Welcome to DisneyChannelEARS, a website and blog about Disney Channel live-action Production news, including information on TV shows, Disney Channel Original Movies and On-Air Presentations.

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Disney Channel & Disney XD Stars To Sign Autographs In Galveston Dec. 22, 29


Christmas will come a little bit early for "tweens" visiting Galveston this month, as the island hosts two very popular TV stars.

Spencer Boldman from Disney XD's "Lab Rats" and Jake Short from Disney Channel’s "A.N.T. Farm" will be in Galveston to sign autographs and take pictures with visitors Dec. 22 and Dec. 29, respectively.* The stars will be on the island for "Magical Parties with Disney" hosted by the Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau and Radio Disney AM 1590.

The parties will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. the last two Saturdays in December at downtown Galveston’s Saengerfest Park, located at the corner of Strand and 23rd streets.

• Dec. 22 – Spencer Boldman from Disney XD's "Lab Rats" will sign autographs and take pictures with visitors while the Radio Disney AM 1590 Road Crew entertains the crowd.

• Dec. 29 – Jake Short from Disney Channel’s "A.N.T. Farm" will sign autographs and take pictures with visitors while the Radio Disney AM 1590 Road Crew entertains the crowd.

* Talent can only meet as many fans as time permits.

Holiday Magic in Galveston

Galveston is the "Winter Wonder Island" of Texas, offering visitors more than 1,000 magical events to enjoy during the holiday season. The Magical Parties with Disney events are featured on the island’s new Passport to Holiday Magic celebration, where visitors can access a downloadable "passport" to keep track of the island’s many events while earning a chance to win a Disney Magic cruise for four. To get your passport, visit http://www.galveston.com/holidaymagic.

Monday, December 03, 2012

Behind The Scenes of Austin & Jessie & Ally All Star New Year

Disney Channel have released a behind the scenes look of the Austin & Ally and Jessie crossover special, 'Austin & Jessie & Ally All Star New Year.'

In the episode episode, Austin, Ally, Trish and Dez have trouble getting through New York’s crowded Times Square on New Year’s Eve, but Jessie comes up with a plan to get them to the stage in time to see Austin perform — and ultimately have him record one of her songs, natch. Bonus: The episode includes a duet by Debby Ryan and Ross Lynch.

"All Star New Year" will premiere on Friday, December 7, part of Disney Channel's second annual Fa-la-la-lidays programming block.

Austin & Ally Cast Live Stream December 3, 2012

The cast of Austin & Ally recently announced that they would be hosting a live stream with fans on Monday December 3. Below is a video of the full live stream which took place today, December 3. During the live stream, the cast answer some questions, play games, and have some fun! The live stream took place on the official Austin & Ally cast broadcast channelwww.ustream.tv/channel/AustinandAllyCast

On the Verge: Disney's Bridgit Mendler

[Via usatoday.com....]


Ready or not, there's a new young female star breaking out from the Disney Channel.

4:29PM EST December 2. 2012 - Bridgit Mendler is following in the footsteps of Hillary Duff, Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez, parlaying her popularity on the Disney Channel into success in the music world. Mendler, 19, seems well-suited to the role, having branched out from Radio Disney and realized a legitimate top 40 hit with Ready or Not. "I guess I meet a type or something," says the actress/singer/songwriter, who played a recurring character on Disney Channel's Wizards of Waverly Place before getting her own series, Good Luck Charlie, which will enter its fourth season in 2013. "I try not to think too much about the other artists that have come before or are coming up. You can't compare that, because each person has a different path they want to go down."

A princess is born: Mendler co-wrote every song on her debut album, Hello My Name Is …, released in October. But she has been writing songs since she was 6 or 7, when she composed a ditty about "little baby Jesus, resting in a manger" inspired by her younger brother's Play-Doh nativity scene. Mendler made her stage debut around that same time, playing Princess Multiplication in her first-grade play: "I sang a song about how you can't multiply with zero."

Musical anglophile: Though Mendler was born in Washington, D.C., and has lived in California since she was 8, her debut album unmistakably bears the influence of British neo-soul. Mendler expresses fondness for artists like Ellie Goulding, Florence + the Machine, Marina and the Diamonds and Lianne La Havas. "I love British sassiness, and their style is so cool," she says. "If I could be born again as a Brit? Love that."

Didn't she blow your mind this time?: Yes, Mendler was aware of The Delfonics' 1968 hit Ready or Not Here I Come (Can't Hide From Love) – or, more accurately, The Fugees' 1996 Ready or Not that borrowed the chorus from the Philadelphia soul group – when she, Emanuel "Eman" Kiriakou and Evan Bogart wrote their song. "One of the writers played The Fugees' Ready or Not, and we were, like, 'Let's do an interpolation; that'd be kind of fun,'" she says. "So we did that and became familiar with The Delfonics' version also and kind of came up with our own. So it was intentional." The song is No. 25 on USA TODAY's top 40 airplay chart and has sold 356,000 copies, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

Actress, singer, student: Mendler will enter the University of Southern California as a freshman in January. "My plan right now is just to do one class at a time and see how that goes," she says. "I'm just going to study something that will be interesting and doable from the road and just take care of my general education courses for now." She hopes to get a degree eventually, though she doesn't plan to major in an entertainment-related field. She's currently considering arts history. "I want to know something outside of what I do." Mendler's mother will be at USC at the same time, pursuing a doctorate. "She's such an overachiever," Mendler says.

Next year and beyond: Mendler will play several radio-station shows, including New York's Z100 Jingle Ball, between now and the end of the year. She hopes to do a larger tour in 2013. "I have Good Luck Charlie for the first half of the year," she says. "We'll probably put some touring dates in after that. I'm probably also going to do a few international dates on the hiatuses during Good Luck Charlie's shooting time." Beyond Disney Channel – and her music and school – Mendler's got her eye on feature films. "I don't want to bust out into some edgy thing, because I do value the audience that's there. I also think there's a way to be a grown-up without being that. But I'd love to be in an action movie or some fun comedy – that'd be awesome. I feel like it's a good time to dream big."

Past Is Future On Disney Channel and Nickelodeon

[Via forbes.com...]

Teen sitcom stars Jennette McCurdy and Ariana Grande weren’t even born yet when Nickelodeon was launched in 1979.

Their long-running series, iCarly and Victorious, are getting a combined spin-off show, called Sam and Cat. Nickelodeon announced the pilot order in August, and has ordered 20 episodes. Production begins in January 2012, in Los Angeles.

Similarly, Disney was two years away from purchasing ABC when Boy Meets World became a Friday night hit in 1993. Disney Channel acquired Boy Meets World in 2000, and introduced characters Cory Matthews and Topanga Lawrence to a new generation of teens and preteens.

Now, Disney Channel is developing a pilot for Boy spinoff. Ben Savage and Danielle Fishel will reprise their characters in Girl Meets World, which will follow the trials and tribulations of their 13-year-old TV daughter, Riley.

The original creators, veteran producers Dan Schneider and Michael Jacobs, lead the charge for Sam and Girl respectively.

McCurdy and the star of iCarly, Miranda Cosgrove, were frequently nominated for prestigious billings for kid programs, such as the Teen Choice Awards, Kids’ Choice Awards, and Primetime Emmys. Both Grande, 19, and McCurdy are talented vocalists.

McCurdy, 21,  will continue her role as Sam Puckett. She and Grande’s character will become unlikely room mates who start a babysitting business together.

Girl Meets World is still early in development, but Savage will play a history teacher, like his Boy Meets World mentor, ‘Mr. Feeny.’ A nationwide search is on for daughter Riley Matthews, and her edgy best friend Maya. Boy and its actors were nominated for dozens of Kids’ Choice and Young Artist awards; Savage and Fishel won some, along with several co-stars.

The maturation of the kids in these programs reflects the maturation of Disney Channel and Nickelodeon. While ‘mature’ might sound like the kiss of death for a youth-oriented business, it’s not the case here. Though both channels started in the 70s, they reinvented themselves approximately 20 years later, with drastic focus change. Disney Channel switched from pay to basic cable, and began replacing its old, recycled acquired programming (think Walt Disney Presents) with original movies and star-making episodic series (think Lizzie McGuire).

Nickelodeon was ahead of the curve in animation, with Ren & Stimpy and Rugrats, but its late-tween, early teen programming was getting long in the tooth (think reruns of Clarissa Explains It All and Are You Afraid Of The Dark?). By 1996, Nick began launching series featuring talent that appeared in Schneider’s All That,  such as Kenan & Kel, The Amanda Show, and later Drake & Josh and Zoey 101, starring Jamie Lynn Spears.

In other words, these channels laid a solid foundation of original, character-driven programming, which can now spawn second and third generation hits. While Boy Meets World was not developed at Disney Channel but rather, Buena Vista Television, its saturation and promotion on the channel assured that Disney could mine the intellectual property decades later.

Saturday, December 01, 2012

TWIST Chats with Kelli Berglund from Lab Rats!

[Via twistmagazine.com...]


TWIST just chatted with Kelli Berglund from Lab Rats! She gave us the deets on the new season of the show and her work with the charity Audrey Hepburn Cares. Check out the exclusive convo below!
XOXO,
TWIST

TWIST: Can you tell us what to expect from the new season of Lab Rats?
KB: There's a lot of new things happening this season. Season one was the introduction to all of our characters but season two is more about deep secrets being revealed. It's going to be really exciting for the audience.

TWIST: What would TWIST readers love most about the new season?
KB: I think they'd really like to see my character Bree growing into herself. She sets that example for girls since I'm the only girl on the show. This season Bree's more confident and inspires girls to become more confident in themselves and comfortable with who they are.

TWIST: What's in store for Bree this season?
KB: Bree actually has a few more love interests this season and some that are more serious than just the typical crush. Also, there are some really big episodes coming up that involve a lot of action. It's really cool to see Bree do those kinds of things.

TWIST: How are you similar to your character?
KB: When I first went to a new school I was a little bit insecure because I wanted to fit in with everybody, and that's exactly what Bree wants to do. This is her first time out in the real world, and she just wants people to like her.

TWIST: What's the vibe like on the set of Lab Rats?
KB: It's like one big family! From the minute we all stepped on to the set it was just so much fun everyday and the cast and I are very close.

TWIST: You recently participated in the Millions of Milkshakes for Audrey Hepburn Cares. Can you tell us a little bit more about the event?
KB: Yes, I'm involved with the Audrey Hepburn Cares team at the Children's Hospital of LA and it's a great organization. It deals with child abuse and I've felt strongly about the cause since I read a book two years ago about a little boy who had to deal with his family treating him poorly. I wanted to make a difference through this cause.

TWIST: Do you have any upcoming projects our readers can look forward to?
KB: I'm just filming season two of Lab Rats, hopefully that will lead to a third and fourth season. I'd love to do some Disney movies and then some featured films. I just want to keep acting.

TWIST: Thanks Kelli!
KB:Thanks TWIST!

Friday, November 30, 2012

Disney Casting Directors Seek Out Both Established and New Talent

There are two types of casting directors that audition actors for Disney. The first type are called "in-house" casting executives. The VP of Casting and Talent Relations for Disney Channel is an example of an in-house casting director who usually auditions established actors for series regular roles or starring roles for Disney Channel Original Movies. On the other hand there are many freelance casting directors who have cast countless Disney Channel shows, as well as other shows on different networks. These freelance casting directors also audition established talent for series regulars and starring roles, however they do bring in newcomers to read for roles if they fit the look that is being sought for a specific role.

Newcomers are much more likely to be cast in supporting or recurring roles as opposed to starring or series regulars, but from time to time an actor with minimal credits does land that coveted top level role. And it is happening more and more frequently as studios vie to discover that fresh new face. However, any type of casting director will tell you that finding talented actors with little experience can be a daunting task. Disney Channel conducts open casting calls around the United States a couple of times each year for non-specific roles, and out of the thousands who show up, only one or two actually make it onto the air. Another example is when Walt Disney Studios held open calls at many cities during the talent search for the role of Mattie Ross in the 2010 film "True Grit". In the end, they hired an actress who had professional credits, training, and a talent agent who submitted her for the role in Los Angeles.

The most important thing that casting directors look for on an actors resume is live theatre. Doing plays in youth theatre groups, community theatre, and summer acting camps is not only extremely fun, but is also an incredible learning experience. You do not get the opportunity to do multiple takes for each scene, rather you must nail your lines dead on in real-time. And the more experience that talent has doing that, means less takes for each scene when working on a movie or television show.

Training is also important, especially with reputable acting teachers and coaches. In the big markets such as Los Angeles and New York, there is an abundance of great acting teachers, many of which are well connected in the entertainmenbt industry. Often these mentors will bring in casting directors or talent agents to watch their students perform scenes. Specialized training such as singing and dancing is also a great thing to have on your resume.

A few of The Walt Disney Company holdings consist of Marvel Studios, Touchstone Pictures, The Muppets Studio, Disney Theatrical Group, Pixar Animation Studios, and Walt Disney Pictures. Their television divisions include Disney Channel, Disney XD, Disney Jr., and ABC Family among others. So there you have it. The opportunities are out there, you just have to make the right moves, stay focused, and follow your heart.

Alan Baltes invites you to take advantage of a wealth of information about how to submit yourself to Disney casting directors for acting auditions, as well as register for extra work. Auditions and casting information for Walt Disney Company films - Touchstone Pictures, Pixar Animation, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, and Walt Disney Pictures. Learn more by heading over to Disney Casting

Source: Alan Baltes

“Austin & Ally” Cast Announce A Live Chat For December 3, 2012


The cast of Austin & Ally, will be hosting a live stream with fans on Monday December 3, 11am pacific time.

Raini Rodriguez tweeted on her official twitter page (@Raini_Rodriguez):

So, the Austin and Ally cast and I have a couple of surprises for you guys in the next couple of weeks...any guesses? (:

And:

All of you guessed great answers, but only one of you guessed right. The A&A cast will be doing a live stream Monday, Dec 3rd!! :)

Also: 

The live stream will be around 11am pacific time. I know most of you will be in school, but this is the time that works best for us 4!                     

Maia Mitchell Working On Disney Channel's "JESSIE"

Maia Mitchell, who will appear in Disney Channel's DCOM, "Teen Beach Movie" in 2013, is currently  working and set to appear on an episode of JESSIE.

Maia Mitchell tweeted on her official twitter page (@MaiaMitchell):

Memorisin' for my first taping tomorrow. Wish me luck!✌

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Disney Channel Fa-La-La-Lidays 2012 Promo

Disney Channel have released the official promo for the programming block, Fa-La-La-Lidays 2012 which includes new holiday themed episodes of Good Luck Charlie, Dog With A Blog, Shake It Up, the special event: Austin & Jessie & Ally: All Star New Year and movies set to premiere all December long!

SUNDAY, December 2

7:30 p.m. – “Good Luck Charlie”
“A Duncan Christmas” – Teddy takes Charlie to see Santa Claus at Super Adventure Land, but when Santa decides to take a break right when it’s Charlie’s turn, Teddy takes matters into her own hands. Meanwhile, Amy and Grandma Linda learn they are performing the same song at the family talent show. Shirley Jones reprises her role as Grandma Linda. Teddy and Spencer (played by actors and recording artists Bridgit Mendler and Shane Harper) perform the duet “My Song For You” in the episode.

8:00 p.m. – “Dog With A Blog”
“Bark! The Herald Angels Sing” – It’s the family’s first Christmas together and Avery is prepping Tyler, Chloe and Stan for what will likely be their worst Christmas gifts ever – from their new stepmother Ellen who gives terrible gifts. Meanwhile, Bennett and Ellen try to decide whose Christmas traditions to follow.

8:30 p.m. – “Shake It Up”
“Merry Merry It Up” – CeCe picks a fight with Jeremy, leading Georgia to break up with him. To fix the situation, Rocky takes a turn as the ghost of Christmas dance and escorts CeCe on a dream journey to the past, present and future.  Zendaya performs the new song “Shake Santa Shake” in the episode.

Friday, December 7

8:00 p.m. – “Austin & Ally”/”Jessie”   
“Austin & JESSIE & Ally All Star New Year” – Austin, Ally, Trish and Dez travel to Times Square where Austin is booked to perform on New Year’s Eve. When they can’t get through New York City’s crowded streets, Jessie comes up with a plan to get them to the stage and to ultimately have Austin record one of her songs. Three songs are performed in the hour-long episode: ”Face to Face,” a duet by Austin (Ross Lynch) and Jessie (Debby Ryan), and “Christmas Soul” and “Can You Feel It” by Austin.

"Can You Feel It" Featured on "Austin & Jessie & Ally All Star New Year"

Disney Channel have released the official lyric video for 'Can You Feel It' which is performed by Ross Lynch, which set to premiere on the new Austin & Ally and Jessie crossover special, 'Austin & Jessie & Ally All Star New Year.'

In the episode episode, Austin, Ally, Trish and Dez have trouble getting through New York’s crowded Times Square on New Year’s Eve, but Jessie comes up with a plan to get them to the stage in time to see Austin perform — and ultimately have him record one of her songs, natch. Bonus: The episode includes a duet by Debby Ryan and Ross Lynch.

"All Star New Year" will premiere on Friday, December 7, part of Disney Channel's second annual Fa-la-la-lidays programming block.

Gregg Sulkin talks Wizards Reunion: Alex vs. Alex

In an interview with Fanlala, Gregg Sulkin talks about the Wizards of Waverly Place special reunion episode, including details of the plot, his excitement about returning and details on his character.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

How To Land Disney Channel Auditions For Free

For many kids, the dream of working on a Disney Channel show or movie may seem like a fantasy too good to ever come true. But the reality is that if someone is determined enough and willing to work hard, anything is possible - even acting on a Disney show! Every person who ever worked one of the networks shows had to start somewhere, from the big famous stars right down to the bit role players and background extras.



The network still conducts talent searches in various cities each year, and most are open calls where anyone within a specified age range can attend. And it does not matter if they are signed with a talent agent, or if they have had previous acting experience - although taking acting classes and doing plays can help tremendously.

In addition to the annual general talent searches, DC shoots various shows and movies in cities outside of Los Angeles, and the casting directors sometimes hold open casting calls for specific roles in those cities. Examples are the High School Musical movies which were all filmed in the Salt Lake City area, and the Camp Rock movies which were all filmed in the Toronto area.

As far as any fees or costs associated with DC talent searches, open casting calls, and auditions - there are none! Auditions are always completely free of charge to attend. The only exception is for extras. Disney Channel always contracts out to extras casting companies to hire the extras for their productions. The individual extras casting companies often charge a small fee that may cover photo imaging, administrative costs, etc. This fee is commonly about $15 - $30.

Be aware that there are several unscrupulous websites operating that "scrape" or steal free Disney auditions and casting information from legit websites and use that information to lure people into signing up for a pay-subscription website. They NEVER uses pay-subscription websites for their casting needs, speaking roles or otherwise. Disney Channel auditions, talent searches, and casting calls are always available completely free of charge.

Some of the shows and movies for 2012 include the pilot episodes of "The Little Leftover Witch," "Shmagreggie Saves The World," "Zombies & Cheerleaders," and "Crash And Bernstein"; the series "Austin & Ally," "A.N.T. Farm," "Jessie," "Good Luck Charlie," and "Shake It Up!; the Disney Channel Original Movies "Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie Sequel," and the upcoming "Adventure Quest".

Alan Baltes invites you to take advantage of a wealth of information about how to submit yourself to Disney Channel casting directors for acting auditions, as well as register for extra work. Details about proper submission etiquette and guidelines are outlined. Start being considered now for acting jobs on Disney Channel, Disney XD, and Disney Jr. by heading over to Disney Channel Auditions

Source: Alan J Baltes

Acting Workshop With Stefanie Scott From Disney's A.N.T Farm

Stefanie Scott from Disney's A.N.T Farm will be holding a kids & teens hands on workshop at The Maile School (located in Central Florida) on Saturday, December 22nd during the timeslots available: 1pm to 4pm or 4.30pm to 7.30pm. 
Former Maile School student Stefanie Scott is offering a 1 day hands on training workshop exclusively at The Maile School. Stefanie is best known for her role as Lexi Reed on Disney's hit A.N.T. Farm. Other credits include the newly released Wreck-It-Ralph as Moppet Girl. No Strings Attached, Universal's Beethoven's Big Break, and Disney's Frenemies
The 1 Day Hands on Workshop will cover:
  • Scene Study
  • Character Development
  • Making Your Scenes Believable
  • Life Performance
  • Question & Answer Session

Call to register: 407-628-5989

The Austin & Ally Cast Describe Their Cast Members

In an interview with Popstar Magazine, on set of Austin & Ally, cast members Ross Lynch, Laura Marano, Raini Rodriguez and Calum Worthy, each answer the question "Can you describe each of your cast members?"

New Animated Series 'Sofia the First' to Premiere Friday, January 11 on Disney Channel & Disney Junior


[Via Disney Channel Press Release...]

"SOFIA THE FIRST," AN ANIMATED SERIES ABOUT A LITTLE GIRL PRINCESS ADJUSTING TO ROYAL LIFE, DEBUTS FRIDAY, JANUARY 11 ON DISNEY CHANNEL AND DISNEY JUNIOR


Classic Disney Princesses Ariel, Aurora, Belle and Jasmine
Make Special Appearances

Eric Stonestreet, Viola Davis, Bonnie Hunt, Ellie Kemper, Megan Mullally, Kiernan Shipka and Jeffrey Tambor Among All-Star Guest Voice Cast

The highly anticipated debut of Disney Junior's "Sofia the First," a new animated series about Princess Sofia, an adventurous little girl who is learning how to adjust to royal life after her mom marries the king and she becomes a princess overnight, debuts FRIDAY, JANUARY 11 on Disney Channel (9:30-10:00 a.m., ET/PT) and Disney Junior (5:30-6:00 p.m., ET/PT). Created for kids 2-7 and their parents/caregivers, "Sofia the First" tells the story of an ordinary girl who becomes a princess and, throughout her journey, learns that possessing the characteristics of a true princess – honesty, loyalty, compassion and grace – is what makes one truly royal.

Classic Disney Princesses Ariel, Aurora, Belle and Jasmine make special appearances in event episodes throughout the year, offering Sofia words of wisdom when she needs them most. Fauna, Flora and Merryweather (the beloved fairies seen in Disney's classic "Sleeping Beauty") are featured as the headmistresses of Sofia's new school, Royal Prep Academy.
 

The series stars the voices of Ariel Winter as Sofia, the young princess in training; Sara Ramirez as Queen Miranda, Sofia's loyal and caring mother; Wayne Brady as Clover, Sofia's wise-talking rabbit sidekick, and Tim Gunn as Baileywick, the castle's royal steward. Winter's "Modern Family" co-star, Eric Stonestreet, guest stars in the premiere episode as The Voice of Sofia's flying horse, Minimus. Other notable guest stars include Viola Davis ("The Help"), Bonnie Hunt ("Cars"), Ellie Kemper ("Bridesmaids"), Megan Mullally ("Will & Grace"), Kiernan Shipka ("Mad Men") and Jeffrey Tambor ("Arrested Development").

The November 18 premiere of Disney Junior's animated television movie "Sofia the First: Once Upon a Princess" introduced a record number of viewers to Disney's first little girl princess, Sofia the First, delivering a crowning glory of 5.2 million Total Viewers on Disney Channel, handily becoming the #1 cable TV telecast of 2012 among Kids 2-5 (1.5 million/9.1 rating) and Girls 2-5 (954,000/12.2 rating). The movie also delivered with older kids and adults, attracting more than 3.0 million Kids 2-11 and more than 1.4 million Adults 18-49. Impressively, the movie ranked as the #1 cable TV telecast in 5 years in Kids 2-5 (since 11/12/2007, "SpongeBob Atlantis Pantis") and in over 10 years in Girls 2-5 (since 5/6/2002, "Oswald"). Furthermore, it now stands as Disney Channel's #1 telecast in the network's history among Girls 2-5, its #2 telecast among Kids 2-5 (behind "High School Musical 2") and its #1 preschool telecast ever in Total Viewers, Adults 18-49 and Women 18-49.

In the premiere episode, "Just One of the Princes," Sofia strives to become the first princess to earn a spot on her school's flying derby team. Although paired with the overly-anxious horse Minimus (voiced by Stonestreet), Sofia learns to believe in herself and proves that a princess can do anything she sets her mind to. While she lives in an enchanting fairytale world of castles, wizards and flying horses, Sofia remains a relatable peer-to-peer princess who is experiencing many of the same social situations as young viewers at home, including fitting in at school, building sibling relationships, making new friends, discovering how and when to be brave, learning the importance of telling the truth, and mastering new skills and good sportsmanship. The stories are designed to provide young children with fundamental lessons about developing social and emotional skills to help prepare them for life.

Events across multiple platforms will mark the series debut, with a preview of the premiere episode available via Disney Channel SVOD, WATCH Disney Junior and on iTunes beginning Friday, Jan. 4. The Jan. 11 linear premiere on Disney Channel will be simulcast on WATCH Disney Channel and mobile providers AT&T and Sprint TV. Following the premiere, throughout January, new episodes will be available one week prior to their linear premiere via Disney Channel SVOD and WATCH Disney Junior.

In early January, DisneyJunior.com/Sofia will launch the new game, "Minimus the Great," where players can help Sofia take care of her horse Minimus and train for the big Royal Prep Flying Derby race.

Craig Gerber ("Pixie Hollow Games") developed the series and serves as co-executive producer and story editor. Jamie Mitchell ("Special Agent Oso") is executive producer and director. John Kavanaugh ("Winnie the Pooh: Springtime with Roo") serves as songwriter/music director and Kevin Kliesch ("Tangled Ever After") is the composer. "Sofia the First" is a production of Disney Television Animation.

Disney Junior reflects the emotional connection generations of consumers have to Disney storytelling and Disney characters, both classic and contemporary. It invites mom and dad to join their child in the Disney experience of magical, musical and heartfelt stories and characters, while incorporating specific learning and development themes designed for kids age 2-7. Disney Junior's series blend Disney's unparalleled storytelling and characters kids love with learning, including early math, language skills, healthy eating and lifestyles, and social skills. Disney Junior launched in February 2011 with a daily programming block on Disney Channel. In its first year, Disney Junior posted the network's biggest yearly audience in the daypart in Total Viewers, Kids 2-5, Boys 2-5 and Women 18-49, increasing by double-digit margins in preschooler demographics over year-ago levels. On March 23, 2012 Disney Junior added a cable and satellite channel in the U.S. Disney Junior channels in Japan, India and Disney Junior Portugal launched in fall 2012, bringing the number of channels worldwide to 33.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Ben Savage Joins 'Girl Meets World' Alongside Danielle Fishel


[Via huffingtonpost.com...]

Ben Savage will be playing Cory Matthews once again! The actor has joined the cast of "Girl Meets World," the sequel series to the '90s ABC comedy "Boy Meets World," according to the Disney Channel. Danielle Fishel will also reprise her "Boy Meets World" role as Topanga Lawrence for the pilot.

Disney Channel confirms the pilot is still in "very early stages of development" and that a nationwide casting search is still underway for 13-year-old Riley Matthews. "Girl Meets World" will follow Cory (Savage) and Topanga's (Fishel) teen daughter Riley. "Boy Meets World" creator Michael Jacobs is behind the project.

The cast for "Girl Meets World" will also include Maya, Riley's edgy best friend. Sounds a bit like Shawn Hunter to us!

In the new series Cory will be a history teacher, just like his "Boy Meets World" mentor Mr. Feeny.

"I'm very excited for Disney and [creator] Michael Jacobs," William Russ, who played Cory's dad Alan Matthews on the series, said in a statement to HuffPost TV. "They are a great team and will produce an exceptional show, I have no doubt."

Anthony Tyler Quinn, who played Mr. Turner on "Boy Meets World," told HuffPost TV he'd be interested in appearing on the new series.

"'Boy Meets World' was and continues to be these beautiful brushstrokes in my life," he said. "It was a wonderful experience, and I think Michael's going to create something fresh. I'd love to be a part of it."

Monday, November 26, 2012

Disney Channel plans a sequel to Tyra Banks/Lindsay Lohan flick 'Life-Size'

[Via family-room.ew.com...]


Show me your 100 watt smile, Millennial nostalgia hounds!

The Disney Channel has confirmed to EW that it’s currently developing a sequel to Life-Size, the 2000 TV movie that starred a young, fresh-faced Lindsay Lohan as a lonely girl who accidentally brings a Barbie-like doll (played by Tyra Banks) to life. Banks is on board to reprise her role as Eve, the toy-turned-mother-figure; she’ll executive produce the sequel as well. And yes, Life-Size 2 will also feature a new version of “Be a Star,” the inspirational song Banks’s character sang in the first film.

Banks and the Mouse have been thick as thieves lately. Earlier this year, the supermodel guest starred on Disney Channel’s Shake It Up; she’s also developing a primetime series about her teenage years for ABC. The program is called Fivehead, a reference to Tyra’s famously robust forehead.

There’s no word yet on whether Lohan will show up for the sequel as well — but considering those scathing Liz & Dick reviews, the actress might welcome an opportunity to take shelter in Mickey’s arms.

Update: Tyra Banks To Star Again, Will Exec Produce

[Via variety.com...]

Disney Channel is breathing life back into "Life-Size," developing a sequel to the 2000 telepic that starred Tyra Banks and Lindsay Lohan.

Banks will reprise her role as Eve, a doll that magically comes to life, and will also exec produce the TV movie. Cabler's execs are in talks with potential scribes for the "Life-Size" sequel, which would join the Disney Channel Original movie franchise.

Preem of the original "Life-Size" on ABC's "Wonderful World of Disney" in 2000 delivered 13.6 million total viewers, and rebroadcasts drew strong ratings over the next decade.

Banks is repped by Nancy Josephson at WME.

Dog With A Blog “Bark! The Herald Angels Sing” Promo

Disney Channel have released a promo of the upcoming Dog With A Blog holiday themed episode which is titled “Bark! The Herald Angels Sing” - set to premiere on Sunday, December 2, part of Disney Channel's second annual Fa-la-la-lidays programming block.

“Bark! The Herald Angels Sing” – It’s the family’s first Christmas together and Avery is prepping Tyler, Chloe and Stan for what will likely be their worst Christmas gifts ever – from their new stepmother Ellen who gives terrible gifts. Meanwhile, Bennett and Ellen try to decide whose Christmas traditions to follow.

"Good Luck Charlie" Wins British Academy Children's Television Award (BAFTA) Kids' Vote 2012


The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) has announced the winners of tonight’s British Academy Children’s Awards, celebrating the very best in children’s film, television, games and online media of the past year, and the talent behind their successes.

The ceremony was hosted by Barney Harwood at the London Hilton on Park Lane, and presenters included Eddie Izzard, Alesha Dixon, Sir David Jason, Tom and Dougie from McFly, Olympic gold medallists Heather Stanning and Alex Gregory, Tyger Drew Honey, Caitlin Moran, X Factor’s Kye Sones and Jade Ellis, Jedward and American film director John Landis.

A record-breaking number of votes were received in this year’s BAFTA Kids’ Vote. 7-14 year-olds cast over half a million votes – 593,674 – and had their say across a whole range of entertainment media in a nationwide poll to choose their favourite film, television programme, website and video game. The winners in the four categories were: The Smurfs (Feature Film); Good Luck Charlie (Television); Temple Run (Video Game); Bin Weevils (Website). The Kids’ Vote website - www.baftakidsvote.org - remains a year-round destination for the under 14s, with quizzes, games, interviews, and reports from the Awards.

Exclusive red carpet highlights, backstage interviews with the winners, ceremony highlights and photography will be published after the ceremony on www.bafta.org/awards/childrens and www.baftakidsvote.org .

The British Academy Children’s Awards represent all aspects of children’s entertainment: Animation, Channel of the Year, Comedy, Drama, Entertainment, Factual, Feature Film, Independent Production Company, Interactive, International, Learning–Primary, Learning–Secondary, Performer, Pre-school Animation, Pre-school Live Action, Presenter, Short Form, Video Game and Writer.

About BAFTA
The British Academy of Film and Television Arts is an independent charity that supports, develops and promotes the art forms of the moving image by identifying and rewarding excellence, inspiring practitioners and benefiting the public. In addition to its Awards ceremonies, BAFTA has a year-round Learning & Events programme that offers unique access to some of the world’s most inspiring talent through workshops, masterclasses, lectures and mentoring schemes, connecting with audiences of all ages and backgrounds across the UK, Los Angeles and New York. BAFTA relies on income from membership subscriptions, individual donations, trusts, foundations and corporate partnerships to support its ongoing outreach work. For further information, visit www.bafta.org .

About BAFTA Kids Vote 
The shortlist was derived from the top children’s feature films (12A and under) at the box office, the highest-rated children’s programmes on both terrestrial and multichannel, the most visited websites created for children and the top-selling video games PEGI-rated 12+ and under. Voting ran from 23 October – 25 November on www.baftakidsvote.org .

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Disney Channel Wishes Fans A Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays & Fa-la-la-lidays

To celebrate the holiday season, Disney Channel cast members from hit shows including A.N.T. Farm and JESSIE are featured in a series of short bumpers/idents to wish fans seasonal greetings in the form of Disney Channel's second annual Fa-la-la-lidays.

A.N.T. Farm



JESSIE

Shake It Up: "Merry Merry It Up" Promo

Disney Channel have released a full length promo of the upcoming Shake It Up holiday themed episode which is titled 'Merry Merry It Up' - set to premiere on Sunday, December 2, part of Disney Channel's second annual Fa-la-la-lidays programming block.

In the episode titled “Merry Merry It Up”  CeCe picks a fight with Jeremy, leading Georgia to break up with him. To fix the situation, Rocky takes a turn as the ghost of Christmas dance and escorts CeCe on a dream journey to the past, present and future.  Zendaya performs the new song “Shake Santa Shake” in the episode.

Friday, November 23, 2012

Austin & Jessie & Ally - "All Star New Year" Full Preview

Disney Channel have released a full length preview of the upcoming JESSIE and Austin & Ally holiday themed cross over episode which is titled 'Big Dreams & Big Apples' - set to premiere on Friday, December 7, part of Disney Channel's second annual Fa-la-la-lidays programming block.

In this crossover episode, Austin, Ally, Trish and Dez have trouble getting through New York’s crowded Times Square on New Year’s Eve, but Jessie comes up with a plan to get them to the stage in time to see Austin perform — and ultimately have him record one of her songs, natch. Bonus: The episode includes a duet by Debby Ryan and Ross Lynch.

In this crossover episode, Austin, Ally, Trish and Dez have trouble getting through New York’s crowded Times Square on New Year’s Eve, but Jessie comes up with a plan to get them to the stage in time to see Austin perform — and ultimately have him record one of her songs, natch. Bonus: The episode includes a duet by Debbie Ryan and Ross Lynch.

Read More at: http://tvline.com/2012/11/12/phineas-and-ferb-season-3-holiday-episodes/#utm_source=copypaste&utm_campaign=referral
In this crossover episode, Austin, Ally, Trish and Dez have trouble getting through New York’s crowded Times Square on New Year’s Eve, but Jessie comes up with a plan to get them to the stage in time to see Austin perform — and ultimately have him record one of her songs, natch. Bonus: The episode includes a duet by Debbie Ryan and Ross Lynch.

Read More at: http://tvline.com/2012/11/12/phineas-and-ferb-season-3-holiday-episodes/#utm_source=copypaste&utm_campaign=referr
Below is the official full length preview for the special episode:

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Bella Thorne "Shake It Up" Interview With Geek Nation

In an interview with Geek Nation, Bella Thorne, star of Disney Channel's Shake It Up talks about how she got cast for the TV series seeing she had never danced before, her modelling career as a baby, the kind of projects she's personally like to work on, as well as the best part of being on Shake It Up.

David Henrie Talks About Leaving Wizards Behind

In this months issue of Glamaholic Magazine (November 2012), David Henrie, cast member of Disney Channels previous series Wizards of Waverly Place, spills all the details in an exclusive interview about deciding not to return for the Wizards of Waverly Place reunion TV special.

Questions David Henrie answers in the interview include:

How does it feel to end five years of "Wizards of Waverly Place" and prepare for a totally new chapter in your career?

What did you learn from this experience, and what memories will you keep from it?

Will you miss playing Justin Russo?

The Wizards will return soon for a TV movie, why did you not participate in that?




Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Disney Channel UK Launch "So Undercover" Competition Starring Miley Cyrus

To celebrate the launch of Miley Cyrus's (star of Disney Channel's previous hit series, Hannah Montana) new movie "So Undercover" which is releasing December 7, 2012, Disney Channel UK have launched an exclusive competition for UK fans to win an amazing prize which includes:
2 nights hotel accommodation in London, (Including breakfast), return standard class train transfers from London to Spy HQ, Private Spy Academy experience for you and friends, a shopping voucher, makeover for the winner and friends (including manicure and make up) and afternoon tea at the Ritz!

To be in with a chance to win, simply answer the following question on the Disney Channel website: 

Complete the name of this famous actress:
Choices available are: Cyrus, Cyprus, Cyclops 

The competition closes on January 11th, 2013 at 16.00pm. Contestants must be aged eight (8) to fifteen (15) and must have your parent or guardians permission to enter. Your parent/guardian will be contacted to confirm acceptance of the prize before the winner is confirmed. Or you must be 18 or over and be a parent/guardian entering on behalf of your child aged eight (8) to fifteen (15). Open to residents of UK only. 

So Undercover Storyline:

When the FBI hires her to go undercover at a college sorority, Molly Morris (Miley Cyrus) must transform herself from a tough, streetwise private investigator to a refined, fun loving university girl to help protect the daughter of a one-time mobster.
With several suspects on her list, Molly unexpectedly discovers that not everyone is who they appear to be, including herself.

Laura Marano To Appear On UK Kids Show "Blue Peter" Thursday 22nd November 2012

Laura Marano, star of Disney Channel's original series Austin & Ally is set to appear on the UK's kids magazine/entertainment series 'Blue Peter' which airs on the CBBC channel.

Laura Marano tweeted on her official twitter page (@yaylauramarano):

Whoa, a Blue Peter Badge! That must mean...this chick is gonna be on :) this Thursday! I feel British!


The episode airs at 5:45 PM on Thursday 22nd November 2012. The episode also includes presenters Helen and Barney looking back over the Go Pyjamas Appeal, discovering why Thanksgiving Day is so special to Americans and an exclusive performance from McFly.

Monday, November 19, 2012

Disney Junior's 'Sofia the First' Crowns Glory with 5.2 Million Total Viewers on Disney Channel


[Via Disney Channel Press Release...]

PREMIERE OF "SOFIA THE FIRST: ONCE UPON A PRINCESS" IS A CROWNING GLORY WITH 5.2 MILLION TOTAL VIEWERS; MOVIE INTRODUCING DISNEY'S FIRST LITTLE GIRL PRINCESS REIGNS AS TV'S #1 CABLE TELECAST IN FIVE YEARS AMONG KIDS 2-5 AND IN OVER 10 YEARS AMONG GIRLS 2-5

Disney Channel's #1 Telecast of Ever in Girls 2-5, #2 in Kids 2-5 and #1 Preschool Telecast in Total Viewers, Kids 2-11 and Adults 18-49

Disney Channel and Disney Junior to Present Encore Telecasts All Week

The Sunday (November 18) premiere of Disney Junior's "Sofia the First," an animated fairytale about a little girl who becomes a princess, delivered a crowning glory of 5.2 million Total Viewers on Disney Channel, handily becoming the #1 cable TV telecast of 2012 among Kids 2-5 (1.5 million/9.1 rating) and Girls 2-5 (954,000/12.2 rating). The movie also delivered with older kids and adults, attracting more than 3.0 million Kids 2-11 and more than 1.4 million Adults 18-49.

In a most impressive feat, "Sofia the First: Once Upon A Princess" ranked as the #1 cable TV telecast in 5 years in Kids 2-5 (since 11/12/2007, "Spongebob Atlantis Pantis") and in over 10 years in Girls 2-5 (since 5/6/2002, "Oswald"). Furthermore, it now stands as Disney Channel's #1 telecast in the network's history among Girls 2-5, its #2 telecast among Kids 2-5 (behind "High School Musical 2") and its #1 preschool telecast ever in Total Viewers, Adults 18-49 and Women 18-49.

Disney Channel will present encore telecasts all week (Tuesday, November 20 at 10:45 a.m., Wednesday, November 21 at 8:00 a.m., Thursday, November 22 at 7:00 a.m., Friday, November 23 at 6:00 a.m., Saturday, November 24 at 8:00 a.m. and Sunday, November 25 at 7:00 a.m.).

The movie also becomes available today on WATCH Disney Junior, Disney Junior On Demand and DisneyJunior.com.

"Sofia the First: Once Upon A Princess" will also be presented THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22 (9:00-10:00 a.m., ET/PT) on Disney Junior, the new 24-hour channel.

A January premiere date for the series "Sofia the First" will be announced shortly. The movie and series will roll out internationally through mid-2013 on both Disney Channels and Disney Junior channels. The series continues Sofia's journey of becoming the best she can be, with relatable situational stories, set in a magical world of castles, wizards and flying horses, designed to provide kids 2-7 fundamental lessons about developing social skills.

Created for kids ages 2-7 and their parents/caregivers, "Sofia the First: Once Upon A Princess" introduces Sofia, an average girl whose life suddenly transforms when her mother marries the king of Enchancia and she becomes a princess. Sofia soon discovers that looking like a princess isn't all that difficult, but displaying honesty, loyalty, courage, independence, compassion and grace is what makes one truly royal. It stars the voices of Ariel Winter (ABC's "Modern Family"), Sara Ramirez (ABC's "Grey's Anatomy"), Wayne Brady ("Let's Make a Deal"), and Tim Gunn ("Project Runway"), Darcy Rose Byrnes, Zach Callison, Travis Willingham, Jess Harnell, Ashley Eckstein, Meghan Strange, Disney Legend Russi Taylor, Barbara Dirickson, Tress MacNeille and Jennifer Hale.

Craig Gerber developed the movie and serves as co-executive producer and story editor. Jamie Mitchell is executive producer and director. John Kavanaugh is the songwriter/music director and Kevin Kliesch is the composer. "Sofia the First: Once Upon A Princess" is a production of Disney Television Animation.

Disney Junior reflects the emotional connection generations of consumers have to Disney storytelling and Disney characters, both classic and contemporary. It invites mom and dad to join their child in the Disney experience of magical, musical and heartfelt stories and characters, while incorporating specific learning and development themes designed for kids age 2-7. Disney Junior's series blend Disney's unparalleled storytelling and characters kids love deeply with learning, including early math, language skills, healthy eating and lifestyles, and social skills. Disney Junior launched in February 2011 with a daily programming block on Disney Channel. In its first year, Disney Junior posted the network's biggest yearly audience in the daypart in Total Viewers, Kids 2-5, Boys 2-5 and Women 18-49, increasing by double-digit margins among preschooler demographics over year-ago levels. On March 23, 2012 Disney Junior added a cable and satellite channel in the U.S. Disney Junior channels in Japan, India and Disney Junior Portugal launched in fall 2012, bringing the total number of channels to 33 worldwide.

Disney Channel Thanksgiving Week Marathons and Special Programming


Monday, November 19

Disney Channel bumps their preschool block all week from 9am-2pm for more Disney Channel programming, plus end today right with The Princess and the Frog at 8pm (ET/PT).

Disney XD starts their big Pranksgiving week off with a marathon of The Suite Life of Zack & Cody from 9am-1pm, two episodes of Randy Cunningham: 9th Grade Ninja and a marathon of Crash & Bernstein from 2-5pm, then continue with Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2 at 5pm, the series premiere of Just Kidding at 7pm, the Disney XD premiere of Code: 9 at 7:30 and a one-hour Kickin’ It special at 8pm (ET/PT).

Tuesday, November 20

Disney Channel has more of their original series all day and don’t miss Disney/Pixar’s Up at 8pm (ET/PT).

Disney XD gives more “pranks” with a huge Lab Rats marathon from 9am-5pm, The Suite Life Movie and another new Just Kidding at 7pm (ET/PT).

Wednesday, November 21

Disney Channel presents the Disney CG animated movie Bolt at 8pm (ET/PT).

Disney XD is Kickin’ It all day with a marathon from 8:30am-5pm, followed by G-Force and yet another new Just Kidding at 7pm (ET/PT).

Thursday, November 22 (Happy Thanksgiving!)

Disney Channel gives thanks with Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Across the 2nd Dimension at 9am followed by an encore of Bolt and a day-long marathon of Disney Channel series, including last year’s Good Luck Charlie Thanksgiving special at 3pm and 8:30pm (ET/PT).

Disney XD has a Pair of Kings marathon from 9am-5pm, Meet the Robinsons at 5 and then anther new Just Kidding at 7pm (ET/PT).

Friday, November 23

Disney Channel has back-to-back blocks of Dog With A Blog, Austin & Ally, Shake It Up, Good Luck Charlie and Jessie from noon-8pm leading up to the one-hour A.N.T. Farm special premiere at 8pm (ET/PT).

Disney XD is taken over by the toys with all three Toy Story movies from 10am-4pm, which includes the Disney XD premiere of Toy Story 3, plus some Randy Cunningham, Crash & Bernstein and more new Just Kidding at 7pm (ET/PT).

Saturday, November 24

Disney Channel has the live-action Alice in Wonderland movie at 7:30pm (ET/PT).

Disney XD repeats the Toy Story trilogy from 8am-2pm and don’t miss the final new Just Kidding at 7pm (ET/PT).


Sunday, November 25

Disney Channel goes to the dogs – or at least one talking dog – with a new Dog With A Blog at 8pm (ET/PT).

Disney XD has four-episode blocks of
Kickin’ It, Crash & Bernstein, Lab Rats, Pair of Kings and Randy Cunningham: 9th Grade Ninja from noon-10pm (ET/PT).


Blake Michael Goes Bald for "Dog With A Blog"

Blake Michael, star of Disney Channel's newest original series Dog With A Blog, tweeted on his official twitter page (@BlakeMichael14) a behind the scenes video showing the process of making him bald for an upcoming episode of Dog With A Blog.

Blake Michael tweeted:

Wonder how they made me bald for this episode of ? watch this behind the scenes vid!