Jim Henson

“When I was young, my ambition was to be one of the people who made a difference in this world. My hope is to leave the world a little better for having been there.” — Jim Henson

Jim Henson: Heart Felt

Few creators have reshaped the emotional landscape of popular culture quite like Jim Henson.

In this Cinema Shock series, we explore the life, legacy, and creative genius behind the Muppets, LABYRINTH, THE DARK CRYSTAL, and more. From handmade beginnings on local TV to global superstardom, Henson’s work blurred the line between puppetry and performance, art and entertainment, childhood and adulthood.

We trace the full arc of Henson’s creative journey — from his early days as a young experimental artist, to the creation of THE MUPPET SHOW and his work on Sesame Street and Fraggle Rock, to his darker fantasy epics and his bittersweet final years. Along the way, we examine the stories behind his greatest works, the collaborators who brought them to life, and the soulful spirit that made his characters feel so human.

Whether you grew up with Kermit and Miss Piggy or discovered Henson’s magic later in life, this series is a celebration of an artist who made felt and foam feel like family.

Ep. 1: Jim Henson & the Birth of The Muppets

Ep. 2: From the Arthouse to 'Sesame Street'

Ep. 7: The Muppets Take Manhattan (1984)