The Muppets Win the Ratings Game While Wonder Man Sneaks Up on Disney+ (Ep. 4)

2026-02-12

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Disney is having a moment and this episode covers three very different reasons why. Eric and Lauren dig into the surprise ratings success of The Muppets’ 50th anniversary special, break down why Marvel’s Wonder Man quietly became a sleeper hit on Disney Plus, and wrap things up with a look at Disney California Adventure’s 25th anniversary and the popcorn bucket chaos that came with it. From broadcast TV demos to streaming strategy and park optics, this one moves fast and covers a lot of ground. HIGHLIGHTS The Muppets’ 50th anniversary special deliver...

HIGHLIGHTS

The Muppets’ 50th anniversary special delivers strong ABC ratings and wins the key 18–49 demo
Why those numbers matter to advertisers and what they could mean for a potential weekly revival
The Sabrina Carpenter bump and how celebrity guests factor into Muppets nostalgia and reach
Bob Iger and Josh D’Amaro spotted at Disneyland and the symbolism of that park appearance
Marvel’s Wonder Man emerges as a sleeper hit with critics and viewers despite minimal marketing
Why a lower-budget, character-driven Marvel series may point to a smarter streaming future
Disney California Adventure turns 25 and sparks long lines thanks to a high-tech Ferris wheel popcorn bucket
The ongoing reseller debate and whether Disney should crack down harder on merch flippers

For this episode’s full show notes, click here.

HOSTS

Eric Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠
Lauren Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@laurenhersey2⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@lauren_hersey_⁠⁠⁠⁠

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