Film:
* The Muppet Movie (1979): This film launched the Muppets into mainstream success and is considered one of Henson's most beloved works. He directed, wrote, and co-produced the movie, and even appeared as a character, the "Swedish Chef," though his voice was provided by Frank Oz.
* The Great Muppet Caper (1981): Henson directed, co-wrote, and co-produced this musical comedy, which featured the Muppets on a crime-solving adventure.
* Labyrinth (1986): This dark fantasy film marked Henson's foray into a more mature genre. He served as director, writer, and producer, with a memorable score by David Bowie.
* The Storyteller (1988): A series of fantastical short films, co-created and directed by Henson, showcasing the power of storytelling.
Television:
* Sesame Street (1969 - present): As co-creator and executive producer, Henson's impact on this beloved children's show was immeasurable. He brought iconic characters like Big Bird, Elmo, Cookie Monster, and Oscar the Grouch to life.
* The Muppet Show (1976-1981): Henson was the mastermind behind this groundbreaking variety show, which featured celebrity guests alongside the Muppets.
* Fraggle Rock (1983-1987): This children's series, co-created by Henson, explored themes of friendship, community, and respect for nature through a diverse cast of Muppet characters.
* The Storyteller (1988): A television adaptation of his film series, featuring a diverse range of folktales and myths.
While Henson's primary focus was behind the scenes, he did make a few cameos in various projects, such as:
* The Muppets Take Manhattan (1984): Henson plays a small role as "The Man in the Suit" during the film's opening sequence.
* Labyrinth: Henson briefly appears as a character in a scene alongside David Bowie.
He also provided voices for many characters, such as:
* Kermit the Frog: Though the voice of Kermit was provided by Frank Oz, Henson performed the character's physical movements and contributed to his vocal mannerisms.
* Big Bird: Henson's voice can be heard in several early episodes of Sesame Street.
Jim Henson's legacy extends far beyond his on-screen appearances. His creativity and vision shaped the world of children's entertainment, and his contributions to film and television continue to inspire and delight generations of viewers.