Kermit the Frog is one of the most recognizable and enduring characters in modern media. Created by puppeteer and storyteller Jim Henson in the 1950s, Kermit started as a simple green figure on the experimental puppet show Sam and Friends, long before becoming the beloved star we know today (Falk, 2012; Owen, 1993; The Jim Henson Legacy, n.d.-b). Unlike traditional puppets of the time, Kermit was designed specifically for television. Henson innovated by performing directly to the camera, using close-up shots and video monitors to bring subtle, emotionally expressive performances to life (Owen, 1993; Falk, 2012; Ruth, 2023; Postek-Mioduszewska, n.d.). This quiet beginning would eventually shape the landscape of puppetry, children’s television, and popular culture.
Kermit rose to prominence on Sesame Street in 1969, where he became a familiar and beloved presence for millions of children (Owen, 1993). Yet his reach extended far beyond children's television. As the host and central character of The Muppet Show (1976–1981), Kermit bridged comedy, music, and heartfelt storytelling, earning international fame and leading to a series of successful films (The Jim Henson Legacy, n.d.-b).
Today, Kermit is more than just a puppet; he is a cultural icon. He appears not only on television and in films but also as a guest on talk shows, in viral memes, and across social media platforms. His performances often blur the lines between fiction and reality, inviting audiences to reflect, laugh, and connect (Calbreath-Frasieur, 2012; Culp, 2011). As you will discover throughout this Voyager edition, Kermit’s story is one of innovation, creativity, and emotional resonance.