The Walt Disney Company is to launch its ABC television network in the U.K, announcing a new addition to the multi channel world with the launch of a major new TV channel, ABC1.
ABC1, a general entertainment channel, will launch on Freeview on Monday 27th September with plans for a multi-platform roll-out. It will be the first non Disney branded channel to launch outside of the U.S.
ABC1's schedule will focus on high quality U.S acquisitions including drama, comedy and serials, many of which have never been seen in the UK before. Once launch objectives have been achieved the channel intends to commission and invest in original UK production and to introduce a regular movie slot.
The launch schedule includes U.K. premieres of the multi Emmy award-winning soap General Hospital and the critically acclaimed Sports Night - the hit sitcom from West Wing creator Aaron Sorkin. Additional highlights include Once and Again - a 'forty-something' drama from the team who penned Thirty Something, the hugely popular Geena Davis Show and the U.S favourites, Home Improvement and 8 Simple Rules.
ABC1 will initially broadcast during daytime, from 6am to 6pm, with ambitions to build into a 24hr schedule. The Freeview audience currently stands at an estimated 7 million and set to grow significantly in the next two years.
The launch will be overseen by John Hardie, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Walt Disney Branded Television for Europe, Middle East and Africa.
John Hardie said; "The launch of the ABC brand signals the Walt Disney's Company's long term commitment to the UK. In its first phase, ABC1 will champion an underserved British audience - people who are busy at home during the day. All day long, ABC1 will provide the daytime viewer with well written, high quality entertainment."
