SOAPnet channel to be replaced in 2012 by Disney Junior, targeted at a preschooler audience

SOAPnet to be replaced by channel for preschoolers

NEW YORK — The SOAPnet channel is all washed up and will be replaced by Disney Junior, a new 24-hour channel aimed at preschoolers.

The Disney-ABC Television Group announced Wednesday that the channel is set to debut in 2012. It will adopt learning themes geared to kids ages 2 to 7.

Disney Junior will replace the SOAPnet channel, which is available in 75 million U.S. homes and features reruns of daytime dramas.

Before Disney Junior is launched as a 24-hour channel, the name will be introduced on the popular Disney Channel’s daily programming block for preschoolers that’s now branded Playhouse Disney.

The new network will compete with Viacom’s Nick Jr. channel, among other rival preschool-oriented programming.