Even after all these years, the long-running media franchise known as The Muppets is apparently still going strong. Now they've got a new special ready to come out in the fall, and fans of the spookier aspects of entertainment will likely want to take note.
Perhaps as a clap back at critics who repeatedly call on Disney to start doing something fresh with The Muppets, the brand's official YouTube channel just announced an upcoming Halloween special titled "Muppets Haunted Mansion" to air on Disney+. For those having trouble remembering the title, don't worry. Gonzo and Pepe repeat it often enough in the announcement video that even Fozzie would probably call it a tired bit.
The two veteran Muppets characters didn't really give much information about the special, aside from calling it a "terrifying tale of total scariness." But the title suggests it will cross over with Disney's own Haunted Mansion brand, which mainly refers to the popular ride of the same name seen at their various theme parks around the world. The movie was decidedly less praised, but that could change soon with another upcoming Haunted Mansion film in the works. Maybe this special will be a suitable consolation for anyone (most people) who don't have the time and money to wait in the inevitably super long queue for the ride itself.
The Muppets have been a staple in the entertainment industry since the 60s, and they've kept creator Jim Henson's legacy alive with a steady stream of material over the years. From classics like The Muppet Movie to slightly lesser-known but still very much worthwhile entries like Muppet Treasure Island, Henson's cast of colorful characters has endured since his tragic passing in 1990. They continue to entertain viewers of all ages even to this day, proving the staying power of both the man and his creation. It's no wonder Disney is working on an official biopic around Henson's magical life.
Even though they've stuck around on a generally consistent basis even in recent years, it's tough to deny that the popularity of The Muppets has diminished over time. But whether it's from changes in the writing style or simply difficulties connecting with new audiences, it still seems as though the brand itself isn't going anywhere. The sadly short-lived Muppets TV series on ABC proved that the team still had the aptitude to bring some real laughs only a few years ago. Plus, even as recently as 2011, the aptly titled movie The Muppets earned a good amount of critical and audience praise as well, with many propping it up as one of the higher-ranked Muppets movies.
So what can audiences expect from "Muppets Haunted Mansion?" It's difficult to say at this point, but odds are there's no need to think that deeply about it. It may be safe to say fans of the ride will find plenty of references to enjoy while fans of The Muppets will get that trademark comedic twist they've come to expect.
"Muppets Haunted Mansion" will air on Disney+ this fall.
Source: The Muppets|YouTube