Family Channel, Disney Junior and Disney XD Available on Free Preview in March

TORONTO, March 1, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Astral Kids is giving the whole family a break this month with the March Free Preview, a complimentary sampling of its kids networks including Family Channel, Disney Junior and Disney XD available throughout March. Delivering an unmatched roster of kids programming in Canada, Astral Kids gives viewers the opportunity to experience all three channels, which feature comedy, educational and adventure programming respectively, via linear, OnDemand and broadband services.

"With fifteen television affiliates participating in the nationwide free preview, Astral is able to provide more young television fans and their families' access to three dynamic channels packed with exciting and adventure-filled programming all month long," said Joe Tedesco, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Astral Kids. "We're excited to share our rich programming slate which includes vibrant March Break specials, highly-anticipated television events and new episodes from hit Canadian series with an even larger audience. With viewers having access to Family, Disney Junior and Disney XD on multiple platforms, there truly is something for everyone."

For preschoolers, the magic begins on Disney Junior, a channel presenting engaging and educational programs for younger viewers and their families. With a unique lineup featuring an emphasis on storytelling, children find delight in such series as Sofia the First, Doc McStuffins and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. March brings special episodes and theme weeks to brighten the lineup.

Rated #1 with kids in Canada, Family Channel offers a diverse programming schedule that viewers can laugh along with and is best known for Good Luck Charlie, Jessie and Austin & Ally. This March Family's schedule is stocked with new Canadian original episodes of Wingin' It and the new dance-based series, The Next Step. Plus, special episodes premiere throughout March Break and later in the month it's the highly-anticipated homecoming special The Wizards Return: Alex vs. Alex.

Disney XD is the top destination for action, adventure and comedy with hit series Phineas and Ferb, Lab Rats and Crash and Bernstein. Astral Kids' only advertising-supported network cranks up the non-stop fun this month with an action-packed March Break lineup, new episodes of Randy Cunningham: Ninth Grade Ninja and Crash and Bernstein and new feature film premieres.

For more information on the Family Channel, Disney Junior and Disney XD free preview event, please visit MarchFreePreview.ca or contact your television service provider.

Family Channel is a premium, commercial-free network offering the best in family television entertainment in approximately 6 million homes across Canada. Dedicated to celebrating family life and providing a fun experience for all, Family airs a unique mix of series, movies and specials, with a large portion of programming supplied by Disney. Family Channel also offers Family OnDemand, a television-based Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) service and Family OnLine, an internet-based, streaming service, these services, available at no additional cost, present hit Disney movies and series plus top-rated Canadian series to subscribers when they want it, where they want it. Visit us at Family.ca.

Disney Junior is a commercial-free channel available in English and French to more than 4 million subscribers across Canada. Committed to offering the best in engaging and development-based programming for younger children, Disney Junior showcases series with a focus on magical, musical and heartfelt stories that feature beloved classic and contemporary characters. Presenting exclusive, first-run programs from Disney together with celebrated Canadian series, Disney Junior is also available through Disney Junior OnDemand and Disney Junior OnLine. Visit us at DisneyJunior.ca.

Disney XD is an advertising-supported digital specialty network and multiplatform brand offering a compelling mix of high definition live-action and animated programming to homes across Canada. Disney XD features series, movies and short form content that focus on comedy, discovery, accomplishment and adventure. Disney XD programming is also available through dedicated on demand and broadband services. Visit us at DisneyXD.ca.

Family Channel, Disney Junior and Disney XD are members of the Astral family. Astral Media Inc. (TSX : ACM.A/ACM.B) is one of Canada's largest media companies. It operates several of the country's most popular pay and specialty television, radio, out-of-home advertising and interactive media properties. Astral plays a central role in community life across the country by offering diverse, rich and vibrant programming that meets the tastes and needs of consumers and advertisers. To learn more about Astral, visit astral.com.

SOURCE: Family Channel

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