Ever wondered where the magic of The Muppets found a London home? Here, at 50 Downshire Hill. Look closely at the Jim Henson Blue plaque. It marks the spot where Jim Henson lived from 1979. He lived here until 1982. Yet, this remained his London base until his death in 1990.
Jim Henson was more than a puppeteer. He was a creative genius. The Jim Henson Blue plaque commemorates his work. It also marks what would have been his 85th birthday.
Henson moved to London to make The Muppet Show. He stayed because he was impressed by the UK’s talented artists. With them, he produced The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. These were some of his most ambitious projects.
The Jim Henson Blue plaque sits opposite his former Creature Shop. This was located at 1B Downshire Hill. Here, the creatures from Henson’s fantasy classics were born.
Born in Mississippi in 1936, Jim Henson explored art early. At 17, he became a puppeteer. He created the ancestors to The Muppets for an audition. He and his wife, Jane Nebel, even had their own TV show. It was called Sam and Friends.
The Muppet Show hit British screens in 1976. It was filmed at Elstree Studios. The show introduced characters like Fozzie Bear and Miss Piggy. It became a hit in over 100 countries. Henson made the UK a creative home. He bought this Downshire Hill house in 1979.
At Elstree, Henson directed The Great Muppet Caper. He also directed The Dark Crystal. He met George Lucas there too. Henson gave creative input on Yoda. Frank Oz performed the Star Wars character. Henson also created Fraggle Rock and The Storyteller. Plus, he created the film Labyrinth starring David Bowie.
Sadly, Jim Henson passed away in 1990. He was only 53. A service was held at St Paul’s Cathedral for his British friends. His legacy continues to inspire. The Jim Henson Blue plaque ensures his connection to London remains. It reminds us of the joy he brought to the world. It also honors his creative spirit.