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Disney Channel Original Movie “Descendants 2” To Premiere Simultaneously On Five Disney/ABC Television Networks, July 21

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8 years ago

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IN AN UNPRECEDENTED, FAR-REACHING PROGRAMMING EVENT, THE DISNEY CHANNEL ORIGINAL MOVIE “DESCENDANTS 2” WILL HAVE A SIMULTANEOUS PREMIERE ON FIVE TELEVISION NETWORKS WITHIN THE DISNEY|ABC TELEVISION GROUP, FRIDAY, JULY 21 (8:00 P.M., ET/PT), ON DISNEY CHANNEL, ABC, DISNEY XD, FREEFORM AND LIFETIME PLUS EACH NETWORK’S BRANDED DIGITAL PLATFORM

A far-reaching, unprecedented and simultaneous premiere has been set for the Disney Channel Original Movie “Descendants 2” across five networks within the Disney|ABC Television Group, FRIDAY, JULY 21 (8:00 p.m.,  ET/PT), on Disney Channel, ABC, Disney XD, Freeform and Lifetime. The announcement, made today by Ben Sherwood, co-chairman, Disney Media Networks and president, Disney|ABC Television Group, continues the group’s commitment to showcasing its programming in new, innovative ways to reach an even wider audience, joining the announcement of ABC’s exhibition of “Marvel’s Inhumans” in IMAX theatres worldwide this fall.

This extraordinary “Descendants 2” summer block party ushers in the sequel to 2015’s “Descendants,” the fifth most-watched movie in cable TV history (12.2 million Total Viewers) and will extend to each networks’ branded digital and several on-demand platforms (live feeds on apps; plus on-demand on the Disney Channel, ABC, Freeform and Lifetime apps beginning Friday, July 21 at 10:00 p.m., ET/7:00 p.m., PT; and on Disney Channel, ABC, Freeform and Lifetime VOD beginning Saturday, July 22).

Sherwood said in making the announcement, “Descendants’ fans asked for more, and we’ve answered their call, with more ways to watch and more ways to engage with the next chapter in their favorite TV movie. We’re combining the magic of Disney Channel content with the power and reach of our linear networks and digital platforms to ensure we’re everywhere our fans are all at the same time.”

Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer, Disney Channels Worldwide added, “The passion that fans – across every demographic and geographic landscape – have demonstrated for ‘Descendants’ rivals anything we’ve seen since ‘High School Musical.’ Sharing the new sequel movie across our far-reaching portfolio of TV networks and digital platforms is something only Disney can do – and we do it proudly.”

An inspiring story about the teenage sons and daughters of Disney’s most infamous villains, “Descendants” (2015) has reached well over 100 million Total Viewers worldwide. Its videos on Disney’s YouTube channels have amassed over one billion views. The stories spurred young readers to purchase over 2.6 million books; a new young adult novel written by Melissa de la Cruz, “Rise of the Isle of the Lost: A Descendants Novel,” will debut May 23. Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media will release a new product line inspired by “Descendants 2” this summer, designed just for tweens with villain-inspired styles across apparel, accessories, arts & activities, dolls, consumer electronics and more.

The Story

In “Descendants 2,” the story deepens as the Villain Kids (AKA “VKs”) — Mal, Evie, Carlos and Jay — continue to try to find their place in idyllic Auradon. When the pressure to be royal becomes too much for Mal, she returns to her rotten roots on the Isle of the Lost where her archenemy Uma, the daughter of Ursula, has taken her spot as self-proclaimed queen of the run-down town. Uma, still resentful over not being selected by Ben to go to Auradon Prep with the other Villain Kids, stirs her pirate gang including Captain Hook’s son Harry and Gaston’s son Gil, to break the barrier between the Isle of the Lost and Auradon, and unleash all the villains imprisoned on the Isle, once and for all.

Starring are:  Dove Cameron (“Liv and Maddie”), Cameron Boyce (“Jessie”), Sofia Carson (Hollywood Records recording artist, “Adventures in Babysitting”), Booboo Stewart (“X-Men Days of Future Past”), and Mitchell Hope reprising the roles of Mal, Carlos, Jay, Evie and King Ben, respectively.  Starring as the new villains are China Anne McClain (“A.N.T. Farm”) as Uma, the daughter of Ursula; Thomas Doherty (“The Lodge”) as Harry, son of Captain Hook; Dylan Playfair (“Some Assembly Required”) as Gil, son of Gaston and Anna Cathcart (“Odd Squad”) as Dizzy, daughter of Cinderella’s evil stepsister Drizella and granddaughter of wicked stepmother Lady Tremaine. Also reprising their roles in this sequel are: Brenna D’Amico as Jane, the daughter of Fairy Godmother; Melanie Paxson as Fairy Godmother; Dianne Doan as Lonnie, the daughter of Mulan; Jedidiah Goodacre as Chad, the son of Cinderella; Zachary Gibson as Doug, the son of Dopey; Keegan Connor Tracy as Belle and Dan Payne as Beast.

Emmy Award-winning director Kenny Ortega (“Descendants,” “High School Musical” movies) is the director, executive producer and choreographer of “Descendants 2.” “Descendants” executive producer Wendy Japhet (“An Education”, “The Italian Job”) also serves as executive producer for the sequel.  Writers Sara Parriott and Josann McGibbon (“The Starter Wife,” “Runaway Bride”), who won a 2016 Writers Guild Award for “Descendants,” wrote “Descendants 2” and also serve as executive producers. Kara Saun (“Descendants,” “Project Runway”) is the costume designer.  The production designer is Mark Hofeling (“Descendants,” “Teen Beach Movie,” “High School Musical”).  Tony Testa (“The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” “This Is It”) is the choreographer with Ortega and Shawn Williamson (“Adventures in Babysitting”) is producer. David Lawrence (“High School Musical” movies, “Teen Beach Movie” and “Teen Beach 2”), who was nominated for an Emmy for his “Descendants” score, returns as composer. The casting directors are Natalie Hart and Jason La Padura, C.S.A. (“Descendants,” “High School Musical” and “Teen Beach” movies), as well as Kendra Patterson (“Teen Beach Movie”).

It Starts Now

This weekend, “Descendants 2” stars Dove Cameron, Cameron Boyce, Sofia Carson and Booboo Stewart will make a special appearance at the 2017 Radio Disney Music Awards to bring fans the exclusive world premiere of the “Ways to Be Wicked” music video featuring never-before-seen “Descendants 2” footage.  The award show will be telecast SUNDAY, APRIL 30 (7:00-9:00 p.m., ET/PT) on Disney Channel.

Best Western Hotels & Resorts, sponsor of the “Descendants 2” television premiere on Disney Channel, recently launched a “Descendants 2 and You” sweepstakes that gives fans a once-in-a-lifetime chance to undergo a “Descendants” makeover and meet two of the movie’s stars Sofia Carson and Cameron Boyce.

The “Descendants 2” soundtrack from Walt Disney Records is available now for pre-order (http://disneymusic.co/Descendants2) and wherever music is sold on FRIDAY, JULY 21. The “Descendants” soundtrack topped the Billboard 200 album chart in its first week of release and also ranked No. 1 on Billboard’s Soundtrack, Children’s, Digital Album and Top Albums charts.  The album was also No. 1 on the iTunes Album Overall and Soundtrack charts, and is certified Gold by the R.I.A.A. 

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Jim Hill is an entertainment writer who has specialized in covering The Walt Disney Company for nearly 40 years now. Over that time, he has interviewed hundreds of animators, actors, and Imagineers -- many of whom have shared behind-the-scenes stories with Mr. Hill about how the Mouse House really works. In addition to the 4000+ articles Jim has written for the Web, he also co-hosts a trio of popular podcasts: “Disney Dish with Len Testa,” “Fine Tooning with Drew Taylor” and “Marvel US Disney with Aaron Adams.” Mr. Hill makes his home in Southern New Hampshire with his lovely wife Nancy and two obnoxious cats, Ginger & Betty.

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News & Press Releases

New Updates and Exclusive Content from Jim Hill Media: Disney, Universal, and More

Published

1 year ago

on

February 23, 2024

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Boy oh boy, do I have some exciting news to share with all of you.

If you’ve been following our journey at Jim Hill Media, you know we’re all about peeling back the curtain to reveal behind the scenes insights, news, and history that surround the world of entertainment and theme parks.

And today, I’ve got a treasure trove of updates to share. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s get into it.

A New Chapter on Patreon

As many of you know, we recently made the big leap over to Patreon, and let me tell you, it’s been quite a rollercoaster ride. This move was driven by your requests for more exclusive content (and the easy to use RSS feed and app is a BIG bonus).

I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering support. Your enthusiasm and engagement have been the driving force behind our passion for delivering the best of Disney and Universal content.

Moving to Patreon has opened new avenues for us to connect more deeply with our listeners, offering exciting perks and benefits that allow us to tailor our content more closely to your interests and preferences. It’s been an incredible journey of crafting special content, such as the launch of our video podcast series, [Disney Unpacked].

[Disney Unpacked] – A Video Podcast Series Like No Other

Imagine sitting down for a chat with a Disney Imagineer who’s helped shape your Disney experiences for over three decades. That’s what we’re bringing to the table with [Disney Unpacked]. Alongside the legendary Jim Shull and my partner in crime Len Testa, we explore Disney’s storytelling, sharing how beloved rides and attractions were created, through the eyes of an Imagineer like Jim Shull who personally contributed to these projects.

It’s a rare opportunity to host a video show with Jim Shull, a Disney Imagineer who’s worked on projects like Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and Toontown for over 33 years. If you’re curious about Jim and his work, check out our “Meet Jim Shull” video.

But that’s not all – as a patron, you’ll gain access to even more exclusive content. Our “Carry On” podcast, where Jim Shull and I explore stories that didn’t quite make it into the main episodes, offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind [Disney Unpacked]. Plus, our regular Q&A sessions give you the chance to get answers to all your burning questions about the show.

Beyond the Podcast: Photos and Artifacts from an Imagineers Personal Collection

And if that wasn’t exciting enough, let me introduce you to our brand-new monthly video show, “Picture This.” Hosted by yours truly alongside Jim Shull and moderated by Lauren Hersey, “Picture This” offers a behind-the-scenes look at Jim Shull’s personal collection of over 60,000 photos and artifacts from his 33-year career at Disney. From rare behind-the-scenes shots to exclusive glimpses of Disney history, this show is a must-watch for any serious Disney fan.

Jim Shull opens up his vault and shares some never-before-seen photos and the stories about them.

The History of the Pixar Place Hotel

Recently, it was announced that Disneyland’s Paradise Pier hotel would be reopening as the Pixar Place Hotel.

Curious about the backstory behind this decision? Join Jim Shull and me as we delve into the history of the Pixar Place hotel. Explore its fascinating origins and gain insights into the inspirations drawn from Jim’s leadership on the Toy Story Hotel project at Shanghai Disney.

This YouTube documentary-style video offers a look into the creative process behind one of Disney’s iconic hotel projects.

Debut of “I Want That Too” Video Podcast

Introducing our newest podcast addition, “I Want That Too,” where Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive deep into the fascinating world of Disney products. From toys and collectibles to apparel and home goods, we’re here to unpack it all.

But we’re not just about the merchandise – join us as we explore the rich history and untold stories behind your favorite Disney goodies. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your Disney journey, there’s something for everyone on “I Want That Too.”

This show drops bi-weekly as a Podcast and a Video over on the Jim Hill Media YouTube Channel.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts today.

Welcoming Universal Fans with “Epic Universal” Podcast

And for all you Universal enthusiasts (or Universal Curious) out there, we’ve got you covered too! Introducing “Epic Universal,” a bi-weekly podcast hosted by Eric Hersey and yours truly.

Join us as we dive into the latest news, interviews, and trip planning tips from the Universal universe. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about what’s happening at Universal Studios, we invite you to join the conversation and stay updated with “Epic Universal.”

A Look Ahead: The Future of Jim Hill Media

Phew! It’s been an exhilarating few months at Jim Hill Media, with our Patreon move and new show launches, all dedicated to bringing you top-notch theme park news, insights, and history. Your support and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind our efforts, and we’re incredibly thankful for it.

Looking ahead, we’re excited about the future, with more content and partnerships on the horizon. Whether you’re into Disney, Universal, Marvel, or Merch, we invite you to stay engaged and subscribe for more updates.

A huge thank you for being part of our journey.

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News & Press Releases

Disney Will Bring D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event to Anaheim, California in August 2024

Published

2 years ago

on

September 9, 2023

By

Expanded Disney Fan Experience Will Feature New and Exciting Events Across Multiple Locations, Including a D23 Takeover of the Happiest Place On Earth, Evening Entertainment at the Honda Center, D23 Day at Angel Stadium, and Much More

Fan Favorites Including Exhibits, Panels, Shows, and Shopping Will Dazzle Disney Enthusiasts at the Anaheim Convention Center

D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is a one-of-a-kind fan experience like never before with spectacular shows, new venues, and multiple days of entertainment that will bring together the best of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and more!

Highlightswill include:

  • Sunday, August 4: D23 Day at Angel Stadium, where D23 fans are invited to attend the Los Angeles Angels vs. New York Mets game. 
  • Thursday, August 8: D23 kickoff celebration at Disneyland Resort.
  • Friday, August 9 – Sunday, August 11: Shopping, exhibits, panels, and presentations will take place at the Anaheim Convention Center during the day, with the fun extending into the evening at the Honda Center, the bigger home to marquee shows.

Tickets for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will go on sale in Spring 2024, with ticketing options to be announced later for access to the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center. Admission for D23 Day at Angel Stadium and the D23 kickoff celebration at Disneyland Resort will be available as separate ticketed events. Additional details for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will be announced in early 2024.

You can get updates by staying connected to D23 via social media (@DisneyD23 on Facebook, Instagram, X), D23.com, and our weekly D23 FanFare email (sign up for free as a D23 General Member at JoinD23.com).

About D23

The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s nearly 100-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic year-round through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; the latest news and stories on D23.com; member-exclusive offers and discounts; the popular D23 Inside Disney podcast; and special experiences for D23 Members throughout the year.

Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99/year), Gold Duo Membership ($129.99/year), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and YouTube.

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News & Press Releases

Star Wars Spoof: Space Robots in Outer Space Ep X: Battle for the Halcyon: The Last Starcruiser

Published

2 years ago

on

May 4, 2023

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Sure, Star Wars is cool and all. But let’s not forget about that other multi-part sci-fi cinematic spectacular, “Space Robots in Outer Space.” In fact, Hank Lonely (Hollywood’s ultimate hyphenate — actor / producer / director / writer / guy who makes sure the Porto Potties are kept squeaky-clean) just announced that there’ll soon be a 10th installment of this … Well, not exactly beloved. How about we say “admired from afar” instead? … series coming to a theater near you. In fact, here’s the highly anticipated teaser trailer for that project. Which is supposed to be titled “Space Robots in Outer Space X — Battle for the Halycon: The Last Starcruiser.”

Okay. Now the real story … In honor of Star Wars Day (i.e., May 4th. As in “May the Fourth Be With You”), Len Testa and I are sharing something that we produced with the help of all the nice folks who joined us last month aboard the Halycon.

We turned the Galactic Starcruiser as well as Black Spire Outpost into the backdrop for an affectionate send-up of all things Stars Wars. We hope that you (more importantly, the legal team at Lucasfilm) take this faux trailer in the spirit with which it was intended. Special thanks to Aaron Adams for so skillfully stitching all of this footage together. Also thanks to the team at Storybook Destinations, Touring Plans and the talented cast & crew aboard the “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser” for making this “Disney Dish” fan event so memorable.

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