Radio Disney was a pop music station for pre-teens and teens who enjoy listening to music from original Disney series and movies. It was aired in the year 1996, and not only was it a station for kids to listen to their favorite Disney music, but it also helped debut many of our favorite celebrities. These stars include Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, the Jonas Brothers, Ariana Grande, and many others. 

After 25 years of airing, Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer of Disney branded television, has made the executive decision to shut down Radio Disney at the beginning of 2021. The decision was made after the restructure of its divisions and priorities.

Going along with this new plan, Marsh’s branded television team has also decided to increase the amount of content for Disney+ and other Disney platforms. The only station not affected by Disney’s decision to shut down is Radio Disney Latin America, as Disney said it is a separate operation. 

“The difficult decision to close these two radio networks coincided with Disney’s recently announced structural changes that call for Disney Branded Television to sharpen its focus on increasing production of kids’ and family content for Disney+ and Disney Channels,” said a statement announcing the news. “Division leaders also took into account the fast-evolving media environment that provides more personalized music choices than ever to a generation of young consumers, and the ongoing public health crisis that continues to affect in-person music events.”

During Radio Disney’s peak in its time, it had 23 stations. As the years went on, 22 of those stations were sold and then moved to satellites and digital distribution. 

Even though Radio Disney will soon be no more, the love that it has given to Disney fans, and the love that was given back to these stations will never be forgotten. Thank you for giving children, teens, and adults all around the world the best 25 years of great music.