The Muppet Movie ambition of finding success in professional show business—while being pursued by Doc Hopper, an evil restaurateur with intentions of employing Kermit as a spokesperson for his frog legs business. In addition to the Muppet performers, the film stars Charles Durning and Austin Pendleton, and features cameo appearances by Dom DeLuise, James Coburn, Edgar Bergen, Steve Martin, and Mel Brooks, among others. Notable for its surreal humour, meta-references and prolific use of cameos, "The Muppet Movie" was released in the United Kingdom on May 31, 1979, and in the United States on June 22, 1979, and received critical praise; including two
Nightmare in the Sun original story, and his wife co-wrote the screenplay. The movie was financed by Ricky du Pont, one of the du Pont family. Du Pont wanted on screen credit but Lawrence refused. He said in a later interview, "I said, 'I can't. If all these guys knew the money came from a millionaire, they'd cut my throat. If I sell the picture and your name is on it, I won't get a penny for it'." Hedda Hopper announced Du Pont financed the film in her column in September 1963. Sammy Davis Jr. played a cameo and was reportedly going to sing