Robb Armstrong, 'Jump Start' cartoonist, discusses 'Peanuts' spin-off
Generations of children and adults have loved the comic strip and animated series “Peanuts,” imagined by Charles Schulz. The characters swirling around protagonist Charlie Brown offer us a relatable laugh and depict the challenges of growing up with ease and humor.
Recently, the “Peanuts” universe has zeroed in on one character’s story – that of Franklin Armstrong. Franklin was the first Black character to enter the “Peanuts” universe in 1968, and his last name is a direct nod from Schulz to cartoonist Robb Armstrong, now the most widely syndicated African American cartoonist in the world.
Armstrong and Schulz shared a special connection that began with Robb’s profound admiration for the inclusion of Franklin in the “Peanuts” universe and morphed into a beautiful and long-lasting friendship that brought him deep into the fold of the Schulz family.
The artist now joins creative forces with Craig Schulz , son of creator Charles M. Schulz , to craft a new Apple TV+ animated special focusing on Franklin. “Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin” debuted on Feb. 16, 2024.
On Thursday’s edition of “City Lights,” host Lois Reitzes sits down with Robb Armstrong to discuss his relationship with the late Charles Schulz , the eponymous Franklin Armstrong, and how this new special came into being!
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