‘The Muppet Show’ returns featuring Sabrina Carpenter: Here’s how and when to watch the special

The beloved The Muppet Show is making a return with a new special that brings Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and the rest of the iconic characters back to the Muppet Theatre. The revival blends the classic variety-show format with modern celebrity guests, including pop star Sabrina Carpenter. The project taps into decades of nostalgia while introducing the franchise to a new generation of streaming audiences.

Where to watch the new Muppet special

The new Muppet Show special premiered on February 4 at 9 pm ET/PT on ABC.

For viewers who prefer streaming, the special is also available on Disney+, and can be accessed through live-TV streaming services such as DirecTV and Fubo, which carry ABC.


For streaming, it’s available on Disney+, where subscriptions start at $11.99 per month for the ad-supported plan. Viewers who want to watch the ABC broadcast live can also access the channel through live-TV streaming services such as DirecTV Stream or Fubo, both of which typically offer free trial options for new users.

What the new special is about

The revival returns to the original variety-show structure that made the 1970s series famous worldwide. Kermit resumes his role as the show’s host, introducing celebrity guests, musical performances and comedic sketches inside the chaotic backstage world of the Muppet Theatre.

The format mirrors the classic approach that once featured global stars like Elton John and Liza Minnelli, but updates the guest lineup for today’s audiences.

In this new installment, Sabrina Carpenter appears alongside fellow guests Seth Rogen and Maya Rudolph. Their appearances continue the tradition of mixing major entertainers with Muppet comedy and music.

The tone remains family-friendly while still delivering humor aimed at adults, a balance that has defined the franchise since its debut.

Why the revival matters

The return of The Muppet Show highlights Disney’’s strategy of reviving legacy franchises for the streaming era. The Muppets have remained culturally relevant for decades through films, television specials and theme-park attractions, but streaming offers a new opportunity to reach global audiences simultaneously.

The special aims to appeal both to viewers who grew up with the original series and younger audiences discovering the characters for the first time.