Stan Smith Returns for Adidas in Green Spot With Kermit the Frog

"Being green isn't about what's easy," says Kermit the Frog, an acknowledged expert on the subject, in Johannes Leonardo's charming new sustainability campaign for Adidas.

"Being green can be something big that's just too hard to miss," he explains in the anthem spot below. "Or even, doing the little things that end up making a big difference, too. If we all do our part, we can make the world a better place, a greener place for the next person to walk in our shoes."

At the commercial's climax, Kermit shares a park bench with tennis and athletic footwear icon Stan Smith.

"It's not easy being green," the frog says.

Stan smiles and replies, "But nothing great ever is." With his mustache, tracksuit and soft speaking voice, Smith exudes a Muppet vibe. And we mean that as the highest compliment.

Actress Yara Shahidi, skateboarder Nora Vasconcellos and technologist Iddris Sandu appear. Disney references beyond Kermit abound, so be on the lookout for nods to Yoda and the Hulk, among others. What's more, the frog and other beloved characters will soon get their kicks in a Disney x Stan Smith sustainable collection.

Kermit's classic catchphrase and trademark song, "It's Not Easy Bein' Green," turn 51 this year. The lyrics reference ecology ("the color of the leaves") but more broadly call for understanding and acceptance, of oneself and others, to create a harmonious world. Anyone who's ever felt left out or marginalized—and that's pretty much all of us—can instantly relate.

Indeed, sometimes it's tough being green, in an environmental sense and otherwise. But we're not helpless or alone, the ad suggests. Working together, we can achieve great things, and even make the planet a cleaner, less polluted place. (It's worth noting that classic green-and-white Stan Smiths are produced using mainly recycled materials.)

Happily, the message syncs with Muppet creator Jim Henson's humane, inclusive ethos. It resonates even if viewers aren't familiar with the song, which isn't heard in the commercial.

Kermit and Stan also bring their winning doubles act to this trio of snackable shorts:

CREDITS

Brand: Adidas Originals
Creative Agency: Johannes Leonardo
Film Production Company: NOCO
Editorial: Work Editorial
VFX/Finishing (Lead): Ethos
VFX/Finishing (Kermit): Soapbox
Audio Finishing: Sonic Union
Music House: RECORD PLAY
Print Production / Still Life: Lola Productions
Retouching House / Still Life: Gloss Studio
Retouching House / Talent + Kermit: Lumiere Studios