Joe D’Ambrosia has been promoted to senior vice president of original programming at Disney Junior, Variety has learned. He previously served in the position of veep of original programming.
In his elevated role, D’Ambrosia will continue to oversee production and creative development ofDisney Junior’s portfolio, including “Doc McStuffins,” “Sofia the First,” “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,” “Goldie & Bear,” “Sheriff Callie’s Wild West” and the short-form series “Minnie’s Bow-Toons.” He is also responsible for a few hotly-anticipated upcoming titles at the kids’ cabler — “Elena of Avalor,” which will feature Disney’s first Latina princess; “Mickey and the Roadster Racers,” a madcap car-racing adventure featuring Mickey Mouse and his pals; plus “Vampirina,” which is inspired by the Disney Publishing children’s book series “Vampirina Ballerina.”
“Joe is an incredibly talented executive who brings his A-game to the table each and every day,” said Nancy Kanter, executive vice president of original programming and general manager of Disney Junior Worldwide. “In his new role he will continue to manage our creative output leading us in new, exciting directions and will work with me on ways to deliver the best in kids TV to the broadest audience possible.”
Prior to joining Disney in 2011, D’Ambrosia co-founded Murray Hill 5 Productions where he produced and developed children’s television programming and family films including “Astro Boy” and “Golden Bridges.” Previously, he helped launch Sony Pictures Family Entertainment, overseeing family films and TV series. His career began at Nickelodeon where he launched the Viacom-owned cabler’s family film division, overseeing Nick’s first live action feature, “Harriet the Spy,” and first animated feature, “Rugrats, The Movie.”
D’Ambrosia will continue to report to Kanter.
Source: Variety