Jim Henson was an absolute creative genius in his time. The man behind the Muppets left a legacy of incredible films, shows, and stories that have captured the imagination of viewers the world over. Through the medium of wire and felt, Henson and his team of puppeteers built characters and creatures that would forever be a part of popular culture.
Although he did not work alone, there are certain characters and creations, both puppet and performer, that are entirely Henson’s work, and they certainly deserve more than a little spotlight. From Muppets to monsters, Jim Henson’s magic is perfectly presented through these characters.
Bunsen and Beaker (the Muppet Show)
Starting out the list is this dynamic duo from Muppet Labs, Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his faithful assistant, Beaker.
While Bunsen might lack the typical mad scientist elements as seen with characters like Dr. Julius Strange Pork, his gift for wacky inventions is a never-ending flame that keeps the lab (and often Beaker) aglow. Beaker, on the other hand is simply just the meeping vehicle for some seriously brutal slapstick. What’s not to like?
The Skeksis (The Dark Crystal)
The Dark Crystal was a fantasy flick ahead of it’s time and one of the most ingenious creations from Jim Henson. While many might be quick to put the Gelflings Jen and Kira on the list, the most unforgettable characters in the film are definitely the Skeksis.
These creepy crow-like creatures are the stuff of nightmares, but at the same time, they come with that Henson-brand creativity. They’re like an unholy mishmash of bird and reptile that anyone can easily recognize, thus earning them a spot in the monster hall of fame.
Jareth The Goblin King (Labyrinth)
Consider this an honorable mention, but it would be a punishable offense not to include the Goblin King himself, although he was brought to life by the late legendary David Bowie.
People often forget that Jareth was a creation of Jim Henson, not the famous rock star. Sure, the Goblin King is without a doubt the villain of the film, but he’s so likable and fun it’s impossible not to fall under his spell.
Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem (The Muppet Show)
From one brand of rock star to another, there are few musical acts on The Muppet Show that could compete with the psychedelic antics of Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem. Floyd Pepper, Janet, Zoot, Animal, and Dr. Teeth himself have been jamming out golden tones since 1977, and the band is still going strong.
From performing with the likes of Elton John and Johnny Cash to modern jam sessions with Imagine Dragons, they’ve still got the music in them.
Statler and Waldorf (The Muppet Show)
Everyone’s a critic, and these two crotchety curmudgeons have been offering their two cents from the balcony for years. If there’s an act to be heckled or a bit to be booed, Statler and Waldorf will be up in their box seats ready to hurl their insults like well-aimed grenades.
The pair’s sense of humor has even transitioned well into today’s modern culture, making them a pair of the greatest trolls in history.
The Swedish Chef (The Muppet Show)
Speaking of characters that have transitioned well to the modern age, no list concerning characters like the Muppets would ever be complete without the Swedish Chef.
From his original segment in The Muppet Show to the new Økėÿ Døkęÿ Köökïñ on Muppets Now, the chef has been butchering up classic recipes (and occasionally characters) for years. One of the most recognizable Muppets of the bunch, the chef is as deliciously delirious as they come.
Bert and Ernie (Sesame Street)
Since it would be impossible to include one without the other, Bert and Ernie are two of the most recognized residents at 123 Sesame Street. Brought to life by both Jim Henson and Frank Oz, both Bert and Ernie have become Sesame Street fixtures from the very beginning.
Despite their polarizing personalities, the two are the best of friends and have been teaching young viewers the value of friendship since 1969.
Big Bird (Sesame Street)
If there’s one character that truly represents the message and meaning of Sesame Street, it’s Big Bird. This large and exceptionally made avian has the body of a bird, but the mind of a small child who is eager to learn the ways of the world around him.
Perhaps the most recognizable member of the cast, Big Bird stands at a whopping eight feet tall, and is one of the puppeteer’s most impressive creations to date.
Rowlf the Dog (The Muppet Show)
There are few more famous dog piano players than Old Brown Eyes himself, Rowlf. Made first for commercials and later the Jimmy Dean Show, Rowlf became one of Henson’s regular characters and musicians on The Muppet Show.
Although the brown ball of fur has fallen a little out of popularity with some of the more modern Muppet entries, he’s still one of the creator’s favorite originals.
Kermit the Frog (Various)
Is there anyone out there who doesn’t know the name “Kermit the Frog?” From his years hosting the Muppet Show to his stints on Sesame Street to his current appearance as the leader of Muppets Now, Kermit has become as big of an icon as Mickey Mouse.
Though the shows, events, and specials might come and go for the Muppets, there will still always be only one Kermit the Frog.
