LOS ANGELES, Dec. 18, 2025
Sony Scoops Up Larger Stake in ‘Peanuts’ for $457 Million
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The deal values the iconic franchise, home to Charlie Brown and Snoopy, at over $1 billion.
- Sony is increasing its ownership in Peanuts Holdings to 80%.
- WildBrain is selling its 41% stake in the company for $457 million in cash.
- The transaction is expected to close pending regulatory approvals.
- Barnes & Thornburg is serving as U.S. legal advisor to WildBrain.
Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Pictures Entertainment are set to significantly expand their control over the beloved “Peanuts” franchise, acquiring a 41% stake from WildBrain for $457 million. This move increases Sony’s overall ownership in Peanuts Holdings – the entity that manages the intellectual property for Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the gang – to a commanding 80%, valuing the entire business at more than $1 billion. This deal solidifies Sony’s position as the primary steward of the “Peanuts” brand, ensuring the continued legacy of Charles Schulz’s creation.
A History of Partnership
WildBrain initially purchased the Peanuts brand in 2017, then sold a 39% stake to Sony the following year. The current transaction represents a full exit for the Canadian media company, signaling a strategic shift in their portfolio. Josh Scherba, president and CEO of WildBrain, expressed confidence in Sony’s ability to nurture the franchise.
“Sony has been an excellent partner on the ‘Peanuts’ brand for many years, and we’re confident that Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the gang are in good hands with them,” Scherba said. “We’d like to thank the Peanuts Worldwide team, as well as the Schulz family, for their incredible collaboration, and we look forward to working with them and Sony going forward to continue driving global success for ‘Peanuts.’”
Looking Ahead for the Peanuts Franchise
The deal, announced on December 18, 2025, is subject to standard closing conditions, including the necessary regulatory approvals. The completion of this acquisition will likely pave the way for further expansion of the “Peanuts” brand across various entertainment platforms, including film, television, and music. The enduring appeal of these characters suggests a bright future under Sony’s leadership.
Did you know? Charles Schulz’s “Peanuts” comic strip debuted in 1950 and ran for nearly 50 years, becoming one of the most influential and widely read comic strips of all time.
