The Muppet Show Season 1 Episode 22 Guest: Ethel Merman

Guest: Ethel Merman is the twenty-second episode of the first season of the classic television series, The Muppet Show. Released in 1977, the episode features the legendary Broadway star, Ethel Merman as the guest performer. Jim Henson's beloved puppets take on a series of sketches and musical numbers alongside Merman, making for an unforgettable episode full of laughter, music, and charm.

The show opens with Kermit the Frog introducing Ethel Merman, who makes her entrance to thunderous applause. The first sketch of the episode features Ethel playing the role of a strict, overbearing teacher who is totally unwilling to let her students have any fun. Of course, the Muppet students rebel against her tactics and hilarity ensues. The sketch is full of amusing sight gags and slapstick humor that leave the audience in fits of laughter.

Next, Fozzie Bear takes center stage with his signature one-liners and corny jokes. He's joined by Muppet Newsman, who delivers a few humorous news stories that incorporate guest star, Ethel Merman. The segment proves to be a light, amusing diversion that balances out the more complex sketches of the show.

The episode then takes a musical turn, with Ethel Merman performing one of her signature Broadway numbers, "I Got Rhythm," alongside a chorus of Muppets. The elaborate production is a delightful showcase of Merman's talent, and the colorful, bouncy set design adds an extra dose of whimsy to the performance.

The backstage antics of the Muppets also feature prominently in this episode, with a hilarious bit that revolves around the Swedish Chef's attempts to cook up a meal for the crew. The segment plays out like a silent movie, full of slapstick humor and physical gags.

The highlight of the episode comes when Ethel Merman takes on the role of a glamorous Hollywood starlet, opposite guest Muppet, Gonzo. The two share a hilarious exchange, with Merman's character insisting that Gonzo is merely a nobody in comparison to her stardom. The sketch showcases Merman's impeccable comedic timing and proves to be a standout moment of the episode.

The show closes on a high note, with Ethel Merman and the entire Muppet cast performing a rousing rendition of "There's No Business Like Show Business." The upbeat, feel-good number perfectly captures the magic of The Muppet Show and leaves the audience with a smile on their faces.

Overall, Guest: Ethel Merman is a classic Muppet Show episode that will have viewers young and old laughing along with its well-crafted sketches and musical numbers. Merman's star power and comic sensibilities blend effortlessly with the zany world of the Muppets, resulting in a delightful hour of television that is sure to be remembered for years to come.