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Disney Channel retools 'Sonny With a Chance' during Demi Lovato absence
Given the recent personal trials of Disney star Demi Lovato, the network is actively pursuing alternate storylines to keep her series, "Sonny With a Chance," on the air.
Though it's not certain whether Lovato's current treatment will prevent her from joining "Sonny" when it resumes production in January, Variety reports that Disney and "Sonny" producers have a plan B in place.
Disney confirms the third season will shift the focus to "Sonny's" show-within-a-show, "So Random!" A variety and sketch comedy series, it will devote more screen time to guest stars, musical performances and shorts.
"This allows her the time she needs to get well, without distraction or pressure," a Disney Channel spokeswoman tells Variety. "Again, we extend our ongoing support to Demi and her family as she works to overcome personal issues."
The current season already includes two stand-alone episodes devoted to "So Random," so producers expect the transition to be an easy one.
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Photo credit: Disney
Though it's not certain whether Lovato's current treatment will prevent her from joining "Sonny" when it resumes production in January, Variety reports that Disney and "Sonny" producers have a plan B in place.
Disney confirms the third season will shift the focus to "Sonny's" show-within-a-show, "So Random!" A variety and sketch comedy series, it will devote more screen time to guest stars, musical performances and shorts.
"This allows her the time she needs to get well, without distraction or pressure," a Disney Channel spokeswoman tells Variety. "Again, we extend our ongoing support to Demi and her family as she works to overcome personal issues."
The current season already includes two stand-alone episodes devoted to "So Random," so producers expect the transition to be an easy one.
Follow Zap2it and MikeyLikesTV on Twitter and Zap2it on Facebook for the latest TV, movie and celebrity news
Photo credit: Disney
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With Disney losing both Miley & Gomez, they need to keep the show is at best when the two main girls are interacting.If Lovato cleans up her act they will bring her back.
I'm happy to see that the other cast members of the show won't have to suffer for the unfortunate situation that Demi is now dealing with. However you might feel about the show personally, I'd hate to see the other cast members fall victim to a summary cancelation themselves.
That being said, I'm curious how basically a Disney sketch comedy show fairs... I don't think Disney has ever done sketch comedy but hope they keep it clean if so.
KB
Disney always has a back-up...Bridget Mendler is in the process of becoming the new it -girl...But she needs more time. Demi needs 2 step back in.