75th Anniversary of “Peanuts”!

Welcome to a SPECIAL EDITION of the Piece Of Advice Newsletter!

Good morning! Today is the 75th Anniversary of the first “Peanuts” comic strip by Charles Schulz which was published in 1950! To celebrate we are taking a look at it’s legacy and have a couple of questions answered by Robert Towers (voice of Snoopy in “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”), Chad Webber (voice of Charlie Brown in various “Peanuts” animated specials including “Snoopy Come Home”), Duncan Watson (voice of Charlie Brown in various “Peanuts” animated specials including “Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown”), Andrew Lippa (Grammy nominated song writer who worked on the Broadway Adaption of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown’’) and last but not least; Jean Schulz (Widow of Charles Schulz and President of the Board of Directors at the Charles M. Schulz Museum)!

Created by Charles M. Schulz, “Peanuts” introduced the world to Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the iconic gang. Schulz’s simple yet profound drawings and writing captured the humor, struggles, and quiet triumphs of everyday life through the eyes of children. Inspired by his own childhood and observations, Schulz brought an emotional honesty and philosophical depth to the comic pages that was both relatable and revolutionary for its time.

The idea behind “Peanuts” was to create a comic strip that was different; more thoughtful, more introspective. Schulz had a gift for turning small moments into meaningful ones, whether it was Charlie Brown’s perpetual optimism in the face of failure, Linus’ unwavering belief in the “Great Pumpkin”, or Snoopy’s flights of fantasy. Though originally titled “Li’l Folks”, the strip was renamed “Peanuts” by the syndicate; much to Schulz’s dismay; but it quickly gained popularity thanks to its distinct tone and lovable characters. It wasn’t long before the strip was being read in hundreds of newspapers across the country and eventually, the world.

Over the decades, “Peanuts” grew into a cultural phenomenon. Animated specials like “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” became holiday staples, bringing the strip’s quiet charm and timeless messages to TV screens. Schulz wrote and drew every strip himself until his retirement in 2000; just one day before he passed away. His final Sunday strip ran the next day, beautifully wrapping up a 50-year journey that touched millions. Today, the original comics continue to be printed and enjoyed by new generations, and the characters remain some of the most recognizable and beloved in pop culture history.

As “Peanuts” celebrates its 75th anniversary, fans around the globe are reflecting on its lasting impact. From museum exhibits and reprint collections to animated reboots and tributes, the world continues to honor Schulz’s remarkable creation. More than just a comic strip, “Peanuts” is a reminder of the beauty in simple moments, the importance of kindness, and the courage it takes to keep trying; especially when the football gets pulled away.

Bonus Question:

Giancarlo: How does it feel to be a part of something as beloved as “Peanuts”?

Robert Towers: It’s a great honor. Knowing Charles Schulz, if only on occasion; was a great thrill and the fact that he liked my performance was something I’ll never forget.

Chad Webber: My father was an actor so when I was young, we did not brag about being on TV and movies but the older I get the cooler it is! Meeting Charles Schulz was awesome!

Duncan Watson: I’m truly humbled and proud to have represented the voicing of one of the most iconic cartoon characters of all time. I think the Peanuts characters are very relatable, and everyone has a Charlie Brown experience in their lives. Charlie Brown is the ultimate optimist. No matter how many times he fails at something, he picks himself up and tries again. That’s good grief!

Andrew Lippa: I loved “Peanuts” as a child. It’s a thrill to be a part of that delightful world. I loved working on that show.

Jean Schulz: I know my husband worked hard at his craft for 50 years, and it is heartwarming for me to hear that the comic strip and its stories resonate with people and may have changed their lives.

Piece Of Advice:

Giancarlo: What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Robert Towers: Live everyday as if it were your last. Now that I’m old (88), I totally understand.

Chad Webber: My Father told me, “Don’t lie, cheat, or steal! Work hard! Steady work will pay off!” All true!

Duncan Watson: That life is not a destination, but a journey. There is no “getting there” and you have to go to life. Put yourself in the path of beauty every day to fully experience it.

Andrew Lippa: “Keep going.” That’s a very simplified idea of what I was told, but John Kander, composer of “Chicago” and “Cabaret” gave me encouragement when I was down after getting bad reviews. I did keep going, and it worked!

Jean Schulz: From my mother, “Good manners will always serve you well.”

Thank you for tuning in and I hope you’re having a great week! We’ll catch you with another fun one on Monday!

-Giancarlo