The 21st Anniversary of Jim Henson's Death: Watch His Beautiful Memorial Again

May 16 marks the 21st anniversary of Jim Henson's death, so I hope you've recovered emotionally from that jarring new photo of the Muppets; you'll need to be in peak spiritual condition to survive the following clip without withering into a pile of tears. In 1990, soon after Henson died of a streptococcal infection at age 53, his Muppeteer colleagues helped stage a magnificent memorial that culminated with a giant medley of his favorite songs. It's tortuously gorgeous.

It's a lovely medley that shows off the distinct camaraderie between Muppet masters. The tribute becomes more painful and poignant when you realize that Richard Hunt (the voice of Scooter, Beaker, and others), who kicks off the medley, died less than two years later of complications from AIDS. Just an incredible display of talent, love, and genius.



Comments

  • Mike the Movie Tyke says:

    Nice. Warner Bros. took the opposite approach but reached an equal level of sweetness with the wonderful "Speechless" poster released in honor of Mel Blanc's death.

  • Neil says:

    Such a great clip. Thanks for posting!

  • Steve says:

    Reminds me of how my mother used to take me to see The Muppet movies and watch the show with us. She passed away 2 months ago. I miss here. This is not the place to say it, but it helps.

  • Megan says:

    I had the pleasure of seeing the Jim Henson exhibit when it was visiting the Museum of Science & Industry in Chicago last winter. Jim Henson came out of the womb just full of fantastical ideas. Not only did the exhibit have many of his puppets and other great relics, but it was filled with random little sketches and writings he made throughout his life. He was just constantly creating. And what a legacy he left behind. What memories he's blessed all of us with. He epitomized childhood, whimsy, and imagination. God Bless, Mr. Henson. We miss you, and can only help but wonder what you'd bring us today if you were still here.

  • casting couch says:

    It still makes me sad to see new things featuring The Muppets without Jim Henson behind the scenes 🙁