After a five-year hiatus, everyone's favorite beagle is back to reclaim his holiday crown. Snoopy Presents: 12 Days of Snoopy marks the first new Peanuts Christmas special since 2019, and it's bringing a fresh twist to the beloved franchise. Premiering Friday, November 13 on Apple TV+, this special finds Snoopy in a panic when he discovers he's landed on Santa's naughty list with just 12 days until Christmas.
Determined to prove he's a good dog, Snoopy embarks on a mission to understand what true goodness really means. Along the way, he learns valuable lessons about kindness, community, and the spirit of the season—themes that have anchored Peanuts specials for decades. But this isn't your grandparents' Christmas special. The production boasts an all-star musical lineup, including John Legend, Raphael Saadiq, Kamasi Washington, and Leon Bridges, who contribute original songs and covers that give the special a modern sound while preserving its classic heart.
A Modern Take on a Timeless Tradition
This is the 54th Peanuts TV special and the ninth produced under Apple TV+'s stewardship. It's a tall order to follow in the footsteps of A Charlie Brown Christmas, which debuted in 1965 and became a holiday staple for generations. While other Peanuts specials have come and gone, a new Christmas entry has the potential to become a seasonal favorite for today's kids—especially with Snoopy front and center.
Focusing on Snoopy is a smart move for younger audiences. Charlie Brown's existential musings can be a tough sell for little ones, but the lovable beagle's antics—whether he's piloting his doghouse or ice skating through a winter wonderland—are instantly engaging. The special leans into Snoopy's physical comedy, but it also fills the silence with music. According to Apple, the special features a new song by Legend and Saadiq called "Get Ready," another by Washington and Bridges titled "Trying to Get There," and a cover of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" by Laufey. The entire score is composed by the legendary Jeff Morrow.
Why a November Release Makes Sense
In the old TV era, Peanuts specials aired close to Christmas, when families were gathered and schools were out. Streaming has changed that calculus. Apple TV+ is releasing 12 Days of Snoopy in early November, giving it time to build word-of-mouth and become part of families' holiday planning. It's a savvy move that acknowledges how viewers discover content in the streaming age.
Of course, the Peanuts franchise is its own biggest competitor. Apple TV+ already offers the classic specials—A Charlie Brown Christmas, It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, and the Thanksgiving and New Year's specials—which many fans rewatch every year. The new special joins that lineup, and its early release means it can be enjoyed multiple times before the big day.
For those who've been craving a fresh Peanuts story, Snoopy Presents: 12 Days of Snoopy promises to deliver the same warmth and humor that have made the franchise endure for nearly 60 years. It's a reminder that even in a world of streaming and celebrity cameos, the true meaning of Christmas—kindness, love, and community—remains unchanged. And if you're looking for more holiday entertainment, check out Family Guy's Halloween specials or Forrest Gump's streaming success.
Mark your calendars: Snoopy Presents: 12 Days of Snoopy premieres Friday, November 13, only on Apple TV+.
