In just a couple of days, summer vacation will start, and Charlie still hasn’t worked up the nerve to talk to the Little Red-Haired Girl. He tries everything: love notes, awkward attempts at conversation, even psychoanalysis. Nothing quite works — but the charm of the special is that it doesn’t need to. We’ve all been there. That fluttery feeling of liking someone so much it messes with your peanut butter sandwich.
This was one of the early Peanuts specials animated by Bill Melendez and produced by Lee Mendelson, with a soft jazz score by Guaraldi that somehow understands Charlie’s nervous heart better than he does. Like all great Peanuts moments, it’s funny, melancholy, and gently wise — and still as relatable now as it was when it first aired.
If you ever felt the sting of unspoken affection — or stood at a bus stop just hoping they’d look your way — this little special was made just for you.
You’re in Love, Charlie Brown (1967)
Charlie Brown: “There’s nothing like unrequited love to ruin the taste of a peanut butter sandwich.”
Special: Love conquers all, Charlie Brown included. Only two school days remain before summer vacation starts, and time is running out for Charlie. There’s a cute little redhead in his class, but Charlie is too shy to speak to her.
In a panic to make contact before school closes, Charlie tries writing notes, the John Alden gambit, psychoanalysis — even a vigil at the bus stop.
“Peanuts” creator Charles Schulz wrote the story, which was animated by Bill Melendez Associates. Original music by Vince Guaraldi. Producer: Lee Mendelson.
Voices… Charlie Brown: Peter Robbins; Linus: Chris topher Shea; Lucy: Sally Dryer; Peppermint Patty: Gal DeFeria; Sally: Kathy Steinberg; Schroeder: Glenn Mendelson (son of producer Lee).
Charlie Brown: “They’re showing You’re in Love, Charlie Brown on television this Wednesday.”
Snoopy: “What is love?”
MORE: Peanuts! Vintage Snoopy Valentine’s Day cards (plus Woodstock!)
Wed, June 11, 8:30 pm, on Ch 10, 15, 21, 43 – Brought to you by Dolly Madison Cakes and the people in your town who bottle Coca-Cola.
VIDEO | You’re In Love, Charlie Brown intro
ALSO SEE: Vintage Snoopy & Peanuts stickers sheets (’70s & ’80s)
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Duncan Watson, Stephen Shea, Melanie Kohn (Actors)
- Phil Roman (Director) - Charles M. Schulz (Writer) - Lee Mendelson (Producer)
