Brian Henson Shares How Acting in Labyrinth Felt Like a Vacation for Workaholic David Bowie

David Bowie in ‘Labyrinth.’
Credit:

Moviestore/Shutterstock

NEED TO KNOW

• Brian Henson, one of Labyrinth‘s lead puppeteers, spent much of the film acting alongside David Bowie, who played the iconic Goblin King, Jareth.
• Reflecting on the experience, Henson recalls Bowie being playful, patient, and approachable.
• A special re-release presented by The Jim Henson Company and Fathom Entertainment allows fans to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Labyrinth in theaters.

Brian Henson’s memories of working on the set of the beloved film Labyrinth with David Bowie, who portrayed the enigmatic Goblin King Jareth, are vivid even 40 years later. Henson, then just 22, starred as Hoggle, a prominent goblin character, and spent considerable time acting alongside Bowie.

His close working relationship with Bowie provided Henson with an insightful perspective of the late musician, who he describes as not only a cultural icon but also a playful and patient collaborator. Henson appreciated Bowie’s ability to embrace the magic and unpredictability characteristic of a puppet-heavy production.

David Bowie as Jareth (left) and Jim Henson (right) filming ‘Labyrinth.’

The Jim Henson Company

In the film, Bowie’s character Jareth challenges teenager Sarah, played by Jennifer Connelly, as she navigates a maze to rescue her baby brother, Toby. Henson’s dual role as both an actor and puppeteer gave him a unique opportunity to interact with Bowie extensively.

Henson noted similarities between Bowie and his late father, Jim Henson, the film’s director and Muppets creator, particularly their shared sense of humor. “They both had totally crooked teeth,” Brian commented. “But they both were really quick to laugh.” Such moments often arose mid-scene, adding levity to the filming process.

Jim Henson (left), David Bowie (center), and Jennifer Connelly (right) filming ‘Labyrinth.’

The Jim Henson Company

Brian recalled, “Bowie had the same thing that my dad had…just sort of cracking up in the middle of a shot. And then you have to start over.” Henson highlighted that while this could be frustrating, Bowie found amusement in the process, contributing to a fun atmosphere on set.

“He’s such a productive guy and such a workaholic that for him, playing Jareth in Labyrinth was like going on vacation,” Henson noted. “For him, it was like, ‘Wow, this is so great. All I have to do is show up.’”

That relaxed attitude was especially important given the technical challenges associated with animatronics, where mechanical errors could necessitate several retakes. “Things go wrong – take after take after take,” Brian observed. “You know, you’re often doing a take again because the eyes got stuck.” Nevertheless, Bowie’s patience helped maintain a positive environment on set, allowing the production to flow seamlessly.

David Bowie as Jareth (left) and Jim Henson (right) filming ‘Labyrinth.’

The Jim Henson Company

Off-camera, Bowie’s approachable demeanor continued to shine. He often spent time with the crew, going to the bar for a pint after filming. “He’s just a Cockney boy underneath it all,” Henson described. Despite his globally recognized fame, Bowie maintained a warm personality.

Bowie passed away on January 10, 2016, at the age of 69, after an 18-month battle with liver cancer, leaving behind a profound legacy. For Brian Henson, working with Bowie in Labyrinth was not just an opportunity to collaborate with a pop culture legend; it was a valuable lesson in humor, patience, and generosity within the unique landscape of puppetry.

Labyrinth is currently being screened in select theaters for a special re-release, commemorating the film’s 40th anniversary, presented by The Jim Henson Company and Fathom Entertainment.