I definitely don't think it does or doesn't, actually. But I can see both possibilities. Retiring the comic after he leaves out of respect or getting another writer and artist to continue the comic. Somehow, I actually want to see another Muppet series rise out of that... something that always takes them out of the theater and utilizes Muppets Tonight characters. That's what I always liked best about the Classics series over the Muppet Show... that's where Pepe, Sal and Johnny shined through. Still, I wish VanNeuter was in one of these.But why do you feel the Muppet's comic future rises and falls with Roger? Has Amy's fill in role as artist, and all the story fable spinoffs not shown the franchise can go on without any of his involvement?
I would love to see the comics continue with another writer... I'm actually pressing for it. Most comic series have multiple writers anyway. The only concern is would the new writer feel obligated to copy Roger's style or would he be free to go on and do his/her own thing? I'd hope the latter. Copying implies labor intensiveness... the exact opposite of a natural flow. The comics were great because Roger embodied the Muppet Show and did it his own way. I'd love to see the next writer be that free yet stick to the spirit of the series.
Roger shouldn't be the end all be all. I'd welcome new writers and artists.