Top 10 Disney Channel Facts That Will Shock You
#10: The Almost Cheetah-licious TV Spin-Off “The Cheetah Girls” franchise (2003-08)
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In 2003, we learned all about “Girl Power” thanks to Disney Channel’s first-ever musical film, “The Cheetah Girls.” Based on Deborah Gregory’s book series of the same name, we follow the teen pop group consisting of Adrienne Bailon, Kiely Williams, Jessica Benson, and for the first two films, Raven-Symone, on their wild and magnificent adventures in pursuit of stardom. According to Bailon, their next stop was meant to be a TV sitcom series with the working title “Welcome to Atlanta.” However, she explained that it kept getting delayed due to “That’s So Raven’s” popularity. Eventually, it was dropped altogether. Still, we did get a mini-reunion on “Raven’s Home,” and it seems a “Cheetah Girls” revival hasn’t been ruled out entirely either.
#9: Anneliese van der Pol Was Almost a Different Iconic Character “Kim Possible” (2002-07)
Fans best know this actress as Chelsea Daniels, Raven’s loveable yet ditzy bestie from “That’s So Raven” and “Raven’s Home.” But, if it hadn’t been for her chemistry with Raven during auditions, we might’ve known her today as the voice of Disney’s crime-fighting teen, Kim Possible. Supposedly, the actress was slated to play the title role while the part of Raven’s best friend was offered to someone else. However, she and Raven got along so well that the teen psychic star pushed for Annelise to be cast instead. So, Van der Pol turned down the role of Kim Possible to play Chelsea, and “Even Stevens” actress Christy Carlson Romano became the voice of the animated adolescent hero.
#8: The 65 Episode Rule
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In the late 90s, Disney Channel implemented an unofficial rule ending any series, no matter how popular, after 65 episodes. As you can imagine, this was a contentious decision, especially when it hit fan favorites like “Even Stevens” and “Lizzie McGuire”. Although both did get a full-length feature film, it still really wasn’t enough to satisfy fans. Apparently, the idea was to limit production costs. This way, they could make more content at lower prices. Ultimately, it was “That’s So Raven” that broke the rule, reaching 100 episodes and introducing Disney fans to a new era. While many shows today still have a four-season limit, you are far less likely to see your favorite series end abruptly.
#7: Representing Disney Is Quite the Rollercoaster
One of the biggest perks of working for Disney is the alleged free access to their theme parks. Thrill-seeking stars can apparently turn up as they please and expect VIP treatment. However, it comes with a price. Firstly, the actors are expected to make “random” visits whenever new attractions open and promote the Mickey Mouse ears out of their experience. You might say, a small sacrifice for unlimited time in the Happiest Place on Earth. But, apparently, they’re also discouraged from visiting any other non-Disney parks, especially Universal Studios, due to a long feud with the rival company. So, don’t expect to see your favorite Disney Channel star posting that they’ve escaped Gringotts Wizarding Bank or survived a trip to Jurassic Park.
#6: “JONAS” Was Originally a Spy Show “JONAS” (2009-10)
Remember The Jonas Brothers’ short-lived series about living a normal teen life? Well, what if we told you that the initial plan had the boys living their musical dream by day and working as secret agents by night? Originally the show was called “J.O.N.A.S,” an acronym for “Junior Operatives Networking as Spies.” Chelsea Staub, who played Stella, described it as “‘The Monkees’ and a little of bit of ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’.” She said it would still be a sitcom but with action sequences. We honestly don’t know if we’re confused or intrigued. Regardless, the idea was dropped as it didn’t really fit in with the channel’s other shows at the time.
#5: “Phineas and Ferb” Was Almost a 90s Show “Phineas and Ferb” (2007-15)
Dan Povenmire first doodled Phineas Flynn at a restaurant in Pasadena. Of course, at the time he didn’t yet know it was Phineas. He kept the drawing and showed his wife, insisting he’d sell a show with the character someday. Although, he probably didn’t envision that ‘someday’ would be 16 years later. Along with his “Rocko’s Modern Life” co-writer, Jeff Marsh, he conceptualized a fun and detailed story for the doodle. However, it was shelved when they couldn’t find a network to pick it up. Luckily, Disney eventually stood back and let the creators do their thing. And, so, “Phineas and Ferb” premiered in 2007, and was a massive hit! Still, we can’t help but wonder how the show might’ve looked had it been picked up in the 90s.
#4: Disney Channel Stars Are Always Auditioning
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You might expect that once you’ve got your foot in the door at Disney Channel, you’re set for life. Well, that certainly doesn’t seem to be the case. According to Alyson Stoner–who you’ll know from multiple Disney projects like “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody,” “Phineas and Ferb,” and “Camp Rock”–actors have to re-audition for every role. She described the process as frustrating, saying she would often get overlooked despite her numerous previous credits on the network. Stoner often found herself attending first calls with total novices who had no prior auditioning experience. We can only imagine how infuriating it must’ve been to feel like she was constantly having to prove herself.
#3: The Actors’ Work Schedules Are Intense
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Even if you do land a leading role at Disney, it’s not all smooth sailing from there. Apparently, actors are expected to work crazy long hours to keep up with the network’s hectic schedule. Miley Cyrus opened up to Marie Claire about working 12-hour days on “Hannah Montana. She said, “Every morning, I was getting coffee jammed down my throat to wake me up.” She also divulged that the company wasn’t sympathetic to some of her personal problems. For instance, Miley got her first period while on set and wearing white pants. She was embarrassed, as we’d all be and tearfully begged her mom to help her with her tampon because, as we know, the show must go on.
#2: The Stars Undergo Heavy Media Training
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Disney Channel puts a lot of emphasis on upholding a squeaky clean reputation. One way they do this is by having their actors undergo intense media training that involves teaching them how to dodge personal questions. Nick Jonas has since said that, while it was the best training on how one should conduct themselves professionally, it was also rather rigorous. Bella Thorne further explained that they were encouraged to change their voice to sound young and play dumb if questions got too personal. There are even stories that suggest Disney had final say over its stars’ social media content. That’s a lot of effort to maintain an image, and many confessed that it meant sacrificing their sense of self.
#1: Promoting a “Good” Image
Another way Disney protects its perfect image is by holding its stars to practically unattainable standards. As we’ve mentioned, they want their actors to be perceived as young, innocent, and flawless role models. And, supposedly, Disney’s willing to drop anyone the moment they step a toe out of line. Bella Thorne was almost canned after being snapped in a bikini. Think that’s excessive? Joe Jonas shared that they were forbidden from growing facial hair to keep them looking young. Disney places its stars on an insanely high pedestal, and that’s a long way to fall. Is it any wonder so many fight hard to shed their goody-two-shoes image?
