As the leaves turn to shades of orange and the air becomes crisp, it’s that time of year again when we all gather around our screens to watch a timeless classic that’s been warming hearts for generations. That’s right; it’s almost time for “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown”! However, this year, there’s a change in how you can catch this beloved Halloween special. The exclusive rights now belong to Apple TV+. There is no way to tell if you will be able to watch it for free in 2023.
Apple TV+ has garner the rights to for all the Peanuts traditional shows. Not only do they have “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” but they also hold the rights to all the Peanuts specials. That means you can also look forward to watching “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” and “Happy New Year, Charlie Brown” as the holiday season unfolds. Unfortunately, Apple TV+ has become the one-stop destination for all your Peanuts nostalgia, instead of the Peanuts shows being shown on PBS or CBS over the years.
In previous years, PBS and PBS Kids had struck a deal with Apple TV+ to air these specials one or two nights during the Halloween season. However, that arrangement has changed for 2023. While PBS has been a cherished source for family-friendly content for years, it’s Apple TV+ that now holds the torch, giving subscribers the exclusive privilege of indulging in these classic Peanuts adventures whenever they please.
While some fans may lament the loss of PBS and CBS airings, there’s still a silver lining to this change. With an Apple TV+ subscription, you won’t be limited to catching the show on just one or two nights during the season. You can choose to watch it at your own convenience, as many times as you like, throughout the entire month of October. However, it will never be the same if you are can’t watch it on CBS or PBS.
Whether you’re reliving cherished childhood memories or introducing a new generation to these iconic characters, it’s bound to be a heartwarming experience that reminds us all of the true spirit of the holiday season.
Check back for any updates in the coming weeks.
