In Italy, a record number of viewers tuned in for the Italian premiere of Violetta, the first original live-action series created by Disney Channel Latin America and Disney Channels Europe, Middle East and Africa, in association with Argentine production company Pol-ka. The brand new telenovela, which launched on Disney Channel Italy on 14 May 2012, attracted 279 700 individuals (age 4+) and 159 100 kids (4 to 14), making it the most-watched TV series premiere in the history of Disney Channel Italy with tweens (8 to 14) and girls (4 to 14).

Violetta ranked number one in its timeslot in Italy for tweens (8 to 14) and girls (4 to 14) among all free and pay TV channels and saw a significant increase in the average viewership on previous Disney Channel telenovela premieres, Il Mondo di Patty and Ninì, with a 51% and 161% rise in viewing figures respectively with girls (4 to 14). This success was mirrored online with unique viewers to the Violetta website almost tripling from 7 May 2012, and fans of the Violetta Facebook page trebling.

With over half of the show’s crew from Europe and a cast drawing on local European talent including Spain and France, Violetta has already launched on Disney Channels across Latin America. It is shot entirely in HD.

Violetta tells the story of a talented teenager who returns to her native Buenos Aires after many years living in Europe. There she finds loyal friends, discovers true love, and a passion for music as she navigates the trials and tribulations of growing up. The new Disney Channel original series combines drama, comedy, romance and a strong musical score plus a talented international cast that includes Argentine, Brazilian, Italian, Mexican and Spanish actors.