Sony has just taken control of the iconic Peanuts comic, buying the remaining 41% stake from WildBrain for $457 million.
Deal Details
Sony acquired its first 39% stake in Peanuts Holdings LLC in 2018 from Toronto-based WildBrain Ltd. In the latest transaction, Sony’s music and movie arms signed a definitive agreement to purchase the remaining 41% for $630 million Canadian dollars ($457 million). The deal brings Sony’s ownership of the Peanuts brand to 80%, while the Schulz family retains the remaining 20%.
Sony’s Strategic Vision
“With this additional ownership stake, we are thrilled to be able to further elevate the value of the ‘Peanuts’ brand by drawing on the Sony Group’s extensive global network and collective expertise,” said Sony Music Entertainment President Shunsuke Muramatsu.
Peanuts Legacy
The strip debuted on Oct. 2, 1950 in seven newspapers and has since expanded to more than 2,600 newspapers worldwide, reaching millions of readers in 75 countries. It features enduring characters such as Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy, Peppermint Patty and Snoopy, and has introduced phrases like “security blanket,” “good grief” and “happiness is a warm puppy.” The creator, Charles M. Schulz, passed away in 2000.
WildBrain and Other Franchises
WildBrain also owns other children’s entertainment franchises, including Strawberry Shortcake and Teletubbies. Rights to the Peanuts brand and its business management are handled by a wholly-owned subsidiary of Peanuts Holdings.
Key Takeaways
- Sony now owns 80% of the Peanuts brand after buying 41% from WildBrain.
- The purchase was valued at $457 million Canadian dollars ($630 million).
- The deal expands Sony’s entertainment portfolio and strengthens its global media presence.
Sony’s acquisition positions the company as a major player in the world of beloved comic properties, while the Schulz family continues to hold a significant minority stake.
