From Flooded Basement to Muppet Fame: How a Sticky‑Tape Fix Earned an Australian Puppeteer a Spot on The Muppet Show

In 1974 Jim Henson’s basement was flooded with about 30 centimetres of water, causing a pile of unofficial Muppet items to float around. While visiting, Richard Bradshaw OAM wrapped sticky tape around a leaking pipe, eventually stopping the flow.

Two years after the flooded basement Henson sent Bradshaw a letter inviting him onto The Muppet Show and offered $2,400 (about AU$16,000 today). The friendly note marked the start of a collaboration that would bring Bradshaw to television.

Bradshaw’s segment aired in 1977 as episode 22 of The Muppet Show, with Broadway star Ethel Merman as the guest. This appearance made Richard Bradshaw OAM the only Australian puppeteer to ever appear on The Muppet Show.

The episode not only showcased Bradshaw’s shadow‑puppet artistry but also demonstrated how an unexpected incident can open doors in the creative world, reinforcing Jim Henson’s reputation for spotting talent in unlikely places.

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