During Women’s History Month, we celebrate women who have challenged expectations and cemented their place in history. While these women are often activists, scientists, artists and leaders, there is one figure I believe also deserves her flowers: Miss Piggy!
With her confidence, fabulousness and signature karate chop, Miss Piggy has defied society’s expectations and taught women and girls all over the world that it is okay to be exactly who you are.
Miss Piggy’s Beginnings
Miss Piggy made her television debut in 1974 on the ABC special “Herb Alpert and the TJB,” singing a duet to “I Can’t Give You Anything but Love.” She was originally known as Piggy Lee after her fellow feminist icon, jazz singer Peggy Lee.
In 1976, when Jim Henson’s “The Muppet Show” premiered, Miss Piggy began as a chorus pig but quickly gained the appreciation of the show’s viewers and writers and became one of the show’s central characters.
By the 1980’s, Miss Piggy was a global superstar. She could be found on the covers of magazines, the New York Times bestseller list, or Dolly Parton’s variety show. Nothing can stop her!
How She Has Cemented herself as a feminist icon
As an actress, singer, model, writer, talk show host, martial arts aficionado and much more, Miss Piggy is a pioneer of her industry and empowers herself and others to stand up for what they believe in.
Miss Piggy received a Sackler Center First Award from the Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art at the Brooklyn Museum in 2015. The award is reserved for women who are trailblazers of their fields, which she definitely exemplifies.
Miss Piggy was also crowned Artist of the Millennium at the 2025 Las Culturistas Culture Awards. In 2024, she was nominated for the Queerty Award for Best Feud along with Joan Rivers.
Additionally, Miss Piggy is said to be getting her own feature film developed by Jennifer Lawrence and Emma Stone. All this to say, Miss Piggy is an icon, and we all know it.
Lessons to learn from Miss Piggy
Throughout her career, Miss Piggy has been an inspiration to all, and so many lessons can be learned from her teachings.
- Own your narrative
Miss Piggy always rejects the common tropes or limitations placed upon her. Even though she is glamorous and beautiful, she refuses to let this negate her power and be the “damsel in distress.” She knows what she wants and believes she can achieve it.
- Never shrink yourself
As a woman, you are often told to take up less space. Miss Piggy denies this notion. She is public with her opinions, unapologetically her fabulous self and always makes a grand entrance. Like Miss Piggy, know your worth, be assertive and never accept less than you know you deserve!
- Love yourself
Miss Piggy teaches us all the importance of being your own biggest fan. Prioritize your happiness and celebrate your wins!
From the words of Miss Piggy — “Beauty is all about loving who you are. And if you have a problem with that, may I suggest you try loving who I am?”