Sabrina Carpenter, typically known for her petite stature and pop hits, is about to stand tall in a new role. The Grammy-winning artist is set to host Disney+’s 50th anniversary special of “The Muppet Show” this Wednesday.
For those who might question the pairing of Carpenter, known for her edgy persona, with the beloved puppet ensemble, experts suggest it’s a fitting match. Shilpa Davé, a media studies associate professor at the University of Virginia and an avid fan of Jim Henson’s creations, stated, “Bringing on Sabrina Carpenter as a host really does gesture that this is not a kids’ show, but she’s part of the Disney family.”
Carpenter, who first gained fame as a child on Disney’s “Girl Meets World,” now captivates audiences with her witty music. The collaboration with the Muppets, a group that Disney acquired in 2004, is a nod to the show’s original adult-oriented roots.
“It was based on a variety show format, and it was really geared toward an older audience,” Davé explained, highlighting the show’s intention to appeal beyond just children, despite the Muppets’ association with “Sesame Street.”
With Carpenter’s appeal among young women, Disney aims to attract the 18-24 demographic. The special could serve as an introduction to Carpenter’s music for nostalgic viewers, while her playful humor aligns well with the Muppets’ comedic style.
“It’s physical, it’s innuendo, it’s clever. … It’s going to have a PG, or a PG-13 rating,” Davé noted, emphasizing the mature humor that could be expected in the show.
Historically, “The Muppet Show” featured a diverse roster of celebrity guests, ranging from musicians like Pete Seeger and Diana Ross to comedians such as Steve Martin. The show’s format was all about showcasing popular figures from various fields.
Should the anniversary special lead to a series revival, Davé anticipates a continued focus on youthful celebrity guests, albeit without social media influencers. She speculates, “Will one of the ‘Real Housewives’ appear? That is a guest they might bring on.” With the recent cancellation of Stephen Colbert’s show, “The Muppets Show” could potentially fill the late-night variety void.
The variety format’s appeal may have attracted comedian Seth Rogen to the project, as he joins the special not only as an executive producer but also as a guest star. Rogen, known for films like “Superbad,” is set to contribute to the show’s unique blend of humor and celebrity appeal.
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