Peanuts

Sony consolidates Peanuts brand after acquiring major stake from WildBrain

Sony plans to expand Charlie Brown and Snoopy across film, music, and digital platforms.

Update: Dec 19th, 2025 15:19 CET

In a move that consolidates one of the most iconic brands in entertainment history, Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sony Music Entertainment Japan (SMEJ) have reached a definitive agreement to acquire a significant stake in Peanuts Holding LLC. The deal, valued at approximately $457 million (CAN $630 million), sees Sony purchasing the 41% previously held by the Canadian media firm WildBrain.

This strategic acquisition increases Sony’s total ownership to 80%, officially turning Peanuts into a consolidated subsidiary of the Sony Group. The family of creator Charles M. Schulz will continue to hold the remaining 20% stake, ensuring that the legacy of the comic strip—which debuted 75 years ago—remains closely tied to its original roots. For fans, this means a more unified direction for future projects, as Sony plans to leverage its massive global network to bring Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the gang to new platforms and audiences. The closing of the transaction is subject to certain closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.

A New Era for the Peanuts Gang

Sony’s leadership has emphasized that this isn’t just a financial transaction, but a commitment to the long-term health of the brand. Shunsuke Muramatsu, CEO of Sony Music Entertainment Japan, noted that the company aims to “to further elevate the value of the ‘Peanuts’ brand by drawing on the Sony Group’s extensive global network and collective expertise. We are deeply committed to carrying forward the legacy of Charles Schulz and the Schulz family. Together with SPE, and backed by WildBrain’s continued partnership, we will continue to embrace new opportunities to ensure that Peanuts remains a relevant and beloved presence across generations.”