“A Charlie Brown Christmas” debuted 54 years ago

SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) — A holiday classic made it’s television debut 54 years ago today.

“A Charlie Brown Christmas” was the first animated TV special featuring Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Linus, Lucy and many other characters from the “Peanuts” comic strip.

The special tells the story of Charlie Brown as he deals with why he feels depressed during the holiday season.

In order to help cheer him up, Lucy recommends he direct the Christmas play that will be put on by kids in the neighborhood.

However, his effort to create a smooth production are ignored by the rest of the gang and Charlie Brown gets even more depressed. Until his friend Linus delivers a monologue on the true meaning of Christmas.

Initially, CBS executives felt the special would be an epic failure.

Instead, families have been gathering around the TV for generations to watch the special for it’s heartwarming story line and of course, that cool Vince Guaraldi soundtrack.

Along with the original, three other “Peanuts” Christmas specials have been produced along with a stage version.

“A Charlie Brown Christmas” debuted on CBS on December 9, 1965.