Frogs in popular culture are often anthropomorphized, taking on human-like traits to become more relatable (Gaynor et al., 2019). Kermit, as a "representational" character, is a prime example: he is designed not to imitate a real frog but to express human emotions (Marciniak, 2020). While Kermit resembles a frog, he behaves and speaks like a human (Encyclopædia Britannica, n.d.; Langer, 1983), blurring the boundary between animal and human. This blend of characteristics not only makes Kermit relatable but also gently challenges viewers' assumptions about reality. By presenting characters that transcend traditional categories (Marciniak, 2020), the Muppets invite reflection on what it means to exist outside normative structures. Kermit's exaggerated yet sincere emotional range strengthens this effect, allowing viewers to project their own feelings onto him while entering a world where the unexpected feels normal.
While Gaynor et al. (2019) note that anthropomorphism appeals to children, experts in semiotics and internet culture highlight that Kermit’s emotional versatility and symbolic familiarity also explain his enduring popularity among adults. As a familiar childhood figure, Kermit seamlessly fits into everyday situations (Mosanya, 2016). His recognizable expressions and gentle personality allow Kermit to embody emotions, making him a relatable and humorous reflection of viewers' own experiences.
This relatability is also reflected in personal reflections shared across blogs, articles, and fan communities. Viewers from diverse backgrounds describe Kermit not merely as a nostalgic character but as a lasting emotional companion. Some highlight how his combination of vulnerability, ambition, and kindness helps navigate challenges of identity and self-expression, particularly for those who resonate with themes of difference and nonconformity (Laughtland, 2025; Patterson, 2011; Schildcrout, 2012). Others admire him as a model of emotional resilience, leadership, and friendship, appreciating how his expressive gestures continue to resonate across generations (Chai, 2019; Baron, 2017; Dickerson, 2011; Hurt, 2024). These recurring reflections confirm that Kermit’s lasting significance lies not only in who he is on-screen but also in how audiences see themselves reflected in him.