Disney XD launches Marvel block across EMEA

Disney XD is launching a Marvel programming block across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

This follows Disney’s acquisition of the comic book brand for US$4.2 billion in 2009 and comes after the enormous success of the Avengers movie, which stars Robert Downey Jr and Scarlett Johansson.

The block – known as the Marvel Universe – will launch this summer with new series Ultimate Spider-Man as well as existing animated shows including The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and Iron Man: Armored Adventures.

Simon Philips, president, Marvel Entertainment International, told TBI in April that it would launch the kids block across the world following its debut in the US. He added that the company was also in discussions to produce a new kids series based on the Avengers movie.

“The appetite for the Marvel Universe programming is evident from the incredible success of Marvel’s Avengers Assemble movie, and the Disney XD audience will be thrilled by the fun, action, adventure and relatable characters that Marvel will deliver,” said Tricia Wilber, general manager, Disney Channels Europe, Middle East and Africa.