Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) today announced the release of Disney “Star Darlings,” an original new property that features twelve unique girls who encourage tweens to celebrate their individuality, make positive choices, and show that they can make any wish a reality. Disney “Star Darlings” launches today in North America with two novels available everywhere books and eBooks are sold. All-new “Star Darlings” content and products will be released through November, including an accompanying storytelling and lifestyle app, music from Walt Disney Records, the first shorts in an animated series on YouTube, and a fashion dolls line created in collaboration with JAKKS Pacific that will be available at Justice stores nationwide.
The “Star Darlings” characters embody the qualities and characteristics of today’s tweens, and have been created to resonate with the audience through a multiplatform lifestyle experience tailored just for them. Each Star Darling has her own wish that she pursues with determination and the help of her friends, and these shared journeys and experiences are designed to inspire tweens to go after their dreams.
“’Star Darlings’ represents a fully-realized world where strong, confident girls are front and center,” said Andrew Sugerman, executive vice president, Disney Publishing Worldwide. “We’re excited to announce this all-new, innovative property tailor-made for today’s tween, and the launch of ‘Star Darlings’ represents one of our broadest multi-platform launches to date.”
The story begins on Starland where a major crisis is afoot, and twelve unique girls from the prestigious Starling Academy are chosen to be the first student Starlings to venture to Earth. Rich with themes of friendship, confidence, leadership, and teamwork, the Star Darlings go on the most magical adventures of their lives. Determined to succeed, the girls show courage and ingenuity—plus a whole lot of humor—as they guide others on Earth to discover happiness and fulfillment.
Initially conceived by designer Shana Muldoon Zappa, along with her husband, New York Timesbestselling author, Ahmet Zappa (Because I’m Your Dad), “Star Darlings” was inspired by their daughter. “Our intention with Star Darlings has always been to empower every girl – no matter where she was born or what she looks like – to understand that she has what it takes within, to make her own wishes come true…through the unstoppable energy created by positive thinking, taking action and believing in yourself. “
Disney Consumer Products is partnering with Justice, the leading tastemaker for tween girls, on a multi-channel marketing campaign to help girls discover the magic of “Star Darlings.” Justice will be the retail destination for “Star Darlings” through the fall and holidays, offering a curated collection of books, dolls and limited apparel. A small assortment will also be available at select Disney Store locations and DisneyStore.com.
To celebrate the release of the first books in the “Star Darlings” series, Shana Muldoon Zappa and Ahmet Zappa will be signing copies of “Star Darlings” at Children’s Book World in Los Angeles on Saturday, September 19, 2015 at 2:30 p.m. PT.
For more information on Disney “Star Darlings,” please visit the “Star Darlings” Facebook page at www.facebook.com/disneystardarlings. For Justice store locations, please visit www.shopjustice.com.