By Randall Elvin · Staff Writer
This fall, Peanuts fans gather once again for the timeless holiday classic “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.”
This year, it will be available on Apple TV+ for a free anniversary screening. This will mark 75 years since Charles M. Schulz first introduced the world to Charlie Brown and his friends. Despite 1950 being quite a few decades ago, the stories of Charlie Brown and his company always feel fresh and cozy. But how did they start?
Peanuts debuted as a relatively small black-and-white comic strip in newspapers. Schulz drew the characters and stories in a way unlike any other. His minimalistic drawings and understated dialogue captured the feeling of being small in a big world.
While many other comics focused on powerful punchlines, Shulz offered thought prompts and philosophy aspects. Through simple small lines, he let children and adults express themselves in fears and wisdom. Shulz fabricated a world that, unbeknownst to him, would become a cultural phenomenon.
By the mid-’60s, Peanuts had become a household name. Toy shelves, calendars, lunchboxes and so much more fan memorabilia became the usual. When “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” premiered on CBS, it became an instant classic. The holiday special has been a staple holiday film since 1966.
This fall story follows Linus as he waits all night in the pumpkin patch. He awaits the mythical “Great Pumpkin” and fully believes it will arise to reward believers. At the same time, the ever-unlucky Charlie Brown goes trick-or-treating and is rewarded with a bag of rocks.
Fan favorite Snoopy imagines himself as a World War I pilot on top of his doghouse — another example of an iconic image that is plastered all over fan merch. Families gather in their living room to watch the annual broadcast, laughing at Lucy’s sarcasm or quoting Charlie Brown’s famous “I got a rock.” All these aspects and more are underscored by Vince Guaraldi’s jazzy and hand-drawn warmth. Apple TV+ is giving a homecoming feel for Peanuts’ 75th anniversary by making the holiday specials free to viewers.
What makes Peanuts so special is not just the holiday setting, but its emotional core that resonates with generations. Shulz portrays child-like faith in Linus and celebrates it by showing the bittersweet beauty of believing in something that no one else does.
Every year, the stories of Peanuts feel personal and sincere. Even in their remarkable growth from inked panels to color television and finally streaming platforms, they have never outgrown their authenticity. Peanuts technology has evolved, but the lessons haven’t. Whether on a ’50s newspaper or a 4k Apple screen, Charlie Brown is still trying to kick the football, Snoopy is still dreaming and Linus still waits in the cold.
75 years since their small beginning, Peanuts remains a major player in the entertainment industry. Schulz provides comfort, laughter and courage every holiday season. Peanuts premieres are always a classic no matter how many times you have seen them. Make sure to tune into Apple TV+ to be transported to the wonderful Peanuts world, and you too can await the Great Pumpkin!
