Disney first revealed plans for an ad-funded channel, to be called ABC1, last year and the move is seen as coup for Freeview because the channel will initially not be available to Sky nor cable viewers.
The launch sees Disney beat BSkyB to bringing an entertainment channel to the platform, which is operated jointly by the BBC, BSkyB and Crown Castle.
ABC1 marks the US media giant's first real foray into mainstream UK broadcasting, although it does currently also own 25% of GMTV. It will be Disney's first advertising-only funded channel in the UK. Its other services operating in the UK, including the Disney Channel, depend on subscription revenues.
It will launch ahead of ITV's new digital entertainment channel, ITV3, which will debut in November, considerably bolstering Freeview's channel package.
Confirmed ABC1 programme highlights include long-running US sitcom 'Home Improvement' and drama 'Once and Again'. The rest of the line-up could comprise hit US ABC shows such as legal drama 'The Practice', the wholesome family sitcom 'My Wife and Kids' and spy drama 'Alias', among others.
ABC1 will be broadcast from 6am to 6pm starting September 27, with plans to expand to a 24-hour schedule.
John Hardie, the Disney executive who will oversee the launch, said: "In its first phase, ABC1 will champion an under-served British audience -- people who are busy at home during the day. There will be no advertising during the first few months of the schedule but eventually Disney plans to sell time."
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