Could the Muppets Host the Oscars?
by Andy NeuenschwanderJust a couple of days ago, The Academy Awards were doing just fine: the show had a producer in Brett Ratner and a host in Eddie Murphy. Then Brett Ratner started doing a press tour for "Tower Heist," and within one day (and thanks to some dumb statements) Ratner was kicked out as producer and Murphy decided to quit.
The Oscars have already found a new producer in Brian Grazer, but the hosting gig is still open as of now. That has led to some speculation and a bit of hoping as to who will take the job. Grazer doesn't have too many obvious ties to past hosts like Ratner did with Murphy, so as of now it's up in the air.
But the Internet at large already has an idea of who could host the Oscars: The Muppets. Jim Henson's furry creations have a high profile right now with their big movie releasing this month, so fans have already started to show their support online.
In fact, a Twitter account was started all the way back in February to lobby for the Muppets to get the job. Now that Murphy is out, activity has spiked on the movement's Facebook page, putting its Facebook fans above the 7,000 mark.
Additionally, some celebs have shown their support as well. Comedienne and "Daily Show" correspondent Kristen Schaal Tweeted her support on the matter. Deadline quickly picked up the story, but seems doubtful as to the viability of it all.
We here at Yidio have professed our love for the Muppets time and time again, so we're taking a more positive approach than Deadline.
While they ask "...Really?" we respond, "Definitely!" After all, Kermit and Miss Piggy made an appearance at the 1982 ceremony... and just think how great it would be to have Statler and Waldorf making cracks at everyone from the box seats? (Editorial Note: That would be insanely awesome.)
Of course, it also should be said that The Muppets have played roles in both the Emmy Awards and Academy Awards, so they're already old pros. Check out some great videos of their performances below.
Watch the Muppets do a bit for the Emmys back in 1979:
Watch Miss Piggy at the 1980 Academy Awards: