Disney is closing its children’s channels in the UK after launching Disney + and failing to reach an agreement on new transport deals with pay-TV platforms Sky and Virgin Media.
Disney Channel, Disney XD and Disney Junior will air off the air in late September, although other Disney brands, including Nat Geo and Fox, will continue to broadcast on linear television.
A spokesperson said: “Beginning October 1, Disney + will become the exclusive home for content from the Disney Channel, DisneyXD and Disney Junior in the UK.”
He added that “Walt Disney Company remains committed to the business of our children’s channels” and that the company plans “to execute distribution agreements for Disney channels in many markets where Disney + is also available.”
However, the news marks a significant moment for the company, which seems to increasingly focus its efforts on broadcasting at the expense of traditional television.
It also follows the announcement that David Levine, Disney’s vice president of children’s programming for the UK, Europe and Africa, will be leaving in late June after a 16-year stint at the Mouse House.
The closure of Disney channels was first reported by the UK commercial broadcast.
