It’s been three decades since the Muppets taught Ebenezer Scrooge the true meaning of Christmas. On Dec. 11, 1992, The Muppet Christmas Carol premiered in movie theaters with Michael Caine memorably playing the grumpy moneylender. Thirty years later, the anniversary was acknowledged by the official social channels for The Muppets, celebrating the occasion with a message and a promo photo from the film.
“30 years ago today, The Muppet Christmas Carol released in theaters,” the post reads. “Thank you to our fans who have made the film part of their annual holiday traditions. You’re the gift that keeps on giving!”
Offering a celebration suggestion for fans, a follow-up message adds, “In celebration of the 30th anniversary, you can find the Full-Length Version of The Muppet Christmas Carol, with the song ‘When Love is Gone’ restored in the film, in the Extras section only on Disney+.”
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It was announced in September that the uncut version of The Muppet Christmas Carol was heading to Disney+. The new content was made available on Dec. 11 in honor of the 30th anniversary. It’s not clear why the cut song “When Love Is Found” was originally removed from the theatrical release, but for the fans who will see something new after watching the same version for the past 30 years, it may be pretty exciting to see.
The Muppet Christmas Carol Has Long Been a Fan Favorite Film
Buena Vista Pictures Distribution
Fans are celebrating the film as well, as the movie is still very popular, especially around the holiday season, where it’s given annual viewings from fans everywhere. As one fan tweeted on the anniversary, “Started battering it down with snow as we put The Muppet Christmas Carol on. Made it feel more Christmassy.”
“What’s the best Xmas film of all time and why is it The Muppet Christmas Carol?” another fan tweeted.
“For all the complaining I’ve done about Disney. They hit something out of the park. They finally released a version of Muppet Christmas Carol that has the ballad ‘when love is gone’ included, so it makes sense when it’s reprised in the finale. Well done, House of Mouse,” says someone else, happy with the newly restored version.
Directed by Brian Henson, The Muppet Christmas Carol was written by Jerry Juhl. Along with Caine, its cast included Dave Goelz, Steve Whitmire, Jerry Nelson, and Frank Oz.
