In a highly competitive situation, Apple has made a deal with DHX Media to produce new Peanuts content for the tech giant’s upcoming streaming service. DHX and its subsidiary, Peanuts Worldwide, will develop and produce original series, specials and shorts based on the iconic gang of characters created by Charles M. Schulz.
As part of the partnership, DHX will produce original short-form STEM content that will be exclusive to Apple featuring astronaut Snoopy. Peanuts Worldwide and NASA recently signed a Space Act Agreement, designed to inspire a passion for space exploration and the STEM fields among the next generation of students.
DHX acquired a large stake in the “Peanuts” gang in May 2017. The $345 million deal also gave DHX control of the “Strawberry Shortcake” franchise, adding to a children’s programming portfolio that also includes “Teletubbies,” “Caillou,” “Inspector Gadget,” and the “Degrassi” franchise.
Schulz debuted the characters in 1950, when the “Peanuts” comic strip was launched in seven newspapers. That comic strip grew into a media empire that now encompasses animated specials, series, and films as well as merchandise and amusement park attractions. Beloved characters include Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Sally, and Woodstock.
