I always say I owe my sense of humor to 'The Muppets' because I didn't necessarily know what was going on when I watched 'The Muppet Show,' and obviously, 'Sesame Street' was made just for me.

In this quote, Janet Varney reflects on how her sense of humor was shaped by the influence of shows like The Muppets and Sesame Street. She credits these beloved children's programs with introducing her to comedy, noting that although she may not have fully understood the humor when she first watched The Muppet Show, it still had a lasting impact. Varney's statement highlights the way humor can resonate with audiences of all ages, even when they might not fully grasp all the nuances at first.

Varney also mentions that Sesame Street, a show aimed at younger audiences, was specifically designed for her, suggesting that it had a direct influence on her as a child. Sesame Street was known for its blend of education and humor, teaching children valuable lessons through memorable characters and comedic situations. Varney's reference to the show indicates how these programs not only entertained her but also helped form her understanding of humor, blending silliness with cleverness in ways that made it appealing across age groups.

The origin of this quote is tied to Varney’s career as an actress and comedian, where she has spoken about how these formative television experiences influenced her comedic style. Varney, known for her roles in shows like The Legend of Korra, has often acknowledged her deep connection to the humor of classic children’s programming, which is reflected in her own approach to comedy. Her experience with The Muppets and Sesame Street serves as an example of how early exposure to specific forms of comedy can have a lasting impact on one’s own humor and personality.

Ultimately, Varney’s quote underscores the idea that humor, especially that which is rooted in playfulness and imagination, can shape an individual's character and career in profound ways. By drawing from the comedy and lessons of shows like The Muppets and Sesame Street, she emphasizes the importance of these early influences in developing a lifelong appreciation for humor.