Did Fred ever meet Jim Henson?

[earnhardtfan4life]

I know he did an appearance on Sesame Street with Big Bird + the other way around, but do we know if Fred ever met the other genius in puppetry Jim Henson?  

Mike

[galenfott]

A fine question. I can't find any evidence of their meeting, although it seems probable they would have at some point. By 1981, when Fred appeared on Sesame Street, it's unlikely Henson would have been present on the set.

[Eric S]

I remember reading an article in TV Guide, or Life, or People around the time Henson passed away and there were multiple quotes from celebrities talking about him. One quote was from Fred, praising Henson's ability with puppets, but it wasn't something that anyone else couldn't have said. There was nothing specifically that told you they knew each other, though that was clearly the impression you were supposed to get. I wouldn't be surprised if they had met, both being involved in Children's television. There must have been awards ceremony's and fundraisers and all sorts of things behind the scenes where both of them would have likely attended.

[galenfott]

They both kept Manhattan apartments, which increases the likelihood.

[Tommysoul]

On Twitter Frank Oz said while he never met Fred Rogers, Jim did meet him. Also that they both respected each otherââ,¬â,,¢s work.

Frank Oz really enjoyed the new documentary about Mr Rogers. He made an amazing confession. He would have been in his 20s when Mister Rogersââ,¬â,,¢ Neighborhood started. At the time he found the show cheesy and old fashioned. But later when he was depressed and feeling self doubt he watched the show because Fred made him feel better. I thought it was amazing that someone as successful as Frank Oz would admit that. It shows what a profound effect Fred Rogers had, even on adults.