The Muppet Show (2026) is a United States variety comedy television special celebrating the franchise’s 50th anniversary.
It is directed by Alex Timbers and produced by Disney Branded Television with The Muppets Studio and Point Grey Pictures.
The special features Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, and the full classic ensemble, alongside Sabrina Carpenter, Seth Rogen, and Maya Rudolph.
The story follows the Muppets as they attempt to reboot their legendary variety show inside the original Muppet Theatre for a new generation.
The special revives the famous show-within-a-show format, mixing backstage chaos with musical sketches.
It blends classic slapstick with modern pop-culture humor while keeping the tone playful and self-aware.
The production honors the Jim Henson era while updating the comedy style for 2026 audiences. The Muppet Show (2026) premieres on February 4, 2026, on ABC and Disney+.
The Muppet Show Age Rating
The Muppet Show (2026) is rated TV-PG, meaning parental guidance is suggested due to mild humor, slapstick violence, and occasional innuendo.
The rating reflects the franchise’s long-standing approach of appealing to both children and adults at the same time.
While the visuals and characters remain colorful and friendly, some jokes are written for older viewers. Nothing rises to the level of strong language or adult content, but younger children may not understand all humor. Overall, the rating aligns with classic Muppet specials and modern Disney family programming.
Violence & Peril
- The special contains mild slapstick violence typical of the Muppets.
- Characters are hit by props, launched offstage, or caught in comedic explosions during stunts.
- All violence is exaggerated, bloodless, and clearly unrealistic.
- Moments of chaos may surprise very young children but are played entirely for laughs.
Language
- There is no strong profanity in the special.
- Dialogue may include mild insults, teasing, or comedic name-calling such as “idiot” or “weirdo.”
- Some jokes rely on sarcasm or wordplay that older viewers will understand more easily.
- The language stays within family-friendly broadcast standards.
Mature Themes
- The story touches lightly on work stress, ego clashes, and creative pressure in show business.
- Miss Piggy’s diva behavior and backstage arguments are exaggerated for humor.
- There may be mild innuendo or “wink-wink” jokes aimed at adults, but nothing explicit.
- There is no sexual content, nudity, or substance use beyond brief background jokes.
Is The Muppet Show Suitable for Kids?
Ages 4–6: With Guidance. Young children can enjoy the songs, colors, and characters but may miss jokes or feel startled by loud slapstick.
Ages 7–12: Yes. Most kids in this range will understand the humor and enjoy the fast-paced sketches and music.
Ages 13+: Yes. Teens and adults will appreciate the layered humor, celebrity guests, and nostalgic references.
Overall recommendation: Best suited for ages 7 and up, with parents present for younger viewers.
What Parents Can Do
- Explain that slapstick violence is exaggerated and not meant to be copied in real life.
- Help younger kids understand jokes about work pressure and teamwork.
- Encourage a conversation about creativity, collaboration, and handling stress after viewing.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for The Muppet Show (2026)?
A: The special is rated TV-PG for mild humor, slapstick violence, and light innuendo.
Q: Is The Muppet Show (2026) appropriate for kids?
A: Yes, especially for ages 7 and up, though younger kids may need guidance.
Q: Are there scary scenes in the special?
A: No, but some loud slapstick moments or chaotic scenes may briefly startle very young children.
Q: Does the special include strong language or slurs?
A: No strong language or slurs appear, only mild comedic insults.
Q: Is there any sexual content?
A: No explicit sexual content, nudity, or suggestive scenes are present.
Q: Where can I watch The Muppet Show (2026)?
A: The special premieres on ABC and streams on Disney+ starting February 4, 2026.