Disney+ continues to expand its Bluey offerings with new content arriving this month and later this summer. Announced today, Bluey’s Big Play – The Stage Show, a special televised version of the popular touring theatrical production, will premiere Monday, March 16. Additionally, a collection of Bluey Minisodes, previously only available online and in Australia, will also be available for the first time on Disney+ beginning Wednesday, May 20. Global phenomenon Bluey was 2025’s No. 1 most-streamed program in the U.S. for the second year in a row, with 45.2 billion minutes streamed.*

• Bluey’s Big Play – The Stage Show is a special televised version of the popular touring theatrical production, featuring live performances of fan-favorite Bluey characters brought to life by world-class puppeteers. Bluey’s Big Play – The Stage Show is an adaptation of the multiple Emmy^® Award-winning animated series, with an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm and music specially composed by Joff Bush. The special is produced by BBC Studios Kids & Family Productions in association with Ludo Studio, Andrew Kay, and Windmill Theatre Co, and is distributed internationally by BBC Studios, with executive producers Tom Cousins and Anna Perowne.
• It was also announced today that a previously released collection of 10 Bluey Minisodes will be available for the first time on Disney+. The bite-sized short-form series is a collection of one- to three-minute minisodes and is produced by Ludo Studio. The shorts highlight funny and sweet moments featuring Bluey and Bingo leaning into playful interactions and games that further explore the characters and world of Bluey. The collection includes: Humpty Dumpty, Green Bottles, Flying Saucer, Tea Party, Pea Pod Sausages, Old Macdonald, Honk, Lollipop Song, Cinderella, and Make Mum Laugh. All previously released Bluey Minisodes are currently available to stream on Disney+.

More Bluey Offerings:

• BBC Studios and Walt Disney Studios, in partnership with Ludo Studio, announced that the feature-length Bluey movie will be released in cinemas August 6, 2027.

• Bluey is joining Disney Experiences as part of Disney’s global relationship with BBC Studios, with the producers of Bluey, Ludo Studio, collaborating on special fan activations.

• Beginning March 22, 2026, and continuing through the year, “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” will invite Disneyland Park guests to a fun-filled celebration of favorite episodes of the animated series at the reimagined Fantasyland Theatre. Now transformed into a beautiful Fun Fair at Bluey’s School, Bluey and her sister Bingo appear throughout the day alongside a lively group of comedic performers and musicians, plus some very familiar friends. Together, they bring to life the unmistakable, familiar feeling that the best day ever has officially begun.

• Bluey and Bingo are on their way to Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort! Starting May 26, 202 —6 and staying beyond Cool KIDS’ SUMMER — guests can play games and dance with Bluey and Bingo at Conservation Station. Once guests hop off the Wildlife Express Train, it’s time for fun. Play special games directly from Bluey episodes, grab a photo with Bluey and Bingo themselves, and even discover animals native to Bluey’s home country, Australia, at “Jumping Junction.”
• Earlier this year, Bluey and Bingo set sail on Disney Cruise Line for greetings, dance parties, and more. Visit disneycruise.com for more details on where Bluey and Bingo are sailing in 2026.

The Walt Disney Company has won 22 Children’s & Family Emmy^® Awards across its content brands and studios: Disney Branded Television and The Walt Disney Studios (including Lucasfilm, Marvel Animation, National Geographic, and Pixar Animation Studios). Disney+ is the ultimate streaming destination for kids and families, home to 21 awards.

Descendants: Rise of Red and Win or Lose tied for the most wins, with five each, while Star Wars: Skeleton Crew — this year’s most-nominated program — won Outstanding Young Teen Series.

A complete list of all The Walt Disney Company wins follows:

Descendants: The Rise of Red (Disney+/Disney Channel/Disney Branded Television)
Streaming on Disney+
5 Wins

• Outstanding Fiction Special
• Outstanding Art Direction / Set Decoration / Scenic Design
• Outstanding Hairstyling and Makeup
• Outstanding Original Song for a Children’s or Young Teen Program – “Red Christmas”
• Outstanding Choreography

Win or Lose (Disney+/Pixar Animation Studios)
Streaming on Disney+
5 Wins

• Outstanding Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series
• Outstanding Writing for a Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series – “Pickle”
• Outstanding Directing for an Animated Series – “Home”
• Outstanding Editing for an Animated Program – “Mixed Signals”
• Outstanding Individual Achievement in Animation – Storyboard – Esteban Bravo, Storyboard Artist

Star Wars: Skeleton Crew (Disney+/Lucasfilm)
Streaming on Disney+
4 Wins

• Outstanding Young Teen Series
• Outstanding Editing for a Young Teen Live Action Program – “The Real Good Guys”
• Outstanding Sound Mixing and Sound Editing for a Live Action Program – “You Have a Lot to Learn About Pirates”
• Outstanding Visual Effects for a Live Action Program

A Real Bug’s Life (National Geographic)
Streaming on Disney+
2 Wins

• Outstanding Informational Program
• Outstanding Editing for a Preschool or Children’s Live Action Program – “Love in the Forest”

BUNK’D: Learning the Ropes (Disney Channel/Disney Branded Television)
Streaming on Hulu
1 Win

• Outstanding Cinematography and Technical Arts for a Multiple Camera Live Action Program – “Happy Trails”

Dream Productions (Disney+/Pixar Animation Studios)
Streaming on Disney+
1 Win

• Outstanding Casting for an Animated Program

Rise Up, Sing Out (Disney Jr./Disney Branded Television)
Streaming on Disney+
1 Win

• Outstanding Original Song for a Preschool Program – “Grow Your World”

RoboGobo (Disney Jr./Disney Branded Television)
Streaming on Disney+
1 Win

• Outstanding Voice Performer in a Preschool Program – Ana Gasteyer

Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures (Disney+/Lucasfilm/Disney Jr.)
Streaming on Disney+
1 Win

• Outstanding Sound Mixing and Sound Editing for a Preschool Animated Program – “The Battle of Tenoo”

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man (Disney+/Marvel Animation)
Streaming on Disney+
1 Win

• Outstanding Voice Directing for an Animated Series – “If This Be My Destiny…”

A fifth installment of the hit Disney Channel Original Movie ZOMBIES franchise has been greenlit for Disney+ and Disney Channel, with Malachi Barton and Freya Skye set to return to their breakout roles as Victor and Nova. Franchise stars Milo Manheim and Meg Donnelly return to executive produce, while Trevor Tordjman returns as Bucky, the beloved cheer captain and cousin of Addison from the original trilogy. The film begins production this spring in New Zealand. An official title will be announced at a later date.

Following the events of ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires, the newfound peace between the Daywalkers and Vampires is put to the test when a band of fierce mermaids arrives in Rayburn, making waves and casting a persuasive siren song to lure in new allies. Nova and Victor must unite their groups once more to discover what the mermaids are really after in order to protect the fragile harmony they worked so hard to build.

The returning cast includes Malachi Barton as Victor, Freya Skye as Nova, Swayam Bhatia as Vera, Julian Lerner as Ray, and Mekonnen Knife as Vargas from ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires. New to the franchise are a trio of mysterious mermaids: Diaana Babnicova as cool-girl Pearl, Taylor Oliver as bad-boy Fin, and Olive Mortimer as tech-wiz Sandy. Emily Costtrici joins the cast as zombie Izzy, Zed’s zombie cousin and new transfer student.

DGA Award-winner Paul Hoen, director and executive producer of the entire ZOMBIES franchise, will return for this latest installment. Also returning are executive producers Jane Fleming, Mark Ordesky, Joseph Raso and David Light and producer Skot Bright, alongside Manheim and Donnelly. The movie features next-level dance sequences, choreographed by Dondraico Johnson, and an original score composed by Tom Howe. Joining the creative team are writers Chris Hazzard, Michael Fontana and Eydie Faye.

“ZOMBIES has become a defining franchise for the current generation,” said Ayo Davis, president, Disney Branded Television. “With each movie, we intentionally push the story somewhere new. Introducing mermaids in ZOMBIES 5 opens up a completely different dynamic, while staying true to the music, characters and themes of unity and acceptance that are at the heart of these films.”

The ZOMBIES franchise has become one of the most popular Disney Channel Original Movie franchises, with cable telecasts for the first three films ranking No. 1 among Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14 in their premiere years,* and garnering 385 million-hours watched across linear and streaming in the U.S. (including series and shorts).** The summer 2024 premiere of ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires garnered 9.3 million views globally in its first nine days streaming, amassing 43 million views in less than 6 months.***

The ZOMBIES 5 greenlight news comes during a landmark year for Disney Channel fans, as 2026 celebrates the milestone anniversaries of High School Musical and Hannah Montana, leading into the premieres of new franchise installments Descendants: Wicked Wonderland and Camp Rock 3 this summer. Last summer’s smash hit Descendants/ZOMBIES Worlds Collide Tour now includes a concert special streaming on Disney+, and it was just announced that the Worlds Collide Tour will return this year with talent from Descendants, ZOMBIES and Camp Rock franchises.

ZOMBIES, ZOMBIES 2, ZOMBIES 3, ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires, and ZOMBIES: The Re-Animated Series are now streaming on Disney+ and can be found in the ZOMBIES Collection on the service. The all-new short-form series Locker Diaries: ZOMBIES is now available on Disney+, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok with additional episodes rolling out every Saturday until mid-April.

Today, it was announced that the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special is coming to Disney+ on Tuesday, March 24. The special will celebrate the iconic series that defined a generation — exactly two decades after its Disney Channel debut.

The special will be filmed in front of a live studio audience and will feature an exclusive, in-depth interview with Disney Legend Miley Cyrus, hosted by Alex Cooper. The conversation will offer an intimate look at the creation of one of pop culture’s most iconic characters and the lasting impact the show and character have had on fans around the world. With heartfelt nostalgia and fresh perspective, Cyrus will revisit the moments, music, and memories that defined an era. Viewers will be treated to never-before-seen archival footage, while some of the most memorable sets from Hannah Montana are brought back to life — including the Stewart family living room and the legendary Hannah Montana closet. There will also be some familiar *notes* that find their way back into the spotlight…

With one of Disney’s most passionate fandoms, Hannah Montana became a global phenomenon, reshaping kids’ television, influencing music and fashion, and launching a generation-defining pop star. The Emmy^Ⓡ-nominated series spawned 14 platinum and 18 gold albums worldwide, as well as two feature films.

“Hannah Montana will always be a part of who I am. What started as a TV show became a shared experience that shaped my life and the lives of so many fans, and I’ll always be thankful for that connection,” Cyrus said. “The fact that it still means so much to people all these years later is something I’m very proud of. This ‘Hannahversary’ is my way of celebrating and thanking the fans who’ve stood by me for 20 years.”

“Hannah Montana opened the door for so many fans to dream big, sing loud, and embrace every side of themselves, which is why its legacy continues to shine across generations,” said Ayo Davis, President, Disney Branded Television. “Partnering with Miley on this special is a dream, and we want it to be a love letter to the fans, who remain as passionate today as they were when the series debuted almost 20 years ago.”

The special is produced by HopeTown Entertainment and Unwell Productions. Ashley Edens serves as showrunner, with Cyrus, Tish Cyrus-Purcell, Cooper, and Matt Kaplan as executive producers. Cooper will also host the special, guiding Hannah Montana fans through the nostalgic and highly-anticipated anniversary celebration.

Fans can relive their favorite Miley moments ahead of the anniversary special with the Hannah Montana Collection on Disney+. And, starting Thursday, February 19, they can dive even deeper with a dedicated non-stop Stream featuring all four seasons of Hannah Montana, Hannah Montana: The Movie, and Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus: The Best of Both Worlds Concert. Demonstrating the franchise’s enduring popularity, the Hannah Montana catalog has amassed more than half a billion hours streamed globally on Disney+ to date.

When the Disney Channel Original Movie High School Musical premiered on January 20, 2006, it ushered in the start of something new — a wave of music-driven film franchises that would define childhoods, mint superstars, and inspire audiences all around the world.

Directed by Disney Legend Kenny Ortega, the movie starred Zac Efron as Troy Bolton, Vanessa Hudgens as Gabriella Montez, Ashley Tisdale as Sharpay Evans, Lucas Grabeel as Ryan Evans, Corbin Bleu as Chad Danforth, and Monique Coleman as Taylor McKessie — all up-and-comers, save for Tisdale, star of Disney Channel’s The Suite Life of Zack & Cody.

In its premiere weekend, High School Musical delivered 7.7 million Total Viewers* in the U.S. — record ratings for the network. Its success extended offscreen, becoming the first-ever TV movie soundtrack to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 chart, as well as the No. 1 album, No. 1 soundtrack, and No. 1 Kids album of 2006. The following year, 18.6 million viewers tuned in for the premiere of High School Musical 2, making it the No. 1 cable TV movie of all time. The sequel’s soundtrack was certified triple platinum. In 2008, Walt Disney Pictures released High School Musical 3: Senior Year theatrically — a franchise first. It broke multiple records and ultimately grossed over $250 million at the global box office.

The franchise continued when the meta mockumentary comedy High School Musical: The Musical: The Series premiered on Disney+ at launch in 2019. Created and executive produced by Tim Federle, it introduced a new generation of megastars: Olivia Rodrigo as Nini Salazar-Roberts, Joshua Bassett as Ricky Bowen, Matt Cornett as E.J. Caswell, Sofia Wylie as Gina Porter, Larry Saperstein as Big Red, Julia Lester as Ashlyn Caswell, Dara Reneé as Kourtney Greene, Frankie Rodriguez as Carlos Rodriguez, and Joe Serafini as Seb Matthew-Smith. Stars from the original films — Bleu, Coleman, Grabeel, Bart Johnson, Alyson Reed, and Kaycee Stroh — also made cameos throughout the series’ four seasons.

Twenty years later, High School Musical remains one of Disney Channel’s most popular franchises — one that continues to attract generations of new viewers, with more than 1.2 billion lifetime hours across streaming and linear.** All three films continue to rank among the top Disney Channel Original Movies on Disney+ in 2025, globally and domestically**. But the numbers only tell part of the story, as High School Musical helped establish Disney’s music-driven model, powering hit franchises such as Descendants (nearly 1 billion hours viewed to date across streaming and linear), in addition to Camp Rock and ZOMBIES.

In celebration of High School Musical‘s 20th anniversary, Disney Branded Television’s Charlie Andrews, EVP, Live Action, and Steven Vincent, SVP, Music and Soundtracks, explain how the franchise’s massive success paved the way for their division to develop more music-driven franchises that span generations and geographies.

No one expected High School Musical to become a global hit when it premiered on Disney Channel in 2006. Why do you think the movie became such a phenomenon?

Charlie Andrews: Gary Marsh [former President of Disney Channels Worldwide] and his team knew how to build stars, and they found the absolute best talent to bring these characters to life. I also think High School Musical was very relatable. What the audience found through these characters were really transcendent coming-of-age experiences of wanting to be who you are. Figuring out how to find your voice and find out who you are through your friendships is so universal. In addition to that, when you tack on incredible music, it brings people together. The songs were so special and so of the moment, and it was one of the most effective ways to drive pop culture and to bring these kids together.

Steven Vincent: It reached you emotionally, but it was also fun and cool. And, of course, it had great music. The songs were so important to people. As I watched the movie go global, I remember thinking, “How is this working just as well in Japan, in India, in Germany?” No matter where they are, teenagers are going through the same types of experiences. The story is about identity: “Who do I want to be? Who are people saying I’m supposed to be?”

Steven, the High School Musical soundtrack features multiple musical genres and styles. Why did you go that route, and how did it open things up to a wider audience?

Steven Vincent: Our audience is very diverse, but the music is only there to help tell the story. As we started working through the script, we knew it would be in part based on the pop music of the day. That felt like a nice entry point for our lead kids. The show within the show was written by Kelsi Nielsen [Olesya Rulin], so a lot of the songs are not full blast with everybody dancing; we start with the piano, because that was her instrument. Because this was about theater kids, it made sense to have some Broadway-sounding songs, like “Stick to the Status Quo” and “Bop to the Top.” What feels like Troy and Gabriella? Mainstream pop music. What feels like Ryan and Sharpay? Showtunes. And then we needed an anthem, and that became “We’re All in this Together.” It stands the test of time.

What’s the secret to creating and growing a franchise like High School Musical?

Charlie Andrews: It’s about meeting audiences where they are, creating authentic portrayals of a teenage experience, and then plussing it up with great music, costumes, spectacle, and wish fulfillment. High School Musical is the perfect combination of all that.

High School Musical made superstars out of its six leads, whose projects spanned films, music, and television. How is Disney setting today’s young stars up for similar success?

Charlie Andrews: If you look at Malachi Barton, he’s blown up in the past year with the Descendants/ZOMBIES: Worlds Collide Tour. He’s going to be a lead in Camp Rock 3 this summer. Right after that, he’s one of the leads in our new series, Coven Academy. As he ages, finding those roles for him to grow up within our ecosystem is so important. And we talk about that with all of our talent, from Malachi and Freya Skye to Kylie Cantrall and Malia Baker. It’s always top of mind for us.

Look at Milo Manheim, who just cast as Flynn Rider in the live-action Tangled for the movie studio. We are incredibly proud of him, and we’re so lucky we get to keep him in house and continue in the ZOMBIES franchise. It’s the same with the Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato, who play a huge part in rebooting the Camp Rock franchise. Oftentimes, when those kids would grow up, they would go elsewhere to find other roles. But now, with Disney+ and Hulu and FX being a part of the same ecosystem, they can continue to grow within. It’s been a real gift for us to be able to keep them within the broader Disney family.

From music and merchandise to concert tours and social media content creation, how does High School Musical serve as a blueprint for how you sustain hit franchises today?

Charlie Andrews: High School Musical proved that when kids truly connect with a story, they want to experience it in every part of their lives. Kids are rewatching the content over and over again on Disney+. The engagement is huge. But it’s not just their love of the movie — it’s their love of the characters and of the actors. It’s an incredible fandom. They are singing the songs on the way to school, after school, during school. They are wearing the costumes from Descendants and ZOMBIES, but they’re also modeling their outfits after what the actors are wearing in real life. It’s all-encompassing.

I brought my 9-year-old niece to the final show of the World’s Collide Tour in Dallas, and it’s so interesting because she is a huge fan of Red, but she’s also been re-watching the first three Descendants movies over and over. It’s one example of how we are constantly bringing in new fans to our franchises because of what Disney+ offers. That’s something we didn’t have before, when you’d have to wait for repeat airings or buy the DVD. With Disney+, we are constantly allowing new generations to discover these amazing movies.

From a strategic point of view, what impact has High School Musical had on Disney Branded Television’s business today

Charlie Andrews: We’re always inspired by all the creatives who brought the franchise to life. When I started here, Ayo Davis [President, Disney Branded Television] said our No. 1 goal was to build the next generation of Disney stars, much like that generation had done for Disney Channel. It’s been really incredible to reboot the Descendants franchise, to pass the baton to the next generation with the ZOMBIES franchise, and to see these incredible kids — like Malachi and Freya, Kylie and Malia — turn into huge stars over the past two years.

And this summer, Liamani Segura will play Red’s little sister, Pink, in Descendants: Wicked Wonderland, and then she plays our female lead in Camp Rock 3. We are really investing in building these kids into stars and building a fandom behind them. That goes all the way back to High School Musical, of course, as well as The Cheetah Girls, Descendants, and ZOMBIES.

From High School Musical to Camp Rock 3, why is Disney uniquely positioned to tell impactful, music-driven stories on a huge global scale?

Charlie Andrews: Music doesn’t just unite teenagers; it brings the entire family together for a shared experience. Whether it’s a Pixar movie, a Walt Disney Animation Studios movie, or an incredible DCOM, music is powerful. Disney does music better than anyone.

Steven Vincent: High School Musical is now one of the jewels in the Disney crown. It’s considered timeless, sitting proudly next to other music classics like Mary Poppins and The Lion King on Disney+. Working with artists to create the next new chapter of the Disney songbook has been awesome. I’m most proud of having made a great impact on kids’ lives. I get to spend every day making positive energy and helping to create stuff that’s going to last forever. Working with young talent, I feel such a responsibility to help them grow. It’s been fun to see so many of them become GRAMMY^®-winning artists, great actors, you name it.

Disney Branded Television is world renowned for producing entertaining and trusted content across Disney Channel, Disney Jr., and Disney+ with animated and live-action films, series, shorts, and specials geared toward kids, tweens, teens, and families. From established franchises like Descendants and ZOMBIES to newer phenomena like Electric Bloom and Percy Jackson and the Olympians, the teams under Disney Branded Television president Ayo Davis are uniquely positioned to tell stories that are reflective of their world and experiences — ones that both define and connect generations.

“Families trust Disney to create content that defines their children’s childhoods,” said Charlie Andrews, EVP, Live Action, Disney Branded Television. “Many parents today have experienced that trust firsthand, having grown up with Disney themselves. That trust extends beyond the audience; it’s deeply embedded within our company. Many of our employees and executives grew up with Disney, and many are parents who go home every day to the very audience we serve. That irreplaceable emotional connection helps us create stories that resonate across generations and deliver those co-viewing moments that parents and kids remember for a lifetime.”

Opportunities for Growth

Disney Branded Television has the rare ability to grow in tandem with its audience. Two recent examples include Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, a continuation of the hit Disney Channel series Wizards of Waverly Place (2007–2012), and Vampirina: Teenage Vampire, a live-action, music-driven comedy about Vampirina aka Vee, the title character from the best-selling Disney-Hyperion books and the hit Disney Jr. animated series (2017–2020).

“Our content is designed to meet kids at every stage of growing up,” Andrews said. “Vampirina began as a preschool favorite, and now those same fans are tweens and teens, so it felt natural to let Vee grow up with them. Vampirina: Teenage Vampire brings beloved characters into a more mature world, with themes that reflect what our audiences are experiencing now: friendships, self-discovery, and finding your place in the world. It’s a way for them to stay connected to a character they’ve loved, while exploring stories that speak to who they’re becoming.”

Andrews continued, “We’ve always known our audience loves revisiting the stories and characters they grew up with. We saw it with Wizards Beyond Waverly Place and Descendants: The Rise of Red, where new characters stepped into familiar worlds. With Vampirina: Teenage Vampire, we wanted to take that idea further, not just expanding the universe, but evolving a character in real time. By growing Vee alongside her original fans, we’re inviting them to reconnect in a deeper, more personal way. She’s not just back, she’s growing up — just like they are. And that unlocks stories that feel more relevant, more resonant, and more magical than ever.”

Breaking the Mold

Rather than continue Vampirina’s story in animation, the creative team — which includes showrunners Dan Cross and David Hoge, who serves as executive producers alongside Tim Federle, Bronwyn North-Reist, and Meg Deloatch — decided to take a different approach.

“Live-action allows us to explore Vee’s emotions and relationships with even more depth, while still maintaining that big funny from the original,” Andrews said. “It’s a perfect example of how we evolve our storytelling to meet kids and families at every stage of growing up.”

Similarly, Wizards Beyond Waverly Place follows an adult Justin Russo (star and executive producer David Henrie), who has chosen to lead a normal, mortal life with his wife and two sons — until his sister, Alex Russo (executive producer and guest star Selena Gomez), shows up and asks him to mentor Billie (Janice LeAnn Brown), a young wizard-in-training.

Since driving record premiere viewership on Disney+ in October 2024, Wizards Beyond Waverly Place has proven that it not only resonates with fans of the original series, but it cast a spell on new audiences who are just now discovering the Russos’ Wizarding World.

“The heart of Wizards has always been the Russo family,” Andrews explained. “While the magic and humor draw audiences in, it’s the family dynamic that truly defines the franchise. The Russos invite viewers into a world built on love, support, and just the right amount of dysfunction. This authenticity resonates across generations. Whether you’re a child growing up with Wizards of Waverly Place or a parent watching Wizards Beyond, there’s a Russo family member you can relate to. That’s why the stories feel timeless.”

One the reasons that Wizards Beyond Waverly Place felt legitimate to longtime fans is that, in addition to Henrie and Gomez, many of the original series’ cast and crew also came back.

“Just like the fans who grew up with the Russo family, our cast and crew evolved alongside the original series. Welcoming them back brings a deep sense of authenticity to Wizards Beyond Waverly Place,” Andrews said. “These creative partners understand the heart of the franchise because they helped build it. Their passion and dedication were the driving force behind reimagining Wizards for a new generation while honoring everything that made the original so beloved. Selena and David have been the absolute best partners, and the way the audience is reacting to Season 2 has been awesome to see.”

Henrie was a driving force behind getting Wizards Beyond Waverly Place made, and he “definitely hears everyone’s opinions” about what it should and should not be, according to Brown. “He wants to let the OG generation to know that they are seen, that they are heard, that they are loved,” she said. “And he’s also listening to what the new fans wants to see. What makes it truly balanced is that we have that OG Russo love, just with a newer cast.”

Time-Honored Tradition

While Disney Channel’s characters and stories evolve, some conventions remain the same.

Back in 2006, the network fused two of its most popular programs to create the three-part crossover event That’s So Suite Life of Hannah Montana. Its popularity inspired the network to expand its shared universe, and during the Monstober Spooktacular Weekend in 2015, it upped the ante with crossovers that spanned Austin & Ally, Best Friends Whenever, Girl Meets World, I Didn’t Do It, Jessie, K.C. Undercover, and Liv and Maddie. The tradition continues this year with Brown playing Billie in an episode of Vampirina: Teenage Vampire.

“I think people love seeing how different shows can become one,” said Kenzi Richardson, who plays Vee in Vampirina: Teenage Vampire. “Each world has a different vibe and its own unique characters, so I love seeing how they can come together. It feels like one big family.”

In the episode, titled “First Heartbeat,” Vee reconnects with Billie and gets a surprise visit from the Vampire Council. “I love our chemistry onscreen, and I’m so excited for everybody to see it,” said Brown, who is close friends with Richardson in real life. “I can’t wait for people to see what Vee and Billie get up to. Billie messes up something big, but they fix it!”

Such an episode might not have been possible had Disney Branded Television not taken a risk with adapting its IP in a new format. “Live-action opens the door to fun crossovers within the Disney Channel ecosystem,” Andrew said, noting how Brown’s character “introduces Vee to a brand-new audience and expands her world in fresh, unexpected ways.”

That’s what Disney Branded Television does best — and has guided it towards success.

“Our fans are our compass. They show up at conventions, engage with us on social media, and speak passionately about the stories and characters they love. And we listen closely,” Andrews said. “That direct feedback, combined with the team’s creative instincts, helps us identify which titles have the potential to evolve into multi-generational franchises. It’s why we’ve been able to reimagine beloved series like Vampirina: Teenage Vampire and Wizards Beyond Waverly Place. The audience is not only still there — they’re eager for more. And with the storytelling expertise of our teams, we can expand these worlds in ways that feel both fresh and relatable. That’s the heart of how Disney Branded Television builds franchises that endure.”

Seasons 1 and 2 of Wizards Beyond Waverly Place are now streaming on Disney+. All episodes from Vampirina: Teenage Vampire debut Wednesday, October 15, on Disney+.

It’s on! Today, Disney Branded Television confirmed that Camp Rock 3 has been greenlit for Disney+ and Disney Channel. Joe Jonas, Nick Jonas, and Kevin Jonas will return to their iconic roles. Along with Demi Lovato, they will executive produce the highly anticipated Disney Channel Original Movie, which began filming this week in Vancouver.

A new cast of stars on the rise joins the movie, including Liamani Segura (Descendants: Wicked Wonderland) as Sage, Malachi Barton (ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires) as Fletch, Lumi Pollack (Electric Bloom) as Rosie, newcomer Hudson Stone as Desi, Casey Trotter (The Thundermans) as Cliff, Brooklynn Pitts as Callie, and Ava Jean as Madison.

Joe will reprise his role as Shane Gray, Nick as Nate, and Kevin as Jason, guest starring as the members of the band Connect 3. Also returning is Maria Canals-Barrera (Wizards of Waverly Place) as Connie. Sherry Cola (Joyride) joins the franchise as Lark.

The story picks up when Connect 3 lose their opening act for a major reunion tour, returning to their beloved Camp Rock to discover the next big thing. As campers vie for the chance to open for their favorite band, tensions rise and friendships are tested, leading to unexpected alliances, revelations, and romances. Camp Rock’s all-new campers include bold and determined Sage (Segura) and her easygoing brother, Desi (Stone); cello prodigy Rosie (Pollack); drummer with his own beat Cliff (Trotter); choreo queen Callie (Pitts); intimidating influencer Madison (Jean); and camp bad boy Fletch (Barton).

“Camp Rock is an important part of the Disney Channel Original Movie legacy, with unforgettable music, energetic storytelling, and characters that live in the hearts of fans to this day,” said Ayo Davis, president, Disney Branded Television. “Bringing it back with Kevin, Joe, Nick, and Demi is such a full-circle moment, and we can’t wait to reintroduce this world to a new generation.”

Camp Rock (2008) and Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam (2010) are among the Top 10 Disney Channel Original Movies of all time and were the No. 1 Cable Movie Premiere in their years of premiere.* With chart-topping music and standout musical numbers, the Camp Rock franchise launched superstar talent and continues to permeate pop culture over 15 years after its debut, inspiring viral moments on social media.

Directed by Veronica Rodriguez (The Slumber Party) and written by Eydie Faye (SlumberParty), Camp Rock 3 is produced by Disney Branded Television, featuring choreography by Jamal Sims. Tim Federle (High School Musical: The Musical: The Series) executive produces, along with Joe, Nick, Kevin, Lovato, Betsy Sullenger, Spencer Berman, and Gary Marsh.

*With persons 2+ and teens 12-17. Source: NMR Ranked on Live+7 delivery 000s among all movies on cable for the years of 2008 and 2010.

The Golden Girls turns 40 on Sunday, September 14 — the premiere date of its original seven-year run in 1985 — and Disney Entertainment Television (DET) is marking the anniversary with a campaign that, like the show itself, is deeply nostalgic and completely modern.

The critically acclaimed series follows four vibrant friends sharing life and laughter in Miami: strong-willed Dorothy Zbornak (Disney Legend Bea Arthur), sweetly naive Rose Nylund (Disney Legend Betty White), flirtatious Blanche Devereaux (Disney Legend Rue McClanahan), and wise-cracking Sophia Petrillo (Disney Legend Estelle Getty). The show’s magic has bridged generations, delighting original TV audiences and new streaming viewers alike. The series won 11 Emmy Awards overall, including two wins for Outstanding Comedy Series, and earned four Golden Globes, among several other prestigious honors.

“In celebrating this milestone, we’re celebrating the fandom as well,” said Erin Weir, DET’s Executive Vice President of Marketing. “We want to thank The Golden Girls for being a friend for 40 years and counting.”

Disney began the festivities earlier this summer with several activations: “The Golden Girls 40th Anniversary Script Reading & Conversation” at the ATX Festival in Austin, Texas; the Disney+ Throwback Experience in Los Angeles; and during Disneyland Resort’s Pride Night Celebration.

As the party rolls on, Weir noted that the thoughtfully curated immersive experiences, partnerships, and special tributes intersect lifestyle, food, and fashion, reminding fans why The Golden Girls continues to resonate four decades later. Marveling at the show’s staying power, she spoke about the show’s enduring legacy and how its timeless themes of friendship, humor, and heart invite new generations of fans into its orbit.

The Golden Girls has been a hit for years. Why do you think it’s so popular across generations?The Golden Girls is timeless and iconic with enduring laughs and relatability that have resonated with fans for four decades. It’s rooted in friendship, hilariously funny, and groundbreaking, tackling current events and issues with care and humor. It evokes so much nostalgia and is a comfort show for many — myself included. And it is being discovered by new viewers every day evidenced by the over 1 billion hours streamed globally across Disney+ and Hulu.

How does the team turn the passion of a fan base into a successful marketing campaign?

The series is so firmly cemented in pop culture — starting with the legendary theme song. It’s endlessly quotable and meme-able. But it’s also the themes of friendship and found family that have built that lasting connection with fans. So, in celebrating this milestone, we are celebrating the fandom as well.

What are some of the fun ways that Disney Entertainment Television is celebrating the 40th anniversary? 

The celebration officially kicked off July 30, which is known as Golden Girls Day, with new products, partnerships, entertainment, and, of course, cheesecake. Furbish Studio, known for its iconic collection of needlepoint pillows featuring witty sayings, playful prints, and vibrant patterns, launched the limited-edition “Thank You for Being a Friend” pillow. Yogurtland introduced a limited-edition cheesecake-flavored yogurt, “Thank You for Being Cheesecake,” to celebrate National Cheesecake Day.

Brooklyn-based fashion brand Zero Waste Daniel launched a limited-edition capsule collection inspired by Blanche, Dorothy, Rose, and Sophia in-store at its Bushwick, New York, flagship location, which was transformed into a Golden Girls-inspired dreamscape, part fashion destination and part fan tribute. The collection reinterprets nostalgic elements from the sitcom through the studio’s bold, artistic and heartfelt vision and is still available online.

Fisher-Price launched a playful short-form content series titled “Little People Collector Mini Adventures,” which reimagines fan-favorite moments and themes from the show for a new generation using the Fisher-Price Little People Collector The Golden Girls: Late Night Cheesecake set.

Finally, Candier will introduce two limited-edition candles: the “I’ll Get the Cheesecake!” and “Thank You for Being a Friend” candles, starting September 14.

How did this campaign inspire internal synergy?

We’ve been activating with so many partners across The Walt Disney Company in celebration of this iconic series, honoring its fandom and also inviting new audiences in.

The Disney+ Throwback Experience took place from June 12-15 and featured an immersive event filled with interactive games. Fans had the opportunity to explore a multiroom journey through the iconic worlds of 1990s and 2000s media, highlighting a Golden Girls-themed area, The Lanai Closet, designed to resemble a cozy corner from a Miami bungalow, complete with pastel blazers and wicker furniture.

On June 16 and 18, during Disneyland Resort’s Pride Night celebration, Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite, guests had the chance to recreate iconic scenes from the show while enjoying custom cheesecake and a commemorative chocolate coin.

This fall, we’ll air an anniversary special from ABC News detailing the incredible inside story of The Golden Girls, featuring series creator Susan Harris, Emmy Award-winning producer Tony Thomas, and many of the show’s original writers and producers. Paying tribute to the legendary actresses who brought Dorothy, Blanche, Rose, and Sophia to life, and to 40 years of friendship, laughter and their famous love of cheesecake, the special will explore how The Golden Girls used uninhibited comedy to rewrite the narrative for women over 50 and how its timeless appeal has created a lasting influence on pop culture.

What is your favorite Golden Girls episode?

There are too many to choose from, but I’ll give you three of my favorites for anyone looking to start a rewatch or watch for the first time on Hulu, which is the home to all seven seasons: “To Catch a Neighbor,” featuring a young George Clooney; “The Case of The Libertine Belle,” which takes place at a murder mystery party; and “Grab That Dough,” which has the girls competing on a game show. Gather some friends and some cheesecake and spend a little time out on the lanai with Blanche, Dorothy, Rose, and Sophia.

• Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+, a continuation of the beloved Disney Jr. series Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, is set to premiere Monday, July 21, at 9:00 a.m. PDT/EDT on Disney Jr., with the first 10 episodes available to stream on Disney+ in the U.S. and select international markets and Disney Jr. On Demand the next day, Tuesday, July 22. The series will continue to roll out globally throughout 2025.

• From Disney Branded Television, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+ continues the adventures of Mickey and pals from the original global hit which aired from 2006-2016 and is still breaking records as a Top 3 series for preschoolers on streaming and over 5 billion views on YouTube, including for the iconic “Hot Dog!” song, which alone has amassed over 1.1 billion views to date and has officially been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Performed by the GRAMMY^® Award-winning They Might Be Giants, the song is featured in the new series and also included on the soundtrack, available digitally on July 18.
• Incorporating memorable components like the Mousekedoer, Mouseketools and Toodles, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+ introduces the new handy helping friend Little Helper and Duffy the Disney Bear, who will make surprise appearances. Other “plussed up” elements include the expansion of the Clubhouse with the Laughing Loft, a hilarious hangout zone, and the Wacky Tube, which gets Mickey and pals where they need to go in fun and silly ways. Minnie, Daisy, Donald and Goofy will also each get their own personalized clubhouses, which will be revealed throughout the series.

• Many of the creative team from the original Emmy^® Award-winning series have returned, including executive producer Rob LaDuca, art director Sy Thomas and songwriter/composer Mike Himelstein. Kim Duran serves as co-producer/story editor, and Mark Drop is story editor. The series is a production of Disney Television Animation.
• Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+ is a flagship series of the “Disney Jr. Let’s Play!” global campaign, designed to inspire preschoolers to experience the joy of play through Disney Jr.’s beloved characters and stories. Some of the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+ offerings for families include the following:
  • “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: The Exhibit,” happening now through Sept. 1, 2025, at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis before touring nationwide through 2029
  • “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!,” a new stage production at Disney California Adventure Park featuring music, dancing and beloved Disney characters
  • “Disney Jr. Live On Tour: Let’s Play!,” an immersive concert experience touring Asia this summer
  • New products inspired by the series, including toys, storybooks, plush and home decor debuting later this year

*Source: YouTube Analytics (Lifetime – 4/2/25), views, all MMCH content posted on Disney Jr YouTube channel. Nielsen for Linear+Streaming Hours lifetime to 3/30/25 Live viewing for Streaming and L+7 for Linear. Mickey streaming rank based on 12/30/24-3/30/25.

Phineas and Ferb are once again determined to have the best summer ever — and it all starts with two brand-new episodes of Disney Branded Television’s Phineas and Ferb, debuting Thursday, June 5, on Disney Channel and Disney XD, streaming next day on Disney+.

When the five-time Emmy Award-winning animated series returns for Season 5, Phineas (voiced by Vincent Martella) and Ferb (voiced by David Errigo Jr.) will embark on exciting new adventures filled with unforgettable milestones. As they tackle another 104 days of summer, their sister Candace (voiced by Ashley Tisdale) will make it her mission to finally bust her inventive stepbrothers. Meanwhile, Phineas and Ferb’s pet platypus, Perry (voiced by Dee Bradley Baker), continues to lead a double life as Agent P, whose sole goal is to prevent Dr. Doofenshmirtz (voiced by Dan Povenmire) from taking over the tristate area.

Phineas and Ferb — the most successful animated series for Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14 in Disney Television Animation history — hails from co-creators and executive producers Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh, who are back at the helm following the success of the Disney+ Original movie Phineas and Ferb The Movie: Candace Against the Universe in 2020.

Since Phineas and Ferb debuted in 2008, the franchise has grown to include two television movies, a live touring show, and a theme park experience at Walt Disney World Resort — not to mention extensions across every consumer products category on a global scale.

“I think its success has a lot to do with decisions we made early on. We wanted to make a kinder, gentler show than other programs we were watching at the time,” Povenmire said. “None of our characters are motivated by meanness. We don’t go for laughs at the expense of other characters. We took that out of our toolbox and said, ‘Can we make something that is a celebration of positivity and see if we can still make that funny?’ It seems to have worked.”

Over the years — and thanks to Disney+, where Seasons 1–4 are streaming in their entirety — its popularity has only grown. “It’s become a comfort watch for people,” Povenmire said.

So, it came as no surprise in 2023 that fans were thrilled by the news that Disney Branded Television had ordered two seasons of Phineas and Ferb, consisting of 40 episodes in total.

“We’ve always loved these characters and wanted to go back to them,” Povenmire said. “I did a post on social media after the announcement, and the response was overwhelming. People were cheering. People were crying. It made me excited, but also a little worried, because I realized, ‘Oh! We’ve got to live up to these expectations.’ But when I saw the first episode [of Season 5] in color, and I saw the musical number, I knew we had lived up to their expectations. People who loved the original show are going to absolutely adore this.”

Martella agreed, saying, “It picks up like nothing happened.”

“It has the same heart and soul fans know and love,” he continued, “but we also explore characters in different ways that we hadn’t before. That feels really new and really fresh.”

And Martella — who has been with the series since its first season — would know about that. “I have been voicing Phineas for almost 20 years, and I can’t express just how much it means to me to still be playing this character,” he shared. “I don’t know that I will ever again get to work on something with this type of impact… I know it means so much to the fans.”

“We have a really great crew,” Marsh said. “I like to think we’ve done a really good job of creating an environment where they feel encouraged to contribute to the storytelling. It takes the pressure off us, especially because we have a couple of new writers in the room — guys who grew up with the show. It’s led to more ideas than we know what to do with.”

And, according to Errigo, Season 5 of Phineas and Ferb features more running gags than ever before. “Pay attention,” he teased. “Everything means something. It all pays off nicely.”

One of the reasons that Phineas and Ferb was primed for a return is that it had always been “a very open-ended, do anything kind of show,” Povenmire explained. “The characters are super likeable, but they’re also very different from each other. Phineas and Ferb try to do something fun every day, and that’s really what Disney is all about — having fun every day.”

Phineas and Ferb will premiere Thursday, June 5, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and Disney XD with two episodes, and the first episode will be available the same day on Disney Channel YouTube. The first 10 episodes will premiere Friday, June 6, on Disney+ in the U.S. and select international markets, with additional markets to follow later this year. The episodes will also be available to stream on Disney Channel on Demand.

Today, Disney Branded Television announced that Brandy and Rita Ora will reprise their roles as Cinderella and the Queen of Hearts, respectively, in the fifth installment of the smash hit Descendants franchise — now officially titled Descendants: Wicked Wonderland.

Also returning are Paolo Montalban as King Charming and Melanie Paxson as Fairy Godmother, making Paxson the only actor to appear in all five Descendants films. Descendants: Wicked Wonderland is currently in production and will release in 2026 on Disney Channel and Disney+.

The now complete cast of Descendants: Wicked Wonderland includes Kylie Cantrall as Red, the Queen of Hearts’ daughter; Malia Baker as Chloe, Cinderella’s daughter; Liamani Segura as Pink, Red’s sister; Brendon Tremblay as Max, Maddox Hatter’s son; Alexandro Byrd as Luis, Luisa Madrigal’s son; Kiara Romero as Hazel Hook, Captain Hook’s daughter; Joel Oulette as Robbie, Robin Hood’s son; Zavien Garret as Felix, Dr. Facilier’s son; Ryan McEwen and Dayton Paradis as Squirmy and Squeaky, the Smee Twins; Leonardo Nam as Maddox, the Mad’s Hatter son; Paxson as Fairy Godmother; Montalban as King Charming; Brandy as Cinderella; and Ora as the Queen of Hearts.

Descendants: Wicked Wonderland will explore what “happily ever after” really means for Red and Chloe following their time-traveling adventures in the 2024 movie Descendants: The Rise of Red. Set primarily in present-day Wonderland with a host of new and familiar characters, the upcoming Disney Channel Original Movie sequel will delve into the warning at the end of the previous movie: There are consequences when you alter the fabric of time.

Kimmy Gatewood directs Descendants: Wicked Wonderland from a script by co-executive producer Tamara Chestna and Dan Frey and Ru Sommer. Returning to the franchise are executive producers Suzanne Todd and Gary Marsh. Gatewood also serves as co-producer. EmmyAward-winning choreographer Emilio Dosal is bringing the music-and-dance sequences — a hallmark of the Descendants franchise — to life.

In addition to Descendants: The Rise of Red, the first three Descendants films; the animated spinoff series Descendants: Wicked World; the animated special Descendants: The Royal Wedding; and three Descendants-inspired music videos are currently streaming on Disney+.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Descendants, which debuted on Disney Channel in July 2015. Since then, the franchise has dominated youth entertainment, with each of the first three films ranking as the most-watched cable movie of their year. In 2024, Descendants: The Rise of Red debuted on Disney+ as the most-watched original movie among Kids and Girls 6–11*, sparking over 10 billion social impressions**, and inspiring a top Halloween costume.*** The franchise also boasts gold-certified soundtracks, multiple Billboard No. 1s, and 57+ books — including a four-time New York Times bestselling series. The Descendants/ZOMBIES: Worlds Collide Tour will hit 43 arenas across North America this summer, celebrating the two fan-favorite franchises.

*Source: Nielsen, SCR, 1/1-12/29/24, based on total hours of streaming for all movies.**Source: YouTube Analytics. Lifetime subscribers and impressions of Descendants YouTube Channel –  Lifetime through 2/19/25.***Source: Party City

Today, Disney released “The Place to Be,” the first single and music video from the highly anticipated Disney Channel Original Movie ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires. The music video is now streaming on DisneyMusicVevo and Disney Channel Music YouTube, and the single is also available on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and other digital platforms.

ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires — the latest installment of the music-fueled ZOMBIES franchise — premieres Thursday, July 10, at 7 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and streams the next day, Friday, July 11, on Disney+.

“The Place to Be” is performed by ensemble cast members Milo Manheim, Meg Donnelly, Freya Skye, Malachi Barton, Swayam Bhatia, Julian Lerner, and Mekonnen Knife and features choreography by Dondraico Johnson. The upbeat pop anthem introduces Nova (Skye) and the Daywalkers and Victor (Barton) and the Vampires — two rival monster factions from the neighboring towns of Sunnyside and Shadyside. Daywalkers showcase their ability to harness the sun’s energy, while Vampires command the power of wind and sky.

Featuring nine brand-new original songs and two reprises of fan-favorite hits, the soundtrack for ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires is also available for pre-order, pre-add, and pre-save from Walt Disney Records. Fans who pre-purchase the soundtrack will be able to instantly receive a download of “The Place to Be.”

The ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires Original Soundtrack track list is as follows:

1. “Legends in the Making” – Performed by Milo Manheim, Meg Donnelly, Chandler Kinney, Kylee Russell
2. “The Place to Be” – Performed by Milo Manheim, Meg Donnelly, Freya Skye, Malachi Barton, Swayam Bhatia, Julian Lerner, Mekonnen Knife
3. “Dream Come True (Intro)” – Performed by Freya Skye, Malachi Barton
4. “Don’t Mess With Us” – Performed by Milo Manheim, Meg Donnelly, Chandler Kinney, Kylee Russell, Freya Skye, Malachi Barton, Swayam Bhatia, Julian Lerner, Mekonnen Knife
5. “Dream Come True” – Performed by Freya Skye, Malachi Barton
6. “Kerosene” – Performed by Milo Manheim, Meg Donnelly, Chandler Kinney, Kylee Russell, Freya Skye, Malachi Barton, Swayam Bhatia, Julian Lerner, Mekonnen Knife
7. “My Own Way” – Performed by Freya Skye
8. “Possible” – Performed by Milo Manheim, Meg Donnelly, Chandler Kinney, Kylee Russell, Freya Skye, Malachi Barton, Swayam Bhatia, Julian Lerner, Mekonnen Knife
9. “Someday (Reprise)” – Performed by Milo Manheim, Meg Donnelly
10. Show the World – Performed by Milo Manheim, Meg Donnelly, Chandler Kinney, Kylee Russell, Freya Skye, Malachi Barton, Swayam Bhatia, Julian Lerner, Mekonnen Knife
11. “Ain’t No Doubt About It (Reprise)” – Performed by Milo Manheim, Meg Donnelly
12. “Together as One” – Performed by Meg Donnelly, Freya Skye, Malachi Barton, Swayam Bhatia, Julian Lerner, Mekonnen Knife
13. “Score Suite” – Performed by Tom Howe

Additionally, the Music from ZOMBIES vinyl album will be released July 11; it’s now available for pre-order. The 1-LP Green vinyl features 12 songs from the iconic franchise, including “We Own the Night,” “Call to the Wild,” and “Someday,” plus “The Place to Be,” “Dream Come True,” and “Don’t Mess With Us” from ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires.

Can’t get enough ZOMBIES music? This summer, the Descendants/ZOMBIES: Worlds Collide Tour will hit 43 arenas across North America, celebrating the music of ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires alongside fan-favorite hits from the hit Descendants and ZOMBIES franchises.

ZOMBIES, ZOMBIES 2, and ZOMBIES 3 are currently streaming on Disney+.

In the landmark 100th episode of Disney Branded Television’s Big City Greens, the Green family is determined to make their 100th adventure their best — whether that means unleashing monstrous chickens, venturing into the afterlife, or delivering a mysterious box.

Created and executive produced by brothers Chris and Shane Houghton, the Emmy Award-nominated animated series premiered on Disney Channel in June 2018. The comedy-adventure follows the offbeat adventures of 10-year-old Cricket Green (voiced by Chris Houghton), a mischievous and optimistic country boy who moves to the big city with his wildly out-of-place family: older sister Tilly Green (voiced by Marieve Herington), father Bill Green (voiced by Bob Joles), and Gramma Alice (voiced by Artemis Pebdani). The series is heavily influenced by the Houghton brothers’ youth in rural St. Johns, Michigan.

Over the years, Big City Greens has borne fruit across The Walt Disney Company, with the Green family appearing in interstitials for Disney Channel and Disney+, as well as in Disney Branded Television’s short-form series Broken Karaoke, Chibi Tiny Tales, and How NOT to Draw. In 2023, Big City Greens collaborated with ESPN for the NHL Big City Greens Classic — a live, animated NHL game telecast, powered by volumetric and motion capture technologies. And, in 2024, the Big City Greens franchise expanded with its first feature-length film, Big City Greens the Movie: Spacecation.

Before the 100th episode debuts May 3 on Disney Channel and May 7 on Disney+, the Houghton brothers — who entered into an overall deal with Disney Branded Television in 2024 — reflect on Big City Greens‘ impact and the surprising opportunities it’s given them.

Without spoiling anything, what is the 100th episode about?Chris: There was a lot of pressure to come up with a new, exciting, very big story for the 100th adventure. We were banging our heads against the wall, thinking, “What could we do? And what haven’t we done?” And it was Shane who actually came up with the story.

Shane: We’ve covered so much in 100 episodes of Big City Greens that we knew we had to go bigger, better, crazier than we’d ever gone before. So… we did that! I don’t want to give too much away, [but it has all the things] audiences have come to love about Big City Greens. It’s super funny, full of heart and emotion. It’s a celebration and a look back at all 99 episodes that came before it. I’m very proud of it — very happy with how it turned out.

Chris: We hope our fans love it. And [Disney Legend] Mark Hamill guest stars in it!

The success of Big City Greens led to a feature film, several shorts and specials, and even an alternate sportscast. What unexpected opportunities has the show given you?Chris: When we came to Disney, it felt like this was our chance to really make BigCity Greens as a project as big as it could possibly be. We were making the TV series, but then when opportunities came to do some shorts, or to do ancillary projects like the NHL partnership, we jumped at every one of them. The fun part of this job, of being at Disney, is getting opportunities to grow well beyond a TV series.

Shane: What I love is that everybody who works on the show brings something different to it — a different perspective, a different idea. We, as the showrunners, then get to look at all of those great ideas, like a menu of options, and say, “Oh, that’s great. That’s great.” And that has led to a lot of really fun and interesting episodes or opportunities. We did our Christmas special in CG animation using Epic’s video game engine, Unreal. It was so unique and so different from anything we’ve ever done. We were able to make a movie, which was a dream come true. That was something we had wanted to do ever since we came to Hollywood, and it was cool that we got to do it with people from the series. I couldn’t be prouder of our crew and the people who make the show with us at Disney TV Animation.

Chris: It’s so much bigger than just us. We have the honor to lead this massive team, and, as Shane said, pick and choose which great idea we’re going to go with next. That collaboration is so fun. Animation is a team sport. It’s great to go in every day and try to make stuff that’s funny and entertaining, that people might still want to watch in 30 years.

How have you evolved creatively since Big City Greens premiered seven years ago?Shane: This is the longest job I’ve ever had, and it’s cool to look back at how much we’ve grown as people. We’ve been in production for nine years, and a lot of our crew members have been with us since Season 1 of the show. We aren’t the spring chickens we used to be, but it’s cool. We’ve cultivated this crew that we’re really proud of. We’ve told stories that we’re very proud of, and I think we’re doing a lot more. So, to the fans: thanks for watching!

Chris: We couldn’t have done it without you. It’s an honor to have this job. It’s so fun to come in each week and think of crazy stuff for Cricket and Tilly to do.

Today, Disney released the first official sneak peek at ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires, the latest installment of the music-fueled, smash-hit ZOMBIES franchise. The teaser reunites fan favorites Milo Manheim and Meg Donnelly as beloved zombie-cheerleader power couple Zed and Addison and introduces Freya Skye and Malachi Barton as the latest supernatural arrivals: Nova, a fierce Daywalker, and Victor, a proud Vampire.

The Disney Channel Original Movie will premiere Thursday, July 10, at 7 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and stream globally the next day, Friday, July 11, on Disney+. It will also be available on Disney Channel On Demand.

In the first three ZOMBIES movies, Zed and Addison brought human and monsterkind together in their hometown of Seabrook. Now, a new adventure dawns for the duo when their summer road trip takes an unexpected detour, landing them in the middle of yet another monster rivalry: Daywalkers vs. Vampires. Tensions flare when Zed and Addison find themselves acting as camp counselors between the two opposing supernatural factions. With the help of Eliza and Willa, they must convince sworn enemies Nova and Victor to try to unite their warring worlds before an even greater threat endangers them all.

Rounding out the cast of ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires are Kylee Russell as Eliza, Chandler Kinney as Willa, Julian Lerner as Ray, Swayam Bhatia as Vera, Mekonnen Knife as Vargas, Lisa Chappell as Vampire Eldress, and Jonno Roberts as Commander Bright.

Beloved for its high-energy song-and-dance elements, the fourth installment in the ZOMBIES franchise packs nine new original songs and two reprises of fan-favorite hits, “Someday” and “Ain’t No Doubt About It.” The movie features next-level dance sequences, choreographed by Dondraico Johnson, and an original score composed by Tom Howe.

Paul Hoen returns to direct the fourth film, having directed the previous three. With a screenplay by David Light, Joseph Raso, and Josh Cagan, ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires is executive produced by Hoen, Manheim, Donnelly, Light, Raso, Jane Fleming, and Mark Ordesky. Mahita P. Simpson is co-executive producer alongside co-producer Cagan and producer Skot Bright. The movie is a production from Night Zone Productions Limited.

A powerhouse in youth entertainment, the ZOMBIES franchise has consistently dominated with each movie release. The cable telecasts for the first three films ranked No. 1 among Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14 in their premiere years.* The movies have also garnered nearly a quarter billion streaming hours, becoming one of the most popular Disney Channel Original Movie franchises on Disney+.** The franchise’s music has amassed over 5.7 billion streams across YouTube Music, Disney Channel YouTube, and Disney Music Vevo***, while soundtracks for ZOMBIES and ZOMBIES 3 hit No. 1 on the Billboard Top Kid Albums chart****.

This summer, the Descendants/ZOMBIES: Worlds Collide Tour will visit over 43 arenas across North America, celebrating the music from ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires alongside songs from the hit Disney Channel Original Movie franchises Descendants and ZOMBIES.

In addition, ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires brand extensions will include a cross-category product line of apparel, accessories, costumes, fashion dolls by Mattel, and more.

ZOMBIES, ZOMBIES 2, and ZOMBIES 3 are now streaming on Disney+.

*Source: Nielsen, Live+35, Z1: 1/29/18 – 2/25/18, Z2: 1/27/20 – 2/23/20, Z3: 8/1/22 – 8/28/22; ranked on average audience, based on cable movies only
**Source: Internal Disney+ streaming data
***Source: YouTube Analytics
****Source: DMG Analytics Lifetime to 2/13/25

Kylie Cantrall and Malia Baker Return To Star in the Disney Channel Original Movie Sequel to Descendants: The Rise of Red

New Descendants from Alice in Wonderland and More to Join Franchise

Today, Disney Branded Television revealed that the next chapter of the beloved Descendants movie franchise is officially in the works for Disney Channel and Disney+, with production on a fifth installment set to begin soon. The newly greenlit Disney Channel Original Movie will expand the music-and-dance-fueled stories centered around the teenage progeny of Disney’s most iconic characters and villains. Kylie Cantrall and Malia Baker will reprise their roles as Princesses Red and Chloe, the daughters of the Queen of Hearts and Cinderella, respectively. The film’s official title will be announced at a later date.

Picking up shortly after the events of the 2024 hit film Descendants: The Rise of Red, the next chapter explores what “happily ever after” is really like for Red and Chloe, following their return from their time-traveling adventures. Set primarily in present-day Wonderland, the sequel delves into the warning at the end of the previous movie: “There are consequences when you alter the fabric of time.”

In addition to Cantrall and Baker, Leonardo Nam returns as Maddox Hatter. New descendants to the franchise include: Liamani Segura as Red’s sister Pink, Brendon Tremblay as Max Hatter, Alexandro Byrd as Luis Madrigal and Kiara Romero as Hazel Hook. Additional characters to be confirmed as casting continues to unfold.

Kimmy Gatewood (The Baby-sitter’s Club, Girls5eva) is set to direct, with a script by co-executive producer Tamara Chestna (Sneakerella) and Dan Frey and Ru Sommer (Descendants: The Rise of Red). Returning to the franchise are executive producers Suzanne Todd and Gary Marsh. Gatewood also serves as co-producer. Emmy® Award-winning choreographer Emilio Dosal (Wicked, Sneakerella) will bring the brand-new music-and-dance sequences, which have become a beloved hallmark of the Descendants franchise, to life.

“The love for the Descendants franchise runs deep, and the incredible response to Descendants: The Rise of Red last year proved just how much fans are invested in these characters and their stories,” said Ayo Davis, president, Disney Branded Television. “Our next movie will build on that legacy and deliver even more of the magic, music and heart that make Descendants so special — brought to life by an amazing cast and creative team who continue to elevate this world in new and exciting ways.”

A powerhouse franchise in youth entertainment, each premiere telecast of the first three Descendants movies ranks as the most-watched cable movie of the year (2015, 2017 and 2019) among Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14. The latest installment, Descendants: The Rise of Red, debuted on Disney+ in July and was last year’s most watched original movie across all streaming among Kids 6-11 and Girls 6-11.* Following the release of Descendants: The Rise of Red, the Descendants social handles reached over 10 billion impressions** and garnered over 11 million followers across X, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. “Red” was also a #1 top-selling Halloween costume in 2024.***

To further extend the storytelling, the first two movie soundtracks are certified gold, with the third and fourth movie soundtracks hitting No. 1 on Billboard’s Soundtrack chart and Children’s Album chart. Additionally, more than 57 books inspired by the Descendants worlds and characters have been published, including a four-time New York Times bestselling series. This summer, the North America-wide “Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour” will celebrate the music from the popular Descendants and Zombies franchises.

Available now on Disney+: Descendants: The Rise of Red, the first three Descendants movies, animated spinoff series Descendants: Wicked World, animated special Descendants: The Royal Wedding and several Descendants-inspired music videos.

*Source: Nielsen, SCR, 1/1-12/29/24, based on total hours of streaming for all movies.
**Source: YouTube Analytics. Lifetime subscribers and impressions of Descendants YouTube Channel – Lifetime through 2/19/25.
***Source: Party City

Today at New York Comic Con (NYCC), Disney Branded Television announced the voice cast for the highly anticipated new season of Phineas and Ferb, premiering in 2025 on Disney Channel and Disney+. And, for the first time in over a decade, co-creators and executive producers Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh will reunite with the rest of the cast at their NYCC panel, which also includes exclusive sneak peeks of the new season.

Known for its history of celebrity cameos from fans of the show, the new season will feature new guest appearances from notable actors, musicians, and athletes, among others. They will join Vincent Martella and David Errigo Jr. as stepbrothers Phineas Flynn and Ferb Fletcher, respectively, Ashley Tisdale as Candace Flynn, Caroline Rhea as Linda Flynn-Fletcher, Dee Bradley Baker as Perry the Platypus, Alyson Stoner as Isabella Garcia-Shapiro, Povenmire as Dr. Heinz Doofenshmirtz, and Marsh as Major Francis Monogram.

The new season of Phineas and Ferb will follow the inventive stepbrothers as they tackle another 104 days of summer. Candace is more determined than ever to finally bust her little brothers while their pet platypus, Perry, continues to lead a double life as the suave Agent P — whose sole mission is to thwart Dr. Doofenshmirtz from taking over the Tristate area.

The winner of five Emmy Awards, Phineas and Ferb is the most successful animated series for Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14 in Disney Television Animation history. It premiered in January 2008 and became the No. 1 animated TV series of 2009 among Tweens 9-14. The series’ ratings grew to No. 1 among both Kids 6-11 and Tweens 9-14 in 2011, and the first of two television movies it inspired, Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension, ranked in television’s Top 2 movies in 2011. The series became a global franchise for The Walt Disney Company — a first for a Disney Channel animated property for older kids. By 2012, its popularity burgeoned with a live touring show and junior novels, with extensions across every consumer products category, including apparel, toys, video games, food, health, and beauty. In 2020, Phineas and Ferb The Movie: Candace Against the Universe debuted on Disney+. The first four seasons and the films are currently available to stream on Disney+.

Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, a continuation of the Emmy Award-winning Wizards of Waverly Place, premieres with two episodes Tuesday, October 29, at 8 p.m. ET on Disney Channel. The first eight episodes will be available on Disney+ and Disney Channel On Demand the next day, Wednesday, October 30.

It was also announced today that Raven-Symoné (Raven’s Home) and Danielle Fishel (Girl Meets World) will direct episodes in Season 1.

Wizards Beyond Waverly Place follows an adult Justin Russo (David Henrie), who has chosen to lead a normal, mortal life with his family: Giada (Mimi Gianopulos), Roman (Alkaio Thiele), and Milo (Max Matenko). When Justin’s sister, Alex Russo (guest star Selena Gomez), brings Billie (Janice LeAnn Brown) to his home seeking help, Justin realizes he must dust off his magical skills to mentor the wizard-in-training while also juggling his everyday responsibilities — and safeguarding the future of the Wizard World.

Wizards Beyond Waverly Place also stars Taylor Cora as Winter.

Writers Jed Elinoff and Scott Thomas executive produce with Gary Marsh, Jonas Agin, Gomez, and Henrie. Andy Fickman directs and executive produces the pilot and will direct multiple episodes in Season 1. Wizards of Waverly Place was created by Todd Greenwald.

Following the series’ Disney Channel premiere, two new episodes — including a Halloween-themed episode — will premiere October 30 on Disney Channel. Beginning November 8, episode premieres move to Fridays at 8 p.m. ET, with two episodes weekly.

The first extended-length Bluey special, “The Sign,” will roll out on Sunday, April 14, across Disney+ (12 a.m. PT), Disney Junior (7 a.m. ET/PT), and Disney Channel (7:30 a.m. ET/PT). Jointly commissioned by ABC Children’s and BBC Studios Kids & Family, Bluey is created and written by Joe Brumm and produced by multi-Emmy Award-winning Ludo Studio in association with Screen Queensland and Screen Australia. Bluey is available to U.S. and global audiences via Disney+, Disney Junior, and Disney Channel (outside of Australia, China, and New Zealand).

Thanks to a global broadcasting deal between Disney Branded Television and BBC Studios Kids & Family, millions of fans around the world have been touched by Bluey‘s heartfelt and humorous portrayal of family life and its celebration of play. In fact, the award-winning and critically acclaimed animated series begins 2024 as the No. 1 most-streamed series across all audiences* and the No. 1 series for preschoolers and kids overall** in the U.S., per Nielsen.

“The world that Joe Brumm so beautifully created has captivated audiences everywhere with its delightful blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and characters that everyone can relate to,” says Ayo Davis, president, Disney Branded Television. “And with the massive reach of Disney+, Disney Junior, and Disney Channel, Bluey has truly become a global phenomenon.”

With the Heeler house up for sale—and a wedding on the horizon—the 28-minute special will depict how the family braves a new set of ups and downs together. “Joe, the creator, has this almost magical ability to distill the essence of what it’s like to be Bluey’s age,” says Melanie Zanetti, who voices Bluey and Bingo’s mindful mum, Chilli. “I think there’s just so much truth, beauty, and heart in Joe’s work. Even though Bluey is such a quintessentially Australian story, it also resonates universally because Joe gets so specific.”

“That’s surprised me, too,” says Dave McCormack, who voices Bluey and Bingo’s devoted dad, Bandit. “It’s so Australian, and yet it appeals to so many people around the world—across countries, across cultures. People just relate to it, so it’s quite unique in that way.”

Zanetti describes the events of “The Sign” as “monumental” for the Heeler family. “When we recorded our dialogue, we recorded each half [of the special] separately, so it was an emotional roller coaster. We didn’t actually know what was happening next,” she says. “But because we get 28 minutes, we’re able to go a lot deeper than we normally can in just seven minutes. It allows us to explore dynamics and relationships with much more nuance.”

There are “many layers” to the special, McCormack teases: “But I suppose the overarching layer is, ‘What will be, will be.’ And, also, “Don’t sweat every minute of every day trying to control everything.’” After audiences finish watching “The Sign,” Zanetti hopes they remember this: “The world is broad and wide, and it’s filled with so many ups and downs. Don’t hold on too tightly; be present with each other and take each moment as it comes. Make the best decision you can with the information you have at the time. Things can change in an instant—and maybe things will turn out better than our wildest imaginings.”

All three seasons of Bluey are currently streaming on Disney+, allowing audiences to revisit their favorite episodes time and again.

Not only do children adore the characters and stories, but adults have also found themselves engrossed in the Heeler family’s escapades. “I’ve had so many parents—dads especially—saying, ‘This show has taught me how to play with my kids. It’s taught me how to have really difficult conversations with them,’” Zanetti shares. “There’s an episode where a budgie dies, and parents have said, ‘That helped me talk about death with my kids.’ There’s another episode where Chilli says, ‘I just need 20 minutes!’ And I’ve had moms say, ‘Do you know what a gift that was to say, ‘You know how Chilli just needs 20 minutes and it has no bearing on my love for you? Mommy needs a moment.’”

“So many people have found this show has helped them to process stuff they’re going through, which is quite amazing for a ‘kids show,’ isn’t it?” McCormack says. “To appeal across the board and be emotionally and spiritually of help to people is really special.”

The Heeler family’s dynamics are as inspiring as they are relatable. But, McCormack cautions, it’s better to focus on the latter aspect and not get caught up in the former. “People often say, ‘Bandit and Chilli are the best parents ever. They’re putting everyone to shame!’” he says. “But I say, ‘That’s not true. They only have to do it for seven minutes—and they’re animated!’ We have to exist in real life, unscripted, 24/7. I think we do a pretty good job. If you only had to be animated for seven minutes, I reckon you’d be pretty unreal and amazing parents, too! But, as real people, you just can’t hold yourself up to that [standard].”

Bandit and Chilli “are flawed,” McCormack continues. “Sometimes they don’t have the answer and they don’t know what to do. That’s what it’s like for parents in real life.” Echoing that point, Zanetti says, “They’re really struggling. I think parents love Bluey so much because the parents are fallible. Everyone’s allowed to be human—or, in this case, canine.”

That’s part of the reason why Bluey has endeared itself to audiences of all ages, all around the world—and why Zanetti has “a laugh and a cry” whenever she receives a new script. “Joe really respects the audience,” she explains. “Nothing is didactic; it doesn’t talk at or down to anyone. Because of the world he’s created—which centers around imaginative play—there are a lot of inroads to grapple with big topics in a really beautiful, gentle way.”

*Source: Nielsen Streaming Content Ratings; Jan-Feb 2024 (1/1/24-2/25/25), P2+ hours viewed, Viewing of shows that air on multiple platforms versus all streaming programs tracked by Nielsen; live viewing

**Source: Nielsen Media Research time spent viewing for CY2024 to-date; 1/1/24-2/25/25 based on total hours viewed for Kids 2-5 and Kids 6-11 across linear and streaming combined, versus all other series tracked by Nielsen.