Lawsuits Filed Over Unlicensed Use of ‘Peanuts’ Music

Lee Mendelson Film Productions launched legal action Wednesday against several defendants for the unauthorized use of Vince Guaraldi’s music from “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and other “Peanuts” specials. These lawsuits, filed in federal courts in New York and Washington, D.C., involve the U.S. Department of the Interior plus a video game company, auction house, and belt-maker.

One case argues the Interior Department used Guaraldi’s rendition of “O Tannenbaum” in a digital holiday card on social media without permission. The department refrained from commenting on ongoing litigation when contacted by The Associated Press.

Another lawsuit claims Heritage Auctions used “Linus and Lucy” in Facebook and Instagram posts promoting an auction, without authorization. This song, not specifically tied to Christmas, serves as a well-known “Peanuts” theme. Similarly, Buckle-Down Inc. faces claims of improper music usage in its “Peanuts” themed products.

Heritage Auctions’ representative, Christina Rees, said they have not yet been served but will respond appropriately once the complaint is reviewed. Other defendants have not provided comments.

Lee Mendelson Film Productions decided on legal action due to increasing misuse in the digital age. Lawyer Marc Jacobson stated the company won’t accept unlicensed use of their properties, emphasizing the need to enforce creators’ rights and protect iconic cultural properties.

Peanuts Worldwide LLC, which holds rights to the characters, is not involved in the lawsuits. The fourth case involves GameMill Entertainment, accused of using new compositions similar to Guaraldi’s works like “Linus and Lucy” and “Skating” in their 2025 video game “Snoopy & The Great Mystery Club” without seeking permission.

Mendelson’s company seeks financial compensation, such as at least $300,000 from GameMill, alongside court orders to halt the alleged copyright infringements.

The story behind “A Charlie Brown Christmas”

Founded by the producer Lee Mendelson, who worked with “Peanuts” creator Charles Schulz and director Bill Melendez, Lee Mendelson Film Productions created the TV specials starting with “A Charlie Brown Christmas” in 1965. Vince Guaraldi provided the distinctive jazz music, including “Christmas Time Is Here” and “Linus and Lucy.” Mendelson, who passed away in 2019, had once called Schulz to co-write the special over a weekend.

Guaraldi was a budding jazz pianist in San Francisco whose Grammy-winning song “Cast Your Fate to the Wind” inspired Mendelson as perfect for Charlie Brown.

Mendelson even contributed lyrics for the opening song, “Christmas Time Is Here,” written hurriedly before the deadline. Sung by children from St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in San Rafael, California, these voices became a beloved part of the classic holiday tune.