DISNEY XD ORDERS NEW LIVE-ACTION PUPPET COMEDY SERIES "CRASH & BERNSTEIN"

Disney XD has ordered "Crash & Bernstein," a live-action comedy -- with puppetry -- about 14-year-old Wyatt Bernstein, the only son among four kids, who finally gets his dream of having a loud-mouthed brother when his puppet, Crash, comes to life. Crash brings Wyatt some much needed "boy reinforcement" amidst a household of sisters. Created by Eric Friedman ("Austin & Ally," "I'm In The Band"), the multi-camera series will begin production in Hollywood in May for a Fall 2012 premiere on Disney XD. The announcement was made today by Adam Bonnett, senior vice president, original programming, Disney Channel.

Bonnett said, "Full of unpredictable wit, 'Crash & Bernstein' is another testament to Disney XD's commitment to providing unique original programming for boys and their quest for discovery, adventure and humor. The series offers a fresh take on the typical buddy comedy and brings together an everyday kid and his 'know no limits' puppet as they navigate life's adventures."

Emmy-nominated puppet master and filmmaker Tim Lagasse ("Sesame Street," "Between the Lions") will star as Crash.

The pilot was directed by Bruce Leddy ("Mad TV"). "Crash & Bernstein" is a production of It's A Laugh Productions, Inc.

Disney XD is a basic cable channel and multi-platform brand showcasing a compelling mix of live-action and animated programming for Kids age 6-14, hyper-targeting boys and their quest for discovery, accomplishment, sports, adventure and humor. Disney XD branded content spans television, online, mobile and VOD platforms. The programming includes series, movies and short-form, as well as sports-themed programming developed with ESPN. In the U.S., Disney XD is seen on a 24-hour, advertiser supported network that reaches over 78 million households via its basic cable and satellite affiliates. Disney XD channels are in the UK, France, Spain, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Poland, Greece, Turkey, Latin America, Japan, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and The Netherlands among other countries.