The Muppets Show Exclusive First Look Airing During ‘New Year’s Rockin’ Eve’. Disney and ABC have officially announced a preview of the special event for the “The Muppet Show”, which will premiere Feb. 4 on Disney+ and ABC, and will happen during Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest. The announcement, teased with the tagline “New year, same diva,” promises a fresh look at the special event before its official premiere on February 4.
ABC & The Muppets have announced “New year, same diva. Get a look at the Disney+ & ABC special event, The Muppet Show, tomorrow night during #RockinEve on ABC.”
The show features 50 Cent, Mariah Carey, Post Malone, Demi Lovato, and dozens more. This year’s party is also the longest one ever. Wednesday, Dec. 31, from 8:00 p.m.-4:00 a.m. EST on ABC, next day on Hulu.
ABC and Dick Clark Productions put together the biggest roster of artists they’ve ever had. Including “Global Icon Diana Ross.” Diana Ross will illuminate Times Square and usher in the new year with a dazzling live performance as the 2026 headliner for “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.”
The first-look teaser trailer was released back on December 17th, offering a glimpse into the controlled chaos returning to the iconic Muppet Theatre. Watch below. The upcoming special marks the revival of the variety format that made the franchise a household must-watch. Joining Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the gang is pop superstar Sabrina Carpenter, who will serve as the evening’s special guest.
The return comes just ahead of the franchise’s 50th anniversary in 2026. Created by Jim Henson in 1976, The Muppet Show became what Time magazine once called “the most popular television entertainment now being produced on Earth,” earning Emmy, GRAMMY, and Peabody awards during its original five-season run.
Fans of the classic era will be pleased to note the involvement of Dave Goelz, a legendary performer who has been with the Muppets for over 50 years. Goelz, who originated Gonzo and Dr Bunsen Honeydew, joins a veteran cast of performers including Bill Barretta, Eric Jacobson, Peter Linz, David Rudman, and Matt Vogel.
The special event debuts February 4 on both the ABC broadcast network and the Disney+ streaming platform. For those looking to catch up before the premiere, all five original seasons of The Muppet Show are currently available to stream on Disney+.
