Remembering David Bowie: Brian Henson's Reflections on Working with the Iconic Star in Labyrinth
Brian Henson reminisces about his experience working with David Bowie on the set of the iconic film Labyrinth in the 1980s. Henson, who was 22 at the time, shared many scenes with Bowie, who portrayed the enigmatic Goblin King, Jareth. The close working relationship between the two allowed Henson to see Bowie as a playful and patient collaborator who embraced the magic and unpredictability of the puppet-heavy production. Henson played the role of Hoggle, one of the prominent goblins in the film, and also handled puppeteering duties behind the scenes. Bowie's personality on set, reminiscent of Henson's late father, Jim Henson, was marked by a shared sense of humor and a quickness to laugh, often leading to retakes during filming.
Bowie's relaxed and playful demeanor on set made the production of Labyrinth a fun experience for the cast and crew. Despite the technical challenges of animatronic puppetry, Bowie's patience and composure helped maintain a positive atmosphere on set, even when things went wrong. His approachable and grounded personality extended off-camera, as he would often spend time interacting with the crew and enjoying a pint at the bar. Bowie's simple Englishman persona contrasted with his larger-than-life reputation, endearing him to those he worked with.
Bowie's passing in 2016 marked the end of an era, leaving behind a rich legacy in music and film. For Brian Henson, working with Bowie on Labyrinth was not just an opportunity to collaborate with a pop culture icon but also a lesson in patience, humor, and generosity in the face of the unique challenges of puppetry. As Labyrinth celebrates its 40th anniversary, the film is being re-released in select theaters, allowing fans to revisit the magical world created by Jim Henson and brought to life by David Bowie and Brian Henson.