Ep 1. Guest: John Denver
- September 20, 1979
Guest: John Denver is the season 4 premiere of the hit variety show The Muppet Show. This episode features legendary singer-songwriter John Denver as the celebrity guest.
The episode starts with the Muppets preparing for John Denver's arrival, which includes Fozzie Bear attempting to write a joke that will impress the guest, Miss Piggy plotting to steal the spotlight, and Kermit the Frog trying to keep everything under control. As the guests start to arrive, the Muppets are buzzing with excitement.
John Denver arrives and is greeted with a warm welcome from the Muppets. He performs his hit song "Take Me Home, Country Roads" with the Muppets providing backup vocals and dancing along. The performance is energetic and full of fun, showcasing the dynamic musical talent of both Denver and the Muppets.
Throughout the show, John Denver performs several of his other well-known hits, such as "Sunshine on My Shoulders" and "Annie's Song." He also participates in several comedic sketches with the Muppets, including a hilarious bit with the Swedish Chef where they attempt to cook a giant turkey (which ends predictably in chaos).
In addition to his musical performances and comedic sketches, John Denver also demonstrates his versatility as an artist by performing a touching rendition of the folk classic "Grandma's Feather Bed" on the banjo. The performance is heartwarming and reminiscent of Denver's roots in folk music.
The episode wouldn't be complete without Miss Piggy trying to steal the spotlight from John Denver. In a segment called "Piggy's Fantasy," Miss Piggy imagines herself in various romantic settings with the guest, trying to win his affection. Her hilarious attempts at seduction are some of the funniest moments of the episode.
Throughout the show, the Muppets showcase their signature charm and humor, always keeping the audience engaged and entertained. They perform several musical numbers, including a fantastic medley of John Denver's hits, which features all of the Muppets singing and dancing along.
Overall, Guest: John Denver is a fantastic season 4 premiere for The Muppet Show, featuring one of the most beloved singer-songwriters of all time. The episode is full of laughs, heartwarming moments, and, of course, fantastic musical performances. Fans of the show and John Denver alike will not want to miss this unforgettable episode.
