Kermit the Frog: America's Favorite Amphibian Entertainer

The Origins of Kermit the Frog

Kermit the Frog is one of the most beloved characters in television history. Created by legendary puppeteer Jim Henson, Kermit made his debut in 1955 on the Washington D.C. television series Sam and Friends. Henson constructed the first Kermit out of his mother's old spring green coat and ping pong balls for eyes.

Kermit Becomes a Star

Kermit grew more popular when he started making appearances on variety shows in the 1960s and 70s. His big break came in 1969 when he hosted The Tonight Show for one week. Audiences were delighted with the witty banter between Kermit and guest hosts like Don Knotts and Zero Mostel.

As Kermit's fame rose, he became the lead character on Sesame Street starting in that show's inaugural season in 1969. Generations of children learned their numbers and letters from Kermit songs like "Bein' Green."

The Muppet Show Makes Kermit an Icon

In 1976 Kermit hosted another variety show, this time called The Muppet Show. With his self-deprecating humor and earnest likeability, Kermit was the perfect master of ceremonies to showcase all the wacky Muppet characters. Some of his most memorable skits from this era include singing "Rainbow Connection" and taking multiple explosions to the face as the hapless lab assistant Beaker's experiments inevitably went awry.

Kermit on the Silver Screen

Parlaying his television fame into movie stardom, Kermit shone in big screen musical comedies. In 1979's The Muppet Movie, Kermit embarks on a cross-country trip to Hollywood, along the way meeting Fozzie Bear, Ms. Piggy and all the rest of the Muppet gang. With its mix of silly sketches and the Oscar-nominated "Rainbow Connection," The Muppet Movie became a surprise box office smash and still delights audiences today.

Love Triangles with Ms. Piggy

Kermit also explored an on-again/off-again romantic relationship with the glamorous Ms. Piggy throughout The Muppet Movie and several sequels. Their wedding was nearly shown in The Muppets Take Manhattan in 1984, but typically wacky Muppet hijinks prevented the nuptials from transpiring.

Nevertheless, Kermit cares deeply for Piggy in his own understated way, as evidenced in emotional duets like "The First Time It Happens" from The Great Muppet Caper. Fans continue to root for Kermit and Piggy to reunite, even as Kermit contends with the attention lavished on him by new female characters.

Life After Jim Henson

Tragedy struck in 1990 when Jim Henson unexpectedly passed away at just 53 years old. There was debate about whether the Muppets could, or even should, continue without their creator and driving creative force. Ultimately, Kermit and friends did persevere, appearing in new feature films and television projects.

Steve Whitmire assumed the role of Kermit starting in 1990, having apprenticed under Henson for over a decade. He continued playing the famous frog up until 2016. Currently, veteran Muppeteer Matt Vogel lends his voice and puppetry skills to keep Kermit embodied.

Why Kermit Continues to Delight Fans

From his humble beginnings on a 5-minute D.C. kids' show to Hollywood stardom to becoming a Disney icon, Kermit has warmed audience hearts for over 60 years now. What explains his lasting appeal and status as a pop culture legend?

Relatability Under the Felt Exterior

Those ping pong eyeballs and fuzzy green features immediately grab one's attention. Yet despite his exotic exterior, Kermit comes across as very down-to-earth. His observant wit touches on universal experiences and foibles we all share.

Sing-Along Songs That Span Generations

Who among us hasn't crooned along to "The Rainbow Connection" or "It's Not Easy Bein' Green" at least once? Kermit elevated The Muppet franchise from just a kids show into an all-ages spectacle, thanks largely to the vulnerable power of his musical numbers.

A Family-Friendly Symbol of Kindness

Whether hosting The Muppet Show or bantering with talk show guests, Kermit radiates a warmth and patience that plays across cultures. He became an unofficial welcoming committee to the United States for international travelers tuning into Sesame Street during formative years..

As new Muppet productions come out on Disney+, Kermit continues bringing people together. Hi-ho and welcome! This frog's appeal spans generations past, present and future.

FAQs

What kind of frog is Kermit?

Kermit is most commonly thought to be a green tree frog. However, creator Jim Henson said that Kermit wasn't designed to represent any specific species, but rather serve as a general frog character for children's entertainment.

Is Kermit still performed by Steve Whitmire?

No, Matt Vogel has voiced Kermit the Frog since 2017. He took over after Steve Whitmire departed from The Muppets franchise after 27 years playing the iconic character.

Is Kermit's relationship with Miss Piggy over?

It's complicated! Kermit and Piggy have had an on-again/off-again romantic relationship for over 40 years. While they aren't currently depicting as dating, their deep affection for one another keeps hope alive among fans.

What is Kermit the Frog's catchphrase?

Kermit is of course best known for loudly shouting "Hi-ho!" when making dramatic entrances on stage or screen. His signature exclamation hearkens back to his early days working on variety shows.