Sony Moves to Take Majority Control of ‘Peanuts’ Franchise

Sony Music Entertainment Japan (SMEJ), Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) and WildBrain have entered into a definitive agreement under which SMEJ and SPE will indirectly acquire the approximately 41% stake currently held by WildBrain in Peanuts Holdings LLC. The completion of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.

Following the transaction, SMEJ and SPE—along with SMEJ’s existing approximate 39% holding will together indirectly own 80% of Peanuts Holdings LLC. The remaining 20% stake will continue to be held by members of the family of Charles M. Schulz, the creator of the iconic “Peanuts” characters.

Commenting on the development, Ravi Ahuja, President and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment, said that “Peanuts”remains an enduring and iconic franchise. He highlighted Sony’s close collaboration with SMEJ and its strong partnership with WildBrain and the Schulz family, noting that the combined strengths of the partners create a unique opportunity to protect and shape the future of the beloved characters for generations to come.

Josh Scherba, President and CEO of WildBrain, said Sony has been a trusted partner on the “Peanuts” brand for many years. Expressing confidence in Sony’s stewardship of Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the wider Peanuts universe, he thanked the Peanuts Worldwide team and the Schulz family for their collaboration and said WildBrain looks forward to continuing its association with Sony to drive the global success of the franchise.