Disney Channel Stars Respond to Haiti Disaster in New ‘Express Yourself’ Interstitial

A new segment of Disney Channel’s “Express Yourself” short form series, one coinciding with kids, families and educators’ discussions surrounding the Haiti earthquake, will premiere TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2 on Disney Channel and Disney XD channels around the world, on Disney.com (including Disney Channel.com and DisneyXD.com) and on You Tube.

The 60-second interstitial, featuring the message, “Join the world as we shine a light on Haiti,” has themes of connection, empowerment, compassion, outreach and being a part of a global community. It features popular Disney Channel stars Selena Gomez (“Wizards of Waverly Place”), Emily Osment, Jason Earles (both of “Hannah Montana”), Dylan and Cole Sprouse, Brenda Song and Doc Shaw (all of “The Suite Life on Deck”) encouraging kids to explore and communicate their feelings and to get inspired to make a difference.

Gary Marsh, president, Entertainment and chief creative officer, Disney Channels Worldwide, said the new interstitial is all about empowering kids. “Our hope is that we can encourage kids all over the world to share their feelings in positive ways — and simultaneously be heartened by the world’s response to those who need help.”

Established in January 2001, “Express Yourself” is designed to effectively reach Disney Channel’s audience of kids age 6-14 with a wide array of messages relevant to their demographic. The series does not reference details about specific tragedies, but includes messages that address feelings of fear and anxiety caused by world events and is instructive on how kids can deal with those feelings.