Flicking through the TV guide recently, and I stumbled across a classic that I used to frequently watch when I was but a youthful sole. None other than Muppet Treasure Island. This gave me a great idea to relive some of the joyful memories I have, and go through and tell you all about some of my favorite Muppet characters. Now to make this interesting, I going to collectivize all that are considered ‘muppets’. So not just the characters from The Muppet Show, but all of the late Jim Henson’s creations, adding Sesame Street to the roster as well. Aiight lets hit it.
Gonzo
Quite a recognizable character I think. He was always friendly to other muppets, and was very friendly with some other central Muppet characters, such as Kermit and Fozzie. One thing I did always question though: what is he? I mean you look at most other muppet characters, especially other central plot characters and its normally very easy to recognize what they might be, whether it be human or animal. For example we all know Kermit is a frog, Fozzie is a bear and of course we all know that Rizzo, his best friend and roomate is a rat. But what the fuck is Gonzo. I think I remember hearing Kermit describe him in one of the movies as a turkey…do you think that? I’m not convinced, but anyways I think he’s pretty rad.
The Count
I don’t know about you, but I really didn’t like vampires when I as young. To be honest, I don’t really like the whole concept of them now. But I will definitely make an exception for resident math wiz, Count von Count. He always seemed quite devious, yet the kind that is almost lovable. Like you want him to cause mayhem and chaos, and with that stereo-typical Dracula laugh, you would definitely applaud him for it.
Animal
I used to be a HUGE rock fan, and I still am to some extent, although I don’t listen to the genre as much as I probably should these days. Animal definitely gives me the inspiration to put that Zep and The Who back on and just rock out. Possibly inspired by Drummers Keith Moon and John Bonham, Animal represented all that was rock ‘n’ roll back in the day, crazy and out of fucking control. When kids watch this stuff, it all goes over their heads, but you watch the show as an older person, you really come to appreciate how well Henson created these characters, each one representing someone or a group of people out in the real world. Genius. But yes, Animal is awesome.
Swedish Chef
I really don’t get this dude, but I think he’s pretty dope. The one really funny memory of this particular character was when he was making spaghetti, and it kept coming alive and trying to runaway before Chef quickly retrieved it and put it back on the plate. This happens another time before the spaghetti tries to strangle him. Now I thought this was hilarious as a kid. So I decided to hit up youtube and get a vid for all you loyal fans out there. And we are in luck! I will say now that I watched it again, and laughed as hard as I did the first time all those years ago.
Oscar The Grouch
Now I always leave my favorite until last and this time is no exception. I think every kid loved this guy, I know I did (I’m still actually quite a big fan). He lived in a trash can, so I can understand why he was so fucking pissed off all the time. Stereo-typical homeless dude. If any of you guys have seen Dave Chappelle’s stand up regarding Sesame Street, then you will definitely know what I’m talking about. If you haven’t, then waste no more time, hit up the net and watch that bad boy because it’s fucking hilarious. So, back to my home boy Oscar. Now although he lived in a trash can, there was much evidence that is was a lot larger than it made out to be. Containing a farm and bowling alley…damn. Although he didn’t directly teach, like the other characters did, he did give the children some great lessons. These included respect and tolerance, and disrespect and intolerance. He showed that even though people have different views and lifestyles, you can still get along great. I really took that lesson to heart, well in someways, perhaps not all. Oscar is definitely my favorite muppet, hands down and no doubt.
Now I know there are plenty of other great Muppets, but these are some of my favorites. Adios Amigos.
