Disney Channel Gives Preschoolers Latino Hero

A new multicultural series about making things work, Handy Manny, will join Playhouse Disney, the learning-focused programming block for preschoolers on Disney Channel.

Wilmer Valderamma, best known for his role as Fez on the That ‘70s Show, stars as the voice of Latino hero Manny Garcia, a helpful, determined young man who, with the assistance of his eclectic set of talking tools, is the town's expert when it comes to repairing all that's not working.  The main title theme song is performed by Grammy Award-winning Hollywood Records' recording artists Los Lobos. The series is scheduled for an early 2006 premiere.

Produced in eye-catching 3D computer animation, Manny's comedic escapades will embrace Spanish culture and language while Manny and his tools show young viewers how to best navigate everyday predicaments.  The cultural consultant is Marcela Davison Aviles and Dr. Renee Cherow O'Leary is the curriculum advisor.

Children's television veterans make up the team behind "Hanny Manny."  The series was created by Marilyn Sadler and Roger Bollen (of the Disney Channel original movie blockbuster Zenon trilogy). The series is a production of Nelvana Ltd.

Manny Garcia is the young man for every job – he's the eternal optimist in a world that certainly needs repair and he's always respectful of others and quick to offer a "please" or "gracias."  Manny has the right tools for the job and although they are always gung-ho to help, they are also a noisy, fussy, bickering bunch.