An all-new “DuckTales,” an animated comedy series based on the Emmy Award-winning series treasured by a generation of viewers, has been ordered for launch in 2017 on Disney XD channels around the world. Set to be produced by Disney Television Animation, the new series will again star Disney’s enduringly popular characters: Scrooge McDuck, his grandnephews Huey, Dewey and Louie, and Donald Duck. The announcement was made today by Marc Buhaj, Senior Vice President, Programming and General Manager, Disney XD.
Buhaj said, “DuckTales’ has a special place in Disney’s TV animation history, it drew its inspiration from Disney Legend Carl Barks’ comic books and through its storytelling and artistic showmanship, set an enduring standard for animated entertainment that connects with both kids and adults. Our new series will bring that same energy and adventurous spirit to a new generation.”
The new series’ adventures will once again take viewers along as Scrooge McDuck, his curious and mischief-making grandnephews — Huey, Dewey and Louie — and the optimistic yet temperamental Donald Duck embark on high-flying adventures worldwide. Other beloved characters slated to be in the new stories are: Duckworth, Gyro Gearloose, Launchpad McQuack, Flintheart Glomgold, Magica DeSpell & Poe, Ma Beagle and the Beagle Boys (Burger Beagle, Bouncer Beagle), Mrs. Beakley and Webbigail Vanderquack.
A generation’s seminal cartoon, the Emmy Award-winning “DuckTales” led the daily syndicated cartoon block “The Disney Afternoon” with 100 episodes produced by Disney Television Animation from 1987-90. An animated theatrical film, “DuckTales the Movie: Treasure of the Lost Lamp,” premiered in 1990.
The original “DuckTales” is currently available on WATCH Disney Channel, an app that allows consumers to watch on tablet, phones, computer and set top boxes.
Disney Interactive features several “DuckTales” themed items in the Disney Infinity toy box. A music video of the familiar “DuckTales” theme song (with real ducks) has amassed over six million views since September 2014 on the popular YouTube channel “Oh My Disney.”
In the U.S., Disney XD is seen on a 24-hour, advertiser supported network that reaches over 80 million households via its basic cable and satellite affiliates. In total, there are 31 Disney XD channels available in 25 languages around the world. Disney Television Animation is part of the Disney ABC Television Group at The Walt Disney Company.