David Lazer

Executive producer David Lazer was a key figure behind the scenes at The Muppet Show.
"Shortly after I joined Jim, the Sons of the Desert, a comedy club, wanted to present Jim with an award. We accepted and also agreed to do a guest spot on their program. It was to take place in the ballroom of a New York hotel.
"I was still spanking new to the Henson company and wanted everything to be perfect. Before getting there, I made sure every detail was covered: best spot on the program; best table while waiting to go on; and everything was okay technically.
"When we arrived, my heart sank a little. I did not look like this was a world-class event-in fact, it felt very homemade, almost bizarre. Anyway, I was taking my first gig most seriously-too seriously, because it apparently prompted Jim, Jane, and Frank to 'unstarch' me forever.
"Their conspiracy included pretending that Frank was drinking heavily. Soon, he could hardly speak without slurring, and then he got completely silly. By the time Jim and Frank were due onstage, I was looking for EXIT signs. What had I gotten myself into?
"Of course, Jim and Frank performed brilliantly. And from that time on, I never took myself quite so seriously again."

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