Today in Television History (September 5th, 1976): Jim Henson's "The Muppet Show" Airs in the United States!

On September 5th, 1976, Jim Henson's "The Muppet Show" aired its first episode, with Mia Farrow as the guest. The show originated as two pilot episodes produced for ABC in 1974 and 1975, but neither episode was moved forward as a series. In 1976, British producer Lew Grade showed interest in the project, and agreed to produce "The Muppet Show" for ATV. Five seasons, with a total of 120 episodes aired in Britain on ATV, and in first-run syndication in the United States from 1976 to 1981. The series was considered a variety show, and always had a guest, with notable guests being John Denver and more! The show aired its last episode on May 23rd, 1981, after almost 5 years in production.