The Muppets Take Manhattan is on at our house right now. When I saw it on the guide, I got really excited. I think I saw this movie in the theater or really wanted to, but seeing it as an adult gives me a whole new perspective. I loved the The Muppet Show and all of the early Muppet movies (I feel like they lost their way in the 90’s). I was even a fan of the Saturday morning cartoon, Muppet Babies. I would always try and look up into the TV to see Nanny’s face.
One thing that I didn’t understand was why there was always a mix of “human” Muppets and animal Muppets. And why some animals could speak and some couldn’t. There were talking bears, frogs and pigs, but those chickens that Gonzo had unnatural Muppet love for, couldn’t speak a lick.
Beyond hints at zoophilia, Kermit was in a blatant, verbally and physically abusive relationship with Miss Piggy, I always hoped they would procreate and produce little frigs or pogs. I thought it would soften Miss Piggy and make her not so much of a bitch. They do get married at the end of The Muppets Take Manhattan, but Kermit really hesitates before saying “I do”.
My favorite Muppet was Rowlf. I didn’t know why at the time, but watching the movie today, Rowlf was a pretty sarcastic dog. I guess even at eight years old, I had an appreciation for sarcasm. 
I may go on a hunt for the original episodes of The Muppet Show. My parents would watch it with us so I’m assuming there had to be more adult humor in the shows than I remember. Like those two old asses up in the balcony – I never got their jokes when I was a child, but I bet I would now.
I think the most memorable Muppet besides Kermit was probably Animal. Everyone always claims that Animal was their favorite, but Animal was a ticking time bomb. He was all coked up (it was the 80’s) and was allowed to harass and terrorize whomever he chose. He was one helluva drummer, though. 
At the risk of sounding like anyone older than dirt, they really don’t make shows like The Muppets anymore. And to make sure Ryan doesn’t get upset for me not recognizing his Swedish heritage…
"Aweenda shmure da froog's legs."
10:02 
My parents have the little plastic figurines at their house- there’s a Kermit, Miss Piggy, Rowlf, Scooter, and Gonzo, I think. Anna plays with them every time and has no idea- I need to bust out that movie. 🙂
My kids saw the trailer for the new Muppet Movie last summer and they really wanted to go see it so I thought they would be super excited about The Muppets Take Manhattan. Not so much. I would like to play with the figurines though!
Oh wow you really did over-analyse it! Ha. I definitely felt for Kermie, but sadly turned out like Piggy. Animal reminded me of my little sister. Rowlf was definitely like an underappreciated, unsung hero.
That’s a good description of Rowlf. He was always the voice of reason!
I used to watch the Muppets in England. The only two I specifically remember were the ones with Blondie – when they played Rapture – and when Luke Skywalker, C-3PO, R2-D2 and Chewbacca from Star Wars appeared on the show. EVERY kid saw that one.
I actually have that episode at home 🙂
My 5 year old has heard of the muppets, but not as you know ’em LOL In England, Jamie Oliver popularised the word “muppet” by using it to describe anyone he considered clueless. For example, “you’re a frickin’ muppet.”
I’m in the habit of calling the other drivers on the road muppets now. J has picked up on this. If another car cuts across three lanes of traffic to get to the exit, he’ll shout (before me) “Muppet!!!”
God bless my son. I’m so proud 😀
I should start using “Muppet” instead of what I actually say! If I am stopped behind another car for any reason whatsoever – including a red light, Rory shouts from the back seat, “Come on, Dude!”
I got the first season of The Muppet Show from a friend and we’re 3 episodes in…I have absolutely no idea who these guest stars are…except for Ernie and Bert who were in the 2nd one.
J says that too. He also says – not from me – “okay, dude, really? Seriously?” LOL