Disney talks Turkey, extends Polish reach

A third Disney Channel has launched in less than a year, this time in Turkey, while the Mouse has also signed a multi-year deal with cable operator Aster to bring the channel to new Polish subscribers.

Rich Ross, president of Disney Channel Worldwide, was in Istanbul yesterday to launch Disney Channel Turkey on digital satellite platform Digiturk.

The channel, which broadcasts 24 hours a day, is airing the television premiere of Little Mermaid, while other schedule highlights include live-action hits such as Hannah Montana, Disney Channel Original Movies such as High School Musical and contemporary animated series including Kim Possible.

For preschoolers, the channel offers series such as Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Disney’s Little Einsteins and My Friends Tigger & Pooh.

This newest affiliation agreement follows on the heels of successful channel launches in Poland and South and sub-Saharan Africa.

Today the channel also extended its offering in Poland through a deal with cable operator Aster. The channel is already available to 1.8 million subscribers in the country via digital platform CYFRA+ and Cyfrowy Polsat. With the new deal, more than two million subscribers will now be able to view Disney Channel from May 1.

Disney Channel first launched in Poland on December 2, 2006. It has also recently launched across South and sub-Saharan Africa. It will also launch in Turkey this month.

Geoff Ellis, senior VP of business development and distribution for Walt Disney Television, EMEA, said: “Since launch, Disney Channel has made a huge impact on the Polish market, establishing itself as one of the top kids channels. With this new deal, we continue to extend our reach, giving us the opportunity to make Disney Channel the leading kids TV brand in Poland.”