Jim Henson: The Biography

Jim Henson was a creative artist whose bearded face became recognized worldwide, primarily through the iconic characters he created: Kermit the Frog, Bert and Ernie, Miss Piggy, and Big Bird. While the Muppets made him a household name, they were only part of his larger story. This biography, written with cooperation from the Henson family, traces his life from his childhood in Leland, Mississippi, through his rise to fame in America and his decade of international celebrity before his death at age fifty-three. Drawing on hundreds of hours of interviews with family, friends, and collaborators, as well as access to private archives, the book explores the creation of the Muppets, his work on Sesame Street and Saturday Night Live, and his efforts to bring The Muppet Show to television. The biography also covers his non-Muppet projects, including The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth, as well as other ventures. It examines Henson as a master craftsman who changed how puppets appeared on television, a businessman compared to Walt Disney, and a collaborative leader. The book also addresses his personal life, including his Christian Science background, his interests in fast cars and art, and his private relationships. Despite his optimism, Henson was concerned he would not have time to accomplish everything he wanted in life.