Sesame Street Writers Reach Agreement, Avoiding Strike
It’s sunny days in the writers room, as we’re happy to report that writers for Sesame Workshop have reached a tentative agreement on a new contract, avoiding a strike. Voting to ratify the deal will be held in the coming days. Their previous deal was set to expire on Friday, with plans to form picket lines as early as Wednesday, April 25th. The 35 writers, represented by the Writers Guild of America East, voted unanimously to strike earlier in the week.
P is for Picket Line: Sesame Street Writers Vote to Authorize Strike
The season of strikes is on the verge of hitting Sesame Street. Writers for Sesame Workshop voted unanimously to strike should a new deal be not be reached before the current one expires on April 19th. In a statement, the Writers Guild of America East, which includes the 35 affected writers, said: “The writers that Sesame Workshop hires are deeply committed to the work that we do.
RIP Robert MacNeil
ToughPigs is saddened to learn that legendary journalist Robert MacNeil has passed away at the age of 93. Having started as a correspondent for British network ITV and Reuters, MacNeil made his first big break into American television with NBC News, where he was one of the first to report of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
Updated Edition of "Jim Henson's Imagination Illustrated" Coming this August
Nearly twelve years ago, Karen Falk took us all on a unique journey through the history of the Muppets with “Imagination Illustrated: The Jim Henson Journal.” Using Jim’s own words and incredible pieces from The Jim Henson Company archives, Falk told the story of his career in a way fans hadn’t enjoyed before. Now, to coincide with the upcoming release of Jim Henson: Idea Man, an updated edition of the book will hit shelves this August.
Jim Henson Documentary Gets Title
When we’re asked about what we’re looking forward to, no longer will we Muppet fans have to say “the Jim Henson documentary. No, the one with Ron Howard, not the one that came out in 1994.” Thanks to our friends Muppet Wiki, we now know the official title, and it’s Jim Henson: Idea Man. That sounds mysterious, yet accurate! Jim Henson had a lot of ideas, many of them good ones. I hear those Muppets are pretty neat.
RIP Follow That Bird Star Joe Flaherty
ToughPigs is saddened to learn that actor, writer, and comedian Joe Flaherty has passed away at the age of 82. A veteran of the Second City theater troupe, Flaherty broke into television with SCTV, where he was one of the show’s longest-serving cast members and writers from 1976 to 1984. There, he brought life such memorable characters as horror host Count Floyd, the scummy TV network owner Guy Caballero, and schmaltzy entertainer Sammy Maudlin.
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