DirecTV will launch Disney Channel HD, a simulcast channel, early next year, the satellite provider said Tuesday.
The nation’s largest satellite provider disclosed its launch schedule for Disney Channel HD in a press release Tuesday on High School Musical 2. DirecTV has exclusive rights to air the premiere of the HD version of the record-breaking movie Aug. 21.
Disney Channel HD will feature the channel’s original movies in HD, as well as original live action and animated series for older kids and Playhouse Disney programming for preschoolers.
DirecTV also has deals in place to launch three other Walt Disney Co. HD services, namely ABC Family HD, ESPNews HD and Toon Disney HD. Disney hasn’t rolled out any of its new four HD channels yet.
DirecTV will have the exclusive HD broadcast of the premiere of Disney Channel’s hit movie High School Musical 2 Aug. 24 at 6 p.m., 9 p.m. and midnight. DirecTV customers can watch the three screenings in HD, with 5.1 digital audio, by tuning into the satellite provider’s original entertainment channel, The 101.
High School Musical 2 will air three times on The 101, providing multiple opportunities for viewers to catch the HD adventures of some of their favorite high school heroes. In between each airing, The 101 will also feature additional Disney Channel programming including a sneak peek of the brand new upcoming animated comedy series Phineas and Ferb, High School Musical: The Concert and a variety of the channel's short form programming.
The 101 is home to DirecTV’s original entertainment featuring hit shows like Project MyWorld, Championship Gaming Series, DirecTV Concert Series, and the Passions.
