5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

April 20, 2020April 17, 2020

By Zach Johnson

There’s a lot to watch this week—and you won’t want to miss a minute! The fun begins Monday with the season finale of Cosmos: Possible Worlds on National Geographic. Then, in honor of Earth Day, National Geographic and Nat Geo WILD are presenting two brand-new specials, Born Wild: The Next Generation and Jane Goodall: The Hope. From April 23–25, ABC, ESPN, and ESPN+ will be providing multinetwork coverage of the 2020 NFL Draft. Finally, on Friday, the third season of Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure will drop on Disney+, giving families something new to binge-watch together!

Cosmos: Possible Worlds—Monday, April 20, at 8 p.m. on National Geographic
Young Carl Sagan and Neil deGrasse Tyson first discovered their passion for science at the New York World’s Fairs of the past. And so, in the season finale of the imaginative series, “Seven Wonders of the New World,” audiences will get to visit the dazzling pavilions of the 2039 New York World’s Fair, where problems currently considered intractable may have been solved through public commitment and scientific imagination.

Born Wild: The Next Generation—Wednesday, April 22, at 8 p.m. on National Geographic and Nat Geo WILD
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, the one-hour television event, hosted by Disney Legend Robin Roberts, will present stories of hope and offer a revealing look at our planet’s next generation of baby animals and their ecosystems, which face daunting environmental changes. Featuring National Geographic Explorers and photographers, actor Chris Hemsworth, and ABC News correspondents, the special will take viewers on a journey to stunning, breathtaking environments—like Australia, California, Canada, Hawaii, Minnesota, Sri Lanka, and Kenya—to witness and celebrate the diversity and splendor of charismatic baby animals, their families, and their habitats. The special will make its broadcast network debut Saturday, April 25, at 8 p.m. on ABC.

Jane Goodall: The Hope—Wednesday, April 22, at 9 p.m. on National Geographic and Nat Geo WILD
This two-hour special is the story of Dr. Jane Goodall, a global icon in animal welfare and conservation. The documentary celebrates Dr. Goodall’s four decades of advocacy work for chimpanzees and depicts the next chapter for generations to come. Picking up where National Geographic Documentary Films’ award-winning JANE left off in 2017, the special follows Dr. Goodall throughout her robust travels, capturing her relentless commitment and determination to spread a message of hope. The film offers an intimate perspective of her pivotal transformation from scientist to inspirational activist and shows the harrowing obstacles she has faced throughout her remarkable career. Featuring an extensive collection of photographs and footage that spans over seven decades, the documentary illustrates how Dr. Goodall’s passion for wildlife and unshakable drive have persevered, making her one of the most important figures in wildlife conservation who has galvanized a future generation to create lasting change.

2020 NFL Draft—Thursday, April 23, at 8 p.m.; Friday, April 24, at 7 p.m.; and Saturday, April 25, at 12 p.m. on ABC and ESPN

ESPN and NFL Network will offer a singular presentation of the NFL Draft across both networks, while ABC will present its own telecasts for Rounds 1–3 Thursday and Friday, in addition to simulcasting the ESPN and NFL Network telecasts of Rounds 4–7 Saturday. The 2020 NFL Draft will also serve as a three-day virtual fundraiser benefitting six charities that are battling the spread of COVID-19 and bringing relief to millions in need.

ABC’s unique prime-time telecasts of the NFL Draft on April 23 and 24 will be led by hosts Rece Davis, Jesse Palmer, and Maria Taylor and feature NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay; college football analysts Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, and David Pollack; and correspondent/feature reporter Tom Rinaldi. Trey Wingo will host ESPN’s NFL Draft coverage all three days, with ESPN analysts Mel Kiper Jr., Louis Riddick, and Booger McFarland making remote appearances. NFL Network host Rich Eisen, Draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah, and Pro Football Hall of Famers Michael Irvin and Kurt Warner will contribute remotely all three days. ESPN NFL host Suzy Kolber will conduct remote interviews with NFL draftees, and ESPN Senior NFL Insiders Chris Mortensen and Adam Schefter will be featured remotely all three days.

ESPN reporters covering the draft remotely for the networks will include Josina Anderson (Vikings, Redskins, Browns, 49ers), Jeff Darlington (Dolphins, Jaguars, Buccaneers, Chiefs), Dan Graziano (Packers, Lions, Chargers, Panthers, Raiders), Sal Paolantonio (Giants, Ravens, Eagles, Jets), Mike Reiss (Patriots), Dianna Russini (Titans, Bengals, Saints, Falcons), and Ed Werder (Broncos, Seahawks, Cowboys, Cardinals).

Disney’s Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure (Season 3)—Thursday, April 23, on Disney+
The latest season of Disney Channel’s animated series starts streaming this week! Follow along as Rapunzel (voice of Mandy Moore), Flynn Ryder (voice of Zachary Levi), Lance (voice of James Monroe Iglehart as Lance), Shorty (voice of Paul F. Tompkins), and Varian (voice of Jeremy Jordan) band together to save Corona and its people—including Rapunzel’s parents, King Frederic (voice of Clancy Brown) and Queen Arianna (voice of Julie Bowen)—after being betrayed by Cassandra (Eden Espinoza).

The music is by Academy Award®-winning Disney Legend Alan Menken and lyricist Glenn Slater. Joining the talented voice cast in guest voice roles for season three are Sean Giambrone as a teenage Eugene; Khary Payton as the new age thug Kai; Chris Diamantopoulos as a budding Flynn Rider; Betsy Sodaro as the memory-stealing witch Clementine; Artemis Pebdani as the werewolf hunter Creighton; Gina Torres as the rival Queen of Ingvarr; and Tara Fitzgerald as Zhan Tiri, an ancient demon sorceress.

10 Disneynature Films on Disney+ to Celebrate Earth Month

April 20, 2020April 15, 2020

By Courtney Potter

On April 22, 1970, a global movement began to honor this little blue planet we call home. Fifty years later, Earth Day (and more recently Earth Month, celebrated during all 30 days of April) continues to call attention to the ways we can nurture and protect Mother Earth, including its incredibly diverse animal population. Disneynature—launched in 2008 to bring the world’s top nature filmmakers together to share engaging and inspiring wildlife stories on the big screen—has made a meaningful habit of honoring Earth Month over the years by not only debuting their films in April, but also supporting related organizations and communities through the Disney Conservation Fund.

Disney+ is getting in on the action this month by debuting two brand-new Disneynature films for audiences of all ages to enjoy… but that’s not all: They’re also offering a curated collection of other Disneynature movies to stream. (As an added bonus, check out Disney+ for some related behind-the-scenes specials on the latest Disneynature titles!) Read on for a rundown of the adventures you can take from the comfort of your very own living room—and don’t forget to visit Disneynature.com for more info, including some super-fun educator’s guides and activity packets for several of the films!

Elephant
Elephant follows African pachyderm Shani and her spirited son Jomo as their herd makes an epic journey hundreds of miles across the vast Kalahari Desert. Led by their great matriarch, Gaia, the family faces brutal heat, dwindling resources, and persistent predators as they follow in their ancestor’s footsteps on a quest to reach a lush, green paradise. In honor of the film, Disneynature and the Disney Conservation Fund are supporting Elephants Without Borders, an organization working in Botswana to ensure people and elephants thrive. See Elephants, narrated by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, on Disney+ beginning April 3.

Dolphin Reef
Also premiering on April 3 is Dolphin Reef, narrated by Oscar® winner Natalie Portman; created with Disneynature’s signature storytelling style, the film introduces Echo, a young Pacific bottlenose dolphin who can’t quite decide if it’s time to grow up and take on new responsibilities. Dolphin society is tricky, and the coral reef that Echo and his family call home depends on all of its inhabitants to keep it healthy.

Penguins
Additionally, last year’s Disneynature theatrical release is making its Disney+ debut on April 3! Penguins, narrated by Ed Helms, is a coming-of-age story about an Adélie penguin named Steve who joins millions of fellow males in the icy Antarctic spring on a quest to build a suitable nest, find a life partner and start a family. None of it comes easily for him, especially considering he’s targeted by everything from killer whales to leopard seals, who unapologetically threaten his happily ever after.

Born in China
Narrated by John Krasinksi, Born in China follows the adventures of three different animals—the panda, the golden monkey, and the snow leopard—and their families. The film navigates the vast terrain, from the frigid mountains to the heart of the bamboo forest, on the wings of a red-crowned crane… showcasing beautiful, intimate family moments captured on film for the first time ever. This 2017 Disneynature release is now available on Disney+.

Monkey Kingdom
Set among ancient ruins in the storied jungles of South Asia, 2015’s Monkey Kingdom follows Maya, a resourceful monkey who finds her world forever changed when she welcomes her son Kip into her colorful extended family. The film captures all manner of magical footage as Maya strives to keep Kip safe through unexpected—and sometimes perilous—adventures. These truly adorable monkeys will make you laugh, and warm your heart, as Maya realizes her dreams for Kip’s future. With narration by Emmy® winner Tina Fey, this film is now streaming!

Bears
This Disneynature film, released in 2014, showcases a year in the life of a bear family. Mother Sky is committed to teaching her two impressionable cubs, Amber and Scout, about life’s most important lessons. Set against an incredible Alaskan backdrop, their journey begins as winter ends; emerging from hibernation, the three face the bitter cold and an exciting (but very risky) outside world. Follow along as this endearing family learns to live life to its fullest in one of the planet’s last great wildernesses. Bears, narrated by Oscar nominee John C. Reilly, is now available on Disney+.

Wings of Life
Who knew a story about small winged creatures (and the natural world around them) could be filled with so much drama and intrigue? Narrated by Oscar winner Meryl Streep, this intimate and unprecedented look at butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, bats, and flowers is a celebration of life, as a third of the world’s food supply depends on these incredible—and increasingly threatened—creatures. This 2013 Disneynature release is ready to stream on Disney+!

Chimpanzee
Journey deep into the African rainforest and meet Oscar, an adorable lil’ chimp with a thoroughly entertaining approach to life—and his remarkable story of individual triumph and family bonds. The world is a playground for Oscar and his fellow young chimps who love creating mayhem; full of curiosity, with a joyful zest for discovery and a love for mimicking others, Oscar—along with his family—navigate the complex territory of the forest. This 2012 film, narrated by Disney Legend Tim Allen, can be streamed now.

African Cats
Narrated by Samuel L. Jackson, 2011’s African Cats is an epic true story set against the backdrop of one of the wildest places on Earth—capturing the love, humor, and determination of the majestic kings of the savanna. You’ll meet Mara, an endearing lion cub who works to grow up with her mother’s strength, spirit, and wisdom; Sita, a fearless cheetah and single mother of five mischievous newborns; and Fang, a proud leader of the pride who must defend his family from a rival lion and his sons. Watch it on Disney+!

The Crimson Wing: Mystery of the Flamingos
In a place like no other on the planet, the dramatic and desolate Lake Natron in northern Tanzania, 2008’s The Crimson Wing bears witness to a spectacle unlike anything audiences have seen before: a million crimson-winged flamingos arriving to continue the circle of life. Focusing on the adventures of a single chick, and set against a backdrop of never-before-filmed landscapes, this Disneynature film is narrated by journalist Mariella Frostrup and is now available for streaming.

By the Numbers: 25 Years of the Disney Conservation Fund

April 20, 2020April 23, 2020

By the D23 Team

For The Walt Disney Company, animals have always been an integral part of Disney storytelling—“it was all started with a mouse” after all!— weaving the magic of imagination alongside the magic of nature. And on Earth Day in 1995, in honor of Walt Disney’s conservation legacy, the Disney Conservation Fund was born. Committed to saving wildlife, inspiring action and protecting the planet, the fund has inspired people all over the world to take action for nature in their communities. To celebrate the Disney Conservation Fund’s 25th anniversary, we pulled together some important numbers of the fund’s impact over the years.

Go Behind the Scenes of The Mandalorian with Disney+—Plus More in News Briefs

April 17, 2020

By Courtney Potter

Disney+ to Debut Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian on May the Fourth

Amazing news, Star Wars fans: There’ll be an all-new, and truly unique, way to celebrate Star Wars Day—otherwise known as May the Fourth—this year, with the debut of Disney+’s brand-new series Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian.

Executive producer and Disney Legend Jon Favreau invites The Mandalorian’s cast and crew to share an unprecedented look at the making of the series, which quickly became a pop culture phenomenon after premiering in November 2019. The eight-episode documentary series pulls back the proverbial curtain, exploring different facets of the first live-action Star Wars television show through interviews, never-before-seen footage, and roundtable conversations hosted by Favreau himself. Topics this season include the filmmaking process; the legacy of Disney Legend George Lucas’ Star Wars; how the cast brought their characters to life; the series’ groundbreaking technology; the artistry behind the show’s practical models, effects, and creatures; and so much more.

Look for Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian on Disney+ beginning Monday, May 4—after which, new episodes will air every Friday. And don’t forget: May 4 also brings the final episode of the Emmy® award-winning series Star Wars: The Clone Wars to Disney+. Make a day of it, you must…

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend

Halfway through April, and D23’s got another look at some of the coolest stuff to watch this weekend from around the worlds of Disney. From the Michael Jordan and Chicago Bulls documentary The Last Dance on ESPN, to the sure-to-be-incredible, multi-network, Lady Gaga-curated event One World: Together at Home, there’s something for every taste. Check out our rundown by clicking here!

No FastPass Needed: Ride Big Thunder Railroad at Home

It’s the wildest ride in the wilderness… of your living room. Yes, our good pals at #DisneyMagicMoments just offered up another virtual ride, in the clip above—this time, it’s Big Thunder Railroad, from inside Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort!

In case you need a refresher (no judgment here), Big Thunder Railroad is a thrilling train ride into an abandoned mine shaft—an adventure that includes evading boulders, dodging explosions, and swooping through canyons in the mysterious town of Tumbleweed.

And here’s the best part: Along the way, you’ll learn some very cool facts about the ride itself. So take off your hats and glasses, remain seated please (just in case), and enjoy! Bonus points if you follow it up with making some churro bites—recipe courtesy Disney Parks Blog…

Disney Channel to Celebrate 50th Anniversary of Earth Day

There’s an important milestone coming up next week—both for the world at large, and for The Walt Disney Company… it’s the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, as well as the 25th anniversary of the Disney Conservation Fund, which works to save wildlife and build a global community that’s inspired to protect the magic of nature together. In honor of such a momentous occasion, Disney Channel is airing all manner of special programming—beginning Monday, April 20. Click here to read all about it!

Try the Grey Stuff (Virtually) with Disney Cruise Line’s Beauty and the Beast

Here’s a very special show you’d normally only get to see aboard the Disney Dream—but now, you can pop some corn and watch whilst relaxing on the couch. (Or bed, or hammock, or bathtub… Truly, the streaming world is your oyster!)

In a first-of-its-kind video, Disney Cruise Line welcomes you to “be their guest” and take a front row seat for scenes from their award-winning, Broadway-style production of Beauty and the Beast. Check it out, above, and then make sure to visit the Disney Parks Blog for a few other ways to boost all that Beast-ly fun… including a napkin-folding tutorial, and the recipe for a yummy Enchanted Rose Pizza.

ICYMI: ABC Announces Dates for Their Big Summer Premieres

ABC’s super-fun summertime TV fest, “Summer Fun & Games,” is just around the corner—and D23 has all the info you need to mark up that viewing calendar of yours… including the premiere date for the final season of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (Say it ain’t so!) Take a gander by clicking here.

Throwback to the ’90s with This Classic Disney Merch

April 17, 2020

By the D23 Team

We’re gearing up to blast to the past with “D23 Presents: ’90s Throwback with DCappella” event, so we thought why not look the part, too? Pulling inspiration from some iconic ’90s Disney films, we’ve put together a totally rad collection of merch from shopDisney. Check it out!

Hercules Movie Poster Tee
When it comes to your Hercules fandom, go the distance and show your pride with this vintage tee. Featuring the original movie poster art from the 1997 film, this cool T-shirt has all of our favorite Hercules characters from the underworld to the heavens.

Simba Necklace
Hakuna Matata ain’t no passing craze! Keep the problem-free philosophy always near you with this wonderful necklace.

Genie from Aladdin Mug
You ain’t ever had a mug like this. If you’ve been wishing for a coffee mug with your favorite genie, now’s the time! No lamp required.

Disney Animators’ Collection Pocahontas Doll
Fall in love with this special-edition 16-inch Pocahontas doll. Painted with all the colors of the wind, this doll lights up and comes with a display box that features a sketch by animator Glen Keane—the animator behind Pocahontas in the classic 1995 film.

Mulan Backpack by Loungefly
Be prepared for anything! Add some warrior style to your wardrobe with this Mulan-inspired backpack, perfect for on-the-go adventures.

Beauty and the Beast Enchanted Rose Baseball Cap
This look, inspired by the “tale as old as time,” is timeless. You can rock the stylish dad hat silhouette for any adventure in the great wide somewhere.

Belle Tank Top
What’s better than being comfy and reading a good book? Plus, you can match this comfy tank with a matching plaid button-up for the perfect ’90s look.

Pocahontas | Free Spirit Pattern Throw Pillow
Pochontas, Meeko, and Flit are by your side on this multicolor throw pillow. Customize your design and paint with all the colors of the wind for this one-of-a-kind throw.

Oh My Disney Pin Set—1990s

We all know collecting pins is a favorite Disney pastime, so check out this ultimate ’90s throwback. With patches and pins featuring some beloved Disney films, you can deck out your jean jacket with a little magic!

Everything New You Can Stream on Disney+ in May 2020

April 17, 2020May 18, 2020

By Zach Johnson

Today Disney+ announced which titles will be joining the streaming service in May 2020—and it’s quite a lineup! From live-action films like George of the Jungle and John Carter to new episodes of Disney+ Originals like Be Our Chef and One Day at Disney, there’s plenty of Disney magic to discover. We’re counting down the days until May 4, aka Star Wars Day, when the series finale of Star Wars: The Clone Wars arrives alongside the premiere of Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian, an all-new series chronicling the making of the first-ever live-action Star Wars series, The Mandalorian.

Other Disney+ Originals debuting in May include the game show The Big Fib, hosted by Yvette Nicole Brown; It’s a Dog’s Life with Bill Farmer, hosted by Disney Legend Bill Farmer; and Prop Culture, in which Dan Lanigan reunites iconic movie props with the very people who created and/or used them in some of Disney’s most beloved movies.

All the announced titles coming to Disney+ in May are listed below:

Friday, May 1
Awesome Animals (Season 1)
Birth of Europe (Season 1)
Bride of Boogedy
Buried Secrets of the Bible with Albert Lin (Season 1)
CAR SOS (Seasons 1–7)
Disney Kirby Buckets (Seasons 1–3)
George of the Jungle
Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey
Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco
How to Play Baseball
In Beaver Valley
Lost Treasures of Egypt (Season 1)
Love & Vets (Season 1)
Nature’s Half Acre
Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
Prairie Dog Manor (Season 1)
Primal Survivor (Seasons 1–4)
Prowlers of the Everglades
Secrets of the Zoo
Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa
United States of Animals (Season 1)
Unlikely Animal Friends (Season 3)
Water Birds
Be Our Chef (Episode 106—“Slimy Yet Satisfying”)
Star Wars: The Clone Wars (Episode 711—“Shattered”)
Disney Family Sundays (Episode 126—“Star Wars: Clock”
One Day at Disney (Episode 122—“Robin Roberts: Good Morning America Co-Anchor”)
Prop Culture (Series Premiere) (All 8 Episodes)

Saturday, May 2
John Carter

Monday, May 4
Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian (Series Premiere) (Episode 101—“Directing”)
Star Wars: The Clone Wars (Series Finale) (Episode 712—“Victory and Death”)

Friday, May 8
Be Our Chef (Episode 107—“Anyone Can Cook”)
Disney Family Sundays (Episode 127—“Star Wars: Hanging Art”)
One Day at Disney (Episode 123–“Joe Hernandez: Attractions Host”)
Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian (Episode 102—“Legacy”)
Disney Insider (Episode 105—“Running through Disney, Sorcerer’s Arena, Opening the Archives”

Friday, May 15
Maleficent: Mistress of Evil
Be Our Chef (Episode 108—“Worth Melting For”)
Disney Family Sundays (Episode 128—“Beauty and the Beast: Stained Glass”)
One Day at Disney (Episode 124—“Stephanie Carroll: Ranch Hand”)
Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian (Episode 103—“Cast”)
It’s a Dog’s Life with Bill Farmer (Series Premiere) (Episode 101—“Whale Poop Dogs & Sheep Herding Dogs”)

Monday, May 18
Taylor Swift: City of Lover Concert

Friday, May 22
The Boys: The Sherman Brothers’ Story
Disney Doc McStuffins (Season 5)
Disney Just Roll with It (Season 1)
Disney Mech-X4 (Seasons 1–2)
Disney Vampirina (Season 2)
Fantastic Mr. Fox
Heartland Docs, DVM (Season 1)
Hello, Dolly!
Marvel’s Future Adventures (Season 2)
The Big Fib (Series Premiere) (All 15 Episodes)
Be Our Chef (Episode 109—“Tiana’s Place”)
Disney Family Sundays (Episode 129—“Bambi: Lanterns”)
One Day at Disney (Episode 125—“Ed Fritz: Imagineering Ride Engineer”)
Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian (Episode 104—“Technology”)
It’s a Dog’s Life with Bill Farmer (Episode 102—“Dogs & Cheetahs & Companion Dogs”)

Friday, May 29
Disney Gabby Duran & the Unsittables (Season 1)
Disney The Evermoor Chronicles (Seasons 1–2)
Mickey and the Seal
The Moon-Spinners
Violetta (Season 2)
Be Our Chef (Episode 110—“Woody’s Lunchbox”)
Disney Family Sundays (Episode 130—“Nightmare Before Christmas: Candy Bowl”)
One Day at Disney (Episode 126—“Jerome Ranft: Pixar Sculptor”)
Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian (Episode 105—“Practical”)
It’s a Dog’s Life with Bill Farmer (Episode 103—“Mascot Dogs & Guide Dogs for Runners”)

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend

April 16, 2020April 15, 2020

By Savannah Salazar

We’re seeing stars. With two star-studded specials and three exciting premieres, your weekend is set! Kicking it all off, Disney on Broadway brings a taste of the Great White Way to your living room with a dazzling 25th anniversary special, Celebrating 25 Magical Years of Disney on Broadway. The next night, ABC and other global networks will present some of the biggest names in music, movies and television in hopes to lift viewers’ spirits in a two-hour special, One World: Together at Home. Plus, we’ll see the premiere of the highly anticipated Michael Jordan documentary series The Last Dance. So, start planning out your weekend with these five programs you can’t miss!

Celebrating 25 Magical Years of Disney on Broadway—Friday, April 17, at 7 p.m. ET/PT on broadwaycares.org
The stars of various Broadway productions are preparing to light up your screens! This Friday, celebrate the 25th anniversary of Disney on Broadway with a special performance, helping to raise money for Broadway Cares’ COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Fund. Hosted by Frozen’s Ryan McCartan, the streamed special will feature performances by Jelani Alladin, Sierra Boggess, Ashley Brown, Kerry Butler, Whoopi Goldberg, and more. Plus, 18 Newsies from the show’s Broadway and national touring production will seize the day and come together for a special reunion.

One World: Together at Home—Saturday, April 18, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC
Hosted by late night hosts Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert, the two-hour global broadcast is being held in support and celebration of healthcare workers in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Curated by Lady Gaga, One World: Together at Home will feature appearances by a variety of artists such as Alicia Keys, Amy Poehler, Awkwafina, Matthew McConaughey, Oprah Winfrey, Lizzo, Paul McCartney, the friends of Sesame Street, and a whole lot more.

Jungle Animal Rescue—Saturday, April 18, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Nat Geo WILD
Welcome to the jungle, well, Jungle Animal Rescue that is. The all-new National Geographic television show brings viewers to one of the most biodiverse countries on earth, India, as a team of conservationists and veterinarians work to rescue the animals competing for living space among 1.3 billion people. In the premiere episode, follow the Wildlife SOS team as they go on a mission to extract a crocodile flushed down a well during a monsoon flood.

Marvel’s Spider-Man: Maximum Venom—Sunday, April 19, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Disney XD
The web-slinging series returns for an exciting third season with a one-hour special, “Web of Venom.” As Peter Parker (voiced by Robbie Daymond) and Max Modell (voiced by Fred Tatasciore) experiment on a sample of Venom symbiote, chaos ensues, unleashing a weapon of unknown purpose. The six-episode series will feature appearances by fan-favorite Marvel characters such as Captain Marvel, Star-Lord, Doctor Strange, and newcomer Riri Williams, aka Ironheart (voiced by guest star Sofia Wylie), as Spider-Man battles Venom and an impending threat from its home planet.

The Last Dance—Sunday, April 19, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ESPN
Chronicling the rise of basketball star Michael Jordan and one of the most successful teams in sports history—the 1990s Chicago Bulls—The Last Dance premieres on ESPN with two brand-new episodes. The documentary series features never-before-seen footage from the 1997-’98 season as Jordan and the Bulls pursued their sixth NBA championship in eight years, as well as recounting Jordan’s childhood roots, his draft, and the team’s dire circumstances before his arrival.

Discover How Disney Channel is Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day

April 15, 2020April 20, 2020

By the D23 Team

Wednesday, April 22, marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day and the 25th anniversary of the Disney Conservation Fund, and Disney Channel has just announced an exciting lineup of content to commemorate both of these milestones.

Beginning Monday, April 20, Disney Channel will be airing special videos that highlight the animal care and wildlife conservation efforts led by Cast Members at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. These spots were produced in collaboration with National Geographic and filmed last month on location at Walt Disney World Resort, with Christian J. Simon and Ava Kolker (Sydney to the Max) taking viewers on a fun and educational adventure where they encounter animals such as elephants, tigers, and gorillas and learn about the importance of protecting wildlife.

On Wednesday, April 22, fans can tune in to Disney Channel for a full day of Earth Day programming, including a brand new National Geographic special, Born Wild: The Next Generation, the Disneynature films Monkey Kingdom and Penguins, and environmentally-themed episodes of hit series BUNK’D, Big City Greens, Coop and Cami Ask the World, Raven’s Home, and Sydney to the Max.

The youngest fans will enjoy themed episodes of the popular series Mira, Royal Detective, Mickey Mouse Mixed-Up Adventures, T.O.T.S., Muppet Babies, and Puppy Dog Pals on Disney Junior. The channel will also present on-air messages designed to introduce preschoolers to Earth Day themes of taking care of animals and the world around them.

Disney XD’s Earth Day lineup features a full-day marathon of the animated series Amphibia, followed by a presentation of the acclaimed Disneynature film Born in China.

In DisneyNOW, fans can discover an Earth Day Collection, along with 10-minute extended version of the Disney’s Animal Kingdom spots.

On social media, Disney Channel’s Instagram account will feature interactive Earth Day content with participation from ZOMBIES 2 stars Chandler Kinney and Trevor Tordjman as well as Simon and Kolker. And Disney Television Animation (@DisneyTVA) presents a special Amphibia IGTV episode highlighting fun facts about amphibians and their importance to their respective ecosystems.

Here’s the full lineup of Earth Day-themed programming coming to Disney Channel on April 22:

BUNK’D—”Water Under the Dock” (Original Airdate: 7/25/2019)
(2–2:30 p.m. EDT)
Destiny organizes a dance to raise money to clean up Lake Kikiwaka.

BUNK’D—”Lake Rancid” (Original Airdate: 10/19/2019)
(2:30–3 p.m. EDT)
A magazine wants to do a story on Destiny’s community service.

Big City Greens—“Park Pandemonium”/Cricket’s Biscuits” (Original Airdate: 2/23/2019)
(3–3:25 p.m. EDT)
“Park Pandemonium”: When Gramma refuses to join Tilly’s planned activities at the city park, Tilly tries making her jealous.

“Cricket’s Biscuits”: Gramma makes a batch of her special biscuits for Cricket and Tilly when they’re hurt, but refuses to make any more after they’ve recovered.

Big City Greens—“Level Up”/“Wild Side” (Original Airdate: 2/1/2020)
(3:25–3:50 p.m. EDT)
“Level Up”: When Bill gets hooked on a farm-simulating video game, Cricket must battle him to break his addiction.

“Wild Side”: Cricket’s wild side takes over when Bill is unable to replicate their old camping trips.

Disneynature Monkey Kingdom (Disney Channel Premiere)
(3:50–5:15 p.m. EDT)
A spectacular tale set among ancient ruins in the storied jungles of South Asia, Monkey Kingdom is centered on a clever, resourceful monkey named Maya, who finds her world changed forever when she welcomes her son Kip into her colorful extended family.

Disneynature Penguins (Disney Channel Premiere)
(5:15 P.M.–6:35 p.m. EDT)
Disneynature’s all-new feature film Penguins is a coming-of-age story about an Adélie penguin named Steve, who joins millions of fellow males in the icy Antarctic spring on a quest to build a suitable nest, find a life partner and start a family.

Disneynature Monkey Kingdom
(6:35–8 p.m. EDT)

Born Wild: The Next Generation (National Geographic Special)
(8–9 p.m. EDT)
Hosted by Good Morning America anchor Robin Roberts, this hour-long special is a worldwide celebration of our vibrant planet, experienced through the eyes of baby animals and their families.

Disneynature Penguins
(9–10:20 p.m. EDT)

Raven’s Home—”Dressed to Express” (Original Airdate 7/15/2019)
(10:20–10:45 p.m. EDT)
Nia changes her personal style in an effort to fit in with the school’s new conservation club. When the leader still doesn’t let her join, Nia sets out to find another way she can make a difference in the school.

Sydney to the Max—”Going The Green Mile” (Original Airdate 3/26/2020)
(10:45–11:15 p.m. EDT)
In an effort to save the planet, Sydney and her friends stage a student protest to convince the cafeteria to go green. Back in the ’90s, Max and Leo fight to keep their school from getting rid of the junk food in the vending machines.

Coop & Cami Ask the World—”Would You Wrather Trash a Friend?” (Original Airdate 4/3/2020)
(11:15–11:45 p.m. EDT)
When Coop and Fred go on a recycling spree to prove they care about the Earth, they accidentally throw away a sculpture that was donated for Charlotte’s fundraiser.

Over on Disney XD, fans can tune into the following Earth Day-themed programming on Wednesday, April 22:

Amphibia Marathon
(9 a.m.–3 p.m. EDT)
The frog-out-of-water animated comedy series chronicles the adventures of 13-year-old Anne Boonchuy, who is magically transported to the fantastical world of Amphibia, a rural marshland full of frog people.

Disneynature Born in China
(3–4:45 p.m. EDT)
Born in China follows the adventures of three animal families—the majestic panda, the savvy golden monkey, and the elusive snow leopard.

Find Out How to Get Exclusive D23 Earth Day Collectibles from TOPPS Disney Collect!

April 15, 2020April 22, 2020

By the D23 Team

Celebrate Earth Day all month long with Disney Collect! In honor of the event’s 50th anniversary, TOPPS is giving Disney fans the chance to collect brand-new sets of collectibles, inspired by Mother Earth herself. Featuring some classic Disney characters, each card is adorned with beautiful designs and some always evergreen quotes! The set is exclusive to D23 members.

Today’s the day! For Earth Day, D23 members can get their exclusive set of seven Choose Nature cards and 23,000 coins from TOPPS for a limited time here.

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and More ABC Shows Set Summer Premiere Dates

April 14, 2020

By Zach Johnson

ABC’s “Summer Fun & Games” is right around the corner! Today the network announced its exciting programming for the months of May and June—including the premiere date for the highly anticipated final season of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. After earning the title of summer’s No. 1 network in 2019 for the first time in 24 years, ABC’s “Summer Fun & Games” will welcome back the hit game shows Holey Moley II: The Sequel, To Tell the Truth, Celebrity Family Feud, Press Your Luck, and Match Game. ABC will also debut a new series from ABC News, The Genetic Detective.

ABC’s “Summer Fun & Games” premiere schedule is as follows:

Thursday, April 30
8–9 p.m. ET: Who Wants to Be a Millionaire (New Time Slot)

Tuesday, May 19
10–11 p.m. ET: The Genetic Detective (Series Premiere)

Thursday, May 21
9–10 p.m. ET: Holey Moley II: The Sequel (Season Premiere)
10–11 p.m. ET: To Tell the Truth (Season Premiere)

Wednesday, May 27
10–11 p.m. ET: Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (Season Premiere)

Sunday, May 31
8–9 p.m. ET: Celebrity Family Feud (Season Premiere)
9–10 p.m. ET: Press Your Luck (Season Premiere)
10–11 p.m. ET: Match Game (Season Premiere)

Thursday, June 11
8–9 p.m. ET: Holey Moley II: The Sequel (New Time Slot)

More summer premiere dates and schedule information will be announced soon. In addition to revealing its summer slate, ABC shared new details about its summer series:

The Genetic Detective
The all-new series from ABC News follows investigative genetic genealogist CeCe Moore as she uses her unique research skills to transform the face of crime solving. By working with police departments and crime scene DNA, Moore will be able to trace the path of a violent criminal’s family tree, reveal their identity, and help bring them to justice.

Holey Moley
The 13-episode extreme mini-golf competition series swings into season two as Holey Moley II: The Sequel. Its sophomore season will showcase self-proclaimed mini-golf lovers from around the country as they compete head-to-head through an epic obstacle golf course. In each episode, eight contestants will put their skills to the test as they face off in out-of-this-world challenges on the supersized course. The winners of each episode will return to the Holey Moley course for the all-star grand finale, where one will be crowned winner and claim the $250,000 prize. On-camera commentators Rob Riggle and Joe Tessitore are back alongside sideline correspondent Jeannie Mai.

To Tell the Truth
Hosted and executive produced by black-ish star Anthony Anderson, the funny reimagination of the beloved game show will return for its fifth season and once again feature prominent pop-culture icons and unique commentary and banter from Anderson’s mother, Mama Doris. In each round, the panel will be presented with three people who all claim to be the same person with the same incredible achievement, job, or talent. One will be sworn to tell the truth while the other two use every trick in the book to deceive the panel. The panel of celebrities will have a chance to grill each participant before taking turns deciding who they think is telling the truth. Additional celebrity panelists featured this season include Ashanti, Brad Garrett, Michael Strahan, Mark Duplass, Mike Tyson, Patti LaBelle, Rita Moreno, Yara Shahidi, and many others.

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
The beloved series will be returning for a dramatic seventh and final season. Coulson (Clark Gregg) and the Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. are thrust backward in time and stranded in 1931 New York City. With the all-new Zephyr set to time-jump at any moment, the team must hurry to find out exactly what happened. If they fail, it would mean disaster for the past, present, and future of the world. The Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. cast includes Disney Legend Ming-Na Wen as Agent Melinda May, Chloe Bennet as Daisy Johnson, Elizabeth Henstridge as Agent Jemma Simmons, Iain De Caestecker as Agent Leopold Fitz, Henry Simmons as Director Alphonso “Mack” MacKenzie, Natalia Cordova-Buckley as Elena “Yo-Yo” Rodriguez, and Jeff Ward as Deke Shaw. (For more of what to expect from the final season of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., click here.)

Celebrity Family Feud
Hosted by Steve Harvey, the sixth season will feature celebrities, along with their immediate family members or their extended TV families, going head-to-head in a contest to name the most popular responses to survey-type questions posed to 100 people for a chance to win money for a charity of their choice. This season’s matchups will include the casts of Queer Eye vs. Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, Jersey Shore vs. The Hills, and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills vs. Andy Cohen, among others.

Press Your Luck
Executive producer Elizabeth Banks returns to host the second season of the game of wits and strategy. The stakes have never been higher as contestants try to avoid the WHAMMY for a chance at life-changing cash and prizes. During each game, three contestants will compete to answer questions to earn spins on the Big Board. Contestants will then use their spins to win cash and prizes while trying to avoid the WHAMMY, who could take all of their winnings and leave them with nothing. The winning contestant moves on to the new bonus game to face the WHAMMY in a final battle for the chance to win $1 million.

Match Game
Host and producer Alec Baldwin is back and ready to [blank] when Match Game returns for season five. The bawdy panel game features four contestants per week vying for a chance to win $25,000 as they try to match the answers of six celebrities in a game of fill-in-the-blank. Celebrity panelists will include Amy Sedaris, Angie Harmon, Bob Saget, Christie Brinkley, Fred Armisen, Jane Krakowski, Padma Lakshmi, and Vivica A. Fox.