Would anyone else class Bear as the founding father of Disney Junior?

BlakeConor14

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In 1997 Disney Channel was still transitioning from being a cable network into a freeview channel. But it was struggling to compete with the likes of Nickelodeon and PBS kids.

So Disney decided to change up its programming slots to try and compete with Nickelodeon and PBS on all fronts.

One way that they did this was by creating a slot in the morning for younger children and one of them shows was Bear in the big blue house. Bear was an instant hit with 4 seasons and a spinoff. As well as a live show at DisneyWorld and a touring live show.

I personally believe that without programs like Bear airing in 1997, Playhouse Disney would cease to exist and that he is the main reason that the Disney Channel really blew up.

But let's not forget the other shows such as PB&J AND OTTER that were also successful on Disney Channel

Does anyone agree with me that Bear is the founding father of Disney Junior/Playhouse Disney?
 
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