Rian Johnson has addressed growing speculation and online enthusiasm around a potential “Rian Johnson Muppet movie,” speaking candidly about the idea during a recent Awards Podcast interview. As fans continue to champion a crossover between his “Knives Out” franchise and The Muppets, Johnson shared his thoughts on the possibility, along with his admiration for the beloved puppet characters.
How Internet Memes Sparked Talk of a Muppet Crossover
Social media has routinely fueled the idea of Rian Johnson directing a Muppet movie, especially in the form of wild crossovers that blend “Knives Out” with Jim Henson’s famous creations. Fantasies of Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig, interrogating Kermit the Frog or Miss Piggy clashing with suspects have captured the imagination of meme-makers, while Fozzie Bear’s comedic mishaps during a murder investigation add to the internet’s ongoing amusement. This playful speculation has resulted in persistent fan campaigns, with the hopes of seeing a “Knives Out” Muppets collaboration brought to life.
Johnson’s Response: Enthusiasm with Reservations
Rian Johnson, who is clearly aware of the ongoing talk, addressed the speculation during his conversation with The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Podcast. When discussing genres he would like to explore, he remarked,
“I’d love to do a musical someday. I think that would be really fun,”
—Rian Johnson, Director. Almost immediately, the question of a Muppet crossover was raised.
He humorously reset expectations by stating,
“Can we talk about the Muppets really quick? I’m not doing a Muppet. This is not the announcement.”
—Rian Johnson, Director. Johnson displayed an understanding of the recurring desire for a “Knives Out” Muppet movie, quipping,
“On the internet, the notion of a ‘Knives Out’ Muppet movie comes up a lot.”
—Rian Johnson, Director. He continued,
“I wanted to get you guys together here so that I could explain why that’s a bad idea.”
—Rian Johnson, Director.
It was clear from his remarks that Johnson approached the subject lightheartedly, without dismissing the creativity of fans. He clarified,
“It’s not a bad idea, but… I love and respect Muppet movies too much,”
—Rian Johnson, Director, expressing his deep admiration for the Muppets. The primary issue for him is the inherent tonal difference between the world of Benoit Blanc and the wholesome chaos of Muppet films.
“The reality is, if you put Muppets in a Benoit Blanc movie, it would feel totally wrong because they would be getting murdered.”
—Rian Johnson, Director.
Tonal Challenges and Creative Conundrums
The idea of merging a murder mystery with the innocence of the Muppets presents obvious conflicts in tone. Even if the equation was reversed, Johnson explained, the outcome would be problematic.
“The alternative is to just stick Benoit Blanc into a Muppet movie, which admittedly would be very fun, but… would kind of break the reality of what Blanc is.”
—Rian Johnson, Director.
Despite recognizing the meme’s appeal, Johnson’s core hesitation is rooted in a respect for both the Muppets and his own character, Benoit Blanc. He does not want to compromise what makes either property unique, and his comments reveal a filmmaker caught between possibilities and limitations—intense internet desire clashing with creative priorities.
Johnson’s Fondness for the Muppets and Future Possibilities
Although he sees challenges in a direct mashup, Johnson’s affection for the Muppets is unmistakable. He seemed genuinely enthused about the idea of directing a Muppets project on its own terms:
“So, which is all to say, I would just love to do a regular awesome Muppet movie,”
—Rian Johnson, Director. Continuing his imaginative streak, he added,
“I’ll do the Muppet caper or my Muppet musical.”
—Rian Johnson, Director. When the conversation turned to legendary puppeteer Frank Oz, Johnson was instantly receptive:
“Get together with Frank Oz and cook something. That would be amazing.”
—Rian Johnson, Director.
Johnson’s openness to collaboration points to possible future ventures with iconic Muppet performers, even as the “Knives Out” crossover remains a well-loved internet joke. Frank Oz, the original performer for Miss Piggy and Fozzie, would be a natural partner if a new Muppet film under Johnson’s direction were to be developed.
What’s Next for a Rian Johnson Muppet Movie?
The lively discussion surrounding this potential partnership captures the cultural pull of both Johnson’s work and the Muppets. While a “Knives Out” Muppet movie is likely to remain an amusing meme, Johnson seems genuinely invested in someday helming a Muppet caper or musical. As Johnson continues to work on new ideas for upcoming Benoit Blanc mysteries—and shares his creative energy on podcasts—the prospect of a Rian Johnson Muppet movie, perhaps with support and involvement from legends like Frank Oz, appears to be less a question of “if” than “when.”
The participation of other key names, like Daniel Craig as Benoit Blanc, would remain speculative until any official announcement is made. For now, fans, including prominent names such as Taika Waititi, and creative communities across social platforms, can look forward to Johnson exploring new genres while still honoring his admiration for Jim Henson’s most famous characters. The Rian Johnson Muppet movie conversation, for now, will continue to entertain and inspire both intense speculation and cheerful debate online.
