It’s a holiday staple that has been beloved for over half a century. A Charlie Brown Christmas, which first aired on December 9, 1965, has been a tradition for millions of Americans. So, when it was announced that streaming rights had been sold exclusively to Apple TV, fans were outraged. But, their voices were heard and the show made a comeback, airing on PBS for the 2020 and 2021 holiday seasons.
The show is filled with things to love: the catchy Vince Guaraldi score, the humor, and the animation. But, it’s the part where Linus recites the Gospel of Luke that really sets it apart. It’s a bold move in any network television special, let alone one broadcast to millions of viewers 55 years ago.
This daring move to explain the true meaning of Christmas drew both criticism and admiration. Despite pushback from network executives, creator Charles M. Schulz insisted that the scene be included. Schulz famously said, “If we don’t tell the true meaning of Christmas, who will?”
Even though it may seem commonplace now, the recitation of the gospel was groundbreaking at the time. Schulz caught people off guard, highlighting the fact that Christmas isn’t just about presents and holiday parties, it’s also about the birth of Christ.
The scene has become one of the most iconic moments in television history. Schulz’s decision to include religion in a Christmas special challenged the Hollywood status quo. The scene is quiet and understated, with Linus giving a simple explanation of the Christmas story. But its impact cannot be overstated.