Beloved Holiday Classics Return to Broadcast TV in Surprise Move
In an unexpected holiday twist, Apple has announced that the cherished animated specials A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving and A Charlie Brown Christmas will still air on PBS this year—despite recently becoming Apple TV+ exclusives. This decision comes after significant public response to the initial removal of these Peanuts classics from traditional broadcast television.
A 55-Year Tradition Preserved
Last month’s announcement marked what would have been the first time in 55 years that A Charlie Brown Christmas didn’t appear on network TV. Many fans feared the specials would follow the path of It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, which became exclusive to streaming platforms in 2018.
While Apple’s licensing agreement did include provisions for limited free broadcasts, critics argued that moving these culturally significant holiday programs behind a paywall contradicted their original anti-commercialism message.
Revised Broadcast Schedule
Viewers can now enjoy these timeless specials through multiple platforms:
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving:
- PBS broadcast: November 22, 2020 at 7:30 PM local time (6:30 PM CT)
- Also available on Apple TV+
A Charlie Brown Christmas:
- PBS broadcast: December 13, 2020 at 7:30 PM local time (6:30 PM CT)
- Also available on Apple TV+
Why This Matters
This compromise represents more than just television scheduling—it preserves important cultural touchstones that generations of families have enjoyed together. The decision to maintain PBS broadcasts ensures these specials remain accessible to all viewers, regardless of their ability to pay for streaming services.
As streaming platforms increasingly dominate entertainment, this case highlights the ongoing tension between commercial interests and cultural traditions. The resolution serves as a reminder that some holiday classics transcend typical media distribution models.
