Disney has announced that The Muppet Show will be making its long-awaited return, with a brand-new special arriving on Disney+ in 2026. The project is being produced by Seth Rogen and will feature Sabrina Carpenter as one of the celebrity guests. The special is described as a backdoor pilot, giving Disney the chance to test the waters for a potential full revival of the series.
The timing is significant, as the new special will arrive in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the original Muppet Show, which first premiered in 1976. For longtime fans, this marks an opportunity to celebrate one of television’s most beloved variety shows, while also introducing a new generation to the humor, chaos, and heart of Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, Animal, and the rest of the classic characters.
The Muppet Show logo provided by Disney.
While specific details about the format remain under wraps, the expectation is that the new special will embrace what made The Muppet Show unique: sketch comedy, musical performances, and the kind of unpredictable backstage antics that became its trademark. Fans are already speculating about which characters will return and how the new version will balance nostalgia with modern sensibilities.
Seth Rogen’s involvement suggests a blend of comedy traditions, with the potential to keep the Muppets’ signature charm intact while adding a fresh perspective. Sabrina Carpenter’s role as a guest star signals that music will once again play a central part in the production, echoing the variety-style roots of the original.
If the special is successful, it could pave the way for a full series revival, giving the Muppets a prominent place on Disney+ once more. For now, the announcement alone has sparked excitement and conversation across generations of fans who have been waiting to hear those famous words again: “It’s time to play the music, it’s time to light the lights.”
