TIME Special Edition - The Muppets: Funny, Wise, Beloved & Forever, Jim Henson’s Magic, Character’s Like No Others, The Story Of The Songs & More!

Kermit the Frog’s words of wisdom, like “It’s not easy being green,” have echoed from TV sets across America since 1974. Viewers fell in love with Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, and the whole medley of Muppets who continue to touch our lives. This special edition from TIME explores how Jim Henson founded the Henson Company and created a beloved variety TV show, including insights from puppet experts who were with him from the start, such as Dave Goelz and Bonnie Erickson. The issue also explores the myriad of new Muppets programs since Disney’s acquisition, and the Muppets themselves weigh in on filming the holiday classic The Muppet Christmas Carol.