Latest Newswire Update on Henson Co.

[radionate]

Hey Guys,

This was on the wire this morning from Variety.

HOLLYWOOD (Variety) - The lingering auction of children's programming giant Jim Henson Co., home of Kermit and Miss Piggy, appears finally to be heading into the home stretch.


Things are expected to heat up just after the upcoming U.S. Memorial Day weekend, with new bids expected from studio parents and other suitors. A management buyout proposal also is in the mix.

Current owner EM.TV, the financially beleaguered German media group, first disclosed its intent to sell the well-known L.A.-based Henson unit in March 2001. EM.TV hired blue-chip investment firm Allen & Co. to conduct an auction, a process initially expected to last only a few months.

But various circumstances --including Sept. 11 market disruptions -- have prolonged the process interminably. Robust TV production continues on the company's historic lot in Hollywood, despite an understandable anxiety spreading among Henson troops eager to see the process reach its conclusion.

At least a half-dozen companies were conducting due diligence recently in a document room set up by those conducting the auction. Suitors are believed to include Walt Disney Co., Viacom Inc. and AOL Time Warner Inc., as well as at least a couple of smaller, European-based companies.

Henson CEO Charles Rivkin is known to be mulling his own buyout offer for the company, but it's expected that bid would gel only after outside offers are finalized. Rivkin declined comment.

The CEO's best shot at succeeding with a management-led buyout lies in the possibility that no other bidder will offer north of $175 million -- believed to represent the current minimum offer EM.TV would consider accepting. There was a time when observers felt the company could fetch as much as $250 million, but no longer.

"The market in general for intellectual property is not what it was a year ago," one industryite said recently.

EM.TV's best chance at getting a good price for Henson appears to hinge on Allen & Co.'s success in getting suitors to construct bids based less upon current cash flow and more on future potential for the Henson brand.

[BoyRaisin2]

Great, I e-mailed this to Phil for nuttin'! :)

Anyway, FINALLY some news. Hopefully we'll hear more within the next couple of weeks.

[Phillip Chapman]

Thanks for posting this. You beat me to it.

A variety of news sources are picking this story up.

[radionate]

Sorry Phil,

Hope I didn't step on any toes. I watch the news wires religiously, and knew that this hadn't been posted on here yet! Old journalism and broadcasting habits die hard I guess. You're always trying to beat the other guy to the story!

(here's where a boxing glove on a retractable wire would shoot out, a la Roger Rabbit, and smack me upside the head!!)

This has been a Muppet News Flash

[Phillip Chapman]

Radionate,

There's nothing to be sorry about. Thanks for posting the article!

What I find really interesting about this report is the suitor that isn't mentioned. There were strong rumors going around in the company (in February and March) that a company sale to Fox might be coming down in April. I don't know yet if Fox is totally out of the bidding or if they are still in the mix. But Fox's interest was so serious that some company restructuring was going on, and some thought this was a direct result of the anticipated purchase by Fox.

[EmmyMik]

I'll bid a pack of gum, 51 cents, pocket lint, a penny that I put on a railroad track and was smooshed by a train, the cap from my favorite pen, my younger brother, and an orange marker...


Do you think that's too much?

[BoyRaisin2]

Pardon me, but who said ANYTHING about Fox (aka News Corp.)? I knew Phil was holding out on us. :-)

Anyway, what does this mean? Is there gonna be an auction next week and a sale after that?

[Crazy Harry]

I'll bid $3, my old Eathworm Jim action figure, this fly I just smooshed, a screwdriver, my sister's cat and this thing an the floor. What is that?

[Tera]

Does anybody know anything more about the possibilities of the Muppets being bought by the employees?
I remember hearing a few hushed, reverant sentences about this at Muppetfest, but don't know anything else.
Thanks!
Tera

[BoyRaisin2]

The article said the best chance of a management LBO by Rivkin is if companies offer under $175 million? Boy, it doesn't look good for him, then.

[radionate]

Originally posted by Tera
Does anybody know anything more about the possibilities of the Muppets being bought by the employees?
I remember hearing a few hushed, reverant sentences about this at Muppetfest, but don't know anything else.
Thanks!
Tera

Now I'm not a business person, but in all honesty, would this be a sound business decision? I know we are all sentimental, and would love to see this happen, but would it be a SOUND decision for the future of the company? Would they be able to market, distribute, and still churn out quality entertaining products? With out an umbrella to help them out financially, I'd fear that one of two Muppets from Space or Aliens in the Family could sink them under for good.

Now, let me state I'm not a business major, and I haven't successfully balanced my checkbook for years! So these are just thoughts to ponder upon.

[towels]

I just wanted to say how nice it is to be able to add a new word to my vocabulary- industryite

[BoyRaisin2]

Yes, that word caught my attention as well. :-)

[Luke]

Hi

Actually I don't think theres much new in this press report - actually there are a number of errors, (not least about robust TV production continuing on the Henson lot) so i'm thinking that a journalist has just got the wink that they had this document meeting with all the interested parties and he's wrote a story around that info.

I had heard previously that News Corp were an interested bidder, but had no idea that it had gone so far as company restructuring. Thanks for the info Phil - thats quite a scoop for a Muppet site, shame you couldn't have made more of it when you found out. The european companies are apparently HIT Entertainment, Cosgrove Hall, (i've heard that from 2 sources now and others here have told me the same) and another German company similar to EMTV.

As i think has been said before, i'd expect EMTV to hang onto them a bit longer while the money is coming in - but it all shows that what we have seen lately (TV appearances, deals, Muppetfest, Merchandise) has been done for a reason, and EMTV are cleverly using the Muppets 25th anniversary year as a tool to sell them.

It's quite true that after a meeting like that, things would be 'hotting up' but it doesn't mean an imminent sale. Firstly, if new bids are expected - i'd be guessing that they are still waiting for bids to come in from companies who were actually at the document meeting, which makes you think that it was VERY recent. If thats the case, and if other sales of this kind are anything to go by, theres usually at least a 3 month period between this and any sale being completed.

[beaker]

WOW! Fox, viacom, aol/tw...so long as the fink doesnt get his gloves on it! Personally, Im hoping for either Fox or aol/tw(viacom has the snorefest channel cbs, and eMpTyV) I know aol/tw is looney tunes, but still! Either way...this is going to be quite an interesting buy race!

\\.:beaker:.//

*whose mad he lost his wallet and wasnt able to go to e3 at the last minute*

[Bean Bunny]

Go Disney Go! :D

[Jessie]

Is Disney still in the race? I am kind of hoping AOL Time Warner doesn't get Henson...I know everyone dislikes Disney taking up Henson, but they get my vote...maybe we will see more quality Henson stuff in the future if they do...

[BoyRaisin2]

Luke, what is Cosgrove Hall?

And what exactly is a "document meeting?"

[Bean Bunny]

Disney is indeed still in the running for Henson well as almost all of the other major studios like Fox, AOL-Time Warner, and Viacom.

I hope Disney get them. I want Muppet At Walt Disney World on DVD.

[beaker]

>>>I hope Disney get them. I want Muppet At Walt Disney World on DVD<<<

Oh you didnt read the new news on toughpigs? Yeah, under a special licence agreement, this will be among many things featured on a special Muppet Rarities dvd headng this fall...I think sex and violence, Valentines special, and Tales of the Tinkerdee
will be on it.

'0-0'
------

::\\.:beaker:.//::

[BoyRaisin2]

I'm rooting for Disney as well. I at least want "The Muppets at Walt Disney World" to air on ABC once so I can record it. :-)

It would also be nice if Henson gets sold before I start summer school. I was doing a research paper about JHC that was actually due May 16, but I couldn't finish it in time, but my teacher said I can complete in it summer school, which starts June 10. And if I can end the paper saying JHC was sold to (whoever) in May or June 2002 and end on an up note, it would be beautiful.

[Warrick]

Originally posted by beaker


Oh you didnt read the new news on toughpigs? Yeah, under a special licence agreement, this will be among many things featured on a special Muppet Rarities dvd headng this fall...I think sex and violence, Valentines special, and Tales of the Tinkerdee
will be on it.


Cory,
Where did you find this info out ?

Thanks

[BoyRaisin2]

DARN this DVD.

[Muppets1985]

OMG (Screams!! around the house) OMG im sooo Happy all i can say is.... GO DISNEY GO DISNEY GO DISNEY GO DISNEY GO DISNEY GOOOOOOO DISNEY!!!!

Not to Mr. Eisner: If you DON'T offer the MOST money to EM.tv i WILL flip and thats a prommis(?)!!!

just think "Muppets @ WDW" on abc in a few months Aaaaaaa... Oh my FOX , Nick (darn them) WB (Aggg i hate them) and others, God lets hope it's Disney Jim WOULD have wanted that! i think! and i HOPE!!!

[Luke]

Boyraisin

Cosgrove Hall is a British production company, a bit like Aardman - who do a lot of animation, films and kids stuff. You can find a fansite about them at :- http://www.nyanko.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/chamb/

About six to eight months ago i was at a meeting with a company who shares the same management offices as Cosgrove and had various conversations about EMTV/Henson and they apparently were very interested. Then someone knowledgable from here (not sure they want to be named) mentioned to me that Cosgrove were seriously interested in Henson, and since then Cosgrove mentions have come up when i was in Germany, and also in research for my writing at Toughpigs.com. I'm not sure how serious their interest is, or indeed if they are still interested now, but i would think they are possibly as strong a player as HIT Entertainment who are also looking to make another large aquisition - nothing like the money of Disney or News Corp though !

At the meeting we have been told about ( i don't think its called a document meeting - i just went with what they said) the interested parties would probably see a presentation, discuss the contractual terms of any sale (ie :- what exactly they get and how they can use it) and be told how the sale/bid process will go. Thats just an educated guess though - i've never seen it for myself, and i'm not massively in the know about these things.

I just wouldn't take everything that press report says as being official - they mentioned some company names but used the phrase "thought to include" - in other words they don't know for sure. Anyhow, when a company worth having comes up for sale (especially with the possibilty of a cheap deal - like JHC) then all the different media companies are usually interested in the early stages - then drop out later. I think it's probably a case of it coming down to Disney and someone else - as we all discussed recently, it looks pretty much for sure that the management buyout is dead in the water, has been for ages, and the only chance they ever have is if EMTV goes bankrupt, or if as the article said, nobody else is interested (which isn't gonna be the case).

Poor old Charlie Rivkin !

[Luke]

Warrick,

Cory is joking. In Danny's article he said that Henson had considered a rarities DVD but rejected it because they would never be able to sell enough to make it worthwhile.

[matleo]

Cosgrove/Hall? I know of them. They did that real nice "Wind in the Willows series back in the 80's. Actually I just got a few episodes of that the other day as well as their version of the original story. Nice little series. Nut I wouldn't have thought them a bog enough company to be buying another company. Hey like, if you find out anymore will you keep us posted? This is the first possible name I've heardin this tory that's peaked my interest. I'm going to check out that website you posted. I think I'd like to know more about this company.

--Matt

[Jessie]

Just OOC, how do you know so much about everything? You should be on who wants to be a millionaire...

[Luke]

Matt :-

I'll keep you posted on Cosgrove. They are about the same level as 'Hit' who aquired the 'Barney' franchise so if Henson were to go for say, under $200 million they would probably have a chance, nothing in the league of Disney or News Corp though so if those are truly in the bidding then no chance. Cosgrove also did Dangermouse and Count Duckula.

Jessie :-

I do all this media schmoo for my job - it beats watching TV all day (well, actually thats what i do). I know there are others here who are better informed and know a lot more than me but they never seem to post what they know. It's a shame because this is supposed to be a Muppet site, not the secret squirrel society. I don't know it all - ask me a question on boybands and i'd be stumped !

[frogboy4]

I know after all I've said about Disney that it may sound strange, but as for longevity of the Muppets - Disney is their best bet bar none. It's a cool idea that they may get a special secion of the park (extension of Muppet Vision) and will live on that way. I think that's what Jim saw all those years ago. My real objection is that the Muppets may be reduced to disposable kiddie-fare which would be a shame. And seeing how little respect Disney is giving their new line-up of DVD releases, it is obvious they only have profits on their minds and nothing else. Profits are great, but there should always be more to a project than simply cash. I hope Disney will treat them well...if it happens.:)

[Bean Bunny]

Disney is the not only ones. Viacom for example, would probably put The Muppet Show on Nick Jr like they did in the late 90s for a while. Most part, all of these companies will try to use the Muppets as dare I say it, "kiddie" programming.

[Luke]

Disney are giving their Muppet DVD releases poor treatment ?:-

* Commentary
* Sing Along Video
* Making Of Feature

I don't call that poor treatment - in fact its better than the way Henson and Columbia treated the major first three films.

The only gripe we really have is the widescreen thingy and thats a corporate decision. It'd be a bonus to have it widescreen but i for one am more than happy with the MTI DVD.

I totally agree with you and get what you mean though on all other that you said, Disney are their best bet, it'd be nice to see the Muppetvision as Jim imagined it, and there is that risk of the muppets being used as kiddie fodder - but there are advantages and disadvantages to that. I think Diz know what they would be doing handling a brand like the Muppets.

[beaker]

>>>Cory is joking. In Danny's article he said that Henson had considered a rarities DVD but rejected it because they would never be able to sell enough to make it worthwhile<<<

Eeek, to Warrick, sorry! I was just being sarcastic...oh gosh woulkd a dvd like that be too cool, I was just being a bit facicious to bean bunny's 'muppets @wdw' dvd comment. to bean bunny:
Oh man! I'm with you, I place Muppets @WDW as one of the TOP Muppet specials ever along with Muppet Family Christmas!
though that made it to dvd, joint projects liek that will never see the light of day on dvd I'm afraid.
Luke: I never even read Danny's article on that! Yeah,s adly I think only us on mc and a few others(and JHC employees) would be interested in such a dvd, hehe

[beaker]

>>It's a cool idea that they may get a special secion of the park (extension of Muppet Vision) and will live on that way. I think that's what Jim saw all those years ago. My real objection is that the Muppets may be reduced to disposable kiddie-fare which would be a shame. And seeing how little respect Disney is giving their new line-up of DVD releases, it is obvious they only have profits on their minds and nothing else<<

Holy cow! I swear this has to be one of the most truthful unbiased yet very smart thoughts on the possible Disney buyout!
Yeah, a Muppet extention of Calif Adv/WDW would rock...but on the other hand the Henson properties seem to do better it would seem when it comes to Disney, in 'limited partnerships'(ie: Having all Muppet/Sesame/Bear dvds come out on columbia/sony wonder, but letting Disney manage aspects of bear, and other releases, along with mv3d) And about the Disney dvd thing, usually Disney goes ALL out on THEIR dvds, so its a shame theyre handling of the MTI and MCC is so poor. I guess an example of a poor treatment of a really cool property is the whole nightmare before christmas thing.

[Muppets1985]

Okay what company is the high bider so far? Disney i HOPE!!!

[Muppets1985]

If Disney does get Henson/Muppets ( i HOPE to god, that thay DO !!!) that disney puts these show back on.....

Muppet babies - on Play House Disney
Bear in the BIG blue house - on Play House Disney
Fraggle Rock cartoon - on Play House Disney
The Muppet Show - on Disney Channel/abc Family
Fraggle Rock - on abc Family
Story Teller - weekends on Disney channel or abc Family
Muppets tonight - Zoog Disney channel
Animal show - on Play House Disney
Jim Henson Hour - abc family
...etc etc etc...


....and Muppet movies like... MFC, MTI, MCC, TMM, TGMC, M@WW and other a spechels on abc family, abc, and Disney channel

[frogboy4]

Luke-

I still say that cropping the film is "poor treatment" as I have stated. It basically speaks volumes of how Disney feels like marketing the Muppets - only to kids. They have a widescreen version sitting around on a shelf somewhere but are refusing to use it! That is my point on that portion of the subject. Beyond that, yes- the DVD looks great. A sing along though? I'm all for more stuff, but that seems directly marketed to kiddies. That is what really concerns me - although I do own a couple of sing alongs.

Having a park attraction would be great! I never quite thought a whole Henson World would work because there can be controversies in creating and maintaining a themepark. It would be great if Disney just made an extension of theirs IMHO.

[Luke]

Well Muppet Treasure Island was a movie aimed more at kids, being a Treasure Island adaptation theres not much more you can do to it - but yes, the extras do tend to be geared up for kiddies and i get what you mean. It's a worry that Disney will market the Muppets just to kids, but then i think the same thing goes for every other mentioned bidder besides Fox !

If you look at the Muppets when Jim was alive, compared to since he died, the vast majority of output has centred more around children. For the Christmas Carol, Treasure Island, Muppets From Space, and all the direct to video releases - there has only been Muppets Tonight and a few gameshow/talkshow appearances that have kept up the tradition and viewer targets of the original Muppet Show !

I just hope, as i'm sure we all do, that whoever gets the company spends a large amount on researching the brand and gets it right - hopefully with the promised 'edgy' Fox show they'll get a helping hand.

[BoyRaisin2]

Muppets1985:
Yes, putting the classic stuff (particularly JHH and older specials) back on TV would be AWESOME!

Luke/Frogboy:
I wish I knew what the fuss over this "widescreen" thing is. I don't even HAVE a DVD player! So I don't what ANY of these terms mean. Besides, I have MCC and MTI on VHS anyway.

Also, if Disney (or whoever) buys Henson, what will this mean for JHC's movie (if there is one) and video deals with Sony? Are they expiring soon anyway?

[Luke]

Boyraisin,

The movie deal expired long ago. The exisiting TV and merchandising deals would carry on, unless the company buying Henson also wanted to buy their way out of the deals. (like Hallmark did with the Odyssey contract) Otherwise they would start doing their own thing once the existing deals expired. This is gonna be a big factor if Disney or News Corp buys Henson - likely they might prefer to have the Muppets on their own channels, and included as part of their own exisiting deals.

[BoyRaisin2]

TV & merchandising? You're talking about the video distribution deal right?

So I guess those "other" movies we heard Jim Henson Pictures was planning on making a couple of years back are not (or weren't) going to happen, huh?

And Henson has complete ownership of Jim Henson Pictures, right? It's not a 50/50 joint venture with Sony, is it?

[Luke]

Yeah TV & Merchandising, including the Columbia video distribution deal (obviously that'd end up at Buena Vista). It's like when WWF bought WCW - both companies action figures were made by opposing companies, so the WCW deal was cancelled.

No idea about Henson Pictures, i think it might be 100% Henson but not sure - best to ask Phil, Michael or someone like that. As for the films they make, no they could still make them and have many different things 'optioned' right now that they could also make. Just to produce them and then distribute them to theaters they would need a new deal like the Sony one.

[frogboy4]

Why the DVD should be released in widescreen:

A film is made to fit the more rectangular screen of a theater - when released on video the sides of the film have been trimmed off in order to fit inside the limited area of the television screen. This means information is lost. If Scooter is on the far left of the screen, well say goodbye because Disney thinks he isn't important enough to keep in the shot. They think the widescreen release will bother people, though I don't see why - and both versions can fit on a DVD.

Since the age of DVD it has been standard practice to release a "widescreen" version of the film. the imag is sligtly shrunk so that the whole pciture fits and it is placed upon a black background which appears as black bars on the top and bottom of the screen. Disney thinks these bars will annoy people or theat they won't understand them. Many of today's top programs are broadcast in widescreen, so I think Disney is just talking out of their butt on this (or lack of a better term). A few years from now when people own widescreen televisons - the bars will disappear as the image will adjust to magicly fit the screen. Hope ths helped. :)

[Luke]

So Jamie, whats the difference between Widescreen and Anamorphic Widescreen - i think i heard that Anamorphic stretches to fit the whole of the screen - is that right ?

[frogboy4]

Most widescreen DVDs are anamorphic - that is, with the exception of very few. I think another point in the DVD debate is that Disney is one of the last companies to release its titles in this format. They held out longer than any other company and I think it's taking them longer to understand the new medium.

Example - Evita - it was released a couple of years ago on DVD through Hollywood Pictures (aka Disney - as you know) and the widescreen is not anamorphic. Apparently they didn't know the difference at the time of release or were just plain cheap. This has disappointed many of my friends and me as well (betcha guessed I know lots of Madonna fans, LOL).

It's rather funny because it is advertised as widescreen in bold latters even bigger than the title! You think they wouln't have mucked that up. Well, anyway - when it is played on my widescreen computer monitor, it has black and grey bars. kind of tacky. More current releases fron them have avoided this practice and I believe that some of the "complaints" that they have received may have to do with ther low-grade proccess.

:)

[Zack the Dog]

Hey! I'll buy that Earthworm Jim action fig from ya!j/k ;-) I love him!


Zack)Rowlf the, got Peter Puppie too?Dog.

[scarylarrywolf]

Fox or AOL, huh? I hope that Fox gets the Muppets if anyone has to. They've done so many classic films, I'm sure they'd treat the Muppets right.

[Jessie]

I don't know it all - ask me a question on boybands and i'd be stumped !

You mean to tell me that you don't lust after the Backstreet Boys? Shame...

:0)

[Fozzie Bear]

I realize the list of the potential buyers of the JHC, and all I can say is Good Grief!

Me? I vote NO to Disney and AOL/Time Warner (look what they did with Speedy for no reason). Disney, they chop stuff to pieces. Nobody wants the Muppets to be totally kiddie stuff, and it's already been said that MTI was geared toward kids more than anything. Plus, having worked for Disney, they will do anything for a profit (hello? sequel sequel sequel etc...) and, well, I like their new animated movies, but when was the last time you ever saw anything ORIGINAL come from Disney? It's always based on books or stories or somethin else...Mouse House or whatever that is on Saturday mornings is the best product going for them right now, but that's only MY opinion. I think they should do more films like they did with Lion King, where it's only partially based on something else but is an original story; heck, where's the Mickey Mouse movies? They have great characters they put down for other things. So, when they own the Muppets, how long will they maintain their interest in it? Anyhow, I have to wonder who'll get my goat for having that opinion LOL!! Like i said, tho, it's only MY opinion.

Personally, I have $600 to throw in the pot to begin the purchase of JHC. If we ALL start throwing in the pot, us MCers could own the company. Like I said before, help ME own it, and you've all got jobs! HAA!

[Luke]

Yeah but even if Disney do buy Henson, then any product still coming out will be directly from Henson, not Disney. People complain about all the sequels and nothing original coming from Disney's own properties (and single licenses that have been aquired) but with the Muppets, it's more than likely that Henson would still continue as an offshoot company - yes, Rivkin would probably get the push, and a lot of Disney people would come onto the JHC board of directors, but things wouldn't be as bad as you think - Henson would probably still maintain a degree of independance and have a big say in any decisions.

[Bean Bunny]

Disney has an oringal film coming out called "Lilo and Stitch".

[Fozzie Bear]

Lukie,

Didn't think about that; besides, when I met Rivkin out at MFest, he DID say that whoever ends up with the JHC would be a company that allowed them the most freedom to do what they wanted to do (paraphrased, of course).

Bean,

Lilo and Stitch...are you SURE it isn't a story taken from somewhere else and it's a pure ORIGINAL film? That's what I'm yakking 'bout, something that THEY create themselves and not take from a legend or story from somewhere else. Kind of the same complaints we have heard with the Muppets doing MTI or MCC. At any rate, at least their songs are original and not 70's funk, huh? :)

FOZ

[BoyRaisin2]

Yeah, I was wondering if Rivkin would be fired or not if Disney (or whoever) bought Henson.

Concerning Disney animated films, I (meaning me) feel if Disney does a good job on the film, and adapt the story to film better than anyone else can, it could still be an enjoyable film, whether it's original or NOT. But that's just me. :-)

[Luke]

<<he DID say that whoever ends up with the JHC would be a company that allowed them the most freedom to do what they wanted to do>>

I think he was meaning (in a jokey way) that HE would be the person who ended up with JHC. Looks like there's very little chance of that now though - and he'll soon need to go to the 'Hiring' desk at the rubber chicken factory no doubt.

[BoyRaisin2]

So our beloved Charles Rivkin IS going to lose his job? Or is that just a strong possibility?

[Luke]

Very strong possibilty - jeez what is it with you ? Are you with the press ? ;-)

[BoyRaisin2]

I WISH. I REALLY REALLY wish. :-) I want to know what Eisner, Klatten, and Rivkin are doing!

[Bean Bunny]

Foz,

"Lilo & Stitch" was created, produced, directed and writing by two Disney animators. One of the creator ever does Stitch's voice. Sure the whole alien-kid things had been done before but this story is very different in a good way, trust me.

[frogboy4]

It is a well-known fact that nothing is created in a vacuum and this holds true for art and entertainment as well. Although some projects are clearly remakes, most others are influenced by the work of others. This is a great thing. When an artist or company ignores the history of their concept or has not done adequate research their work usually falls flat. I am certainly not implying that originality is not an asset - it certainly is. It is just that true creativity comes from knowledge and exploration that involves external sources.

Just a little side note. I know it's not completely on topic.

[Fozzie Bear]

Hiya Froggy,

It was on topic and makes sense. By original, I mean like I was just told about Lilo and Stitch...THAT'S original to me. The company got two guys to create and develop a new story with new characters.

By this time in life, you can't really do anything without basing it at least a smidgeon on another item, which is what I think you were saying. You're right. Some of the comic strips I've done are extensions of Peanuts strips, really. I read a strip and I think, 'Schulz could have done this, too!' And I do it. It's all been done before, good vs. evil--no matter what the good or evil is.

Luke-
I don't think the rubber chicken factory is hiring. He may have to tend to the penguins at his local zoo if he's kicked out. Geez. That'll be a fishy job, feedin them penguins and stuff.

[towels]

Originally posted by FOZZI3B3AR
Lukie,

Didn't think about that; besides, when I met Rivkin out at MFest, he DID say that whoever ends up with the JHC would be a company that allowed them the most freedom to do what they wanted to do (paraphrased, of course).


Of course, whoever ends up with the JHC will really be a company that will give Em.tv the most money...but it's a nice thought. (I have a hard time believing Rivkin would have veto powers over this type of sale...


Bean,

Lilo and Stitch...are you SURE it isn't a story taken from somewhere else and it's a pure ORIGINAL film? That's what I'm yakking 'bout, something that THEY create themselves and not take from a legend or story from somewhere else. Kind of the same complaints we have heard with the Muppets doing MTI or MCC. At any rate, at least their songs are original and not 70's funk, huh? :)

FOZ

Actually, a lot of the Disney classics are not truly "original"- Cinderella, Little Mermaid, Jungle Book, etc. all came from outside sources. I don't really have a problem with that...it's the robbing from themselves that bugs me...the whole "sequel/remake-mania".
I can just imagine some Disney exec saying, "What if Herbie the Love Bug was a Muppet?"
:eek:

[Jessie]

Sorry to jump in and argue some more, but Lion King was an orginal movie, not based upon any classic or such and I think it was one of the best. Please give Disney some credit...

Even though Cinderella IV makes me want to vomit...

[Fozzie Bear]

Lion King. Hamlet. The comparisons were made during the time I worked at the Disney Store here in Memphis, and nobody from Disney ever said anything different. It was still LOOSLEY based, but my fussing was indeed about all the sequel junk and the fact that they have a ton of really cool characters in Mickey and Co. and never use them and should.

FOZ

[Jessie]

There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy.

I still stand by Disney. Afterall, my dream in life is to be Tinker Bell when I gorw up...

[frogboy4]

There was a large debate at the time of Lion King's release that the story was based on Kimba the White Lion. Now I love the Lion King, but it definitely has Hamlet at the very least. I will reiterate that nothing is created in a vacuum. Saying that the writers had outside influences is not an insult - such a practice is expected. If such stories had no influences they'd likely appear really flat.

I will site Roger Rabbit as an example. It was based on a novel by Gary Wolf, but if you've read it - there really isn't much taken from the book. Disney and Amblin took a concept and made it their own. That's a wonderful thing - the movie is much better too!

Just my 1/2 cent. :)

[radionate]

I just don't know about the Hamlet comparisons. Yeah I see it to a point, but thats streching it in my opinion.

As for originality, everything borrows from something else anymore. I don't think you could come up with any story line, and not have some similarities to another script. Its what you do to distinguish it from the others that matters.

I agree with Jamie. The first Roger Rabbit Book (Who Censored Roger Rabbit), is so far different from the movie. The characters aren't even animated, rather they are photographed for the comic page of the newspaper, etc. It's a good book, and I love it, but far different from the movie. As is 101 Dalmations, The Little Mermaid (if you remember she dies in the end), Cinderella (she originally had gold slippers), etc etc etc. Its these little touches that make all the difference in the world, and I think that Disney (at times), is the master of this (although John Lasseter at Pixar could give them a run for their money if he ever indepedently produces films).

Where was I going with this message? :confused:

[beaker]

>>>Sorry to jump in and argue some more, but Lion King was an orginal movie, not based upon any classic or such and I think it was one of the best. Please give Disney some credit...<<<

Sorry to inform ya, but the Lion King(while one of the greatest Disney animated films of all time, and I still want to see the live show) is a absolute direct ripoff of the late great Japanese manga/anime artist Osamu Tezuka's Kimba the White Lion(I think there might have even been some litigation of some sort) There's even shirts with the cub from lion king looking in a mirow with kimba that says 'The Lyin' King'.

So whoever posted the above is absolutely correct, virtually every Disney classic animated film is based upon a previous story,a nd not off original ideas from the Diz


///beaker///

[beaker]

Oops, didnt see you already referenced the Kimba the White Lion thing. I will say Kimba the White Lion isnt the only anime Disney ripped off for a theatrical release...a lot of anime fans would say the Japanese animation classic Nadiesco was ripped off into what would become 'Atlantis the lost empire'.

As for the Disney thing, I will say that Henson cannot continue like it has been in recent years...just able to trudge along, it needs big muscle and clout...there's good in any of the buyouts along as they are out of the emtv fiasco.

However, everyone expects the big Diz to be the ones...just like people assum the Lakers will win the nba title every year and that brainless action comedies will destroy at the box office.
So while I have really enjoyed Disney's limited partnership over the years, a lot would agree they are not a preferred choice.

[frogboy4]

I feel that's why Atlantis tanked. The animators took a style without doing adequate research and the film fell flat. I still haven't seen it, but the previews never thrilled me nor did the write-ups. Just an observation, though. Peole know I'm not a big anime fan. It's not for everybody.

[Fozzie Bear]

Hiya,

I'm not large into anime, even if my best friend does a comic book in manga style.

I think the point at one time was missed. I'm not bothered by the fact that Disney takes from story books and creates good movies, and it isn't that I don't realize that every story, whether based solely or not, is still inspired by another story (see prior post somewhere when I said some of my comic strips happen when I'm reading a book of Peanuts strips). You take it and build off it if that's what you're reading, and there's also another problem that comes into play here:

Similarities. Very close to the time Schulz died, I did a whole strip (at www.rock103.com/crew/funnypages titled "How Does Snoop Do It?") about Buford trying to get to the top of Snoopy's Dog House. Soon after he died, a nationally syndicated cartoonist did the same strip. Did he rip me off, or is this a case of 2 great...or low down...minds thinking alike? I dunno; same thing goes for books, movies, and anything else, so I wasn't knocking that fact.

My problem with Disney (I liked Atlantis, by the way) is that they DO NOT use their OWN characters for diddly squat. When I see a new Mickey Mouse cartoon or MOVIE, THEN I'll give in to liking them some, but I have lost respect for Disney for some reason. They just forget about the things they own and keep running off on tangents doing other things instead of focusing on what folks already know and love.

That's my fear if they were to get the JHC; "Hey, We got the MUPPETS!!" When they get them, sure they'll do lots of big things at first, and as time goes along...it's like the kid with a cowboy hat on Christmas day...he has it and is a cowboy for about a month and then he forgets about it all.

One thing I think folks are forgetting about JHC, and I hear lots of grout about how they need more muscle behind them or that they don't do so well...considering their current conditions, with all the corporate mush they have ended up in for all the time they've been there, they've still constantly produced and kept out there and kept working hard and harder along the way and not let down any. Kudos to them for that, methinx.

But this is all just my own opinion, and opinions are like onions...sometimes, they make ya just wanna cry.

FOZ

[beaker]

>>I'm not large into anime, even if my best friend does a comic book in manga style<<<

hey, you have a friend who does manga styled comics? does he have a site? I do manga comics to!

http://us.f1.yahoofs.com/users/c5200cc7/bc/Yahoo!+Photo+Album/noodlecrisispic.jpg?pfE7X98AO73HL1Cy

Im trying to remember who else does cartoons or drawing on here...I think everyone on here does some kind of art(whether it be photoshop, quilting, etc) I know mr. frogboy does cartoons.

///beaker///
ph33r the wackiness

[frogboy4]

I actually like that Disney is experimenting and breaking free from their notorious formula. It is crucial for their survival as a company (and artistically) that they keep trying to do new things. That does not mean that they should forget all about their core audience. I could go for another musical animated feature like The Lion King, and I am sure they will do more later on.

About Disney owning the Muppets and forgetting about them - I really doubt that. I see they will notice the same value in the enterprise as they did with Pooh. There's Pooh everywhere I look! You can't escape the guy! Now they did redesign his look though I doubt that would happen with the Muppets as it would be expensive and unneccessary. And Pooh was already a children's story so they didn't really kiddify him. Will they kiddify the Muppets? That's really the only concern. But Henson seems to be doing so theirselves these days.

I really believe the Muppet catalog of characters will be a strong and permanent force with Disney if/once they acquire them. I think Disney might exploit them too much, but I can tell you this. The holiday following a buyout would certainly mean that every kid would be getting Kermit slippers from the Disney Store for Christmas. :)

[Bean Bunny]

Any new information on the sale?

[BoyRaisin2]

Frogboy:

Yeah, there'd better be "flipper slippers" at The Disney Store. :-)

[frogboy4]

I'd wear 'em. They better make my size!:D

[Jessie]

They had Sulley ones from Monsters INC but alas, my feet were too big. :0(

[Fozzie Bear]

FLIPPER SLIPPERS!! NOW you have my interest captured! Wonder if I can make me some of those for here at home..hmmm.

Beaker:
www.toshigawa.com
He's one of the best artists there is, in my opinion.

On the boards, there's Smiggy, Frogboy4, and Melonpool who all are great artists. The only ones who come to mind right now.

I'm okay with mine I suppose. As always with any artist, tho, I can stand room to improve. www.rock103.com/crew/funnypages under the Muley icon, and the puppets are at www.midsouthcartoonists.com

Speaking of Frogboy4, if you haven't seen any of his work, I hope you get a chance to. Jamie...where's your link for Beakie?

FOZ

[frogboy4]

Muley totally rocks!

Unfortunately, my comic site isn't up yet. Here is the link: www.jamesvier.com/crossbreed
It will be up later this summer (by August at the latest).

[Fozzie Bear]

Jamie,

Muley said you rock, too! Then he reminded me of a neat book called Sylvester and the Magic Pebble. It's about a donkey who finds a pebble and becomes a rock. Really a neat little kids book.

Then, Muley kicked me because he doesn't have such a neat book and began screaming for his agent...but he realized I'M his agent, so he shut up. Sometimes, he listens to me.

I don't give him nickel paychecks for nothing!

FOZ

[frogboy4]

Ooooooh! I remember that book! Vey cool!

I'm going to begin a comic thread on another page. Frogboy's first attempt to stay close to topic ever! This is a momentus occasion! Wow! Nah, it's just that I have heard that some people are having a hard time finding things lately.

http://www.muppetcentral.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=564

[Bean Bunny]

Okay with Brian stepping down from his chairman role, he know that something is happen soon. The first clue is that Variety article where it states that Rivikin and his mystery banker have made a bid. Okay, this might sound a little strange but didn't this artilce state that the company buy back was turned down. :confused:

On to part 2, If a huge company like say The Walt Disney buys Henson, I believe that it will give a whole ton of media and press coverage such as " It's 1989 all over again, Disney has bought Henson". Henson can know say to all the people who ask them, "Aren't Muppets owned by Disney?". "Now they are." Things like the Disney Stores and Parks can be used for the Muppets and other Hensno creations. Disney relationship with Coke, Kellogs, and Mcdonalds will help promote new Muppet merchandise such as Muppet Ceral, Muppet Juice, and new Happy Meal toys.

That it for now, I am sure that I will come with some more stuff soon.

[BoyRaisin2]

Let's just say we cannot confirm or deny that we have a clue what's going on. Doesn't Phil or someone have some connections? Muppet Central needs to dig deeper into this stuff. 'Cause we care more than anyone else!

[Fozzie Bear]

You can try to contact the JHC folks directly or any other company and they will tell you that there is no information for them to give you. Why? Probably cause there isn't.

As far as Disney promoting Henson merchandise? Cereal: Croonchy Stars, no longer around; Muppet drinks: Not likely, though a Coca Cola "special can" series (ie, starwars) might be fun; Disney Stores...you seen the junk they're selling now? I used to work for them, and all their stuff just really STINKS now! Their plush is looking better, though. I'm just not that thrilled with the rest of the stuff in that store...all the collectibles and stuff looked better when I was still there.

I don't think Brian Henson stepped down because of the sale of the company or anything like that; as a matter of fact, I heard long ago that he was thinking about it so he could focus more on the creative side of the company (and I think it was here at MC, or on the old Delphi forums somewhere). If he was stepping down for any other reason, it would have been during the EM.TV sale, which I still say SHOULD NOT have happened.

I'm still for Rivkin and his posse getting the JHC back in the hands of the JHC...I know folks are going to complain about me saying that, but so far the biggest mistake has been the EM.TV sale, and you have to admit that, regardless how things have been going, they've been doing darn good to keep the company afloat.

With a burning passion I just don't want Disney or AOL/Time Warner to have the JHC...though, if I have to choose somone besides JHC owning the JHC, between the two, I would go with Disney. AOL/TW and the way they handled the Speedy Gonzales thing still has me steamed.

[Luke]

Yeah the current crop of press releases aren't really making sense - there have been lots of contradictions so i wouldn't take what each one says as the gospel truth. There has certainly been more interest than just the Rivkin buyback, and if someone like Disney won't pay upwards of 150 million then theres something seriously wrong here. You also have to remember that Allen & Co are about to solicit a second round of bids, so all talk of the sale being as close as next week is totally false, and lots of companies stay out of the running until the final stages.

<<I don't think Brian Henson stepped down because of the sale of the company or anything like that; as a matter of fact, I heard long ago that he was thinking about it so he could focus more on the creative side of the company>>

Yeah its old news that he was considering stepping down as chairman but it's come at a pretty wierd time. I think theres probably a lot more to it than that - we shall see.

I will say though, that the angle on the Rivkin sale doesn't 'sell' me - whats the point in having Rivkin run the company if he doesn't have much Henson help in running it ? Also how do we know his mystery backer isnt some other German company who will be just like EMTV ? I want to see the company go to someone who can give the Muppets all the resources they need - not someone who won't have enough money or creative/promotional power to do anything new with them - it'll be just like those quiet years after Jim died. I just think that if Rivkin gets the company i'll be seriously reconsidering how much time i devote to the Muppets - we may have all this interest from media companies and merchandise companies right now for the 25th anniversary, but the Muppets have always gone through short periods of on/off popularity - come next Summer all the anniversary stuff will have died down and thats when something dramatic needs to happen to keep up the interest.

[frogboy4]

I agree with you. I have never been much in favor of the Rivkin buy-back because it sort of represents a step back IMHO. That and I have heard talk of Rivkin not understanding that there is a 20 years and older market for the Muppets. Under his direction we could be looking at even more kiddie-fare. Ick.

If not Disney there needs to be a substancial entertainment company backing Henson. Less we forget that it is exactly what Jim wanted for his creations - to live on with a company that has the proper resources and longevitiy. The Rivkin angle just doesn't seem viable to me. It'll be the 1990s all over again. Just my thoughts. It's unlikely anyway. Who is this phantom backer?

[Muppets1985]

**forget that it is exactly what Jim wanted for his creations - to live on with a company that has the proper resources and longevitiy.**

See thats why i WANT Disney to get the Muppets!


Note to Eisner: If you don't offer in a bid or offer the MOST money to EM.TV, i WILL flip, and i will get your job and make Disney and the Muppets the greatest company ever!!!!

[BoyRaisin2]

Well, I believe his contract expires in Sept. 2006, so you might have to wait a while. Also, you might want to bring a couple of guys from the board. It might ease their fears about who's running the company.

Just looking at this from perspective.

[towels]

For those that went, what effect do you think Muppetfest had on the perceived target age of Muppet fans? Was it a kid-heavy event, or do you think some eyes may have been opened as to the audience level?

[Stulz]

I think that the target audience wasn't nessecarily meant for kids. I mean if you look how it was set up - ther wasn't much hands on interaction for them. Teh kids that were there were gettin' antsy sitting there all day.. my butt was startin' to hurt. (didn't want to miss anything though).

I do think that the event opened their eyes to how many of us WEREN'T kids OR "30-50" yrs old. I think the notticed that most of the atentees there ranged from 18- 30. That surprised them for sure.. they even said so.

Look at how they have the Henson traveling exhibit. it has an area where teh kida can feel the fabric and touch and play with it.

If Muppefest were aimed at kids there would have been alot more stations like and not the museum and collectible portions.

Here's Looking foward to MFII !!!

Chris
:)

[Fozzie Bear]

I agree with Chris! I think the targeted audience ended up being more grown-up folks than the kiddies...except one very special and darling little child in a kermit suit.

[Zack the Dog]

Hiya Kevin!

Sylvester and the Magic Pebble, a book I know well! i love this book when i was a kid! i still have a copy!


Zack)Rowlf the, funny how great books get around everywhere,Dog.

[Fozzie Bear]

I have this book in paper back and hard back, and there was also a small Sylvester doll with a zipper back, you turn him inside out and zip it shut and he becomes the red stone.

Of course, a guy with a mule for a cartoon character would know about Sylvester. I have too much donkey and mule stuff.

FOZ

[Luke]

The thing with Muppetfest was that it was specifically aimed at the hardcore Muppet fan and a relatively small amount of people, so they would have been expecting the large adult interest as well as the kids. They've known for a long time they've got a fanbase of about 500-1000 adults who are openly 'out' about their Muppet love. It's outside of this fanbase that i think people mean - in the 'real world' the Henson company does seem to think there is a greater kid interest, as can be seen from them making things like 'Kermits Swamp Years' and 'Muppets From Space'. Since Jim died things have been kiddyfied quite a bit and i guess this down to Brian and Charlie.

[beaker]

>>>They've known for a long time they've got a fanbase of about 500-1000 adults who are openly 'out' about their Muppet love<<<

Yay, and Im one of those zealot individuals^_^ Yeah, Muppetfest was definately more for the hardcore 20 something+ fan...I hardly saw any kids there, so I guess the Bear sing a long was for those relaly big kids at heart. Its funny, virtually every modernized country in the world's citizen knows who the Muppets are, yet only a small substantial hardcore element remains. When you have a franchise thats been around for half a century, and whose shows have been shown the world over to billions of people...its amazing out of all that in a modern setting only a microcosm of fanatical fans are left. However, we all know this, 2002...leading up to 2003 is the proving ground...to bring the franchise out of the quagmire of 'nostalgia' and into the modern light where they belong. The sheer demand for the figures, and the fact everyone at least remembers non main 5 Muppet show characters(and of course having all grown up on 'the street') is testament to its hopefully wider appeal.
So yeah, last year was bascially the hardcore contingent at mfest...this year being in NYC and the fact so much Muppet merchandise and film projects/other stuff is in the works/coming out along with radio print tv etc ads and tv appearences...
the Muppet rebirth is upon us!

///beaker///

[danielromens]

I really think that Fox or Viacom could do some great things with them. Also for those Theme park crazy folks could have their Universal Studios to work with. You could guarantee we'd see Muppety rides if Viacom gets em.

[Tera]

Ohh! A Muppet Ride at Universal?!? What a BEAUTIFUL idea!
I have season passes to WDW so I'm there probably once every 6 weeks. I enjoy it a great deal, but its not a place for the Muppets.
I'm not terribly excited about the possibility of Disney owning the Muppets because they don't seem to have a clue what to do with them. And even tho Muppets3d is at MGM I don't go to that park. (Yeah, call me a blashpemer if you want.)
The reason is that the only things there that don't absolutely SUCK are 1 simulator ride, Muppets3d and Fantasmic. 3 things aren't enough to get me in the park.
I'm worried that if the Mouse did a new Muppets ride it would be like the Pooh or Aladdin rides they put in recently; a lame rehashing of old ideas. The Pooh one is just like Mr Toad's Wild Ride which it replaced, and Aladdin is just another Dumbo. The only things they added to Aladdin were the spitting camels, like the spitting fish at Universal's Seuss Island.
Now Seuss island is ASTOUNDING! I'm a Seuss freak too, so I'm am biased, but they manged to create the feeling entering the World of Seuss, not just a single ride. It is absolutely magical there! It was so convincing that they sucked me completly into it, even though I'm an actor and one of my old boyfriends was doing the live show. (That was VERY surreal - trust me.)
Anyway, if we're talking themeparks, Universal would be far better . They don't kiddify everything, and the ability of the Muppets to speak to all age levels is what keeps them going. I can watch the old Muppet shows 1000 times with my kid, but if I have to see !@*#&)ing Atlantis one more time I'm going to throw out my DVD player. (To all Atlantis fans, I did like it the first 20 times.)
So, I'm not supportive of the Disney buy, but I'm not really thrilled about anybody else, either. I hope that if Fox gets it that they will do some exciting programming with it, though.
Maybe a Survivor-like show where humans and Muppets have to live together on tropical islands... I know we'd all audition for it! Maybe an island with The Electric Mayhem, Clifford and Bobo? They'd all just be too relaxed to vote anybody off...I can visualize Andy and Randy Pig being voted as dinner. Maybe Pepe would pose for the camera in a thong bikini?
ok, now I'm creeping myself out :)

[frogboy4]

Fox is already planning a Muppets series next Spring aside from any sale.

[Muppets1985]

Originally posted by frogboy4
Fox is already planning a Muppets series next Spring aside from any sale.

So IF Disney Gets the Muppets, Fox will still put the show on? And if so will it have the Walt Disney logo at the end? And say Muppets (or Jim Henson Co.) (c) Disney?

[frogboy4]

The show will likely still go on and I hope that it would have the full support of Disney. They do have media on channels other than their own It depends on the contract I think, but I assume the credits at the end would reflect both Henson and Disney. I know many people have the assumtion that Disney wants to erase the Henson name, but I can't see that being true. Henson is a great brand (though it has diminished some) and recognized worldwide. Along with the Muppets, they are buying the brand and they would be really poor businessmen to drop such a moneymaking name. It simply won't happen - at least not anytime soon.

[Jessie]

Just out of curiosity, why have you watched Atlantis more than 20 times?

I agree that the Pooh ride is very cheap and I was heartbroken that they took out Mr. Toad's, but I don't think that MGM "sucks." If I remember correctly, they have the new Rocking Rollercoaster which was a lot of fun (0-60 in 3 seconds or something), plus they have Indiana Jones, the Behind the Scenes ride, and the Tower of Terror. And plus MGM is the only place where Mulan can be found.

Personally, when I went to Islands of Adventure, I spent the least time in Suess World. I love Dr. Suess, but I just wasn't in to seeing it as a theme park. I guess for the same reason that I wouldn't go to Harry Potter world whenever they get it finished in England...

[Muppets1985]

Originally posted by Jessie
Just out of curiosity, why have you watched Atlantis more than 20 times?

I agree that the Pooh ride is very cheap and I was heartbroken that they took out Mr. Toad's, but I don't think that MGM "sucks." If I remember correctly, they have the new Rocking Rollercoaster which was a lot of fun (0-60 in 3 seconds or something), plus they have Indiana Jones, the Behind the Scenes ride, and the Tower of Terror. And plus MGM is the only place where Mulan can be found.

Personally, when I went to Islands of Adventure, I spent the least time in Suess World. I love Dr. Suess, but I just wasn't in to seeing it as a theme park. I guess for the same reason that I wouldn't go to Harry Potter world whenever they get it finished in England...


I feel ya there "MR. Toads' ride was great and my famliy and i loved it, the Pooh ride is Ok, not the best, but OK (We went last year in the summer). After that we went to Universal and the Island of Adventure and let me tell u my family and me and NOT really in joy Universal all that much heres why....

1. The poeple in the costomes like Rugrats, or scooby doo, or Rocky and Bullwinkel don't like to take pitchers with you and are NOT real fun to hang with! and that made my little brother (10) and my 3 little cozins (5,8,3,) upset and my aunt was REALLY upset off.

2. Dr Suess world IS Soooo kiddish, and weard (witch kindad scared me) them Fish look Odd and that Cat Ooooo let me tell you VARY touchie fellie (sick)

so we went right back to Disney a.s.a.p. and stade there for the rest of that week. and I don't think Universal is a good place for the Muppets point blank, way toooo much of a kiddie park (exsep, Jaws and king kong).
And at Disney the costome cartoons were vary exsiding to be with FUNNY, all ways happy and toke our pitchers with them and it was GREAT to be there!!! we WE ALL loved MV3D we went 5 time before we left.

[Luke]

Yeah i agree, Disney would never drop the Henson Company name if they could help it. There would just likely be two 'sting' graphics at the end, Henson's first and then Disney's. There is the fairly unlikely exception that if EMTV were to go bankrupt and the liquidators split the company up, then Disney (if they bought just the characters) might not have the right to use certain company names.

As to them staying on Fox if Disney bought the brand, yes, likely for the first season that has already been commisioned but may well change after that.

[Jessie]

We got acousted by a character at Disney though...he was dressed up as some bear by Splash Mountain and let me just say it was scary. Other than that my Disney expereineces have been great.