5 September 2026 marks 50 years since The Muppet Show first aired in the UK, launching a programme that would prove as culturally influential as Monty Python or the Beatles. Created by Jim Henson, who had already made his name with the educational children's show Sesame Street, The Muppet Show was conceived as a more adult-oriented vehicle for Kermit the Frog after two US specials failed to secure a series. It was Lew Grade of Britain's ATV who backed the idea, and production moved to Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire, where the show's blend of anarchy, absurdism and eclectic music won over audiences of all ages.

The show combined novelty songs, classical pieces, light opera and pop from writers such as Randy Newman and Harry Nilsson, alongside memorable guest turns from stars including Joel Grey, Rita Moreno, Alice Cooper and Vincent Price. By December 1976 it was drawing 14 million UK viewers, and within months more than 100 countries had bought or sought the rights, with celebrities such as Rudolf Nureyev and Debbie Harry later clamouring to appear.