Exclusive: A reimagination of the Charlie’s Angels franchise for tweens set in Brazil is in development from Sony Pictures Television – Kids and Sony Pictures Television-backed Floresta.
Viewers can expect the same high-octane action and comedy from the various Charlie’s Angels projects as well as a mysterious boss and empowered young female characters. Brazilian actress and writer, Suzana Pires (Sol Nascente; Flor do Caribe) will pen the Portuguese-language, live-action collaboration.
At the center of the tale are three pre-teens from different backgrounds and realities who are selected by a talent scout according to their special skills to join a secret school of spies called the Angels Academy. Each episode will follow the angels as they solve crimes and save the world…all while navigating their first year of spy school. The stories will blend a mix of real, relatable and at times, absurd cases, amped up with elements of fun and wish fulfillment.
Viewers can expect the same high-octane action and comedy from the various Charlie’s Angels projects as well as a mysterious boss and empowered young female characters. Brazilian actress and writer, Suzana Pires (Sol Nascente; Flor do Caribe) will pen the Portuguese-language, live-action collaboration.
At the center of the tale are three pre-teens from different backgrounds and realities who are selected by a talent scout according to their special skills to join a secret school of spies called the Angels Academy. Each episode will follow the angels as they solve crimes and save the world…all while navigating their first year of spy school. The stories will blend a mix of real, relatable and at times, absurd cases, amped up with elements of fun and wish fulfillment.
- 5/9/2024
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Composer Howard Ashman’s body of work will be celebrated at ASCAP’s Musical Theatre Fest.
The conversation, titled “Part of Our World: Celebrating the Life & Lyrics of Howard Ashman,” will feature interviews and performances from “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast, “Aladdin” and more selections across the composer’s career.
Now in its second year, the ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre Fest returns to the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts from May 14 to 21.
The festival will focus on music from film and TV animation, featuring award-winning composers and top executives from film and TV animation studios, geared to aspiring musical theatre writers.
Glenn Slater, Heitor Pereira (“Despicable Me”), Future Vega (“Fast & Furious Spy Racers”) and Raye Zaragoza (“Spirit Rangers”) are some of the ASCAP composers scheduled to appear.
Panel discussions with studio executives include Alexandra Nickson, Vivian Buff, Joe D’Ambrosia and Jay Stutler. Conversations will focus...
The conversation, titled “Part of Our World: Celebrating the Life & Lyrics of Howard Ashman,” will feature interviews and performances from “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast, “Aladdin” and more selections across the composer’s career.
Now in its second year, the ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre Fest returns to the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts from May 14 to 21.
The festival will focus on music from film and TV animation, featuring award-winning composers and top executives from film and TV animation studios, geared to aspiring musical theatre writers.
Glenn Slater, Heitor Pereira (“Despicable Me”), Future Vega (“Fast & Furious Spy Racers”) and Raye Zaragoza (“Spirit Rangers”) are some of the ASCAP composers scheduled to appear.
Panel discussions with studio executives include Alexandra Nickson, Vivian Buff, Joe D’Ambrosia and Jay Stutler. Conversations will focus...
- 4/18/2024
- by Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Sony Pictures Television has taken a £39.7M ($50.5M) hit on Silvergate Media, the Peter Rabbit producer it acquired for $195M in 2019.
Sony declared the impairment in accounts for Columbia Pictures Corporation Limited, the parent company for its operations in the UK, where Silvergate was founded in 2011.
Columbia Pictures Corporation did not provide reasons for the impairment and Sony declined to comment when approached by Deadline.
Kids TV is enduring something of a crisis in the UK, where key players have been hit by waning traditional TV audiences, a sharp rise in production costs, and declining commercial opportunities to sell shows around the world. The Children’s Media Foundation is planning an emergency summit.
Silvergate, rebranded as Sony Pictures Television – Kids in 2022, made the Nickelodeon/BBC animated series Peter Rabbit, reimagining the famous Beatrix Potter character. The company also boasts brands including Octonauts.
William Astor, who co-founded Silvergate with Waheed Alli,...
Sony declared the impairment in accounts for Columbia Pictures Corporation Limited, the parent company for its operations in the UK, where Silvergate was founded in 2011.
Columbia Pictures Corporation did not provide reasons for the impairment and Sony declined to comment when approached by Deadline.
Kids TV is enduring something of a crisis in the UK, where key players have been hit by waning traditional TV audiences, a sharp rise in production costs, and declining commercial opportunities to sell shows around the world. The Children’s Media Foundation is planning an emergency summit.
Silvergate, rebranded as Sony Pictures Television – Kids in 2022, made the Nickelodeon/BBC animated series Peter Rabbit, reimagining the famous Beatrix Potter character. The company also boasts brands including Octonauts.
William Astor, who co-founded Silvergate with Waheed Alli,...
- 1/10/2024
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
William Astor, who co-founded kids TV juggernaut Silvergate Media, has stepped down as the company’s chair.
Silvergate, which was acquired by Sony Pictures Television in 2019, quietly re-branded as Sony Pictures Television – Kids in 2022.
“I can confirm I am no longer associated with Sony and have resigned as director and chairman,” Astor told Variety. He stepped down at the end of December.
Astor originally co-founded the company alongside well-known British television producer Waheed Alli back in 2011. It is best known for producing children’s animated franchises “Octonauts” — which has inspired films and theme park attractions across the world — and Nickelodeon animation “Peter Rabbit,” based on the classic children’s books by Beatrix Potter. It has also produced shows including “Hilda,” a Netflix animated series based on Luke Pearson’s graphic novels of the same name, and Nickelodeon’s “Sunny Day,” about the adventures of a young hair stylist.
Sony paid...
Silvergate, which was acquired by Sony Pictures Television in 2019, quietly re-branded as Sony Pictures Television – Kids in 2022.
“I can confirm I am no longer associated with Sony and have resigned as director and chairman,” Astor told Variety. He stepped down at the end of December.
Astor originally co-founded the company alongside well-known British television producer Waheed Alli back in 2011. It is best known for producing children’s animated franchises “Octonauts” — which has inspired films and theme park attractions across the world — and Nickelodeon animation “Peter Rabbit,” based on the classic children’s books by Beatrix Potter. It has also produced shows including “Hilda,” a Netflix animated series based on Luke Pearson’s graphic novels of the same name, and Nickelodeon’s “Sunny Day,” about the adventures of a young hair stylist.
Sony paid...
- 1/10/2024
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Claire’s is teaming up with Sony Pictures Television – Kids to create a new series for young people for the global marketplace.
The first-time collaboration will expand on Claire’s existing global platform, which includes more than 2,750 stores, franchised locations across the globe, an original experience in the Metaverse, more than 18 million loyalty members, and an eCommerce platform, and will leverage Spt – Kids’ content creation team, which develops and distributes kids programming in over 200 countries worldwide. Claire’s and Spt-Kids will also explore opportunities for merchandise and experiences tied to the series.
CMedia, Claire’s exclusive production arm which launched in 2021, is home to original content created in the spirit and purpose of the brand.
“We have an incredible opportunity to leverage Claire’s relevance, impact and equity to build compelling content that appeals to Gen Zalpha. This connection, combined with Sony Pictures Television, a true leader in the...
The first-time collaboration will expand on Claire’s existing global platform, which includes more than 2,750 stores, franchised locations across the globe, an original experience in the Metaverse, more than 18 million loyalty members, and an eCommerce platform, and will leverage Spt – Kids’ content creation team, which develops and distributes kids programming in over 200 countries worldwide. Claire’s and Spt-Kids will also explore opportunities for merchandise and experiences tied to the series.
CMedia, Claire’s exclusive production arm which launched in 2021, is home to original content created in the spirit and purpose of the brand.
“We have an incredible opportunity to leverage Claire’s relevance, impact and equity to build compelling content that appeals to Gen Zalpha. This connection, combined with Sony Pictures Television, a true leader in the...
- 11/15/2023
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
HBO original series “The Gilded Age” has dropped a trailer for its eight-episode second season, premiering Oct. 29 on HBO and streaming on Max. Julian Fellowes (“Downton Abbey”) serves as creator, writer and executive producer.
Set in the titular time period around the 1880s, this historical drama chronicles the divisions in wealthy society. It chiefly follows Bertha Russell (Carrie Coon), an aspiring socialite whose husband, George Russell (Morgan Spector) is a railroad tycoon. Bertha enters the New York high society scene, only to find that the other ladies look down on her “new money” status. She makes an enemy of “old money” Agnes van Rhijn (Christine Baranski), who believes that Bertha doesn’t belong in their world.
Season 2 sees the conflict between Bertha and the “old system” ramp up after Bertha’s bid for a box at the Academy of Music is rejected and she decides to fights back.
“You seem...
Set in the titular time period around the 1880s, this historical drama chronicles the divisions in wealthy society. It chiefly follows Bertha Russell (Carrie Coon), an aspiring socialite whose husband, George Russell (Morgan Spector) is a railroad tycoon. Bertha enters the New York high society scene, only to find that the other ladies look down on her “new money” status. She makes an enemy of “old money” Agnes van Rhijn (Christine Baranski), who believes that Bertha doesn’t belong in their world.
Season 2 sees the conflict between Bertha and the “old system” ramp up after Bertha’s bid for a box at the Academy of Music is rejected and she decides to fights back.
“You seem...
- 10/11/2023
- by Caroline Brew, Valerie Wu and Jaden Thompson
- Variety Film + TV
Lionel Messi Gets Animated With Sony
Argentinian soccer star Lionel Messi has inspired an animated series from Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Picture Television – Kids. Messi and the Giants, which also counts Leo Messi Management as a co-creator, will launch at Mipcom next week. The series depicts a 12-year-old Messi as he confronts various obstacles while traveling a video game on a quest to get home. “Football is the only sport around the world that can inspire excitement and connection in the same way that storytelling does,” said Joe D’Ambrosia, EVP & General Manager, Sony Pictures Television – Kids. Story editor and writer Guy Toubes (Odd Squad) is attached to the project, while Canary Islands-based Atlantis Animation serves as the lead creative studio driving graphic development and art treatment.
Srmg and Warner Bros. Discovery Launch Asharq Discovery
Riyadh-registered, pan-mena integrated media group Srmg and Warner Bros. Discovery have partnered to launch Arabic-language infotainment platform Asharq Discovery.
Argentinian soccer star Lionel Messi has inspired an animated series from Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Picture Television – Kids. Messi and the Giants, which also counts Leo Messi Management as a co-creator, will launch at Mipcom next week. The series depicts a 12-year-old Messi as he confronts various obstacles while traveling a video game on a quest to get home. “Football is the only sport around the world that can inspire excitement and connection in the same way that storytelling does,” said Joe D’Ambrosia, EVP & General Manager, Sony Pictures Television – Kids. Story editor and writer Guy Toubes (Odd Squad) is attached to the project, while Canary Islands-based Atlantis Animation serves as the lead creative studio driving graphic development and art treatment.
Srmg and Warner Bros. Discovery Launch Asharq Discovery
Riyadh-registered, pan-mena integrated media group Srmg and Warner Bros. Discovery have partnered to launch Arabic-language infotainment platform Asharq Discovery.
- 10/10/2023
- by Melanie Goodfellow, Jesse Whittock and Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
A new animated series is coming from Lionel “Leo” Messi: “Messi and the Giants.” The show is inspired by Argentinian soccer superstar Messi and “depicts a 12-year-old Messi as he confronts various obstacles while traveling throughout a video game on a quest to go home.”
“We can’t wait to share the vision and creative direction behind this inspirational series with full support from Leo and his incredible team,” said Sony Music Entertainment’s Fernando Cabral in a statement.
“Football is the only sport around the world that can inspire excitement and connection in the same way that storytelling does,” Sony Pictures Television — Kids’ Joe D’Ambrosia said. “What makes this series special is that it focuses on the same principles of good sportsmanship… it’s about perseverance, resilience, teamwork and believing in yourself.”
More details are set to be released to broadcast and streaming partners later this month, D’Ambrosia added.
“We can’t wait to share the vision and creative direction behind this inspirational series with full support from Leo and his incredible team,” said Sony Music Entertainment’s Fernando Cabral in a statement.
“Football is the only sport around the world that can inspire excitement and connection in the same way that storytelling does,” Sony Pictures Television — Kids’ Joe D’Ambrosia said. “What makes this series special is that it focuses on the same principles of good sportsmanship… it’s about perseverance, resilience, teamwork and believing in yourself.”
More details are set to be released to broadcast and streaming partners later this month, D’Ambrosia added.
- 10/9/2023
- by Stephanie Kaloi
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Sony Pictures Television – Kids is headed to Mipcom with reinventions of Bewitched, Stuart Little and Wheel of Fortune, and original series such as Sharks on Wheels.
The kids production and distribution arm of Sony has a slate also comprising Hotel Whiskers and The Powers. The shows will launch at Mipcom Junior, the kids event that precedes the main Mipcom market in Cannes, France in October.
Spt – Kids was known as Silvergate Media until November last year, after Sony bought the Lord Waheed Alli-founded kids producer in 2019. In the past year, the unit has been delving into the Sony IP catalog to develop new projects.
Adaptations of Bewitched, Stuart Little and Wheel of Fortune were first unveiled over the summer. Based on the 1960s and 1970s comedy series, the new Bewitched follows witch Samantha’s pre-teen daughter Tabitha and “combines the teenage double-life adventures of Hannah Montana with the magic school antics of Harry Potter,...
The kids production and distribution arm of Sony has a slate also comprising Hotel Whiskers and The Powers. The shows will launch at Mipcom Junior, the kids event that precedes the main Mipcom market in Cannes, France in October.
Spt – Kids was known as Silvergate Media until November last year, after Sony bought the Lord Waheed Alli-founded kids producer in 2019. In the past year, the unit has been delving into the Sony IP catalog to develop new projects.
Adaptations of Bewitched, Stuart Little and Wheel of Fortune were first unveiled over the summer. Based on the 1960s and 1970s comedy series, the new Bewitched follows witch Samantha’s pre-teen daughter Tabitha and “combines the teenage double-life adventures of Hannah Montana with the magic school antics of Harry Potter,...
- 10/3/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Sony is looking to relaunch some of its classic TV programs and unscripted series for younger audiences, with its Kids division looking to create animated spinoffs of Bewitched and The Partridge Family, as well as kid-centric versions of Wheel of Fortune and Shark Tank. Sony’s kid-centered spinoff of Wheel of Fortune could add new twists such as physical and comedic challenges to earn letters and buy vowels. “Our mission is straightforward and clear,” Joe D’Ambrosia, executive VP and general manager of Sony Pictures Television — Kids, told The Hollywood Reporter. “We’d like to be known as a premier content creator for kids who build new global franchises for Sony, like the Spt scripted team has done with Cobra Kai, the game show division has accomplished with Jeopardy! and the international team with The Crown, but in the kids’ space.” “There’s such a vast history at Sony Pictures Television...
- 6/8/2023
- TV Insider
Sony is reaching into its vast catalog of TV properties to develop programming aimed at young viewers.
The studio’s Sony Pictures Television — Kids (formerly known as Silvergate Media) is developing animated takes on classic sitcoms Bewitched and The Partridge Family. It’s also delving into its library of game shows and unscripted series, with early takes on kid-centric versions of Wheel of Fortune and Shark Tank.
“There’s such a vast history at Sony Pictures Television with properties that we could play around with and reinvent, introducing a whole new generation of kids to them,” Joe D’Ambrosia, executive vp and general manager of Spt — Kids (and a member of The Hollywood Reporter’s 2023 Kids Entertainment Power List), told THR.
The Bewitched update would focus on Tabitha Stevens, the 13-year-old daughter of witch Samantha and human Darrin. She juggles two lives attending middle school while also being secretly enrolled in...
The studio’s Sony Pictures Television — Kids (formerly known as Silvergate Media) is developing animated takes on classic sitcoms Bewitched and The Partridge Family. It’s also delving into its library of game shows and unscripted series, with early takes on kid-centric versions of Wheel of Fortune and Shark Tank.
“There’s such a vast history at Sony Pictures Television with properties that we could play around with and reinvent, introducing a whole new generation of kids to them,” Joe D’Ambrosia, executive vp and general manager of Spt — Kids (and a member of The Hollywood Reporter’s 2023 Kids Entertainment Power List), told THR.
The Bewitched update would focus on Tabitha Stevens, the 13-year-old daughter of witch Samantha and human Darrin. She juggles two lives attending middle school while also being secretly enrolled in...
- 6/8/2023
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Alyssa Sapire has been promoted to the role of senior vice president of development, series and strategy for Disney Junior.
Sapire has been serving in this role on interim basis since March, following the exit of Joe D’Ambrosia. In the now permanent role, Sapire will lead all content for the preschool age brand. She will report to Ayo Davis, president of Disney Branded Television.
Sapire now has oversight over Disney Junior content, encompassing strategic oversight of development, current and acquired programming for linear and streaming. She will work closely with Disney Media Entertainment and Distribution to identify, develop and advance Disney Junior franchise opportunities, extending the Disney Junior brand to consumers across multiple touchpoints.
Furthermore, Sapire has announced her new executive team across development and current. Kim Berglund, vice president of development, will lead development for Disney Junior with oversight of all series, specials and shorts in development, including identifying new creative talent.
Sapire has been serving in this role on interim basis since March, following the exit of Joe D’Ambrosia. In the now permanent role, Sapire will lead all content for the preschool age brand. She will report to Ayo Davis, president of Disney Branded Television.
Sapire now has oversight over Disney Junior content, encompassing strategic oversight of development, current and acquired programming for linear and streaming. She will work closely with Disney Media Entertainment and Distribution to identify, develop and advance Disney Junior franchise opportunities, extending the Disney Junior brand to consumers across multiple touchpoints.
Furthermore, Sapire has announced her new executive team across development and current. Kim Berglund, vice president of development, will lead development for Disney Junior with oversight of all series, specials and shorts in development, including identifying new creative talent.
- 11/4/2022
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Disney Branded Television has promoted Alyssa Sapire to SVP, Development, Series and Strategy at Disney Junior.
Sapire, previously SVP, Original Programming, has been acting in the role since March, succeeding Joe D’Ambrosia who left to join Sony Pictures TV. The promotion has now been made permanent.
In the top programming post, Sapire serves as the creative lead for Disney Junior content, encompassing strategic oversight of development, current and acquired programming for linear and streaming. She will also work closely with Disney Media Entertainment and Distribution to identify, develop and advance Disney Junior franchise opportunities.
Sapire has solidified her senior leadership team. Kim Berglund has been tapped as VP of development with oversight of all series, specials and shorts in development, including identifying new creative talent. Diane Ikemiyashiro and Lori Mozilo will both serve as VP of current series. The two will co-lead, each having oversight on any projects in production,...
Sapire, previously SVP, Original Programming, has been acting in the role since March, succeeding Joe D’Ambrosia who left to join Sony Pictures TV. The promotion has now been made permanent.
In the top programming post, Sapire serves as the creative lead for Disney Junior content, encompassing strategic oversight of development, current and acquired programming for linear and streaming. She will also work closely with Disney Media Entertainment and Distribution to identify, develop and advance Disney Junior franchise opportunities.
Sapire has solidified her senior leadership team. Kim Berglund has been tapped as VP of development with oversight of all series, specials and shorts in development, including identifying new creative talent. Diane Ikemiyashiro and Lori Mozilo will both serve as VP of current series. The two will co-lead, each having oversight on any projects in production,...
- 11/4/2022
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
Sony Pictures Television has named kids programming vet Joe D’Ambrosia has been named EVP & General Manager of its Silvergate Media subsidiary.
Starting on April 1, D’Ambrosia will be based at the Sony lot in Culver City, CA and also spend time with Silvergate’s teams in New York and London. Sony acquired Silvergate in 2019.
Reporting to Ravi Ahuja, Chairman Global Television Studios and Sony Pictures Entertainment Corporate Development, D’Ambrosia will take over for Silvergate CEO Waheed Alli, who will step down this summer. Alli, a co-creator of Survivor, is an established figure in the worlds of media and politics is a member of the House of Lords in the UK.
Prior to Silvergate, D’Ambrosia spent a decade at Disney, most recently at Disney Junior, where he was SVP of original programming and general manager. He oversaw all extensions of the Disney Junior brand, on-and-off screen, plus development and...
Starting on April 1, D’Ambrosia will be based at the Sony lot in Culver City, CA and also spend time with Silvergate’s teams in New York and London. Sony acquired Silvergate in 2019.
Reporting to Ravi Ahuja, Chairman Global Television Studios and Sony Pictures Entertainment Corporate Development, D’Ambrosia will take over for Silvergate CEO Waheed Alli, who will step down this summer. Alli, a co-creator of Survivor, is an established figure in the worlds of media and politics is a member of the House of Lords in the UK.
Prior to Silvergate, D’Ambrosia spent a decade at Disney, most recently at Disney Junior, where he was SVP of original programming and general manager. He oversaw all extensions of the Disney Junior brand, on-and-off screen, plus development and...
- 2/18/2022
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Joe D’Ambrosia has been named executive vice president and general manager of Silvergate Media, Sony Pictures Television said Friday.
In his new role, D’Ambrosia will be the creative and strategic business leader, overseeing day-to-day operations of the company, which develops, produces and licenses top children’s programming.
He will step into his new position April 1, taking over for Silvergate CEO Waheed Alli, who will be stepping down this summer.
“I am thrilled to be joining Sony Pictures Television and Silvergate at such an exciting and pivotal time in kids’ entertainment,” D’Ambrosia said in a statement. “In my 10 years at Disney Junior, I have had the good fortune of working alongside one of the best teams in the business. This is the ideal next step to be collaborating with Ravi and the incredibly innovative and creative teams at Sony and Silvergate to produce world-class storytelling for kids and families around the globe.
In his new role, D’Ambrosia will be the creative and strategic business leader, overseeing day-to-day operations of the company, which develops, produces and licenses top children’s programming.
He will step into his new position April 1, taking over for Silvergate CEO Waheed Alli, who will be stepping down this summer.
“I am thrilled to be joining Sony Pictures Television and Silvergate at such an exciting and pivotal time in kids’ entertainment,” D’Ambrosia said in a statement. “In my 10 years at Disney Junior, I have had the good fortune of working alongside one of the best teams in the business. This is the ideal next step to be collaborating with Ravi and the incredibly innovative and creative teams at Sony and Silvergate to produce world-class storytelling for kids and families around the globe.
- 2/18/2022
- by Katie Campione
- The Wrap
Disney Junior exec Joe D’Ambrosia has been hired as executive vice president and general manager of Sony Pictures Television’s Silvergate Media. D’Ambrosia will be taking over for Silvergate founder Waheed Alli, who is stepping down from his post as CEO this summer.
In his new role at the Sony-owned children’s programming producer, D’Ambrosia will serve as Silvergate’s creative and strategic business leader, overseeing day-to-day operations of the company. He will work closely with the Silvergate team to drive continued growth and maximize opportunities to expand the company’s position in the market.
D’Ambrosia will report to Ravi Ahuja, chairman of global television studios and Sony Pictures Entertainment corporate development. He will begin at Silvergate Media on April 1 and be based in Spt’s Culver City, California headquarters, while also spending time with the company’s teams in New York and London.
Alli founded...
In his new role at the Sony-owned children’s programming producer, D’Ambrosia will serve as Silvergate’s creative and strategic business leader, overseeing day-to-day operations of the company. He will work closely with the Silvergate team to drive continued growth and maximize opportunities to expand the company’s position in the market.
D’Ambrosia will report to Ravi Ahuja, chairman of global television studios and Sony Pictures Entertainment corporate development. He will begin at Silvergate Media on April 1 and be based in Spt’s Culver City, California headquarters, while also spending time with the company’s teams in New York and London.
Alli founded...
- 2/18/2022
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Disney is ready to launch “Rise Up, Sing Out,” a short-form animated musical series that aims to deliver inspiring. empowering and optimistic messages about culture and celebrating differences. The eight-episode series, which is executive produced by Ahmir ‘”Questlove” Thompson and Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter of the Roots, will be available on Disney Plus starting Wednesday, February 2, but the but the first episode will be presented on Disney Channel and Disney Junior.
Questlove and Black Thought produced the music for the series and executive producers of the series, but they appear in it as well, depicted as animated characters.
The series, which will touch upon themes like diversity, inclusion, kindness and self-expression, was produced in response to parents who have increasingly asked Disney Junior for entertainment content to aid them in talking to children about respect towards others. Disney found academic research showing children as young as three become aware of...
Questlove and Black Thought produced the music for the series and executive producers of the series, but they appear in it as well, depicted as animated characters.
The series, which will touch upon themes like diversity, inclusion, kindness and self-expression, was produced in response to parents who have increasingly asked Disney Junior for entertainment content to aid them in talking to children about respect towards others. Disney found academic research showing children as young as three become aware of...
- 2/2/2022
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
Disney Junior has greenlit a second season of “Mickey Mouse Funhouse,” following the series’ debut in August.
“Mickey Mouse Funhouse” features Funny, an enchanted talking playhouse voiced by Harvey Guillén, who leads Mickey Mouse and friends like Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy and Pluto on adventures. Aimed at kids between two and seven and their families, the show tries to spur imaginative play and deliver social and emotional lessons about friendship, creativity and ingenuity.
New episodes of the show have generated views on both Disney Junior’s YouTube channel as well as its linear cable outlet. “The enduring love for Mickey Mouse and friends continues to be shared from generation to generation, and we are eager to provide more opportunities for preschool audiences and their families to connect with these beloved characters,” said Joe D’Ambrosia, senior vice president, original programming and general manager, Disney Junior, in a statement.
“Mickey Mouse Funhouse” features Funny, an enchanted talking playhouse voiced by Harvey Guillén, who leads Mickey Mouse and friends like Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy and Pluto on adventures. Aimed at kids between two and seven and their families, the show tries to spur imaginative play and deliver social and emotional lessons about friendship, creativity and ingenuity.
New episodes of the show have generated views on both Disney Junior’s YouTube channel as well as its linear cable outlet. “The enduring love for Mickey Mouse and friends continues to be shared from generation to generation, and we are eager to provide more opportunities for preschool audiences and their families to connect with these beloved characters,” said Joe D’Ambrosia, senior vice president, original programming and general manager, Disney Junior, in a statement.
- 10/19/2021
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
Emmy Award-winning writer and producer Travis Braun signed a new overall deal with Disney to develop and produce both animated and live-action content across linear and streaming platforms for Disney Branded Television.
The partnership also includes a first look at any of his projects for other Disney-owned platforms, including additional streaming and theatrical releases.
“I’m thrilled to continue to call Disney my home and bring imaginative, new worlds to life under the thoughtful leadership of Peter Rice, Gary Marsh, Joe D’Ambrosia, Ayo Davis, and their teams, Braun said in a statement.
“We share a passion for telling rich stories that matter to audiences around the world in the way that Disney’s content always has. It is truly a privilege to help write this next chapter of the magic that I grew up on.”
It was also revealed that Braun’s new preschool series Pupstruction has been greenlit for...
The partnership also includes a first look at any of his projects for other Disney-owned platforms, including additional streaming and theatrical releases.
“I’m thrilled to continue to call Disney my home and bring imaginative, new worlds to life under the thoughtful leadership of Peter Rice, Gary Marsh, Joe D’Ambrosia, Ayo Davis, and their teams, Braun said in a statement.
“We share a passion for telling rich stories that matter to audiences around the world in the way that Disney’s content always has. It is truly a privilege to help write this next chapter of the magic that I grew up on.”
It was also revealed that Braun’s new preschool series Pupstruction has been greenlit for...
- 8/18/2021
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and so, too, is a very special birthday for Disney Junior, the Mouse House’s home for content targeting younger children: It’s turning 10.
Disney Junior first came to be on Feb. 14, 2011, as a programming block on Disney Channel, anchored by the premiere of “Jake and the Neverland Pirates.” A year later, it became its own 24-hour channel, home to such hits as “Pirates,” “Doc McStuffins,” “Sofia the First,” “Elena of Avalor,” “The Lion Guard,” “Muppet Babies,” “T.O.T.S.,” “Puppy Dog Pals” and “Mira, Royal Detective.”
“Disney Junior has always been about embracing emotional, character-driven storytelling featuring age-appropriate lessons for preschoolers, combined with a touch of Disney magic that the whole family can enjoy together. We’re proud of the diverse series and characters that we’ve built over the last 10 years, including the groundbreaking ‘Doc McStuffins,’ introducing Disney’s first Latina princess...
Disney Junior first came to be on Feb. 14, 2011, as a programming block on Disney Channel, anchored by the premiere of “Jake and the Neverland Pirates.” A year later, it became its own 24-hour channel, home to such hits as “Pirates,” “Doc McStuffins,” “Sofia the First,” “Elena of Avalor,” “The Lion Guard,” “Muppet Babies,” “T.O.T.S.,” “Puppy Dog Pals” and “Mira, Royal Detective.”
“Disney Junior has always been about embracing emotional, character-driven storytelling featuring age-appropriate lessons for preschoolers, combined with a touch of Disney magic that the whole family can enjoy together. We’re proud of the diverse series and characters that we’ve built over the last 10 years, including the groundbreaking ‘Doc McStuffins,’ introducing Disney’s first Latina princess...
- 2/12/2021
- by Terry Flores
- Variety Film + TV
Mira, Royal Detective – Disney Junior hosted the world premiere of upcoming animated series “Mira, Royal Detective” at The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, CA on Saturday, March 7. Cast members including Freida Pinto, Utkarsh Ambudkar and Leela Ladnier were joined by special guests and their families. Debuting March 20, 2020 in the U.S. and India, the series is set in the magical Indian-inspired land of Jalpur and follows the brave and resourceful Mira, a young girl who is appointed to the role of royal detective by the Queen. (Disney Junior/Image Group La)
Joe D’Ambrosia, Shagorika Ghosh Perkins (Cultural Consultant), Becca Topol (Story Editor), Deepak Ramapriyan (Musical Consultant), Amritha Vaz (Composer), Sascha Paladino (Executive Producer), Nakul Dev Mahajan (Bollywood Choreographer), Diane Ikemiyashiro
The exciting new Disney Junior show titled Mira, Royal Detective is getting ready for it’s worldwide debut. Mira, Royal Detective is an animated mystery-adventure series for preschoolers inspired by...
Joe D’Ambrosia, Shagorika Ghosh Perkins (Cultural Consultant), Becca Topol (Story Editor), Deepak Ramapriyan (Musical Consultant), Amritha Vaz (Composer), Sascha Paladino (Executive Producer), Nakul Dev Mahajan (Bollywood Choreographer), Diane Ikemiyashiro
The exciting new Disney Junior show titled Mira, Royal Detective is getting ready for it’s worldwide debut. Mira, Royal Detective is an animated mystery-adventure series for preschoolers inspired by...
- 3/10/2020
- by Stacey Yount
- Bollyspice
Mira, Royal Detective hasn't even aired one episode yet, and it isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Disney renewed the Disney Junior series ahead of its premiere in 2020. Leela Ladnier makes her voice debut as Mira in this animated series.
Disney revealed more about the renewal and new series in a press release. Check that out below.
“ has ordered a second season of Mira, Royal Detective ahead of its spring 2020 debut. The news was announced last night by Joe D'Ambrosia, senior vice president, Original Programming and general manager, Disney Junior, during a special advance screening of the series in Burbank, California. Set in the magical Indian- inspired land of Jalpur, the series follows the brave and resourceful Mira, a commoner who is appointed to the role of royal detective by the queen and travels throughout her...
Disney revealed more about the renewal and new series in a press release. Check that out below.
“ has ordered a second season of Mira, Royal Detective ahead of its spring 2020 debut. The news was announced last night by Joe D'Ambrosia, senior vice president, Original Programming and general manager, Disney Junior, during a special advance screening of the series in Burbank, California. Set in the magical Indian- inspired land of Jalpur, the series follows the brave and resourceful Mira, a commoner who is appointed to the role of royal detective by the queen and travels throughout her...
- 12/13/2019
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Disney Junior has given an early season 2 renewal to animated, mystery-adventure series Mira, Royal Detective, ahead of its anticipated spring 2020 debut. The news was announced today by Joe D’Ambrosia, Svp Original Programming and general manager, Disney Junior, during a special advance screening of the series in Burbank, CA.
Set in the magical Indian-inspired land of Jalpur, the series follows the brave and resourceful Mira, played by newcomer Leela Ladnier, a commoner who is appointed to the role of royal detective by the queen and travels throughout her kingdom to help royals and commoners alike. Each episode features two 11-minute stories that celebrate the cultures and customs of India by incorporating authentic storytelling, music, food, fashion, language, art and dance.
Ladnier, Freida Pinto, Kal Penn, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Hannah Simone, Jameela Jamil and Aasif Mandvi lead the cast, along with Hannah Simone, Sarita Choudhury, Aparna Nancherla, Kamran Lucas, Karan Brar, Karan Soni.
Set in the magical Indian-inspired land of Jalpur, the series follows the brave and resourceful Mira, played by newcomer Leela Ladnier, a commoner who is appointed to the role of royal detective by the queen and travels throughout her kingdom to help royals and commoners alike. Each episode features two 11-minute stories that celebrate the cultures and customs of India by incorporating authentic storytelling, music, food, fashion, language, art and dance.
Ladnier, Freida Pinto, Kal Penn, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Hannah Simone, Jameela Jamil and Aasif Mandvi lead the cast, along with Hannah Simone, Sarita Choudhury, Aparna Nancherla, Kamran Lucas, Karan Brar, Karan Soni.
- 12/12/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Joe D’Ambrosia is expanding his role of senior vice president, original programming Disney Junior with a promotion to general manager.
D’Ambrosia will continue to be responsible for all development and production of Disney’s original programming content for kids 2-7 as well as acquisitions for the preschooler demographic. The announcement was made today by Nancy Kanter, executive vice president, Content and Creative Strategy, Disney Channels Worldwide, to whom he continues to report.
D’Ambrosia joined Disney in 2011 and played a crucial role in steering Disney Junior channel to be the #1 preschooler network for the past six years (2013-18). In 2018, he led the development of a 120 show tour, Disney Junior Dance Party On Tour, the first of its kind for Disney Junior.
Kanter also announced the realignment of key roles under the leadership of Meredith Roberts, senior vice president, Animation Strategy, and a fourth role that will continue Disney’s commitment to diverse programming.
D’Ambrosia will continue to be responsible for all development and production of Disney’s original programming content for kids 2-7 as well as acquisitions for the preschooler demographic. The announcement was made today by Nancy Kanter, executive vice president, Content and Creative Strategy, Disney Channels Worldwide, to whom he continues to report.
D’Ambrosia joined Disney in 2011 and played a crucial role in steering Disney Junior channel to be the #1 preschooler network for the past six years (2013-18). In 2018, he led the development of a 120 show tour, Disney Junior Dance Party On Tour, the first of its kind for Disney Junior.
Kanter also announced the realignment of key roles under the leadership of Meredith Roberts, senior vice president, Animation Strategy, and a fourth role that will continue Disney’s commitment to diverse programming.
- 3/5/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Joe D'Ambrosia has been promoted to general manager at Disney Junior.
D'Ambrosia, who most recently was senior vp original programming at the preschooler brand, will now oversee all extensions of the Disney Junior experience on- and offscreen. He'll also continue to be responsible for all development and production of Disney's original programming content for kids two to seven, as well as acquisitions for the preschooler demo.
D'Ambrosia joined Disney in 2011 and is credited with playing a key role in Disney Junior's success as the top-preschooler network for the past six years. In 2018,...
D'Ambrosia, who most recently was senior vp original programming at the preschooler brand, will now oversee all extensions of the Disney Junior experience on- and offscreen. He'll also continue to be responsible for all development and production of Disney's original programming content for kids two to seven, as well as acquisitions for the preschooler demo.
D'Ambrosia joined Disney in 2011 and is credited with playing a key role in Disney Junior's success as the top-preschooler network for the past six years. In 2018,...
Princess Sofia from the upcoming Disney Channel and Disney Junior TV feature, "Sofia the First: Once Upon a Princess," was all set to make history as Walt Disney's first-ever Latina princess. But now, following a big hullabaloo from some who thought her auburn hair, fair skin and blue eyes didn't look "Hispanic enough," the company is backtracking, saying Sofia's not actually Latina.
"Some of you may have seen the recent news stories on whether Sofia is or isn't a 'Latina princess.' What's important to know is that Sofia is a fairytale girl who lives in a fairytale world," writes Nancy Kanter, senior vice president of original programming and general manager of Disney Junior Worldwide, on the "Sofia the First" Facebook page. "All our characters come from fantasy lands that may reflect elements of various cultures and ethnicities but none are meant to specifically represent those real world cultures."
She continues,...
"Some of you may have seen the recent news stories on whether Sofia is or isn't a 'Latina princess.' What's important to know is that Sofia is a fairytale girl who lives in a fairytale world," writes Nancy Kanter, senior vice president of original programming and general manager of Disney Junior Worldwide, on the "Sofia the First" Facebook page. "All our characters come from fantasy lands that may reflect elements of various cultures and ethnicities but none are meant to specifically represent those real world cultures."
She continues,...
- 10/24/2012
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Pop2it
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