Museum of Science and Industry

Biography: Film and Later Projects

During the 1980s, in addition to making Muppet movies, Henson brought two remarkably original fantasy films to the big screen, The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. These films challenged Henson to create new kinds of three-dimensional characters with advanced movement abilities. The multi-talented staff that helped create these two films formed the basis for what is now known as Jim Henson's Creature Shop, and it continues to set industry standards in animatronics, performance and performance technology.

Throughout the 1980's, Jim also created memorable television series and specials, including: Fraggle Rock, Jim Henson's Muppet Babies, Jim Henson's The Storyteller, and Jim Henson's Greek Myths. Fraggle Rock's Fraggles, Gorgs and Doozers sang songs celebrating friendship, brotherhood and peace, and was one of the world's first multi-nation international television co-production. Jim Henson's Muppet Babies was awarded four consecutive Emmys for "Outstanding Animated Program."

Henson’s last project was MuppetVision 3*D, a short multi-media film and interactive attraction, which he directed and which currently runs at custom-made theaters at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park at the Walt Disney World and at Disney's California Adventure.

On May 16, 1990, after a brief illness, Jim Henson died in New York City. With his keen ability for drawing together a strong team of performers, artists, and collaborators who shared his vision and creativity, Henson ensured that his work and unique creative vision would continue. Through The Jim Henson Company, his work continues to captivate and entertain a global audience.