Beloved Franklin Armstrong Stars in New Origin Story Special
Over 50 years after his debut, beloved “Peanuts” character Franklin Armstrong is finally getting his backstory told in a new Apple TV+ special premiering February 16th.
“Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin” focuses on Franklin’s origin, moving to a new neighborhood and struggling to make friends. Created by Charles M. Schulz in 1968 at the urging of a teacher after MLK Jr.’s assassination, Franklin was the first Black character integrated into the previously all-white “Peanuts” strip.
While Franklin has appeared in animated specials over the years, often dancing or playing music, little has been revealed about his personal history or family until now. The new special aims to highlight Franklin’s entrance into the Peanuts world while correcting past interpretions of his place in the group.
Black Comic Writer Robb Armstrong Co-Pens Franklin’s Story
With the blessing of Schulz’s son and grandson, Craig and Bryan Schulz, acclaimed Black cartoonist Robb Armstrong co-wrote the script for “Welcome Home, Franklin.”
Armstrong says he instantly connected with Franklin upon his debut in 1968, noting “I know seeing Franklin in a newspaper changed my life.” He formed a friendship with Schulz and naming characters in his own “JumpStart” strip after “Peanuts” characters.
Given the chance to finally tell Franklin’s origin, Armstrong drew on personal details like his relative playing in the Negro Leagues. He also voiced concerns over originally having Franklin lash out at Charlie Brown, though it remained for character development.
Special Brings Iconic Callbacks And Subtle Diversity Touches
The 22-minute special features Snoopy, Charlie Brown and other icons welcoming Franklin as director Raymond S. Persi focused on an authentic friendship arc. Light nods to lack of diversity precede iconic callbacks like Linus waiting for the Great Pumpkin.
While staying true to the classic “Peanuts” style, the special expands the world through Franklin’s neighborhood and family life. Craig Schulz said they tread carefully on addressing diversity to properly respect Franklin and the Black community.
