Few creators have left a mark on entertainment quite like Jim Henson. From The Muppets to Fraggle Rock, his groundbreaking work continues to inspire audiences of all ages. Now, Ron Howard takes us behind the scenes of Henson’s extraordinary life in the new Disney+ documentary, Jim Henson: Idea Man, premiering May 31, 2024.
Ron Howard’s Vision for Jim Henson: Idea Man
Celebrated director Ron Howard brings his signature storytelling approach to Idea Man, exploring Henson’s creative process and the lasting impact of his work. According to Howard, Henson was a “one-in-a-generation talent”, whose innovation and relentless creativity changed television, film, and puppetry forever.
“Many people have felt impacted by his work, yet there is still an entire generation with lesser knowledge of his contributions to cinema, television, and pop culture. I hope this story is an honest reflection of Jim’s immense creativity.” – Ron Howard

A Journey Through Jim Henson’s Creative Legacy
The documentary dives into Henson’s journey, from his early days crafting puppetry for television to the worldwide phenomenon of The Muppets, Sesame Street, and beyond. Audiences will get a closer look at his visionary storytelling, relentless work ethic, and ability to push creative boundaries.
“Jim operated on the assumption that creativity has no bounds. This restless and burning creative spirit became more apparent than ever as I dug deeper into the creation of this film.” – Ron Howard
Jim Henson and Disney: A Legacy of Creativity
Henson and The Walt Disney Company shared a long history, with Disney helping bring The Muppets to a new generation. Howard explains that working with Henson’s family and Disney allowed him to honor Henson’s work while showcasing his pioneering spirit.
“There has always been a natural synergy between Disney and Jim Henson. Disney’s amassed knowledge of Jim and their continued support of his work made them the best fit.” – Ron Howard
Stream Jim Henson: Idea Man on Disney+
Jim Henson: Idea Man is now streaming on Disney+, offering fans an intimate look at the creator who redefined imagination. Don’t miss this inspiring documentary about a visionary artist whose work continues to shape pop culture.