Chick-Fil-A's Anti-Gay Stance Leads Jim Henson's Muppets To Sever Ties

By Robert Ottone | July 23 2012 3:35 PM

Chick-Fil-A is losing legendary puppet designer Jim Henson's Muppets, the Los Angeles Times reports. After working with the Atlanta-based fast-food chain for the past few months, the Jim Henson Co. has decided to pull the plug on their recent kids' meal designs after recent anti-gay statements by the restaurant's owner.

Disney Cruise Line

"Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie, Gonzo, Animal and a cast of more than 20 Muppets make their debut on the Disney Fantasy in 'The Case of the Stolen Show,' an adventure game that takes guests on an interactive quest around the ship. The goal of the game is to help the Muppets find their missing props so they can take the stage for a big performance. Guided by a map and using a unique game card that is held up in front of select pieces of Enchanted Art, guests unveil clues that help find the missing props."
Wikimedia

Chick-Fil-A President Dan Cathy responded to accusations that he’s a homophobe by saying he’s “guilty as charged,” in an interview with the Baptist Press. The accusations arose after it was revealed the company has thrown its weight behind strong anti-gay organizations such as Focus On The Family and the Pennsylvania Family Institute.

The toys were to feature a create-a-muppet aspect that would let children create their own characters.

In a statement via Facebook, CEO Lisa Henson said: The Jim Henson Co. has celebrated and embraced diversity and inclusiveness for over 50 years and we have notified Chick-Fil-A that we do not wish to partner with them on any future endeavors. Lisa Henson, our CEO is personally a strong supporter of gay marriage and has directed us to donate the payment we received from Chick-Fil-A to GLAAD, the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.

This news comes days after Chick-Fil-A President Dan Cathy proclaimed guilty as charged when asked about the company's supporting of families that adhere to the strict Biblical representation of family. The backlash has led to boycotts, Twitter outrage, as well as generally negative opinions expressed toward Chick-Fil-A via Facebook and social media. on the other side, Mike Huckabee, the former Arkansas governor and commetator, has stood behind the company, declaring Aug. 1 Chick-Fil-A Appreciation Day.

The Muppets and other Jim Henson Co. figures have provided positive, non-exclusive entertainment for more than 30 years, the company says. It says its support of gay rights is in line with that tradition of inclusivity.