[12/10/20 - 05:26 PM] The Walt Disney Company Surpasses 137 Million Paid Subscriptions Across Its Direct-to-Consumer Services, Shattering Previous Guidance After greatly exceeding expectations, The Walt Disney Company shared guidance that it now expects its streaming services to hit 300-350 million total subscriptions by fiscal 2024, driven primarily by a significant increase in content output.
[via press release from The Walt Disney Company]
The Walt Disney Company Surpasses 137 Million Paid Subscriptions across its Direct-to-Consumer Services, Shattering Previous Guidance; Increases Paid Subscriptions Target to 300-350 million by 2024
Company Announces Target of 100+ New Titles Per Year for Disney+ and Reveals Vast Slate of Incredible Content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and National Geographic
Star to Launch in Select Overseas Markets in February 2021 As A Fully-Integrated part of Disney+, with its Own Brand Tile and a Wide Array of General Entertainment from the Company's Renowned Television and Film Studios that will Double the Content Catalog
Standalone Streaming Service Star+ to Launch in Latin America in June 2021, Featuring Both General Entertainment Content and Live Sports
The Walt Disney Company today revealed the ambitious next steps in its global streaming expansion at its 2020 Investor Day, with new details on the future of its direct-to-consumer services Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+, a first look at its upcoming international general entertainment content brand, Star, and previews of an exceptional slate of all-new content.
Bob Chapek, Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company, and Bob Iger, Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board, led the virtual event, which included presentations from leaders of the company's content and distribution teams, along with financial updates from Christine McCarthy, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, and Lowell Singer, Senior Vice President, Investor Relations.
"The tremendous success we've achieved across our unique portfolio of streaming services, with more than 137 million subscriptions worldwide, has bolstered our confidence in our acceleration toward a DTC-first business model," said Mr. Chapek. "With our amazing creative teams and our ever-growing collection of the high-quality branded entertainment that consumers want, we believe we are incredibly well positioned to achieve our long-term goals."
During the Investor Day presentation, the company announced that, as of December 2, its portfolio of direct-to-consumer services has exceeded a total of 137 million global paid subscriptions, including 11.5 million ESPN+ subscribers, 38.8 million Hulu subscribers, and a staggering 86.8 million Disney+ subscribers since its launch in November 2019. After greatly exceeding expectations, The Walt Disney Company shared guidance that it now expects its streaming services to hit 300-350 million total subscriptions by fiscal 2024, driven primarily by a significant increase in content output. Disney+ alone is targeting to release more than 100 titles per year.
Disney's Twitter account shared today's announcements as they were revealed during the Investor Day webcast. The thread may be viewed in its entirety here.
Beginning March 26, 2021, Disney+ will be priced in the U.S. at $7.99 per month or $79.99 per year, while the Disney Bundle with Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ will be priced at $13.99 per month. A new agreement with Comcast was also announced, that will bring Disney+ and ESPN+ experiences to Comcast X1 set-top boxes and Flex platforms in the first quarter of 2021, joining Hulu which became available on these platforms in Spring 2020. Additionally, Hulu customers will also be able to subscribe to ESPN+ within the Hulu user interface and access the ESPN+ lineup of sports programming there beginning in early 2021.
Christine McCarthy, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
A New International Star in Streaming
Building on the successful launch of Disney+ Hotstar in India and Indonesia, Disney shared new details for its international general entertainment content brand, Star, which will be included as part of Disney+ in select international markets, and launch as a separate streaming service in Latin America as Star+. The Star brand will serve as home to thousands of hours of television and movies from Disney's creative studios, including Disney Television Studios, FX, 20th Century Studios, 20th Television, and more, enhanced by the addition of local programming from the regions where available.
Star will launch in Europe and several other international markets on February 23, 2021 as a fully integrated part of Disney+, with its own branded tile and a new collection of renowned general entertainment series, movies, documentaries and more that will double the content catalog available to Disney+ subscribers. Disney+ will be updated globally to offer enhanced parental controls enabling the family-friendly experience parents expect, including the ability to set limits on access to content for specific profiles based on content ratings and the ability to add a PIN to lock profiles with access to mature content. In Europe, the service will be priced at €8.99 per month or €89.99 per year, with a similar pricing adjustment in the other Star launch markets, including Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. The streaming service will continue its global rollout, now with Star, in new markets beginning with Singapore on February 23, 2021, followed by Eastern Europe, Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea later in 2021.
In Latin America, to take advantage of the region's portfolio of live sporting events, the company will launch Star+ as a standalone streaming service. Star+ brings together an unrivaled Star content collection, local original productions, and an array of live sports from ESPN, including top soccer leagues, grand slam tennis, and more. Star+ will launch in June 2021 as a stand-alone service for ~$7.50 per month (or the local equivalent), or as part of an attractively priced bundle with Disney+ for ~$9.00 per month (or the local equivalent).
To learn more about the international offerings in these markets, view the 2020 Investor Day Star Fact Sheet.
The World's Best Stories
At today's Investor Day event, the visionary creative leaders from the Company's world-class content engines rolled out a new slate of content to fuel Disney's direct-to-consumer ecosystem. Over the next few years, Disney+ plans to release approximately 10 Star Wars series and 10 Marvel series, as well as 15 Disney live action, Disney Animation, and Pixar series, as well as 15 Disney live action, Disney Animation, and Pixar features - all in addition to the premium content set to premiere in theatres or on linear channels before coming to the streaming service. In addition, it was announced that Walt Disney Animation Studios' Raya and the Last Dragon will be available on Disney+ with Premier Access in most Disney+ markets, at the same time as it is released in theaters, on March 5, 2021. Premier Access for the title will be priced at $29.99. Internationally, many upcoming original titles from Disney Television Studios, FX and 20th Century Studios will also premiere on Disney+ as Star Originals.
"This incredible slate of new original content reflects our continuing commitment to harness the resources and immense creativity across our company to bring audiences extraordinary entertainment experiences unlike anything else in the market," Mr. Iger said. "We're proud that the unparalleled quality of our storytelling from our iconic brands remains evident across all distribution platforms, from movie theaters to our direct-to-consumer services."
To learn more about all the content featured in today's presentation, view the 2020 Investor Day Programming Fact Sheet.
Highlights from the presentations include:
Disney General Entertainment Group Content
Disney Television Studios for Disney+
Disney Television Studios shared a look at some of the high profile family entertainment series in development for Disney+, including two projects inspired by Disney properties: Beauty and the Beast (working title), starring Luke Evans and Josh Gad with new music composed by Alan Menken; and Swiss Family Robinson, which is a reimagining of the classic from Ron Moore and Jon M. Chu. The studio is also developing Percy Jackson and the Olympians based on the bestselling book series by Rick Riordan from Disney Publishing Worldwide.
Disney Television Studios is currently in production on four live action series set to debut on Disney+ in 2021: The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers, Big Shot, The Mysterious Benedict Society, and Turner & Hooch.
National Geographic Content
National Geographic revealed its ambitious Disney+ slate including high profile titles Limitless With Chris Hemsworth, Welcome to Earth (working title) featuring Will Smith, and a fourth season of the Emmy(R)-winning anthology series Genius, which will profile Martin Luther King, Jr.
The studio also announced the new documentary film Cousteau, which will debut in theatres before coming to Disney+ alongside new documentary series Secrets of the Whales, A Real Bug's Life, and America The Beautiful.
Content for Hulu and Star
The Kardashian Jenners will create new global content under a multi-year deal, to stream exclusively on Hulu in the U.S. and internationally on Star, with an expected debut in late 2021. Also premiering on Hulu and Star next year are the premium series Only Murders in the Building, The Dropout, and Dopesick.
In 2021, the slate of FX originals, which includes The Old Man, American Horror Stories, Platform, Reservation Dogs, and Y: The Last Man will be available on Hulu in the U.S. and Star in multiple international markets.
Hulu
Hulu's award-winning, hit drama series, The Handmaid's Tale, has been renewed for a fifth season ahead of its season four premiere and Nine Perfect Strangers, starring and executive produced by Nicole Kidman along with David E. Kelley, will debut next year.
FX
In addition to Hulu in the U.S., the FX premium content brand will bring its library of award-winning content and exclusive new originals to Star around the world. FX has ordered four additional seasons of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia for the linear channel, FX on Hulu, and Star, smashing the record for longest running live-action sitcom in television history. The group announced it is developing the first series adaptation of the science-fiction horror classic Alien and is in advanced talks for a two-season order of The Stones, a drama series about the world's greatest and most enduring rock 'n roll band, The Rolling Stones. FX will also embark on one of its most sweeping, sophisticated and adult series with the retelling of James Clavell's beloved epic saga, Shōgun, set within feudal Japan.
Walt Disney Studios Content
Lucasfilm
Lucasfilm announced an impressive number of exciting Disney+ series and new feature films destined to expand the Star Wars galaxy like never before. Among the projects for Disney+ are Obi-Wan Kenobi, starring Ewan McGregor with Hayden Christensen returning as Darth Vader, and two series set in the Mandalorian era from Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni: Rangers of the New Republic and Ahsoka, a series featuring the fan favorite character Ahsoka Tano.
Additional new titles announced for Disney+ include Andor, Star Wars: The Bad Batch, Star Wars: Visions, Lando, The Acolyte, and A Droid Story. The studio is also revisiting Willow in a new series with Warwick Davis returning in the title role.
The next feature film in the Star Wars franchise, releasing in December 2023, will be Rogue Squadron, which will be directed by Patty Jenkins of the Wonder Woman franchise. The next installment of the Indiana Jonesfranchise directed by James Mangold, a Star Wars feature film by writer/director Taika Waititi and Children of Blood & Bone, based on Tomi Adeyemi's New York Times bestselling novel, round out the feature-film slate.
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Production
For Disney+, the studio unveiled a star-studded lineup of original movies and officially confirmed it will produce Hocus Pocus 2, reboots of Three Men and a Baby with Zac Efron and Cheaper by the Dozen with Kenya Barris and Gabrielle Union, and a new Sister Act film starring Whoopi Goldberg, who is on board as a producer with Tyler Perry.
Additional Disney+ projects revealed include Chip 'N Dale: Rescue Rangers, a hybrid live action-animated film starring John Mulaney and Andy Samberg; Pinocchio, directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Tom Hanks; Peter Pan & Wendy, starring Jude Law as Captain Hook and Yara Shahidi as Tinker Bell; and Disenchanted, with Amy Adams returning as Giselle. New live-action biographical films set for the service include Greek Freak, about NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo, as well as projects about Keanon Lowe and Chris Paul. The group is also developing new animated takes on favorite 20th Century Studios' titles Diary of a Wimpy Kid; The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild, starring Simon Pegg; and Night at the Museum.
The studio also previewed its slate of feature films including Jungle Cruise; Cruella; a prequel to The Lion King; and The Little Mermaid.
Walt Disney Animation Studios
Walt Disney Animation Studios made several announcements today, highlighting the upcoming feature film Encanto, which includes new songs by Emmy(R), GRAMMY(R) and Tony Award(R) winner Lin-Manuel Miranda and is slated for theaters in November 2021. The studio also revealed that Raya and the Last Dragon will debut simultaneously on Disney+ Premier Access and in theatres in March 2021.
Marking the first animated series produced by WDAS, the studio also revealed several new series for Disney+ including Baymax, Zootopia+, Tiana and Moana, The Series, as well as Iwájú, which will be produced in collaboration with the Pan-African comic book entertainment company Kugali.
Pixar Animation Studios
Pixar Animation Studios revealed its upcoming slate of original series for Disney+ and feature films. Among the titles are Pixar's first-ever long-form animated series Win or Lose, which debuts exclusively on Disney+ in Fall 2023, and two brand-new feature films slated for theaters in 2022, Academy Award(R)-winning director Domee Shi's Turning Red, and Lightyear, the definitive origin story of the hero that inspired the toy. Chris Evans will voice the hero on his journey to becoming the most famous Space Ranger ever. Slated for theaters next summer is the original feature film Luca.
Additional details were shared about new Disney+ series, including Inside Pixar, Pixar Popcorn, Dug Days, and Cars, as well as the upcoming feature film Soul and short Burrow - both debuting on Disney+ on December 25, 2020.
Marvel Studios
Marvel Studios shared plans for the expansion and future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, revealing details about upcoming content for both Disney+ and theaters. Among dozens of upcoming projects, three new series for Disney+ were revealed, including the Samuel L. Jackson-starrer Secret Invasion, Ironheart with Dominique Thorne as a genius inventor, and Armor Wars, starring Don Cheadle as James Rhodes aka War Machine who faces Tony Stark's worst fears.
These will join the studios robust lineup of Disney+ titles including WandaVision, The Falcon and The Winter Soldier, and Loki; the animated series What If... ?; Ms. Marvel; Hawkeye, with Hailee Steinfeld joining Jeremy Renner in the series; She-Hulk, starring Tatiana Maslany in the title role alongside co-stars Mark Ruffalo and Tim Roth; Moon Knight; Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special; and a series of original shorts, I Am Groot, featuring everyone's favorite baby tree.
Included in a host of new feature film reveals were Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, the third feature in the "Ant-Man" franchise, and Fantastic Four, which introduces Marvel's most iconic family. Marvel Studios' upcoming feature films also include Black Widow, Shang Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings, Eternals, Doctor Strange In The Multiverse of Madness, Thor: Love and Thunder, Black Panther 2, Blade, Captain Marvel 2, and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
ESPN and Sports Content
ESPN announced a milestone new 10-year agreement with the Southeastern Conference (SEC), expanding its partnership and adding college football's most-watched TV package, beginning with the 2024 season. The deal will also bring select SEC football games to ESPN+, beginning with the 2021 football season and running through the term of the agreement.
ESPN+, which now reaches more than 11.5 million U.S. subscribers, will also launch several new original series and studio shows in the coming months. Peyton's Places, the Emmy-nominated series currently in its second season on ESPN+, will return for a third season (Fall 2021) and expand to other sports - with some of the most engaging names in sports fronting their own versions of the series, including Abby Wambach (soccer), Ronda Rousey (combat sports), David Ortiz (baseball), and Peyton's brother, Eli Manning (college football). ESPN+ will also launch Stephen A's World, a new, original program featuring the insights and opinions of one-of-a-kind personality Stephen A. Smith in January. Man in the Arena: Tom Brady, the highly anticipated nine-part documentary series coming to ESPN+, is built around Tom Brady's never-before-seen, first-hand accounts of the journey to each of his nine Super Bowls. Plus, a newly reimagined version of SportsNation will return weekday mornings, beginning in January, exclusively on ESPN+.
About The Walt Disney Company
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes Parks, Experiences and Products; Media & Entertainment Distribution; and three content groups - Studios, General Entertainment and Sports-focused on developing and producing content for DTC, theatrical and linear platforms. Disney is a Dow 30 company and had annual revenues of $65.4 billion in its Fiscal Year 2020.
Forward-Looking Statements:
Certain statements and information in this communication may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including expectations about subscribers or subscriptions; statements regarding the future of our offerings (including our direct-to-consumer offerings) including content, launch dates and timing, availability, pricing, and other expectations and plans regarding our products; and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements are made on the basis of management's views and assumptions regarding future events and business performance as of the time the statements are made. We are not under any obligation, and we expressly disclaim any obligation, to update, alter, or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date hereof. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially from those discussed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements. Such differences may result from actions taken by the Company, including restructuring or strategic initiatives (including capital investments or asset acquisitions or dispositions), from execution risk in technology, service promotion, or creative development as well as from developments beyond the Company's control, including:
further changes in domestic and global economic conditions and competitive conditions;
health concerns;
consumer preferences; willingness to pay for an expanding set of direct-to-consumer services; and performance of the markets in which we operate, including the pay television ecosystem;
government regulation, including revised foreign content and ownership regulations;
poor quality broadband infrastructure in certain markets;
international, political, or military developments;
technological developments;
labor markets and activities; and
adverse weather conditions or natural disasters;
each such risk includes the current and future impacts of, and is amplified by, COVID-19 and related mitigation efforts.
Such developments may further affect entertainment, travel and leisure businesses generally and may, among other things, affect (or further affect, as applicable):
demand for our products and services;
performance of our direct-to-consumer technology platforms;
performance of the Company's theatrical and original direct-to-consumer releases;
the advertising market for entertainment programming and services;
expenses of providing medical and pension benefits;
income tax expense; and
performance or operations of some or all company businesses either directly or through their impact on those who distribute our products.
Additional factors are set forth in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 3, 2020 under Item 1A, "Risk Factors," Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis," Item 1, "Business," and subsequent reports.
THE 2020 INVESTOR DAY
PROGRAMMING FACT SHEET
-- Lucasfilm --
Today at The Walt Disney Company's Investor Day event, Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy announced
an impressive number of exciting Disney+ series and new feature films destined to expand the Star Wars
galaxy like never before.
Introducing the Disney+ slate, Kennedy said, "We have a vast and expansive timeline in the Star Wars
mythology spanning over 25,000 years of history in the galaxy - with each era being a rich resource for
storytelling. Now with Disney+, we can explore limitless story possibilities like never before and fulfill the
promise that there is truly a Star Wars story for everyone." Among the 10 projects announced for Disney+
is "Obi-Wan Kenobi," starring Ewan McGregor, with Hayden Christensen returning as Darth Vader, in what
Kennedy called, "the rematch of the century." Also announced are two new series from Jon Favreau
and Dave Filoni, off-shoots of the multiple Emm y(R)-winning "The Mandalorian." "Rangers of the New
Republic" and "Ahsoka," a series featuring the fan-favorite character Ahsoka Tano, will take place in
"The Mandalorian" timeline.
Kennedy announced that the next Star Wars feature film, releasing in December 2023, will be "Rogue
Squadron," which will be directed by Patty Jenkins of the "Wonder Woman" franchise. In July 2022, the next
installment of the "Indiana Jones" franchise premieres, starring Harrison Ford, who reprises his iconic role.
The film is directed by James Mangold.
Following are the announced projects, listed in announcement order under the Disney+ and feature film headers:
DISNEY+
Ahsoka
After making her long-awaited, live-action debut in "The Mandalorian," Ahsoka Tano's story, written by Dave
Filoni, will continue in a limited series, Ahsoka, starring Rosario Dawson and executive produced by Dave
Filoni and Jon Favreau.
Rangers of the New Republic
Set within the timeline of "The Mandalorian," Rangers of the New Republic is a new live-action series from
executive producers Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni that will intersect with future stories and culminate into a
climactic story event.
Andor
Andor, a tense nail-biting spy thriller created by Tony Gilroy, is set to arrive on Disney+ in 2022. Diego
Luna, reprising the role of rebel spy Cassian Andor from "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story," will be joined by a
fantastic new cast that includes Stellan Skarsgård, Adria Arjona, Fiona Shaw, Denise Gough, Kyle Soller and
Genevieve O'Reilly as Mon Mothma.
Obi-Wan Kenobi
Ewan McGregor returns in the iconic role of Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi for a special event series on
Disney+. Officially titled Obi-Wan Kenobi, the series begins 10 years after the dramatic events of "Star Wars:
Revenge of the Sith" where he faced his greatest defeat, the downfall and corruption of his best friend and
Jedi apprentice, Anakin Skywalker turned evil Sith Lord Darth Vader. The series is directed by Deborah
Chow, who helmed memorable episodes of "The Mandalorian," Season 1, and features the return of Hayden
Christensen as Darth Vader.
The Bad Batch
The Bad Batch follows the elite and experimental clones of the Bad Batch (first introduced in "The Clone
Wars") as they find their way in a rapidly changing galaxy in the immediate aftermath of the Clone War.
Members of Bad Batch - a unique squad of clones who vary genetically from their brothers in the Clone
Army - each possess a singular exceptional skill that makes them extraordinarily effective soldiers and a
formidable crew. In the post-Clone War era, they will take on daring mercenary missions as they struggle to
stay afloat and find new purpose. This animated series will arrive exclusively on Disney+.
Star Wars: Visions
Presenting all-new, creative takes on the galaxy far, far away, Star Wars: Visions will be a series of animated
short films celebrating Star Wars through the lens of the world's best anime creators. The anthology
collection will bring 10 fantastic visions from several of the leading Japanese anime studios, offering a fresh
and diverse cultural perspective to Star Wars.
Lando
The galaxy's favorite scoundrel, Lando Calrissian, will return in Lando, a brand-new event series for Disney+.
Justin Simien, creator of the critically-acclaimed "Dear White People" and a huge Star Wars fan, is in the
early stages of developing the project.
The Acolyte
Leslye Headland, Emmy Award(R)-nominated creator of the mind-bending series "Russian Doll," brings a new
Star Wars series to Disney+ with The Acolyte. The Acolyte is a mystery-thriller that will take viewers into a
galaxy of shadowy secrets and emerging dark-side powers in the final days of the High Republic era.
A Droid Story
As Lucasfilm continues to develop new stories, the intersection of animation and visual effects offers new
opportunities to explore. Lucasfilm Animation is teaming up with Lucasfilm's visual effects team, Industrial
Light & Magic, to develop a special Star Wars adventure film for Disney+, A Droid Story. This epic journey
will introduce us to a new hero, guided by legendary duo R2-D2 and C-3PO.
Willow
Willow, set decades after Ron Howard's 1988 movie, continues the spirit of adventure, heroics and humor of
the original film in this ne w series debuting on Disney+ in 2022. Warwick Davis will return in the role of
the great sorcerer, Willow Ufgood, with Jon Chu (director of the groundbreaking "Crazy Rich Asians")
directing the pilot.
FEATURE FILMS
Indiana Jones
Lucasfilm is currently in pre-production on the next installment of Indiana Jones. At the helm is James
Mangold, director of the Academy Award(R)-winning "Ford v Ferrari," and Indy himself, Harrison Ford, will be
back to continue his iconic character's journey. Indy will arrive July 2022.
Children of Blood & Bone
The Lucasfilm catalog is expanding further with a story that will introduce a new hero and explore an original
world that feels perfectly paired with Lucasfilm storytelling: Tomi Adeyemi's New York Times bestselling
novel Children of Blood & Bone. The story will center on a young African girl's heart-racing quest to restore
magic to her forsaken people, the Maji. Lucasfilm will partner with 20th Century Studios on this coming-ofage
adventure.
New Star Wars Feature
A brand-new Star Wars feature with acclaimed filmmaker and Academy Award(R) winner Taika Waititi is in
development. "Taika's approach to Star Wars will be fresh, unexpected, and... unique," said Kathleen Kennedy.
"His enormous talent and sense of humor will ensure that audiences are in for an unforgettable ride."
Rogue Squadron
The next Star Wars feature film to hit the big screen will be Rogue Squadron, directed by Patty Jenkins.
The story will introduce a new generation of starfighter pilots as they earn their wings and risk their lives
in a boundary-pushing, high-speed thrill-ride, and move the saga into the future era of the galaxy. Rogue
Squadron arrives in theaters Christmas 2023.
-- Disney --
Today at The Walt Disney Company's Investor Day event, Sean Bailey, President, Walt Disney Studios
Motion Picture Production, unveiled myriad exciting feature films in the works under the Disney banner. In
his opening remarks, Bailey said, "There are so many incredible dimensions to this company, and my team
and I have the honor of getting to focus on a treasure trove of iconic characters and stories that spring
from the Disney imagination, as we continue to build on Disney's singular legacy of creating magic for
audiences worldwide."
Among the projects filling the Disney+ slate are "Hocus Pocus 2," a sequel to the 1993 Halloween cult classic,
directed by Adam Shankman; a live-action take on "Pinocchio," directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring
Tom Hanks; an animated "Night at the Museum," with Shawn Levy attached to produce; "Cheaper by the
Dozen," a reimagining of the hit comedy with "black-ish" producer Kenya Barris; "Chip N' Dale: Rescue
Rangers," a hybrid live-action-animated feature; "Sister Act 3," the third film in the beloved "Sister Act"
series, with Whoopi Goldberg on board to star and produce with Tyler Perry; and "Peter Pan & Wendy,"
directed by David Lowery and starring Jude Law and Yara Shahidi.
Previously announced up-and-coming features include "Jungle Cruise," starring Dwayne Johnson and Emily
Blunt and directed by Jaume Collet-Serra; the Rob Marshall-directed "The Little Mermaid"; a live-action
prequel to "The Lion King," with Barry Jenkins on board to direct; and "Cruella," starring Emma Stone, with
Craig Gillespie at the helm.
Following are the Disney Live Action projects, listed in order of announcement:
Hocus Pocus 2
Hocus Pocus 2, exclusively on Disney+, is the spooky sequel to the 1993 Halloween cult classic "Hocus
Pocus." Adam Shankman is set to direct.
Three Men and a Baby
Three Men and a Baby, a modern take on the hilarious '80s comedy, will star Zac Efron and is slated for a
2022 release on Disney+.
Safety
Safety, premiering tomorrow, December 11, on Disney+, is a drama inspired by the empowering story of
former Clemson University football safety Ray McELrathBey, a young man facing a series of challenging
circumstances, whose dedication and persistence help him to triumph over repeated adversities. "Marshall"
director Reginald Hudlin helms the uplifting drama.
The Keanon Lowe project
The Keanon Lowe project, coming to Disney+, is inspired by the incredible real-life story of a high school
coach who averted tragedy through compassion. Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia and Hiram Garcia are on
board as producers for the project through their Seven Bucks Productions.
Greek Freak
Greek Freak heads into production next year for Disney+. It is the remarkable story of NBA MVP Giannis
Antetokounmpo and his family, who lifted themselves out of poverty as undocumented immigrants living in
Greece. Ultimately, Giannis finds himself on the world stage.
The Chris Paul project
The Chris Paul project is a biographical film in development for Disney+ about NBA superstar Chris Paul. It
follows Paul's deeply moving story of family, legacy and destiny that helped make him who he is today.
Flora & Ulysses
Flora & Ulysses is a delightful comedy-adventure based on the Newbery Award-winning book about
10-year-old Flora, an avid comic book fan and a self-avowed cynic, who rescues a squirrel with unique
superhero powers. Flora & Ulysses stars Matilda Lawler and is directed by Lena Khan ("The Tiger Hunter").
The film makes its debut on Disney+ February 19, 2021.
Cheaper by the Dozen
Cheaper by the Dozen, a reimagining of the hit comedy with "black-ish" producer Kenya Barris, will air on
Disney+ in 2022. The story centers on a multiracial, blended family of 12, navigating a hectic home life while
managing their family business. Gabrielle Union is set to star.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Diary of a Wimpy Kid, which has spawned a successful live-action film franchise from the popular books,
comes to Disney+ in 2021 as an all-new animated film.
The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild
The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild, exclusively for Disney+, is a spin-off of the popular "Ice Age"
franchise from 20th Century Studios. The story centers on three series favorites: the prankster possum
brothers Crash and Eddie, and the swashbuckling titular weasel, Buck. Simon Pegg will be returning in the
role of Buck. The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild is slated for an early 2022 release.
Night at the Museum
Night at the Museum comes to Disney+ with a new twist: this time it's animated. Shawn Levy, who has
helped shape the blockbuster franchise as director of the previous films, and is also helming 20th Century
Studios' upcoming "Free Guy," is on board as a producer. Night at the Museum launches on Disney+ in 2021.
Jungle Cruise
Jungle Cruise takes audiences on a rollicking thrill-ride down the Amazon with wisecracking skipper Frank
Wolff and intrepid researcher Dr. Lily Houghton. Jaume Collet-Serra directs the film, which stars Dwayne
Johnson, Emily Blunt, Edgar Ramirez, Jack Whitehall, with Jesse Plemons, and Paul Giamatti. Disney's Jungle
Cruise is slated for July 2021.
The Lion King live-action prequel
The Lion King live-action prequel is in development with an inspired take that revisits the iconic characters.
Barry Jenkins, director of the Oscar(R)-winning "Moonlight," is set to helm the film. Hans Zimmer (whose long
association with "The Lion King" goes back to the 1994 original), Pharrell Williams and Nicholas Britell will
deliver the music.
The Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid returns Rob Marshall to the Disney fold with a live-action take on the animated classic. In
the title role is multitalented singer and actor Halle Bailey, alongside a talented cast that includes Awkwafina,
Daveed Diggs, Jacob Tremblay, with Javier Bardem and Melissa McCarthy. The film will feature the beloved
Menken-Ashman songs from the animated original and some all-new music from Alan Menken and Lin-
Manuel Miranda as well.
Chip N' Dale: Rescue Rangers
Chip N' Dale: Rescue Rangers, a hybrid live-action-animated feature for Disney+, is in development. Akiva
Schaffer ("Popstar") directs, and John Mulaney and Andy Samberg are set to star in the title roles with Seth
Rogen doing a cameo. Chip N' Dale: Rescue Rangers is slated for spring 2022.
Pinocchio
Pinocchio is coming to Disney+ in a compelling new live-action retelling that will leverage state-of-the
art CGI to bring Pinocchio to life. A living puppet, with the help of a cricket as his conscience, must prove
himself worthy to become a real boy in a musical remake of the Disney animated classic. Robert Zemeckis
directs and Tom Hanks stars.
Peter Pan & Wendy
Peter Pan & Wendy, inspired by the Disney animated classic, has David Lowery ("Pete's Dragon") at the
helm. A young girl rebels against "growing up" by going with her two brothers to a magical land ruled by
an ageless boy obsessed with adventure who is locked in an ongoing battle with a pirate captain. The cast
includes Jude Law as Captain Hook and Yara Shahidi ("black-ish," "grown-ish") in the role of Tinker Bell. The
film will premiere on Disney+.
Disenchanted
Disenchanted, a sequel to the hit film "Enchanted," will stream exclusively on Disney+. Amy Adams returns
as Giselle, who found her life flipped upside down when she fell out of her animated fantasy world and
discovered herself stuck in real-life Manhattan.
Sister Act 3
Sister Act 3, the third film in the beloved "Sister Act" series, is in development. Whoopi Goldberg is on board
to star and produce, with Tyler Perry also signed on as a producer on the project. Sister Act 3 will premiere
on Disney+.
Cruella
Cruella dives into the rebellious early days of one of the most notorious - and notoriously fashionable -
villains, the legendary Cruella de Vil. Oscar(R) winner Emma Stone stars as Estella, aka Cruella, opposite Oscar
winner Emma Thompson as the Baroness, the head of a prestigious fashion house who plucks Estella from
obscurity as a burgeoning designer. It's set against the backdrop of 1970s punk-rock London, and director
Craig Gillespie delivers a unique take on this one-of-a-kind villain. Cruella is coming in 2021.
-- Walt Disney Animation Studios --
Walt Disney Animation Studios' Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee made several announcements today,
including the studio's next feature film, its first foray into animated series and a first-of-its-kind collaboration
with a Pan-African entertainment company. Upcoming projects will introduce audiences to all-new
characters and worlds, as well as revisit some of the most beloved from Disney's legacy of films. Said Lee,
"From Kumandra to Colombia, San Fransokyo to Zootopia, from New Orleans to the Pacific Islands, to a sci-fi
world in Africa, the story possibilities for the near century-old Disney Animation are more limitless than ever."
Lee shared new details about "Encanto," an original film slated for theaters in November 2021, that includes
new songs by Emmy(R), GRAMMY(R) and Tony Award(R) winner Lin-Manuel Miranda. "For our 60th feature,
magical realism sets the stage, and, yes, it is a musical stage, as we travel to Colombia, where a magical
family - the Madrigals - live in an equally magical home," said Lee. "Our film is called 'Encanto.' Why? Because
an Encanto is a charmed place, born of its unique wonders, where life itself is wondrous."
Following are the projects presented, listed in chronological order.
Raya and the Last Dragon
Raya and the Last Dragon, which will be released on March 5, 2021, simultaneously in theaters and on
Disney+ with Premier Access, travels to the fantasy world of Kumandra, where humans and dragons lived
together long ago in harmony. But when an evil force threatened the land, the dragons sacrificed themselves
to save humanity. Now, 500 years later, that same evil has returned and it's up to a lone warrior, Raya, to
track down the legendary last dragon to restore the fractured land and its divided people. However, along
her journey, she'll learn that it'll take more than a dragon to save the world - it's going to take trust and
teamwork as well. Raya and the Last Dragon features the voices of Kelly Marie Tran as Raya, a warrior whose
wit is as sharp as her blade, and Awkwafina as magical, mythical, self-deprecating dragon named Sisu.
Newly revealed characters from the film include a street-savvy 10-year-old entrepreneur named Boun, the
formidable giant Tong, and a thieving toddler Noi with her band of Ongis. The feature film is directed by Don
Hall and Carlos López Estrada and produced by Osnat Shurer and Peter Del Vecho.
Encanto
Encanto tells the tale of an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, who live hidden in the mountains of
Colombia, in a magical house, in a vibrant town, in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. The magic
of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift from super strength to the power to
heal - every child except one, Mirabel. But when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is
in danger, Mirabel decides that she, the only ordinary Madrigal, might just be her exceptional family's last
hope. The film features all-new songs by Emmy(R), GRAMMY(R) and Tony Award(R) winner Lin-Manuel Miranda
("Hamilton," "Moana") and is directed by Byron Howard ("Zootopia," "Tangled") and Jared Bush (co-director
"Zootopia"), co-directed by Charise Castro Smith (writer "The Death of Eva Sofia Valdez") and produced by Clark
Spencer and Yvett Merino. Walt Disney Animation Studios' Encanto opens in theaters November 24, 2021.
Baymax
Baymax, Walt Disney Animation Studios' first-ever animated series, takes place in the fantastical city of
San Fransokyo and features fan favorite healthcare bot, Baymax. Created by Don Hall, the Oscar(R)-winning
director of "Big Hero 6," Baymax premieres on Disney+ in early 2022.
Zootopia+
Zootopia+ heads back to the fast-paced mammal metropolis of Zootopia in a short-form series directed
by Trent Correy and Josie Trinidad. Zootopia+ dives deeper into the lives of some of the feature film's most
intriguing characters, including Fru Fru, the newly married arctic shrew; Gazelle's talented tiger dancers; and
the sloth full of surprises, Flash. The short-form series debuts on Disney+ in Spring 2022.
Iwájú
Iwájú is an all-new original series coming to Disney+ in 2022. The series is a first-of-its-kind collaboration
between Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pan-African comic book entertainment company Kugali and its
founders Tolu Olowofoyeku, Ziki Nelson and Hamid Ibrahim. Iwájú, which roughly translates to "The Future"
in the Yoruba language, is steeped in science fiction. The long-form series is set in Lagos, Nigeria, exploring
deep themes of class, innocence and challenging the status quo. Says director Ziki Nelson, "This show
will combine Disney's magic and animation expertise with Kugali's fire and storytelling authenticity. Iwájú
represents a personal childhood dream of mine to tell my story and that of my people."
Tiana
Tiana, coming to Disney+ in 2023, is a long-form musical-comedy series featuring the extraordinary
entrepreneur who's now princess of the kingdom Maldonia. The all-new adventures explore both Maldonia
and Tiana's beloved hometown, New Orleans. Tiana is the first princess to have her own Walt Disney
Animation Studios series.
Moana, The Series
Moana, The Series, coming to Disney+ in 2023, is a new long-form musical series that follows spirited
voyager Moana as she ventures far beyond the reef. The studio is once again connecting with storytellers
from the Pacific Islands to help tell the stories of wayfinding and other traditions brought to life for
generations through oral storytelling.
-- Pixar Animation Studios --
Pixar Animation Studios' Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter shared details about the Northern California
studio's upcoming slate of original series for Disney+ and feature films. "Today, I'm excited to introduce you
to a bunch of fresh, new filmmakers," said Docter. "Getting their voices on the screen is our key focus right
now - while at the same time allowing our veteran filmmakers to continue to do their great work. And I think
that's what we do best at Pixar: Honoring tradition, while at the same time innovating for the future."
Among the upcoming titles was Pixar's first-ever long-form animated series "Win or Lose," which debuts
exclusively on Disney+ in Fall 2023. Also revealed for the first time were two brand-new feature films slated
for 2022, including Academy Award(R)-winning director Domee Shi's "Turning Red," and "Lightyear," the
definitive origin story of the hero that inspired the toy. Chris Evans will voice the hero on his journey to
becoming the most famous Space Ranger ever.
Following are the projects presented, listed in chronological order.
Inside Pixar
Inside Pixar is a new documentary series that invites Pixar fans into the studio for an up-close, never-beforeseen
look at the artistry, craftsmanship and storytellers behind beloved films. The first five episodes are
currently available on Disney+ with more scheduled to release soon.
Soul
Soul, available exclusively on Disney+ beginning December 25, 2020, explores themes like appreciating
the simple joys of life and finding one's unique spark. Directed by Docter, the film introduces Joe Gardner
(voice of Jamie Foxx), a middle-school band teacher who gets the chance of a lifetime to play at the best
jazz club in town. But one small misstep takes him from the streets of New York City to The Great Before
- a fantastical place where new souls get their personalities, quirks and interests before they go to Earth.
Determined to return to his life, Joe teams up with a precocious soul, 22 (voice of Tina Fey), who has never
understood the appeal of the human experience. As Joe desperately tries to show 22 what's great about
living, he may just discover the answers to some of life's most important questions. Soul is co-directed by
Kemp Powers ("One Night in Miami") and produced by Academy Award(R) nominee Dana Murray, p.g.a. (Pixar
short "Lou").
Burrow
Burrow is part of Pixar's collection of shorts called SparkShorts that are created by a diverse group of
storytellers. Debuting exclusively on Disney+ on December 25, 2020, Burrow features a young rabbit who
embarks on a journey to dig the burrow of her dreams, despite not having a clue what she's doing. Rather
than reveal to her neighbors her imperfections, she digs herself deeper and deeper into trouble. After hitting
(bed)rock bottom, she learns there is no shame in asking for help. The new short is directed by Madeline
Sharafian and produced by Mike Capbarat.
Pixar Popcorn
Pixar Popcorn, coming to Disney+ in January 2021, is a collection of mini shorts featuring Pixar characters in
all-new, bite-size stories created by Pixar's talented animators.
Luca
Luca, a new original feature film opening June 18, 2021, celebrates the universal theme of friendship. Set in a
beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera, it is a coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing
an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. Luca shares these adventures
with his newfound best friend, but all the fun is threatened by a deeply-held secret: they are sea monsters
from another world just below the water's surface. Luca is directed by Academy Award(R) nominee Enrico
Casarosa (Pixar short "La Luna") and produced by Andrea Warren (Pixar short "Lava," "Cars 3").
Dug Days
Dug Days, which premieres exclusively on Disney+ in Fall 2021, is a new collection of shorts that follows the
humorous misadventures of Dug, the lovable dog from Disney and Pixar's "Up." Each short features everyday
events that occur in and around Dug's backyard, all through the exciting (and delightfully distorted) eyes
of our favorite talking dog. The shorts are written and directed by Academy Award(R) nominee and Emmy(R)
Award winner Bob Peterson and produced by Kim Collins.
Turning Red
Turning Red, a new feature film opening in theaters on March 11, 2022, introduces Mei Lee, a confident, dorky
13-year-old torn between staying her mother's dutiful daughter and the chaos of adolescence. And as if
changes to her interests, relationships and body weren't enough, whenever she gets too excited (which for
a teenager is practically ALWAYS), she "poofs" into a giant red panda! Turning Red is directed by Academy
Award(R) winner Domee Shi (Pixar short "Bao") and produced by Lindsey Collins.
Lightyear
Lightyear, slated to open in theaters on June 17, 2022, is a sci-fi action-adventure and the definitive origin
story of Buzz Lightyear (voice of Chris Evans) - the hero who inspired the toy. The film reveals how a young
test pilot became the Space Ranger that we all know him to be today. Lightyear is directed by Angus
MacLane and produced by Galyn Susman.
Cars
Cars, coming to Disney+ in Fall 2022, is an all-new series that follows Lightning McQueen and his best friend
Mater on a cross-country road trip. These episodes are filled with lots of fun new characters, imaginative
destinations as well as old friends checking in along the way. The series is written by Steve Purcell and
produced by Marc Sondheimer.
Win or Lose
Win or Lose, Pixar's first-ever original long-form animated series, debuts on Disney+ in 2023. It follows
a coed middle school softball team in the week leading up to their championship game. Each 20-minute
episode highlights the perspective of a different character and explores the drama of bad calls made on and
off the field. Written and directed by story artists Carrie Hobson and Michael Yates, and produced by David
Lally, Win or Lose is a comedy about love, rivalry and the challenges we all face in our struggle to win at life.
-- Marvel Studios --
Kevin Feige, president, Marvel Studios, and chief creative officer, Marvel, shared plans for the expansion and
future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe - revealing details about upcoming content for both Disney+ and
theaters. Said Feige, "The Cinematic Universe weaves storylines, heroes and villains across 23 feature films
to date. And with Disney+, we're able to extend this way of storytelling to a new format - creating series that
are connected to our theatrical releases, making the MCU more immersive than ever."
Among dozens of upcoming projects, Feige revealed three new series for Disney+, including the Samuel
L. Jackson-starrer "Secret Invasion," "Ironheart" with Dominique Thorne as a genius inventor, and "Armor
Wars," starring Don Cheadle as James Rhodes aka War Machine who faces Tony Stark's worst fears. Feige
announced a host of new feature films, including "Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania," the third feature in
the "Ant-Man" franchise, and "Fantastic Four," which introduces Marvel's most iconic family.
Following are the projects included, listed in chronological order under the Disney+ and feature films
distribution headers.
DISNEY+
WandaVision
WandaVision, launching on Disney+ on January 15, 2021, is Marvel Studios' first series that continues to
expand the MCU. Wanda Maximoff and Vision are two super-powered beings are living idealized suburban
lives, but begin to suspect everything is not as it seems. S tarring Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Bettany, Kathryn
Hahn, Teyonah Parris, Kat Dennings and Randall Park, WandaVision is directed by Matt Shakman; Jac
Shaeffer is head writer.
The Falcon and The Winter Soldier
The Falcon and The Winter Soldier, kicking off on Disney+ March 19, 2021, is a new series starring Anthony
Mackie as Sam Wilson aka The Falcon, and Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes aka The Winter Soldier. The pair,
who came together in the final moments of "Avengers: Endgame," team up on a global adventure that tests
their abilities - and their patience. Directed by Kari Skogland with Malcolm Spellman serving as head writer,
the six-episode series also stars Daniel Brühl as Baron Zemo, Emily VanCamp as Sharon Carter, and Wyatt
Russell as John Walker.
Loki
Loki is set to debut on Disney+ in May 2021 featuring the God of Mischief as he steps out of his brother's
shadow in a new series that takes place after the events of "Avengers: Endgame." Tom Hiddleston returns
as the title character, joined by Owen Wilson, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Sophia Di Martino, Wunmi Mosaku and
Richard E. Grant. Kate Herron directs Loki, and Michael Waldron is head writer.
What If... ?
What If... ? flips the script on the MCU, reimagining famous events from the films in unexpected ways.
Coming to Disney+ in Summer 2021, Marvel Studios' first animated series focuses on different heroes from
the MCU, featuring a voice cast that includes a host of stars who reprise their roles. The series is directed by
Bryan Andrews; Ashley Bradley is head writer.
Ms. Marvel
Ms. Marvel, launching on Disney+ in late 2021, is a new series that introduces Kamala Khan - a 16-year-old
Pakistani-American growing up in Jersey City. A great student, an avid gamer and a voracious fan-fiction
scribe, she has a special affinity for superheroes, particularly Captain Marvel. But Kamala struggles to fit in
at home and at school - that is, until she gets super powers like the heroes she's always looked up to. Life
is easier with super powers, right? Iman Vellani stars as Kamala Khan aka Ms. Marvel; the cast also includes
Aramis Knight, Saagar Shaikh, Rish Shah, Zenobia Shroff, Mohan Kapur, Matt Lintz, Yasmeen Fletcher, Laith
Naki, Azher Usman, Travina Springer and Nimra Bucha. Episodes are directed by Adil El Arbi & Bilall Fallah,
Meera Menon and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy.
Hawkeye
Hawkeye, which debuts on Disney+ in late 2021, stars Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, who teams up with
another well-known archer from the Marvel comics, Kate Bishop, played by Hailee Steinfeld. The cast also
includes Vera Farmiga, Fra Fee, Tony Dalton, Zahn McClarnon, Brian d'Arcy James and newcomer Alaqua
Cox as Maya Lopez. Hawkeye is helmed by Rhys Thomas and directing duo Bert and Bertie.
She-Hulk
She-Hulk, a new comedy series coming to Disney+, stars Tatiana Maslany as She-Hulk/Jennifer Walters,
a lawyer who specializes in superhuman-oriented legal cases. She-Hulk will welcome a host of Marvel
characters to the series, including the Hulk, played by Mark Ruffalo, and the Abomination, played by Tim
Roth. The series is directed by Kat Coiro and Anu Valia; Jessica Gao is head writer.
Moon Knight
Moon Knight is a new series created for Disney+. Directed by Mohamed Diab, the action-adventure features
a complex vigilante who suffers from dissociative identity disorder. The multiple identities who live inside
him are distinct characters who appear against a backdrop of Egyptian iconography.
Secret Invasion
Secret Invasion is a newly announced series heading to Disney+ that stars Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury
and Ben Mendelsohn as the Skrull Talos - characters who first met in "Captain Marvel." The crossover comic
event series showcases a faction of shape-shifting Skrulls who have been infiltrating Earth for years.
Ironheart
Ironheart, the second of the newly announced series coming to Disney+, stars Dominique Thorne as Riri
Williams, a genius inventor who creates the most advanced suit of armor since Iron Man.
Armor Wars
Armor Wars, based on the classic Marvel comic series, comes to Disney+ starring Don Cheadle as James
Rhodes aka War Machine who must face what happens when Tony Stark's tech falls into the wrong hands.
Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special
Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special, slated for Disney+ during the 2022 holiday season, is written and
directed by "Guardians of the Galaxy" veteran James Gunn.
I Am Groot
I Am Groot features everyone's favorite baby tree in a series of original shorts coming to Disney+.
FEATURE FILMS
Black Widow
Black Widow, opening May 7, 2021, stars Scarlett Johansson as Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow. The actionpacked
spy thriller chronicles Natasha's efforts to deal with her history as a spy and the broken relationships
left in her wake long before she became an Avenger. Directed by Cate Shortland, Black Widow also stars
Florence Pugh as Yelena, David Harbour as Alexei/The Red Guardian, and Rachel Weisz as Melina.
Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings
Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings, opening July 9, 2021, stars Simu Liu as Shang-Chi, who must
confront the past he thought he left behind when he is drawn into the web of the mysterious Ten Rings
organization. Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, Shang-Chi and The Legend of the Ten Rings also stars
Tony Leung as Wenwu, Awkwafina as Shang-Chi's friend Katy and Michelle Yeoh as Jiang Nan. The cast also
includes Fala Chen, Meng'er Zhang, Florian Munteanu and Ronny Chieng.
Eternals
Eternals, opening November 5, 2021, is a feature film that features the MCU's newest ensemble of Super
Heroes in an epic story that spans thousands of years. Directed by Chloé Zhao, Eternals features a group of
immortal heroes forced out of the shadows to reunite against mankind's oldest enemy, The Deviants. The
outstanding ensemble cast includes Richard Madden as the all-powerful Ikaris, Gemma Chan as humankindloving
Sersi, Kumail Nanjiani as cosmic-powered Kingo, Lauren Ridloff as the super-fast Makkari, Brian Tyree
Henry as the intelligent inventor Phastos, Salma Hayek as the wise and spiritual leader Ajak, Lia McHugh as
the eternally young, old-soul Sprite, Don Lee as the powerful Gilgamesh, Barry Keoghan as aloof loner Druig,
and Angelina Jolie as the fierce warrior Thena. Kit Harington plays Dane Whitman.
Doctor Strange In The Multiverse of Madness
Doctor Strange In The Multiverse of Madness, debuting March 25, 2022, is currently in production starring
Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Benedict Wong, Rachel McAdams and Chiwetel Ejiofor. Xochitl
Gomez joins them, portraying America Chavez, a new fan-favorite from the comics. Directed by Sam Raimi,
the mind-bending adventure connects to the events of "WandaVision" and the upcoming Spider-Man film.
Thor: Love and Thunder
Thor: Love and Thunder, opening on May 6, 2022, begins filming next month with director Taika Waititi at
the helm. Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman and Tessa Thompson return to their roles, joined by Christian
Bale, who portrays villain Gorr the God Butcher.
Black Panther 2
Black Panther 2, opening on July 8, 2022, is being written and directed by Ryan Coogler. Honoring Chadwick
Boseman's legacy and portrayal of T'Challa, the Black Panther, Marvel Studios will not recast the character,
but will continue to explore the incomparable world of Wakanda and all of the rich and varied characters
introduced in the first film.
Blade
Blade is a new feature film starring Mahershala Ali in the title role.
Captain Marvel 2
Captain Marvel 2, a new feature film opening November 11, 2022, is directed by Nia DaCosta. Brie Larson
stars as Carol Danvers, alongside Iman Vellani, who makes her debut in "Ms. Marvel," and Teyonah Parris, who
portrays grown-up Monica Rambeau - a character introduced as a child in "Captain Marvel" who returns to
the MCU as an adult in "WandaVision."
Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania
Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania will be helmed by Ant-Man director Peyton Reed, starring returning
favorites Paul Rudd as Scott Lang/Ant-Man, Evangeline Lilly as Hope Van Dyne/Wasp, Michael Douglas as
Dr. Hank Pym, and Michelle Pfeiffer as Janet Van Dyne. Kathryn Newton joins the cast as Cassie Lang while
Jonathan Majors portrays Kang the Conqueror.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is slated for 2023 with director James Gunn at the helm.
Fantastic Four
Fantastic Four features one of Marvel's most iconic families. Jon Watts is on board to direct.
-- National Geographic --
With more than 1,500 hours of National Geographic content available on Disney+, including award-winning
documentaries, landmark wildlife and natural history, and premium fact-based scripted drama, National
Geographic content president, Courteney Monroe, unveiled details of its ambitious new slate of originals
exclusively for Disney+. "We are without question living in an extraordinary time," said Monroe. "And
yet, National Geographic reminds us that the world is still an amazing and miraculous place, filled with
spectacular beauty and wonder, which we are thrilled to share with the Disney+ audience."
The new slate of high-profile National Geographic originals for Disney+ includes "Limitless With Chris
Hemsworth," "Welcome to Earth (Working Title)" featuring Will Smith, and a fourth season of the
Emmy(R)winning anthology series "Genius," which will profile Martin Luther King, Jr.
Also announced was the new documentary film "Cousteau," which will debut in thea tres before coming
to Disney+, as well as new documentary series "Secrets of the Whales," "A Real Bug's Life" and "America
the Beautiful."
Full descriptions of these titles are below. Photos can be found here.
DOCUMENTARY FILMS
Cousteau
From National Geographic Documentary Films, the studio behind Oscar(R) winner "Free Solo," two-time
Academy Award(R) nominee Liz Garbus ("What Happened, Miss Simone?," "The Farm: Angola, USA"),
Academy Award winner Dan Cogan ("Icarus"), and in partnership with Story Syndicate and The Cousteau
Society, the life of legendary ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau is told through a treasure trove of previously
unseen archival material. Featuring never-before-seen 4K footage from the Cousteau Society's archives,
Cousteau will provide audiences a "deep dive" into the renowned explorer's remarkable life, revealing the
man behind some of the world's most significant contributions to contemporary environmentalism. Academy
Award winner Evan Hayes of "Free Solo" is also a producer for this film. After festivals and a planned
theatrical release, the film will be available exclusively to Disney+ subscribers.
DISNEY+ ORIGINALS
SCRIPTED SERIES
Genius: Martin Luther King, Jr.
From executive producers Brian Grazer and Ron Howard, the Emmy Award-winning Genius scripted
franchise continues exclusively for Disney+ subscribers beginning with season four, which will explore the
extraordinary life and immeasurable impact of Nobel Peace Prize winner Martin Luther King Jr., who led
seismic change in the civil rights movement in America. It will explore how Reverend King, a Baptist minister,
became one of the most influential and inspirational African American leaders in history. Genius dramatizes
the fascinating stories of the world's most brilliant innovators, exploring their extraordinary achievements
along with their volatile, passionate and complex personal relationships. The first season starred Geoffrey
Rush as Albert Einstein, season two starred Antonio Banderas as Spanish painter Pablo Picasso, and the
highly anticipated third season will feature Cynthia Erivo as music icon Aretha Franklin.
UNSCRIPTED SERIES
Secrets of the Whales
From executive producer and National Geographic Explorer-at-Large James Cameron, narrated by
Sigourney Weaver, Secrets of the Whales is the work of acclaimed National Geographic Explorer and
photographer Brian Skerry, as he helps tell the story of a species he's been documenting for decades.
Filmed across 24 locations over three years, it's a profoundly personal saga, venturing deep into the world
of whales to reveal life and love from their perspective. The four-part event series will tell the stories of the
extraordinary cultures of five different whale species - orcas, belugas, narwhals, sperm whales and
humpback whales.
A Real Bug's Life
A Real Bug's Life will be one of the most ambitious and innovative natural history series ever to be made.
Only now, with recent advancements in miniaturized technology, can we meet these extraordinary little
characters and see our colossal world through their tiny eyes. A Real Bug's Life takes viewers on an
unforgettable journey that exposes us to how these microsized creatures keep our world turning while
facing monstrous forces and threats. From New York's Central Park to your own backyard, each episode
immerses the viewer inside a microcosm, where tiny yet extraordinary creatures rely on their mighty abilities
to make it through the day. In ten spellbinding episodes, we take you on adventures into a world beyond
your imagination to show you what life is like on planet Earth from a bug's eye view.
America the Beautiful
It's the land we love and the land we think we know. We see America's breathtaking landscapes and wildlife
as timeless, but the truth is very different. Its unique geography drives the forces of nature to extremes,
shaping and reshaping the land and throwing down new challenges for life. From the award-winning
producers of "Planet Earth," Frozen Planet" and the "Disneynature" films, America the Beautiful is the
ambitious story of our home. Led by the iconic species that resonate with us most, we're going to journey
through America's visually spectacular regions: the Frozen North, the Wild West, the Grassy Heartland, the
Deep South and the Mountainous High Wilderness.
Limitless With Chris Hemsworth
What if you could combat aging and discover the full potential of the human body? Global movie star Chris
Hemsworth ("Extraction," "Thor," "The Avengers") explores this revolutionary idea in the new National
Geographic original series, Limitless With Chris Hemsworth, created by Darren Aronofsky and hailing from
his production company Protozoa Pictures and Jane Root's Nutopia. New scientific research is shattering
conventional wisdom about the human body and offering fascinating insights into how we can all unlock
our body's superpowers to fight illness, perform better and even reverse the aging process! This science is
put to the test by Hemsworth, who, despite being in peak superhero-condition, is on a personal mission to
learn how to stay young, healthy, strong, and resilient. Undergoing a series of epic trials and extraordinary
challenges in order to understand the limits of the human body, he'll learn firsthand how we can live better
for longer by discovering ways to regenerate damage, maximize strength, build resilience, supercharge
memory and confront mortality. Entertaining, immersive and life-changing, Limitless will rewrite the
rulebook on living better for longer.
Welcome to Earth (Working Title)
Hailing from Jane Root's Nutopia and Darren Aronofsky's Protozoa Pictures, the world's most charismatic
movie star, Will Smith ("Ali," "The Pursuit of Happyness," "Bad Boys," "Bad Boys II," "Bad Boys For Life"
and "Men in Black" I, II, III), embarks on an awe-inspiring global journey to unlock the secrets of the most
extraordinary and unexplained phenomena of nature. In each episode, Smith - whose curiosity and wonder is
positively infectious - is guided by National Geographic Explorers traveling to different corners of the world
to get up close and personal with the weirdest, most unusual, dangerous and thrilling spectacles of the
planet. Their mission is to seek out the things and places beyond human perception: the hidden worlds that
we can't see, smell, hear or feel. Only with the aid of cutting-edge technology is it possible to uncover these
natural wonders. Smith discovers there are hidden worlds all around us, from the farthest reaches to our
doorsteps. He learns how the tiniest details have enormous consequences for this place we call home. This is
Earth as you have never seen it before.
-- Disney Television Studios --
Walt Disney Television Chairman of Entertainment Dana Walden shared a look at some of the high
profile series coming to Disney+ from Disney Television Studios. "We have an expansive slate of family
entertainment in the pipeline, from comedies to epic dramas, shows that speak to a global audience,
executed by great creators- people who know how to produce big hits. A number are based on beloved
titles and iconic IP from the Disney library. These titles are trusted by families, passed down through
generations and it's a creator's dream to have access to them. This gives us a real competitive edge."
IN PRODUCTION AND SET TO DEBUT IN 2021:
The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers
Lauren Graham ("Gilmore Girls," "Parenthood") and Emilio Estevez (reprising his role from the original
feature films) star in the next chapter of the hit Mighty Ducks franchise, premiering in early 2021. In present
day Minnesota, the Mighty Ducks have evolved from scrappy underdogs to an ultra-competitive, powerhouse
youth hockey team. After 12-year-old Evan is unceremoniously cut from the Ducks, he and his mom Alex
set out to build their own ragtag team of misfits to challenge the cutthroat, win-at-all-costs culture of
competitive youth sports.
Big Shot
The series follows a temperamental college basketball coach who gets fired from his job and must take
a teaching and coaching job at an elite all-girls private high school. Big Shot stars John Stamos and an
ensemble cast of up-and-coming actors alongside Yvette Nicole Brown.
The Mysterious Benedict Society
Placed undercover at a boarding school known as The Institute, a group of orphans must foil a nefarious
plot with global ramifications while creating a new sort of family along the way. Based on the bestseller by
Trenton Lee Stewart which Time Magazine called "one of the best young adult books of all time," the series
stars Emmy(R) Award winner Tony Hale ("Veep," "Arrested Development") in the titular role and features a
standout ensemble of young actors.
Turner & Hooch
When an ambitious, buttoned-up US Marshall inherits a big unruly dog, he soon realizes the dog he didn't
want may be the partner he needs. Josh Peck stars as Scott Turner, son of Detective Scott Turner portrayed
in the original 1989 film by Tom Hanks.
IN DEVELOPMENT:
Beauty and the Beast (working title)
Starring Luke Evans and Josh Gad in the roles they made famous in the hit live action feature film, the
music, romance, comedy and adventure of the Beauty and the Beast universe continues in this prequel that
explores the kingdom in the years before the Beast and Belle's epic romance. We will witness the destinies of
many familiar characters take shape as they cross paths with new characters -- including an unconventional
and modern take on the traditional "Disney Princess" - as they experience their own exciting epic adventures
and romances, all set to an original soundtrack from Academy Award winning composer Alan Menken.
Swiss Family Robinson
From creators Ron Moore ("Outlander") and Jon Chu ("Crazy Rich Asians"), Swiss Family Robinson is a
modern reimagining of the classic Disney film about a family shipwrecked on a desert island.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians
This new series explores the epic adventures of a modern-day demigod, based on the bestselling book series by
Rick Riordan from Disney Publishing Worldwide, with over one hundred million copies of his books now in print.
-- FX --
FX Chairman John Landgraf today discussed the brand's strategic partnership with Hulu as well as programming
plans for the coming year. "We focused relentlessly on giving our audience some of the very best television
anywhere, and they responded by turning FX into more than just the name of a cable channel. FX became a real
brand - a mark of quality wherever it might be located - by earning love - show after show and year after year -
from the fans of our distinct and reliably excellent original programming. But the best is still to come. You can see
how well Disney's strategy to brand FX content is already working - and how bright the future is for both the FX
brand and for the contributions it will make to both Hulu in the US and Star internationally."
The following are projects Landgraf mentioned, in chronological order:
New Seasons Of Returning Hit Series Coming In 2021:
New seasons of FX linear series, available to Hulu subscribers the following day, include:
· Seasons three and four of the Emmy and Golden Globe award winning comedy Atlanta (produced by
FXP)
· Season 10 of the Emmy and Golden Globe award winning anthological series American Horror Story
(produced by 20th Television)
· Season two of the acclaimed hit comedy Dave (produced by FXP)
· Season three of the Emmy nominated comedy series, What We So In The Shadows (produced by FXP)
· Season three of the hit drama series Mayans M.C. (produced by 20th Television and FXP)
· Season five of the Emmy Award nominated and Peabody Award winning comedy Better Things
(produced by FXP)
· The hit drama series Snowfall (produced by FXP)
· The Emmy Award-winning animated series Archer (produced by FXP)
· FOUR more seasons of the smash hit It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia, which will take Sunny to season
18 - four seasons longer than the prior record holder for longest running live action sitcom in television
history, Ozzy and Harriet.
FX Originals On Hulu (U.S.) And Star (multiple international markets) In 2021 Include:
The Old Man
The Old Man starring Academy Award and Golden Globe award winner Jeff Bridges, Emmy and Golden
Globe award winner John Lithgow, and Emmy and Golden Globe award nominated Amy Brenneman, is a
new FX drama series starring Jeff Bridges as a former CIA operative who is forced to reconcile with his
past. The Old Man, based on the bestselling novel of the same name by Thomas Perry, is written by John
Steinberg & Robert Levine, directed by Jon Watts, and executive produced by Warren Littlefield, Steinberg,
Dan Shotz, Levine, Bridges, David Schiff and Watts. (produced by 20th Television)
American Horror Stories
American Horror Stories is a new anthology series from Emmy and Golden Globe award winning producer
Ryan Murphy spun off from FX's biggest, longest running original drama hit, "American Horror Story".
(produced by 20th Television)
Platform
Platform, from BJ Novak, an actor and award-winning writer of "The Office," is a half-hour anthological
television series from FX that uses the boldest issues of our times as a jumping off point to tell singular,
character-driven stories about the world we live in today. The series will feature a different cast each
episode. The first episode stars Lucas Hedges, Kaitlyn Dever, O'Shea Jackson Jr., George Wallace, Ed Asner,
Brendan Francis Scannell, among others. The second episode stars Jon Bernthal, Boyd Holbrook, Amy
Landecker, Beau Bridges, and more. Novak serves as executive producer and the series is produced by FX
Productions. (produced by FXP)
Y: The Last Man
Y: The Last Man is a new FX drama series based on DC Comics' acclaimed series of the same name by Brian
K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra. Y: The Last Man traverses a post-apocalyptic world in which a cataclysmic event
decimates every mammal with a Y chromosome but for one cisgender man and his pet monkey. The series
follows the survivors in this new world as they struggle with their efforts to restore what was lost and the
opportunity to build something better. Eliza Clark serves as showrunner and an executive producer along
with Nina Jacobson, Brad Simpson, Mari Jo Winkler-Ioffreda, Vaughn and Melina Maksoukas. The series stars
Diane Lane, Ashley Romans, Ben Schnetzer, Olivia Thirlby, Amber Tamblyn, Marin Ireland, Diana Bang, Elliot
Fletcher and Juliana Canfield. The series is produced by FX Productions and will premiere exclusively on FX
on Hulu. (produced by FXP)
NEW SERIES IN DEVELOPMENT INCLUDE:
Reservation Dogs
Reservation Dogs, a new half hour comedy, coming-of-age story about four Native American teenagers
growing up on a reservation in eastern Oklahoma who spend their days committing crimes... and fighting it.
The series co-created by Sterlin Harjo, a Native American who also directed the pilot episode, and Academy
Award-winner Taika Waititi ("JoJo Rabbit," "What We Do in the Shadows"). The series stars D'Pharoah
Woon-A-Tai, Devery Jacobs, Paulina Alexis and Lane Factor. Reservation Dogs is executive produced by
Sterlin Harjo, Taika Waititi and Garrett Basch. (produced by FXP)
Alien
FX is moving quickly to bring audiences the first television series based on one of the greatest sciencefiction
horror classics ever made: "Alien." Alien will be helmed by Fargo and Legion's Noah Hawley stepping
into the creator/executive producer chair, and FX is in advanced negotiations with Academy Award winner,
Sir Ridley Scott - director of the first "Alien" film and the sequel, "Alien: Covenant" - to join the project as an
Executive Producer. Set not too far into our future, it's the first Alien story set on Earth - and by blending
both the timeless horror of the first "Alien" film with the non-stop action of the second, it's going to be a
scary thrill ride that will blow people back in their seats. (produced by FXP)
Shōgun
FX is embarking on one of the most sweeping, sophisticated and adult series FX has ever created - a
retelling of James Clavell's beloved epic saga, Shōgun, set within the riveting and real Game of Thrones that
was feudal Japan. It is adapted by Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo. Tim Van Patten, the highly decorated,
award-winning producer of The Sopranos and Boardwalk Empire, and the director of the pilot and early episodes
of "Game of Thrones," has signed on to bring this giant and visceral canvas to life. (produced by FXP)
Content for Hulu (U.S.) and Star (international)
Walt Disney Television Chairman of Entertainment Dana Walden shared a look at some of the high-quality
originals streaming soon. "We're laser focused on creating great content for Disney's streaming platforms. Our
content strategy? Highly curated programming. We're making hard choices about which shows we produce.
Landing on content that feels special, and is both highly entertaining and part of the cultural conversation."
Only Murders In The Building
Only Murders In The Building follows three strangers (played by Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena
Gomez) who share an obsession with true crime and suddenly find themselves wrapped up in one. The
10-episode series is expected to debut in 2021.
Co-creators and co-writers Steve Martin and John Hoffman executive produce along with Martin Short,
Selena Gomez, Jamie Babbitt, "This is Us" creator Dan Fogelman and Jess Rosenthal. 20th Television, part of
Disney TV Studios, is the studio.
The Dropout
The Dropout is inspired by the ABC News podcast of the same name chronicling the rise and fall of
Elizabeth Holmes (played by Kate McKinnon) and her company, Theranos. The series will explore what
caused the world's youngest self-made female billionaire, once heralded as "the next Steve Jobs," to lose
everything in the blink of an eye. The eight-episode series is expected to debut in 2021.
The Dropout is executive produced by Kate McKinnon, showrunner Liz Meriwether and the producing team
behind the ABC News podcast, host and Chief Business, Technology and Economics Correspondent for
ABC News Rebecca Jarvis, Taylor Dunn and Victoria Thompson. The series comes to Hulu from Searchlight
Television and 20th Television.
Dopesick
Dopesick is an ambitious, harrowing, and compelling look into the epicenter of America's struggle with
Opioid addiction, taking viewers from a distressed Virginia mining community to the hallways of the DEA,
and to the opulence of "one percenter" Big Pharma Manhattan. The unsparing yet deeply human portraits
of the various affected families and their intersecting stories hold up a mirror to where America is right now,
while shining a hopeful light on the heroes battling the worst drug epidemic in American history. The eightepisode
series is expected to debut in 2021.
Dopesick is written by Emmy winner Danny Strong ("Empire," "Recount," "Game Change") and directed
by Oscar winner Barry Levinson ("Paterno," "Rain Man"). Executive producers for Dopesick include Danny
Strong, John Goldwyn ("Dexter"), Barry Levinson, Warren Littlefield ("The Handmaid's Tale," "Fargo," "The
Old Man"), Beth Macy (Dopesick) and Karen Rosenfelt ("Twilight"). The limited series is based on the
New York Times bestselling book of the same name b y Beth Macy, coming to Hulu from 20th Television
and The Littlefield Company.
The series stars Michael Keaton, Peter Sarsgaard, Will Poulter, John Hoogenakker with Kaitlyn Dever and
Rosario Dawson.
Content for Hulu (U.S.)
Nine Perfect Strangers
Based on The New York Times bestselling book by author Liane Moriarty, Nine Perfect Strangers takes place
at a boutique health-and-wellness resort that promises healing and transformation as nine stressed city
dwellers try to get on a path to a better way of living. Watching over them during this ten-day retreat is the
resort's director Masha (Nicole Kidman), a woman on a mission to reinvigorate their tired minds and bodies.
However, these nine "perfect" strangers have no idea what is about to hit them. The eight-episode series is
expected to debut in 2021.
The series stars Nicole Kidman, Melissa McCarthy, Michael Shannon, Luke Evans, Bobby Cannavale, Regina
Hall, Samara Weaving, Melvin Gregg, Asher Keddie, Grace Van Patten, Tiffany Boone and Manny Jacinto.
Nine Perfect Strangers is from David E. Kelley, Bruna Papandrea's Made Up Stories, Nicole Kidman's Blossom
Films and Endeavor Content. Jonathan Levine directs all eight episodes of the series and serves as executive
producer alongside Papandrea, Steve Hutensky and Jodi Matterson for Made Up Stories, Nicole Kidman and
Per Saari for Blossom Films, Liane Moriarty, David E. Kelley, John Henry Butterworth, Molly Allen, Samantha
Strauss and Melissa McCarthy. The series is co-written by David E. Kelley, John Henry Butterworth and
Samantha Strauss and co-showrun by David E. Kelley and John Henry Butterworth.
The Handmaid's Tale
Hulu's award-winning, hit drama series, The Handmaid's Tale, has been renewed for a fifth season ahead
of its season four premiere. In the upcoming fourth season of The Handmaid's Tale, June (Elisabeth Moss)
strikes back against Gilead as a fierce rebel leader, but the risks she takes bring unexpected and dangerous
new challenges. Her quest for justice and revenge threatens to consume her and destroy her most cherished
relationships. The 10-episode fourth season will premiere in 2021.
The series stars Elisabeth Moss, Joseph Fiennes, Yvonne Strahovski, Samira Wiley, Alexis Bledel, Ann Dowd,
Max Minghella, Madeline Brewer, O-T Fagbenle, Amanda Brugel, Bradley Whitford, and Sam Jaeger.
The Handmaid's Tale season five will be executive produced by Bruce Miller, Warren Littlefield, Elisabeth
Moss, Daniel Wilson, Fran Sears, Eric Tuchman, John Weber, Frank Siracusa, Sheila Hockin and Yahlin Chang.
The series is produced by MGM Television and internationally distributed by MGM.
-- ESPN --
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports
events, original programming and exclusive editorial content. ESPN+ has grown to more than 11.5 million
subscribers as of early December 2020.
At The Walt Disney Company Investor Day, Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman, ESPN and Sports Content, The Walt
Disney Company, shared details of a milestone new agreement with the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and
several new series and studio programs coming to ESPN+.
"Our priority is to make content available across all platforms, and that includes a strong focus on a directto-
consumer future," said Pitaro. "Our underlying goal is to acquire, create, and distribute the best sports
content. And to do so in a way that serves fans, maximizes consumption & revenue, and best positions our
business to continue to be the leader in an evolving sports media environment."
Further details are below.
ESPN & ESPN+
Southeastern Conference (SEC) Agreement
ESPN and the Southeastern Conference have finalized a milestone 10-year agreement that grants The Walt
Disney Co. exclusive multi-media distribution rights to all SEC football, basketball and Olympic sports
events beginning in 2024-25, as well as select non-conference SEC football and men's basketball games on
ESPN+ beginning with the 2021-22 season. A significant expansion of ESPN's current partnership with the
conference - which features more than 1,900 annual events and the SEC Network - this landmark agreement
will establish ABC as the new broadcast network home for premier Saturday afternoon SEC football games
and selected Saturday primetime football games which will showcase Alabama-Auburn, Florida-Georgia and
other popular SEC rivalries, as well as the annual SEC Football Championship Game, one of the most-viewed
sporting events of the year. In addition, incremental marquee men's basketball games - featuring Kentucky,
Tennessee and other top SEC programs - will be featured annually across ABC and ESPN. The exclusive
partnership with the SEC offers ESPN significant scheduling flexibility to utilize all of its networks and
platforms. Through this new agreement, ESPN secures its position as the exclusive media rights holder for all
SEC sports through 2033-34. Trailer
Peyton's Places - Season Two, Three and Beyond
The Emmy-nominated series hosted by legendary quarterback Peyton Manning, currently in its 15-episode
second season on ESPN+, will not only return for a third season but will also expand - bringing the same
brand of fun, informative and insightful storytelling to other sports.
Some of the most engaging storytellers and charismatic personalities from across sports will front their own
versions of Peyton's Places, including Abby Wambach (soccer), Ronda Rousey (combat sports), David Ortiz
(baseball), Peyton's brother Eli Manning (college football) and more. Through conversations with current
and former players, coaches, entertainers and icons, the hosts will get to the heart of the stories of each
sport -- the history and evolution, cultural impact, and the people and places that helped make it. Like the
original Peyton's Places, each series will aim to bring fans of all ages and types closer to the personalities,
memorable moments and unknown stories that shaped the sport.
Season three is expected to debut in Fall 2021, with the first of the new sports-specific series debuting in the
first quarter of calendar year 2021. Trailer
Stephen A's World
Stephen A's World is a new weeknight program debuting in January. Sports media icon Stephen A. Smith
will go beyond the sports headlines to give the audience an authentic and unique understanding of the
stories that matter. The show will bring viewers his entertaining perspective, including deep expertise and
unparalleled relationships with some of the most influential figures in sports, entertainment, and beyond.
In addition to the expert analysis, signature debates, and can't-miss celebrity interviews, the show will
also feature a variety of exclusive segments, including "Honorable Mention," Stephen A. answering fan
video questions from his Twitter and Instagram accounts, using NBA 2K to breakdown a player's game in
"Streaming A Smith," giving relationship advice to couples where one is prioritizing sports in the "Love
Doctor" segment, "The Hook," where celebrities pick their game winners every Friday, and weekly visits from
the one and only "Baby Stephen A." The new 30-minute episodes will be available every Monday-Friday at 7
p.m. ET on ESPN+ and available anytime on-demand.
SportsNation
A newly reimagined SportsNation will return exclusively on ESPN+ in January. The daily studio show,
available every weekday morning at 6 a.m. ET, will deliver highlights-driven recaps of the latest in sports
through the lens of opinion, debate, and the internet. Hosts will be joined by special guest analysts and
commentators to provide a look at the night's most resonant plays featuring the best reactions from around
the social media world, discussion and debate, Top 10 lists, deep dives, interviews, and more.
Man In The Arena: Tom Brady
The highly-anticipated nine-part documentary series is built around Tom Brady's never-before-seen, firsthand
accounts of the journey to each of his nine Super Bowls (six victories, three defeats) will premiere
exclusively on ESPN+ in 2021.
In Man In The Arena, Brady and a notable lineup of interview subjects will talk about the milestones of
his legendary, ongoing, career and the moments tha t became pivotal events in paving the future Hall Of
Famer's journey. Trailer
[11/20/24 - 10:01 AM] The CW Network Sets 2025 Midseason Premiere Dates for New and Returning Series Season 7 of the hit series "All American," starring Michael Evans Behling, Greta Onieogou and Bre-Z, kicks off with a special sneak peek on Wednesday, January 29 (8:00-9:00pm ET/PT) before premiering in its regular timeslot on Monday, February 3 (8:00-9:00pm ET/PT).
[11/20/24 - 09:01 AM] First Look: Netflix's "Zero Day" Premieres on February 20, 2025 The limited series stars Robert De Niro as respected former U.S. President George Mullen, who, as head of the Zero Day Commission, is charged with finding the perpetrators of a devastating cyber attack that has caused chaos around the country and thousands of fatalities.
