schmiggens
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Registered: Apr 2003
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BC to launch reality search for new muppet
The Muppets are poised to return to primetime television with the announcement of a new project combining Jim Henson's famous puppets and reality TV.
U.S. network ABC announced Tuesday a project entitled America's Next Muppet, in which a new member will be selected to join such beloved characters as Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy. ABC has ordered a script and five episode outlines, according to a network spokesperson.
Jim Henson's Muppets, seen here on new 2005 U.S. postal stamps, may be getting a new friend through a proposed ABC reality show. (CP file photo)
The premise riffs off such hit reality show fare as American Idol and America's Next Top Model, where audience members or a judging panel preside over a competition and select a winner.
ABC's parent company, the Walt Disney Co., purchased the rights to the famous puppet characters in February 2004, 14 years after its initial bid fizzled following the 1990 death of Muppets creator Jim Henson at the age of 53.
The sale included the right to use Muppet characters in Disney theme parks, movies, TV shows and retail products, like video games. At the time, Disney also mentioned a plan to develop new characters.
- CBC
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10-27-2005 08:54 AM
