Peter Robbins was an actor who provided the original voice of Charlie Brown in classic specials including “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.”
- Died: January 2022
- Details of death: Died by suicide at the age of 65.
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If someone you know exhibits warning signs of suicide, they should not be left alone. Call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. The Lifeline provides free, confidential support for people in crisis or emotional distress, 24/7 year-round. The Lifeline also offers an online chat for people who prefer to reach out online rather than by phone.
Acting career
Robbins began his acting career at the age of seven, appearing on TV shows including “The Munsters,” “The Donna Reed Show,” and “Rawhide.” He was cast as Charlie Brown at age nine, beginning with the 1963 TV documentary “A Boy Named Charlie Brown.” Robbins went on to voice Charlie Brown in beloved “Peanuts” holiday specials as well as in other specials including “You’re in Love, Charlie Brown,” and “It Was a Short Summer, Charlie Brown,” and in the 1969 feature film “A Boy Named Charlie Brown.” After turning 14, Robbins was replaced by a younger actor. He continued acting as a teen with guest roles on TV shows, ending his career with a 1972 spot on “My Three Sons.” In later years, Robbins worked in real estate and returned for “Peanuts” anniversary specials. While having recent legal troubles, Robbins spoke out about his lifelong struggles with bipolar disorder and paranoid schizophrenia.
Notable quote
“That is why Charlie Brown is such a wonderful character. He does see a psychiatrist, so he knows he has got some problems and he is trying to get help. They always say that Charlie Brown is a lovable loser but, at the end of the day, he gathers everybody around the tree.” —from a 2019 interview for the Providence Journal
Tributes to Peter Robbins
Full obituary: People
