Jim Henson’s beloved Muppets have entertained audiences for decades, not only through television and film but also in comic books and newspaper strips. These comics expanded the Muppet universe, bringing the humor, wit, and heart of Henson’s creations to print. This guide provides a comprehensive look at all the Muppet comic books and strips produced over the years.
The Muppets Comic Strip (1981–1986)
One of the earliest Muppet-related comic formats was The Muppets comic strip, which ran in newspapers from September 21, 1981, to March 15, 1986. Created by Guy and Brad Gilchrist, the strip featured classic characters like Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, and the Swedish Chef in humorous, slice-of-life adventures. The strip was widely syndicated and became a fan favorite.
The Muppet Show Comic Book (2009–2011)
In 2009, Boom! Studios revived the Muppets in comic form with The Muppet Show Comic Book, written and illustrated by Roger Langridge. This series faithfully captured the spirit of The Muppet Show, featuring on-stage performances and backstage antics. The initial run included multiple story arcs:
- Meet the Muppets – An introduction to the series and its characters.
- The Treasure of Peg-Leg Wilson – A pirate-themed adventure featuring the Muppets searching for hidden treasure.
- On the Road – The Muppets take their show on a cross-country tour, leading to hilarious mishaps.
In 2011, after Boom! Studios’ license ended, Marvel Comics (a Disney subsidiary) took over the franchise and published four additional issues under the title Muppets in 2012.
Muppet Fairy Tale Adaptations
The Muppets also starred in several comic adaptations of classic fairy tales and literature, adding their signature humor:
- Muppet Peter Pan (2009) – Kermit plays Peter Pan, Miss Piggy stars as Piggytink, and other Muppets fill key roles in this fun reimagining.
- Muppet Sherlock Holmes (2010) – Gonzo takes on the role of Sherlock Holmes, with Fozzie as Dr. Watson and Kermit as Inspector Lestrade.
These adaptations provided a fresh take on well-known stories, making them accessible to Muppet fans of all ages.
Jim Henson’s The Storyteller Comics
Based on the Emmy-winning Jim Henson’s The Storyteller television series, these comics explored folklore and myths from different cultures. Popular editions include:
- Jim Henson’s The Storyteller: Sirens (2019) – A four-issue series featuring mystical tales of mermaids and the sea.
- Jim Henson’s The Storyteller: Ghosts (2020) – Stories based on supernatural legends and ghostly folklore.
Each issue was created by a different writer and illustrator, adding diversity to the storytelling styles while maintaining the magic of the original show.
Jim Henson Presents (2025)
Jim Henson Presents is an anthology series launched in January 2025 under Boom! Studios’ Archaia imprint. It features stories from various Henson properties, including:
- Fraggle Rock
- The Dark Crystal
- Labyrinth
- The Storyteller
- Farscape
Each issue expands on the lore of these beloved franchises, appealing to both new and longtime fans.
Conclusion
Jim Henson’s legacy continues to thrive in the world of comic books and newspaper strips. Whether through classic newspaper comics, modern comic book series, or adaptations of literary classics, the Muppets and Henson’s other creations remain as charming and entertaining as ever. These publications allow fans to experience new Muppet adventures while staying true to Henson’s original vision.
For collectors and fans alike, Muppet comics are a must-read, preserving the humor, heart, and creativity that made Jim Henson a legend in entertainment.
