By Jocelyn Buhlman
Possibly one of the most beloved Christmas films of all time (at least in our hearts), The Muppet Christmas Carol recently rang in 30 years of jolly and joyousness. We’ve been celebrating this milestone anniversary ever since D23 Expo, when the Muppets and their performers joined us for an amazing panel celebrating the history of the movie. Hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race alum and self-described “huge Muppet fan” Nina West, the panel featured a Q&A with Kermit the Frog (Bob Cratchit); Miss Piggy (Emily Cratchit); Kermit’s nephew, Robin (Tiny Tim); and, of course, Gonzo—er, Charles Dickens himself!
Following the Muppetational mayhem was a Q&A with the film’s director, Brian Henson, songwriter Paul Williams, costume designer Polly Smith, and puppeteer Dave Goelz, who voices Gonzo, Dr. Honeydew, Waldorf, and many others. Plus, the panel featured two live performances: Jodi Benson, the voice of The Little Mermaid’s original Ariel, performed the recently restored ballad “When Love Is Gone,” and Kermit, Piggy, Gonzo, Robin, Fozzie, and the rest of the Muppet cast performed a medley of the film’s songs, accompanied by West.
Check out highlights from this panel below, and may your viewing be merry and bright!