Lawsuits Filed Over Unlicensed Use of ‘Peanuts’ Music

Lee Mendelson Film Productions has initiated legal action against several entities, including the U.S. Department of the Interior, for unauthorized use of Vince Guaraldi’s music from ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ and other ‘Peanuts’ specials. The lawsuits, filed in federal courts in New York and Washington, D.C., accuse a video game company, an auction house, and a belt-maker, among others, of using the music without permission.

One of the lawsuits claims the Interior Department used Guaraldi’s arrangement of ‘O Tannenbaum’ in a digital holiday card on social media without permission. The Department chose not to comment on the litigation.

Heritage Auctions is accused of using the song ‘Linus and Lucy’ in social media posts promoting an auction. The song is closely tied to the ‘Peanuts’ brand despite not being a Christmas song. A representative from Heritage Auctions stated that they have yet to review the complaint, but will do so when received.

Additional accusations arise against Buckle-Down Inc., a belt company producing ‘Peanuts’ themed items. The company is alleged to have misused the music in social media promotions. Marc Jacobson, the attorney for Lee Mendelson Film Productions, stated that the company aims to enforce the rights of creators and protect cultural assets from unsanctioned use, especially online.

Another significant lawsuit involves GameMill Entertainment. The lawsuit claims its 2025 ‘Peanuts’ video game featured music resembling Guaraldi’s compositions without proper authorization. The plaintiffs demand financial compensation and court orders to prevent further infringement.

Lee Mendelson Film Productions has historical ties to ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas.’ Founded by Lee Mendelson, the company collaborated with ‘Peanuts’ creator Charles Schulz and director Bill Melendez to bring the original TV special to life in 1965. Mendelson appointed Guaraldi to craft the music, which became an iconic part of the ‘Peanuts’ legacy.

Jason Mendelson, son of the late Lee Mendelson, recalled his father’s process of involving Guaraldi after selling the concept to CBS. Guaraldi’s music, including ‘Christmas Time Is Here’ and ‘Linus and Lucy,’ has since become synonymous with Peanuts and festive celebration. A song in the special, originally instrumental, was given lyrics hastily by Mendelson himself and performed by a local youth choir.