I was actually thinking the very same thing since I posted that! I don't remember the original series that well, but I do have a vague recollection of everyone

I was actually thinking the very same thing since I posted that! I don't remember the original series that well, but I do have a vague recollection of everyone 'buying into it' incredibly well, like you say. I guess it's a testament to the Muppeteers, too! I need to rewatch the recent - excellent - movies and do a comparison.