Disney replaces Jetix with boy-focused XD

Disney has launched its boy-focused channel XD in the UK today (Monday June 15), following initial launch in the US in February and France in April.

The channel, described as “girl-inclusive” is aimed at boys aged 6-14 featuring a mix of live-action and animated programming focused on their “quest for discovery, accomplishment, sports, adventure, music and humour.

The channel will replace former rival Jetix, formerly Fox Kids Europe, which Disney fully acquired on February.

Former Jetix Europe managing director Boel Ferguson has become general manager Disney Channels UK & Ireland and is overseeing XD. New vice president of ad sales and promotions for Europe, the Middle East and Africa Peter Fitton is expected to review UK commercial teams after he joins at the end of the month.

Local original programming will be produced for the ad-funded channel by a UK production hub.

Launch shows include Arron Stone, a series about a crime fighting teenager, and Zeke & Luther, a series about two friends intent on becoming the world’s greatest skateboarders.

Disney claims XD attracted 15.7m viewers, including 6.5m kids over its US premiere weekend earlier this year.