Original ‘Charlie Brown’ Voice Actor
Released from Prison
Peter Robbins, the original voice of Charlie Brown in A Charlie Brown Christmas, It’s The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown and many others, is longing for a comeback after serving four years of a five-year prison sentence that began in December of 2015.
The 63-year-old suffers from bipolar disorder and has been treated for addictions to drugs, alcohol and sex. He is a convicted two-strike felon having been found guilty of criminal threats against multiple persons, including San Diego County Sheriff William Gore. “I know I was certainly mentally ill," Robbins was quoted as saying. "I wish I had gotten treatment earlier by professionals."
During his initial incarceration at George Bailey Detention Center in Otay Mesa, Robbins was made to feel welcome by his fellow inmates in an unforgettably violent way. "They pull you out of bed at 4 a.m.," Robbins said. "They throw a blanket over your head and beat you for 20 seconds."
The former child star also appeared in TV shows like Get Smart, Good Times, and The Munsters stated that his lowest point came when he was transferred to solitary confinement. "These people were screaming all throughout the night," Robbins said. "Plus, the guards knocked on your door every 20 minutes to make sure you're still alive."
Before prison, he had fallen into a manic phase “Where I bought a motor home, a mobile home, two German sports cars and a pitbull named Snoopy.” Robbins said.
More than a half century later, the spirit of Charlie Brown keeps Robbins sober during his darkest days as a troubled grown man. "'Charlie Brown' fans are the greatest fans in the world," Robbins said. "And everybody is willing, I hope, to give me a second chance. “I want to write a book about my experiences in jail, prison and what I have to look forward to. 'Confessions of a Blockhead' is what I'm going to call it."
“Peter Robbins and I worked together as Charlie Brown and Lucy on “A Boy Named Charlie Brown” and “It Was a Short Summer, Charlie Brown,” and as Alexander and Cookie on 14 episodes of “Blondie.” We were also guests together on “Art Linkletter's House Party” and “Dinah's Place.” Good Grief!”
- Pamelyn Ferdin
