For the first time in more than 50 years, Peanuts holiday specials won’t air on network TV. Instead, they will stream exclusively on Apple’s streaming platform, Apple TV+.
In 1965, CBS debuted the first Peanuts special, A Charlie Brown Christmas. Then, It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown and A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving aired in 1966 and 1973, respectively. CBS aired the specials every year after that until ABC took over in 2001. However, no matter the network, the specials have always aired on TV since their first run every year.
An Apple spokesperson confirmed to CBS News that every special will exclusively stream on Apple TV+. The move comes as part of an expanded partnership with Wildbrain, Peanuts Worldwide, and Lee Mendelson Film Productions.
Peanuts and Apple TV+
According to the press release, the move is to make Apple TV+ “the home for all things Peanuts, bringing together new original series and specials, along with iconic, beloved specials to fans around the world, all in one place.”
Along with a second season to Apple TV+ original Snoopy in Space, there will also be brand-new specials for Mother’s Day, Earth Day, New Year’s Eve, and Back to School.
Fret not, Peanuts fans, you don’t have to shell out money for an Apple TV+ subscription to watch the animated classics. On certain dates this holiday season, fans can watch the specials on the platform for free:
- It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown will be free from October 30 to November 1.
- A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving will be free from November 25 to 27.
- A Charlie Brown Christmas will be free from December 11 to 13.
Want to watch other holiday specials now? Check out Parentology‘s Halloween streaming guide.
Peanuts Apple TV — Sources
Press Release: SNOOPY, CHARLIE BROWN AND FRIENDS LAND AT APPLE TV+ IN EXPANDED PARTNERSHIP WITH WILDBRAIN FOR NEW ORIGINAL SHOWS AND SPECIALS
CBS News