20 Years After Jim Henson's Death, His Muppet Memorial Still Inspires

Yesterday marked the 20th anniversary of puppet grandmaster Jim Henson's unexpected death from organ failure, a passing that, for some, was easily as paralyzing as the loss of John Lennon. Following his 30-plus years of work, in which he gave us Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, Fraggle Rock, and many other projects, Jim Henson's surviving colleagues convened in London for what is still a devastatingly emotional ceremony to watch, even now. Videos of the poignant event after the jump.

Legendary Henson collaborator Frank Oz gave this speech at the memorial, reflecting on Jim's kooky humor and meticulous workmanship.

Here come the tears: Big Bird's rendition of "Bein' Green" is so overwhelmingly sad that even Statler and Waldorf were silenced for a few moments.

Near the end of the ceremony, a klatch of Henson's fellow puppeteers gathered to sing his favorite songs. In the first part of the medley, Kevin Clash brings out his effervescent Elmo voice. It's important to know that, before he died, Henson mandated that no one wear black at his memorial. That explains Steve Whitmire's lime green suit.

Pages: 1 2