Kids' WB! to survive UPN merger

Pokémon not likely to air on the CW

Article Discussion* Report error Monday, April 24, 2006 Originally reported on ICv2 This local article reports on an event in a specific geographical location. It may not be relevant for all readers.

The CW, a U.S. merged network between WB and UPN, will retain WB's Kids' WB! format and programs, meaning Pokémon will likely continue to air on the new network. This announcement came after the CW hired Betsy McGowen, the senior vice president-general manager of Kids' WB!, to perform her role at the new network.

The children's programming block on the CW is expected to retain the Kids' WB! name.

WB and UPN announced in January they would be merging into one network, the CW, a 50/50 partnership between Time Warner and CBS. Both networks had been struggling in ratings in comparison to other broadcast networks in the United States.

UPDATE (Sunain): According to a recently updated Mediaweek article, "Gone will be longtime Kids WB! staples Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh!, both which have been falling steadily in the ratings. The decision to drop Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh! was based on soft ratings and a desire to bring in more Warner Bros."