The latest Muppet Show sparks debate with its Emmy nomination for a controversial aspect.

In February, the Muppets made a triumphant return with their new special, The Muppet Show, hosted by Sabrina Carpenter. This celebration of the original variety series’ 50th anniversary attracted nearly 8 million views within just eight days. There was speculation that if the special performed well, it could pave the way for a revival of The Muppet Show. While fans are still eagerly awaiting that news, the special has already received six Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Variety Special (Pre-Recorded) and Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special, along with technical nods for Outstanding Sound Mixing, Outstanding Picture Editing, and Outstanding Production Design.

Interestingly, The Muppet Show was nominated for the very aspect that drew the most criticism: Matt Vogel’s portrayal of Kermit the Frog.

In 2017, Disney parted ways with longtime Muppet performer Steve Whitmire, who had brought characters like Rizzo the Rat to life during Jim Henson’s era. Whitmire took over as Kermit after Henson’s passing, but the reasons for his dismissal were never disclosed, with Disney citing “unacceptable business conduct.” Since then, Matt Vogel, who joined the Jim Henson Company in 1996 and later took on roles like Big Bird and the Count, has stepped into the role of Kermit. Vogel began performing with the Muppets in 2008, portraying characters like Floyd Pepper and Uncle Deadly. However, his interpretation of Kermit has faced ongoing criticism for nearly a decade.

Vogel’s debut as Kermit drew mixed reactions, particularly during a performance at the Hollywood Bowl, where many felt he sounded different and even had a “new accent.” The discontent continued with the 2021 Disney Plus special, Muppets Haunted Mansion, leading even the usually upbeat Muppet fan site Tough Pig to urge fans to embrace the new Kermit. They argued that with Disney’s limited Muppet content, Vogel hadn’t had enough time to settle into the role, nor had audiences had the chance to adjust to his portrayal. Yet, as the new special arrived in 2026, the criticism persisted, with discussions about Kermit’s voice appearing in various outlets.

As a lifelong Muppet fan, I initially struggled with Vogel’s interpretation of Kermit. Like many, I felt he sounded more like someone impersonating Kermit than the character itself. The ambiguity surrounding Whitmire’s exit made it tough to side with Disney. However, after nine years of Vogel’s Kermit, I’ve come around—not because I believe he sounds exactly like Jim Henson’s version, but because I’ve chosen to focus on enjoying a character I love. By the time the special aired, it felt like Vogel had finally found his footing as Kermit, and I was more ready to accept it.

With the news of an Emmy nomination for Vogel, a truly talented performer, I can’t help but feel excited for him and hope he takes home the award. It would be a well-deserved recognition for someone who has faced nearly a decade of online scrutiny. If this special leads to a reboot of The Muppet Show, nothing will stop me from enjoying it.

Cole Escola is writing the script.