Maya Rudolph’s Next Comedy Show Is Full of Muppets

It’s good to be back in the Muppets theater — after all, the cast of Freaks and Geeks has been working their butts off to save it. Produced by Seth Rogen, the fuzzy goofballs are back for a new Muppets special, simply called The Muppet Show, premiering on ABC and Disney+. It’s their first official variety show back since Muppets Now, and they’re bringing some new blood into the mix: Sabrina Carpenter, who reminds them that she’s a young Hollywood starlet. “I grew up watching you, my parents grew up watching, their parents —” she tells Miss Piggy before the passage of time catches up with her. Kermit quickly reminds the audience how important the special is, as it might determine the future of The Muppet Show “depending on how the night goes.” The trailer promises traditional silly antics, like Gonzo’s daring stunts and Beaker’s dysfunctional science experiments, and musical performances. Because what is a true Muppet Show without a song or two?

Thankfully, the gang of misfits has plenty of star power behind them for their revival. In addition to Carpenter, they’ve recruited a new member to join the crew: Maya Rudolph, who’s greeted with a kiss on her hand by Beautiful Day Monster. The Muppets are romantics, after all. Just ask Pepé. 

The Muppet Show special premieres on February 4 on Disney+ at 3 a.m. ET and ABC at 9 p.m. ET, silly antics included.