A Decade of Gratitude

I haven’t been at the desk much today, but I wanted to take a moment to note two things.

First, it’s Jim Henson’s 87th birthday. As I say every year, go celebrate by doing something silly. Jim Henson would want you to.

And second . . . it’s the tenth anniversary of the publication of Jim Henson: The Biography.

I’m can’t begin to tell you how grateful I am to all of you who have enjoyed, and continue to enjoy, reading the biography. I love hearing from readers who were moved or inspired by Jim’s story–and while I so appreciate the kind words, I’m just the messenger, man! It’s Jim who moved and inspired you. I think he’d love knowing that, 33 years after his death, new generations of creatives, weirdos, lovers, and dreamers have found him and love him not only for his enormous output of amazing work, but for the person he was and aspired to be.

A decade after publication of the biography, I’m constantly inspired by all of YOU, too–whether you’re fans, performers, writers, artists, musicians, puppetmakers, or just want to razz me about the word “Muppeteer” . . . know that I love ALL of you. The Muppet family is the BEST, and I’m so proud to be a part of the Muppet fan community, which, generally speaking, is one of the most positive around.

I’m also enormously grateful to the entire Muppet and Henson organization, who let me into their homes, and their hearts, to tell Jim Henson’s story. It’s a privilege to be a part of the Amphibian Alumni, no matter how peripheral, and I’m privileged (there’s that word again) to still be in touch with many of you fine folks today. Thanks for letting me in. And sometimes even feeding me.

Anyway, I’m fairly certain that the first words of my obituary will be, “Jim Henson biographer Brian Jay Jones . . .” And really, I am just SO okay with and proud of that.

Thank you again, all of you, for reading Jim’s biography, and learning, laughing, and crying along with it. I’m grateful to all of you for reading. And I wanted you to know that.