Laura Marano Talks "Austin & Ally" & Halloween Plans

In an interview with Laura Marano star of Disney Channel's Austin & Ally, Laura Marano talks with Clevvertv at the 'Wreck-It Ralph' movie premiere about the upcoming Austin & Ally episode titled 'Parents & Punishments' as well as more info about filming season 2 which includes romantic storyline.

[Via Clevvertv.com...]

The promo for the upcoming Austin & Ally episode titled 'Parents & Punishments' (which airs November 4, 2012) can be viewed below:

Disney Channel Ratings Highlights for “Monstober” 2012

[Via Disney Channel Press Release...]

Ratings Highlights for October 2012

Final National Ratings

‘Monstober’ Event Programming Powers Disney Channel to
TV’s #1 Total Day Ranking for Record-Setting 18th Consecutive
Month in Kids 6-11, 30th in Tweens 9-14 and 5th in Kids 2-11
~Closes out October 2012 as the #1 TV Network for 72 Straight Weeks in Kids 6-11/Tweens
~Tops Nickelodeon by Double Digits for 16th Straight Month in Kids 6-11/Tweens
~#1 TV Network in Kids 2-11 for the 8th Time in Previous 9 Months

Disney Channel Original Movie “Girl Vs. Monster” and “Dog With A Blog”
Rank as the Month’s #2 TV Telecasts in Kids 2-11 and Kids 6-11; “Good Luck Charlie” is TV’s #1 Series in Kids 2-11; “Austin & Ally” #1 in Kids 6-11/Tweens
~Delivers Top 4 TV Telecasts in Kids 2-11, Top 10 in Kids 6-11 and Top 5 in Tweens 

Disney Channel October 12 Total Day and Prime Highlights

During October 2012, Disney Channel ranked as the #1 TV network in Total Day for the 5th straight month in Kids 2-11 (846,000/2.1 rating – dates back to June 2012), the 18th consecutive month in Kids 6-11 (560,000/2.4 rating – dates back to May 2011) and 30th month in a row Tweens (468,000/1.9 rating – dates back to May 2010) – all records for the network – bolstered by Disney Channel Original Movie “Girl Vs. Monster” and launch of newest comedy series “Dog With A Blog.” Furthermore, on a weekly basis Disney Channel extended its record-#1-streak to 72 consecutive weeks in Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14.

Disney Channel out-performed Nickelodeon by double-digit percent margins in Kids 6-11 (31% – 560,000 vs. 428,000) and Tweens 9-14 (47% – 468,000 vs. 319,000), representing the network’s 16th straight month winning by such large margins in the demos.

In Prime, Disney Channel extended its streak as TV’s #1 network to 93 consecutive months in Kids 6-11 (1.02 million/4.3 rating) and to 88 months in a row in Tweens 9-14 (879,000/3.7 rating).

• “Good Luck Charlie” stood as the #1 TV series in Kids 2-11 (2.34 million/5.9 rating), surpassing Nickelodeon’s #1 live-action series for the month, “iCarly,” by a solid 33% (vs. 1.76 million/4.4 rating), while “Austin & Ally” was the #1 TV series in Kids 6-11 (1.88 million/8.0 rating) and Tweens 9-14 (1.73 million/7.3 rating), out-delivering #1 series on Nickelodeon, “iCarly,” by 45% (vs. 1.30 million/5.5 rating) and “Victorious” by 30% (vs. 1.33 million/5.6 rating), respectively.

• Disney Channel aired the month’s Top 4 TV telecasts in Kids 2-11, and 10 of the 11 overall
• Disney Channel delivered the month’s Top 10 TV telecasts in Kids 6-11
• Disney Channel held the month’s Top 5 TV telecasts in Tweens 9-14, and 8 of the Top 9 overall

Source: NTI, U.S. ratings, most current. October 2012: 10/1/12-10/28/12; October 2011: 9/26/11-10/30/11. Total Day rank streaks include ties based on rating; Series ranks based on trackage data with minimum 2 telecasts, sorted by 000s, then rating; % differences based on 000s.

Jake T Austin Talks "Wizards of Waverly Place" Movie

[Via Clevvertv.com...]

Jake T Austin filled us in with a little bit more insider info on the upcoming Wizards of Waverly Place movie. We just chatted with him at the Fun Size premiere about the sequel which is set to hit the Disney Channel in 2013. Alright, here's the 411 straight from Jake! 

So a new location?? Well, we think that this location is closely related to the storyline -- since we're going to be seeing new adventures and new characters. Speaking of which, don't forget that all of your favorite Wizards stars are indeed signed on for this project, including Selena, Jennifer, Maria, David, Gregg and of course, Jake! Let us know your thoughts about this second Wizards movie by posting a comment below, and keep it at ClevverTV for more entertainment news. I'm Dana Ward -- see you next time, bye!

Disney Channel UK To Premiere New Series "Groove High" November 2012

Disney Channel UK are set to launch their brand new animation and live action series "Groove High" which will premiere November 2012 starring Samantha Barks and Jonathan Bailey. Voice-over filming began in April 2010, with live action filming occurring between August 2010 until late October 2011.

GROOVE HIGH is an animated series comedy with live action for 7 to 12 year old boys and girls about a group of talented kids living and learning together in an elite school for the performing arts.

When you’re on the road day after day, touring with your rock band and living the dream, you have a lot of time to think about the good old days. That’s exactly what Tom and Zoe are doing : Looking back on their high school years with fond memories. Memories that often can be slightly distorted or exaggerated.
Tom and Zoe are our tour guides into Groove High, the most elite performing arts boarding school in the country, where they had been accepted a few years ago. At the time, they had to prove to themselves and to the rest of the world that they had what it takes to make their dreams come true. Let’s follow them, beneath their costumes, drama classes and auditions, as they experience along with their friends, the most challenging, humiliating and possibly the best years of their lives..

At Groove High, Tom and Zoe’s friendships, loyalties and skills will be put to the test. Whether they are falling in love or falling off their bunks, these teens are about to learn that sometimes it’s what happens off stage that affects us for the rest of our lives, and that’s not counting adventures that are about to shake the school.

Groove High is fast-paced, has heart but most importantly it’s full-on funny!!!

Below is the official Disney Channel UK TV spot / promo for Groove High.

Below are the opening credits for Groove High as well as the Musical Teaser for the show:

Additional info including pictures, videos, games, music and downloads can be found on the official website for the show www.Groove-High.com

Disney Channel November 2012 Programming Highlights

Disney Channel have officially released their Programming Highlights for November 2012 which includes brand new episodes of A.N.T. Farm, JESSIE, Good Luck Charlie, Austin & Ally, Shake It Up and Disney Channels newest original series Dog With A Blog.

[Via Disney Channel Press Release...]

November 2012 Programming Highlights

*All programming subject to change*

Friday, November 2

Original Series - Episode Premiere

A.N.T. Farm "scavANTger hunt"

(8:00 PM - 8:30 PM ET/PT)

Guest Stars: R2D2 and C3PO

With half the school out sick, Principal Skidmore sends the A.N.T.s on an educational scavenger hunt around San Francisco, where Chyna and Lexi lead two teams onto Skywalker Ranch to get George Lucas' autograph. Chaos ensues and the gang winds up meeting R2D2 and C3PO.

TV-G 

Friday, November 2

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Jessie "Make New Friends But Hide The Old"

(8:30 PM - 9:00 PM ET/PT)

Guest Star: Kelly Gould

Emma's first day of high school starts off rough, with a clash over an art class assignment with tough transfer student Rosie (Kelly Gould). But the two soon become best friends when they realize they have a lot more in common than they thought. Meanwhile, Jessie accidentally puts Kenny the Koala in Luke's backpack, embarrassing him in front of all the kids. Also, Jessie struggles with Zuri after she repeatedly refuses to do her homework. 

TV-G 

Sunday, November 4

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Good Luck Charlie "Charlie Whisperer"

(7:30 PM - 8:00 PM ET/PT)

Teddy's push to get Ivy to cast Charlie in their upcoming theater play backfires when she refuses to perform her line. Meanwhile, Gabe runs into trouble when he turns in a homework assignment on a neighbor he has never met, and Bob gets a little too hip with his new makeover after losing some weight.

TV-G 

Sunday, November 4

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Dog With A Blog "Fast & the Furriest"

(8:00 PM - 8:30 PM ET/PT)

Tyler gets his learners permit and after he tells Stan how freeing it feels, Stan takes the car out for a spin and wrecks it. In an effort to protect Stan, the kids grapple with who will take responsibility for the mishap.

TV-G 

Sunday, November 4

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Austin & Ally "Parents & Punishments"

(8:30 PM - 9:00 PM ET/PT)

Ally accidentally gives away all of the instruments in the Sonic Boom so Ally, Austin, Trish and Dez decide to host a fundraiser in order to get the money needed to buy the instruments back. However, when Austin gets grounded for bad grades, the gang is left needing a backup plan. 

TV-G 

Sunday, November 4

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Shake It Up "Spirit It Up"

(9:00 PM - 9:30 PM ET/PT)

Rocky is in a funk so she and CeCe join the struggling Spirit Squad. Meanwhile, Dina and Tinka become friends and Flynn meets the new neighbor who tells him he has a bad friend reputation. 

TV-G 

Friday, November 9

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Jessie "101 Lizards"

(8:30 PM - 9:00 PM ET/PT)

Guest Star: Carolyn Hennesy 

When Ravi realizes he can't possibly take care of Ms. Kipling and 12 baby lizards, he decides he wants to find good parents to adopt them. After a slew of misunderstandings, Jessie and the kids are convinced that Ms. Chesterfield (Carolyn Hennesy) hired someone to adopt the lizards so that she can turn them into purses and belts. 

TV-G 

Sunday, November 11

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Good Luck Charlie "Study Buddy"

(7:30 PM - 8:00 PM ET/PT)

Teddy quickly regrets asking for Victor's help in prepping for her SATs when she discovers how demanding his teaching methods are. Back at home, Amy makes Bob sleep in Gabe's room because his snoring keeps Toby up, and PJ gets obsessed with finishing a book he started reading to Charlie.

TV-G 

    

Sunday, November 11

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Dog With A Blog "Dog With A Hog"

(8:00 PM - 8:30 PM ET/PT)

Avery volunteers Stan to be the school mascot in order to get in good with the cheerleaders but when Stan gets kidnapped by the rival team, Avery kidnaps their mascot in hopes that it will bring Stan back. 

TV-G 

Sunday, November 11

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Austin & Ally "Crybabies & Cologne"

(8:30 PM - 9:00 PM ET/PT)

Trent asks Ally to write him a song so he can become famous like Austin, however, when they find out Trent stole the song he overheard Austin and Ally working on, the gang must find a way to right the wrong.   

TV-G 

Sunday, November 11

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Shake It Up "Lock It Up"

(9:00 PM - 9:30 PM ET/PT)

Rocky and CeCe perform at a local hospital inspiring Rocky to volunteer, however, she accidentally gets quarantined in a patient's room with Flynn. Meanwhile, CeCe asks Louis out on a date.

TV-G 

Sunday, November 18

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Dog With A Blog "WingStan"

(8:00 PM - 8:30 PM ET/PT)

After Tyler invites new neighbor, Nikki, to walk their dogs together, he enlists Stan to be his wingman but little does he know Stan isn't too keen on Nikki's dog. Meanwhile, Chloe asks Bennett to speak at her school and Ellen has to step in at the last minute to save the day.

TV-G 

Friday, November 23

Original Series - Episode Premiere

A.N.T. Farm "chANTs of a lifetime"

(8:00 PM - 9:00 PM ET/PT)

Guest Stars: Sierra and Lauryn McClain

Chyna is asked to join her favorite girl singing group, Trifecta (Sierra and Lauryn McClain), but is sad to have to leave her friends and family behind. With Chyna gone on a year-long tour, Olive and Fletcher try to proceed as usual sans Chyna, and Lexi decides to put on another school musical where she'll finally get to be the star.  

TV-G 

Sunday, November 25

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Dog With A Blog "World of Woofcraft"

(8:00 PM - 8:30 PM ET/PT)

Stan loves his new computer game and when a players gathering gets scheduled in town, he asks Avery to pretend to be him so they can go and meet his gaming companions. Meanwhile, Ellen and Bennett refuse to let Chloe get her ears pierced so she convinces Tyler to take her. 

TV-G 

Friday, November 30

Original Series - Episode Premiere

Jessie "Trashin' Fashion"

(8:30 PM - 9:00 PM ET/PT)

Guest Star: True O'Brien

Emma is excited that her mom is planning a fashion show to showcase her new teen fashion line. However, once Emma sees the terrible designs, she becomes conflicted about whether she should give an honest review on her anonymous fashion blog. Ravi and Luke get picked to model in their mom's fashion show and they are thrilled because they want to impress teen model Diamond Bloodworth (True O'Brien). Meanwhile, Zuri learns how to ride a bike.

TV-G 

Exclusive: Disney XD Celebrates 'Pranksgiving' With Two New Shows

[Via tvguide.com...]

It's April Fools in November on Disney XD, which is celebrating the art of the practical joke throughout the month, including the launch of new hidden camera series Just Kidding. The show, hosted by YouTube personality Zach Fox, launches on Monday, Nov. 19 at 7/6c.

New episodes of Just Kidding will air through Saturday that week. The show features Fox and other young practical jokers as they pull off jokes on unsuspecting marks. Just Kidding is one of two hidden camera shows to make their Disney XD debut in November, as the channel will also start airing episodes of sister Disney Channel's Code: 9.

That show, which premieres directly after Just Kidding on Nov. 19 at 7:30/6:30c, features kids pulling off jokes at their families' expense, with the help of top Hollywood special effects artists. Los Angeles Kings player Kevin Westgarth guests in the Code: 9 Disney XD premiere. (A new two-part episode of Kickin' It, with guest stars George Wendt, Jillian Michaels and the WWE's Kofi Kingston, follows at 8/7c.)

Disney XD will also enlist viewers to choose which of the channel's stars should be targeted with a practical joke by "Crash," the puppet star of the network's new series Crash & Bernstein. Choices include Leo Howard, Olivia Holt and Alex Christian Jones of Kickin' It; Ryan Ochoa (Pair of Kings) and Lab Rats stars Spencer Boldman and Billy Unger.

A different Disney XD star will be pranked via interstitials set to run each Monday starting Nov. 5, which additional segments to air on Tuesday, Nov. 20 and Wednesday, Nov. 21. A final round of "Crash" pranks will air on Thanksgiving night, with targets such as his Crash & Bernstein co-star Cole Jensen. Voting begins today on Disney XD's website.

The official promo can be viewed below:

Olivia Holt "Girl Vs. Monster" Monstober Shriek-Tacular Stopby

On Saturday 27, 2012, Disney Channel aired an encore of the DCOM "Girl Vs. Monster" starring Olivia Holt as part of their 'Monstober Movie Marathon.'
During the marathon, Olivia Holt stopped by the sets of favourite Disney Channel shows bringing various Halloween activities with her to the sets of Austin & Ally, Shake It Up and JESSIE.

Below is the preliminary video featuring Olivia Holt introducing the segment titled 'Monstober Shriek-Tacular Stopby.'

Monstober Shriek-Tacular Stopby with the Austin & Ally cast

Monstober Shriek-Tacular Stopby with the Shake It Up cast

Monstober Shriek-Tacular Stopby with the JESSIE cast

Debby Ryan On 'Secret Of The Wings,' 'JESSIE,' And Her Most Daring Decision

[Via huffingtonpost.com...]

"Dweebs are the new chic," Debby Ryan announced when we sat down for an interview at the HuffPost offices in New York. She proves it, too. Born in Alabama, the 19-year-old actress got her big break as Bailey on The Suite Life on Deck in 2008. Now, she stars as the title character on JESSIE, where she plays a small-town girl working as a nanny in New York City. The Disney star is undeniably dorky -- she spilled about getting rejected by former co-star Cole Sprouse and even dared me to call her a nerd. But if you think Ryan isn't unbelievably cool too, think again. Like her on-screen persona, she's instantly warm and friendly, as if she's been your best friend forever.

That upbeat spirit came in handy for her most recent project, an animated Tinkerbell movie called Secret of the Wings, in which Ryan plays a fairy called Spike. She stars alongside acting legends Timothy Dalton and Anjelica Huston, as well as up-and-coming stars like Mae Whitman, Lucy Hale, and Megan Hilty. The movie is out on DVD this week.

Hannah Orenstein: How did you relate to your character Spike in Secret of the Wings?
Debby Ryan: I'm very practical and realistic... I'm trying to not use the word "pessimistic." She and I are very similar that way. She's a hardcore fairy. I like her!

How do you relate to your character Jessie?
She and I are both tough. It's not easy to shake us. We're both kind of the bounce-back queen. A lot of her is just really written for me. She has a pretty self-deprecating sense of humor and she loves the kids fiercely. She can be a complete dork. That's what I like about her.

Is it weird for you to have so many dedicated fans on Twitter?
It's weird that some have my face as their icon. It's strange for me because I remember tacking posters up on my wall and writing fan mail. I remember going to acting class, so certain that no one's ever going to know my name. It's a bit hard for me to grasp.

Twitter user @juliabalicka1 asks, "Who are you closest to in the JESSIE family?"
I have the most scenes with Zuri, so I'm probably closest with Skai [Jackson]. I'm also really close with Cameron Boyce, who plays Luke. We don't have that many scenes together, but he has this part of him that can pick up on what I need -- if I'm stressed, if I'm happy. He can see through me more than most people. You see us bantering back and forth on screen, but you don't see us knocking on each other's dressing room doors crying and supporting each other.

Are you close with Disney stars from other shows?
[The other Disney stars are] kind of like people you go to class with. I know I'm going to see you in class every day and I'll probably borrow your notes. When I first was on "Suite Life," I was like, "Let's go to play ping-pong after work!" Cole [Sprouse] was like, "Debby, no. I just worked eight hours on set with you. I'm going to work eight hours on set with you tomorrow." At the time, I thought that was insensitive, but I totally get it now. You have to have your own space.

Twitter user @TCharboneau2012 asks, "Are the rumors true about there being a Jessie movie in the worx?"
The rumors are true. You're kind of going to get to know everyone, especially Jessie, in a way you never have before. Bigger adventures, bigger mayhem, and really amazing, heartfelt moments. We haven't filmed it yet.

You recently did a beautiful cover of Taylor Swift's "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" with your friend Nick Santino. Do you have any musical plans for the future?
I'm definitely interested in making more music and uploading new covers; I like to take suggestions because it's more fun if people know the song. I've had this affinity for '90s rap ever since I first saw "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." I've been writing raps for people at tempos that no one else can keep up with, like, "Cooler than a cooler full of ice, real nice / Chilling in the back, post that with a hashtag." So, I think covering rap songs would be really fun, especially if we add that folky vibe that we did with the Taylor cover.

Do you want to record your own album?
I write songs accidentally all the time. I'll get out of the shower, my hair is dripping wet, I'm in my sweats, and I'm like, "Listen, we have to record this hook I just wrote!" If I were to have three months off, I genuinely believe I could completely piece together a record. But I don't even have six hours off.

And now you're getting into the fashion world.
Yeah, I have a web series that I produce with my mom and my stylist called Ryan Style. The idea is Emma Stone just wore this outfit to go out shopping at Whole Foods. How do I do this with the clothes I already own and make it my style? It's four or five episodes a year.

What fashion trend are you really into right now?
I like brocade a lot. I really like kind of big tote bags and big fold-over bags. As far as beauty, I like a sleek pony.

On the Halloween episode of JESSIE, your character crashes a Halloween party and gives a famous editor a copy of her short story. What's the most daring thing you've ever done to advance your career?
I was fifth-billing on Suite Life when it was coming to a close. I went in and sat down with the channel and said, "Listen, I want to produce for you." So, essentially, I'm asking for them to recreate their business model. I was 17. They loved it. And I was like, "Seriously? That worked?!" [laughs] Sitting in front of those executives brought me back to middle school. I would rather sit in front of the cheer captain and my scary English teacher than do a pitch meeting with those executives.

How did you get over that fear?
I could either not go in there and know that it definitely won't work out. Or I could go in there and they could hate it, but be like, "Man, she had the guts to come in and do what she wanted." Or it could go incredibly well and this could be the greatest thing I've ever done. You never know unless you try.

You were bullied in middle school for being a quote-unquote "nerd."
I decided one day to not let [the bullies] make me cry anymore. Every time she would say something [mean], I would roll my eyes and be like, "Ugh, really? I hope putting someone down makes you feel so awesome. Look, you can throw an insult at someone! That makes you special." At that point, they realize that you're indestructible. Once you appear indestructible, you slowly start to become indestructible.

If you could steal any actress's career, whose would it be?
Emma Stone -- the variety of hair colors that woman has used! But also, the variety of roles that she's taken has been amazing. She's incredibly classy, she doesn't take herself too seriously, and she has a total smoke of a boyfriend.

If you could give one piece of advice to yourself as a younger teen, what would it be?
I was so focused on making sure that I was there for everyone else -- I was the shoulder to cry on for all of my heartbroken friends and I was wisdom for my friends who didn't know what to do. Now, my mom is like, "You need to rest, you need to go to Disney Land, and be a kid."

Disney Channel Filming International Promos

It is led to believe, although no official information has been released by Disney Channel, that it's cast members are currently filming Disney Channel international promos. On October 26, 2012, Harry Brar, father of Karan Brar, who plays Ravi Ross an Indian adoptee on the hit show JESSIE, tweeted on his official twitter page (@TheHarryBrar):

Filming International Promo for Disney Chanel !!  

Electra Formosa 'Minnie and You' Interview

In this months issue of 'We Love Pop Mag' an interview can be found with Electra Formosa star of Disney Channel UK's newest show Minnie and You. The show began airing on September 15, 2012 in the U.K and is hosted by Electra Formosa, previously a fashion stylist for Disney Channel UK's Get The Look, an original 5-minute series giving tips on fashion, style and clothing.

'Minnie & You' is also similarly a program to advise viewers on fashion tips, styling, beauty tips and lifestyle such as making BFF bracelets to give to your best friend or getting perfect nails which is inspired by the popular Mickey Mouse’s girlfriend, Minnie Mouse.

On October 25, 2012, Electra tweeted on her official twitter page (@ElectraFormosa):

Check out my interview with @WeLovePopMag all about #MinnieandYou out now! pic.twitter.com/rmHLwNjo

Debby Ryan on a Press Tour for JESSIE in NYC

This week Disney Channel star Debby Ryan, as been on a press tour in NYC for the hit Disney show JESSIE. On October 25, 2012 the official Disney Channel Media relations & press team tweeted on their official twitter page (@DisneyChannelPR):

.@TheDebbyRyan visits "Newsies" while on a recent New York press tour for #JESSIE http://yfrog.com/2rs5x1j

On October 24, 2012, Debby Ryan had also tweeted on her official twitter page (@TheDebbyRyan):

Newsies on Broadway was great. I mean, cute boys in tweed? Singing? Just try and stop me from actively swooning from the orchestra. #Newsies

Billy Unger Interview NBT Season 5 Kick-Off with Pop Blitz Magazine

Pop Blitz Magazine chats with Billy Unger, cast member of Disney XD's Lab Rats about what's upcoming for Season 2 of the show, My Life as an NBA Rookie, and more at the NBT Season 5 Kick-Off in Hollywood. 

Disney Channels Bolsters Marketing Team

[Via Variety.com...]

Promo duties grow as nets expand into digital platforms

Disney Channels Worldwide currently oversees 100 channels in 169 countries that broadcast in 35 languages and involve the Disney Channel, Disney XD, Disney Junior, Disney Cinemagic, Hungama and Radio Disney brands.

Ron Pomerantz and Jill Hotchkiss, who previously oversaw on-air creative for Disney Channel and Disney XD, will now also handle off-air marketing strategy for the networks, while Kristin Moss joins the company to manage the same duties for Disney Junior.

Previously, Frank Keating handled marketing strategy for all of the Disney Channels Worldwide networks. He now takes on the new role of VP, marketing strategy and analytics.

The execs continue to report to Richard Loomis, senior VP and chief marketing officer, Disney Channels Worldwide.

Management reorg comes as viewership of digital products including WATCH Disney Channel, WATCH Disney XD and WATCH Disney Junior is growing.

Separately, Robin Campbell has been upped to VP off-air design and print production, managing the development, design and production of off-air creative assets that support Disney Channels Worldwide's brands. She's been with the company since 1998, most recently serving as executive director, off-air design and print production, overseeing off-air design for Disney Channel's "Gravity Falls," "Good Luck Charlie" and "Dog With A Blog;" Disney XD's "Kickin' It," "Lab Rats" and "Crash & Bernstein;" as well as the recent launch of Disney Junior channel and logo design for Disney's networks.

Veronica Davidson also has been tapped VP of marketing operations, leading overall departmental operations, global asset management and project and workflow management. Previously, Davidson was VP, on-air promotion production.

Localizing Disney Content for International Markets: Russia, South Africa and the UK

[Via thewaltdisneycompany.com...]

By Heather Hust Rivera, Disney/ABC Television Group

At Disney, we continually look for ways to celebrate local cultures and make our movies and shows even more relevant and popular in international markets. The Walt Disney Studios, ABC, Disney Channel, Disney XD, Radio Disney, ESPN and other Disney-owned television stations produce original local content and also adapt shows so that they are rooted in local cultures.

Just last week, we shared how The Little Mermaid stage show was reimagined for its debut in Moscow, and today, we want to share more examples of how Disney localizes content in the UK, South Africa and Russia.

The ever popular show, Phineas and Ferb, attracts 289 million viewers worldwide and 94 million viewers across Europe, Middle East and Asia. The show has tapped celebrities around the world to lend their voices to cameo roles, including British guest stars, David Beckham and Jamie Oliver. British fans will be treated once again with the distinct voices of British actor, writer and comedian Lenny Henry, playing “iggy,” a safari park guide this month, and animation fan and comic collector Jonathan Ross, playing a salesman in an episode that will premiere in the UK next year.

Disney XD’s show, Aim High, is designed to inspire kids to get the most out of life, try new things and be the best they can be. As part of the show, kids get the chance to win a series of mentorships from renowned musicians to sports stars. To make the show relevant in regions around the globe, Disney XD has tapped dedicated professionals in South Africa, The Netherlands, Turkey and Poland. In Aim High South Africa, internationally renowned South African cricket icon, Dale Steyn, will mentor 14-year-old Nishan Pillay at the home of cricket, in Lord’s Cricket Ground, in the UK.

Earlier this month, Disney Channel launched a project to find the next Disney Channel star on the free-to-air entertainment channel in Russia. Viewers can upload a video of themselves performing at www.disney.ru/kanal/star for a chance to win a spot on a Disney Channel show that airs in Russia. This is part of a program that has discovered Russian talent for Camp Rock and Shake It Up in 2011 and earlier this year.

Stay tuned to the blog for more stories on how Disney localizes content in different regions of the world.

"Wizards Of Waverly Place" Special ("The Wizards Return: Alex vs. Alex") Begins Filming (October 22, 2012)

The Wizards Of Waverly Place Special Event begins filming today (October 22, 2012) in Los Angeles, California, with the show's cast members tweeting...

Gregg Sulkin on his official twitter page (@greggsulkin) tweeted: 

Table read for Wizards re-union :)

And:

I'm telling you now, get ready! Table read was sick. You're not going to be let down :) #wizards

Jennifer Stone tweeted on her official twitter page (@comeagainjen):

Wizards Reunion day #1.

Maria Canals-Barrera tweeted on her official twitter page (@Maria_CB) with the following image:

We're back! "Wizards" table-read this morning. So excited!!! http://say.ly/tHj4qrF          

From the image of the script uploaded my Maria Canals-Barrera, the one hour television event is titled "The Wizards Return: Alex vs. Alex"

The storyline takes the Russo family and friends to Tuscany, Italy, to meet their long lost relatives… but when Alex (Gomez) tries to prove she’s more than a seemingly carefree young Wizard, she inadvertently conjures a spell that creates a Good Alex and an Evil Alex. When Evil Alex gets roped into a charming young wizard’s foreboding plan to take over the world, Good Alex must find a way to save her family and humankind, which leads to a monumental battle between the two versions of herself – all atop the Tower of Pisa.

Update:

On October 23, 2012, Selena Gomez tweeted on her official twitter page (@SelenaGomez) with the image: 

We're back http://fb.me/1P19ABZWz

Winner of Disney Channel’s “Make Your Mark: Shake It Up Dance Off” Announced

[Via Disney Channel Press Release...]

YOUNG ARIZONA DANCE DUO "DJ'S MIX" WIN DISNEY CHANNEL'S "MAKE YOUR MARK: SHAKE IT UP DANCE OFF"

In a thrilling performance showcasing dance and gymnastic skills, the dance duo DJ's Mix - 9-year-old Jaycee and 10-year-old Dylynn from Arizona - earned viewers' votes to win Disney Channel's "Make Your Mark: Shake It Up Dance Off," the popular talent competition for kids. This marks the second consecutive year of the competition. More than 90,000 online dance video submissions were received with DJ's Mix winning among three finalists. The winning duo will have a dance performance role in an upcoming episode of Disney Channel's top rated series "Shake It Up."

During two telecasts, featuring appearances by Justin Bieber, Gabby Douglas, Ryan Lochte, Carly Rae Jepsen, Selena Gomez, Bridgit Mendler and will.i.am, contestants performed for viewers and three notable judges: Emmy-nominated choreographer Derek Hough ("Dancing with the Stars"), platinum recording artist Cher Lloyd and top choreographer Rosero McCoy. The winner was revealed during the telecast on Sunday, October 21, hosted by Debby Ryan ("Jessie") and Roshon Fegan ("Dancing with the Stars," "Shake It Up"), with special performances by "Austin & Ally" star Ross Lynch and "Shake It Up" stars Bella Thorne and Zendaya.

Disney Channel is a 24-hour kid-driven, family inclusive television network that taps into the world of kids and families through original series and movies. Currently available on basic cable in nearly 99 million U.S. homes and to millions of other viewers on Disney Channels around the world, Disney Channel is part of the Disney/ABC Television Group.

The winning moment can be viewed in the video below.

Disney Channel UK: Taylor Swift's New Album "Red" Sponsors Disney Channel

To celebrate the launch of Taylor Swift's highly anticipated fourth studio album which will be released on October 22nd worldwide, Taylor Swift sponsors "This Weekend" on Disney Channel UK (as can be seen in the video below in the promo spot).  

Entitled Red, the album will be released by Big Machine Label Group & Mercury Records and contains 16 tracks. After writing her last album (Speak Now) entirely by herself, for this record Taylor collaborated with several artists, producers, and songwriters she had always wanted to work with. 

Described by The Times as 'a rare talent' and Rolling Stone Magazine as 'one of the few genuine rock stars we've got these days', Taylor Swift is one of the top 5 selling digital music artists worldwide. At only 22 years old, she already has career record sales in excess of 22 million albums and 50 million song downloads. Each of Swift's three studio albums has sold in excess of 5 million copies worldwide, and her most recent album, Speak Now, is listed in the Guinness Book of Records for being the Fastest Selling Digital Album by a female artist and is one of only 17 albums in the entire history of music to sell more than 1 million copies in a single week.

Named by Time Magazine as one of the most 100 most influential people in the world, Taylor Swift has won over 110 awards including 6 Grammys. In 2010 she became the youngest artist in history to win a Grammy award for 'Album of The Year'. Two years later, Swift became the youngest Billboard Awards 'Woman of the Year' winner in history.

Taylor Swift is not just a multi instrumentalist, singer and songwriter. She is global superstar, a role model and the voice of a generation. Her forthcoming fourth studio album Red, released by Big Machine Label Group & Mercury Records on 22nd October is set to be her most successful UK release to date.

Blake Michael opens up to Glamoholic Magazine about his new show Dog With A Blog

Blake Michael, star of Disney Channels newest series "Dog With A Blog" appears in this month's (October) issue of Glamoholic discussing the show, his music and fashion.
Below are some of the questions Blake answers in regards to the show Dog With A Blog:

Your new sitcom "Dog With A Blog" premiered recently on Disney Channel, what can you tell us about it?

Are you happy with the feedback so far?

What does set "Dog With A Blog" apart from other Disney shows in your opinion?

How is it like to work on set with a dog?

Did you ever take your dog to the shooting? 

Is there any other TV show that you wish to be on?

Are you working on any new projects while shooting "Dog With A Blog" or is it taking all of your time?

[Via Glamoholic.com...]

Exclusive interview with Blake Michael. Actor Blake Michael opens up to Glamoholic about his new show Dog With A Blog on Disney channel, his passion to music, and his own way of being a Dude Glamoholic!

The full article can be viewed here on Glamoholic.com

JESSIE Season 2 Exclusive Behind the Scenes Photos (Featuring Kevin Chamberlin)

On October 19, 2012, Nakia, an American musician, singer-songwriter and actor (also pals with Kevin Chamberlin, who plays 'Bertram' the butler on JESSIE), posted behind the scenes photos of a live taping episode from season 2 of JESSIE. On his official twitter page (@Nakia), he tweeted:

Photo: On set to watch my pal @KevinChamberlin film “Jessie.” (at Hollywood Center Studios) http://tmblr.co/ZYE6YyVbvDD6

And:

Photo: Tickling the ivories between takes on the #Jessie set with Bertram. @KevinChamberlin http://tmblr.co/ZYE6YyVcSor2

"Make Your Mark: Ultimate Playlist" Album Preview

The "Make Your Mark: Ultimate Playlist" was recently released on October 16, 2012. The video (below) previews all of the songs listed on the album.

[Via Amazon.com...]

Disney's MAKE YOUR MARK is your ultimate mix of new and all-time favorite songs from your favorite Disney Channel stars! Features 5 new songs from Disney Channel's Original Movie 'Girl vs. Monster', never-before released songs by 'Jessie' star, Debby Ryan and 'Good Luck Charlie' star, Bridget Mendler, plus an all-new 'A.N.T. FARM' song performed by China Anne McClain, and more! Enjoy some of the theme songs from your favorite shows that were previously unreleased.  

TRACKLIST:

1.	"I Got My Scream On" (from Girl vs. Monster)	China Anne McClain
2.	"Make Your Mark"	Drew Ryan Scott
3.	"Fearless" (from Girl vs. Monster)	Olivia Holt
4.	"How Do I Get There From Here" (from A.N.T. Farm)	China Anne McClain
5.	"Hey Jessie" (from Jessie)	Debby Ryan
6.	"TTYLXOX" (from Shake It Up)	Bella Thorne
7.	"Had Me @ Hello" (from Girl vs. Monster)	Luke Benward
8.	"Nothing s Gonna Stop Us Now" (from Girl vs. Monster)	Olivia Holt
9.	"Can t Do It Without You" (from Austin & Ally)	Ross Lynch
10.	"Hang In There Baby" (from Good Luck Charlie)	Bridgit Mendler
11.	"Something To Dance For" (from Shake It Up)	Zendaya
12.	"Had Me @ Hello" (from Girl vs. Monster)	Olivia Holt

     
 The CD can be purchased from www.Amazon.com here  or Downloaded on iTunes - http://smarturl.it/mymiTunesa1

Shake It Up Season 3 Promo Shots

Disney Channel have released the promo shots for Shake It Up Season 3 which premiered on October 14, 2012 on Disney Channel.

Laura Marano Talks Austin & Ally Season 2 (U.K Interview)

During Laura Marano's UK visit, she sat down with ITN (Independent Television News - a British-based news and content provider) to talk about Austin & Ally which has begun airing in the USA very soon. The Austin & Ally soundtrack releases on the 29th October in the U.K.

[Via ITN...]

One of the stars of Disney's Austin & Ally, Laura Marano, has been telling us what is in store on the show.

Season two has just begun in the States and we are told to expect exciting storylines alongside some added non-human characters.

"We have a lot of animals - fun, and there's going to be a romantic arc between some of the characters," Marano, who plays Ally, said.

The show airs weekly on the Disney Channel in the UK and the Austin & Ally soundtrack album is out October 29.

Laura explained: "I'm excited for the kids to sing... with their British accents - and I think it'll just elevate it."         

Debby Ryan Behind the Scenes Video on the Set of JESSIE Season 2

On October 17, 2012, Debby Ryan, star of Disney Channel's JESSIE tweeted on her official twitter page (@TheDebbyRyan):

Here we are, darlings & gents: http://www.keek.com/!73x7aab  my first Keek video-- in which I take you above the set, upside-down in my harness!                    

In the video below, Debby Ryan can be seen working with her stunt coordinator in preparation for a scene. 

Oct 17, 2012 | My first Keek! In which I take you above the set in my harness with my stunt coordinator-- by theDebbyRyan on Keek.com

Disney Channel UK Set to Premiere DCOM Girl vs. Monster on Friday 26th October 2012

As part of Disney Channel's MONSTOBER event, Disney Channel UK are set to air the DCOM "Girl vs. Monster on Friday 26th October 2012. Disney Channel UK posted on their Official Facebook page on October 17th 2012):

What were you scared of when you were little? We're MONSTER hunting next Friday on Disney Channel in the UK Movie Premiere of "Girl Vs Monster" @ 6pm!

Girl vs. Monster Storyline:

The adventure begins on Halloween as Skylar, a fearless teenager with a powerful singing voice, prepares for the ultimate Halloween bash with her best friends, Henry and Sadie. The plan for Skylar to sing at the party — with rock band cutie Ryan Dean — is crushed when her parents make her stay home. Then, when she sneaks out of the house, she unknowingly unleashes a monster – Deimata – who is determined to change the fate of Skylar and her family forever. As Skylar’s world is turned upside down, she learns that her parents have been keeping a big secret – that she comes from a long line of monster hunters. Now, it’s up to Skylar and her friends to channel their inner strength and conquer more than just this monster.

The UK promo for Girl vs. Monster can be viewed below:



Extra Links:
Girl vs. Monster Behind the Scenes
Girl vs. Monster Music featuring Olivia Holt
Girl vs. Monster Screening Event
Girl vs. Monster USA TV Ratings

Radio Disney's "N.B.T." Kickoff Concert in Hollywood (With Laura Marano)

[Via EW.com...]

Season 5 of Radio Disney’s multiplatform competition show N.B.T.  is already underway and in about a week, it’ll be time to start the voting on the latest set of contestants. The kick-off concert last weekend brought out not only Disney TV stars like Bella Thorne and Zendaya  (Shake it Up) and Kelli Berglund and Billy Unger (Lab Rats), but also past N.B.T. artists Shealeigh and Coco Jones, who performed along with this season’s five new contestants and R5. Take a look at this exclusive behind-the-scenes video hosted by Austin & Ally‘s Laura Marano.

Over 10 weeks, N.B.T.'s aspiring young recording artists get to showcase their music across national broadcast and online platforms. Radio Disney and Disney Channel audiences will get to check them out and vote for their favorite artist through RadioDisney.com, Radio Disney Facebook page and Twitter, or by text.  The winner will perform on Austin & Ally and have a new single released by Disney Music Group.
Voting begins on 10/26 at 7pmET/4pmPT.
Here's a quick rundown of the competing season 5 artists:

• Chloe and Halle Bailey:  14-year-old and 12-year-old (respectively) sister pop singers and actresses from Atlanta, Georgia.
• Katherine Hughes: 17-year-old acoustic pop singer and actress from New York, New York.
• Damian Otchere: 16-year-old pop and R&B singer, dancer and actor originally from Brooklyn, New York, currently residing in East Orange, New Jersey.
• Jack Skuller: 16-year-old modern rock and pop singer, and songwriter from Hoboken, New Jersey.
• Elle Winter: 13-year-old pop singer, songwriter and actress from New York, New York.

More info on Radio Disney's N.B.T  can be found here.