Michael Riley named new ABC Family prexy

Disney went in-house to find its new ABC Family prexy, tapping Radio Disney exec Michael Riley to take over the job.

Riley fills the void left when ABC Family topper Paul Lee was named the new president of ABC Entertainment. Since then, Lee has been still handling some ABC Family affairs while also settling into his new job. Riley's appointment will now allow Lee to focus on his ABC duties as the TV season begins.

Disney/ABC TV topper Anne Sweeney announced the appointment on Monday.

“Michael’s talent and drive are eclipsed only by the enthusiasm and passion he brings to every opportunity," Sweeney said. "I’m confident his unique set of skills and experience will help us further ABC Family’s amazing momentum.”

Riley will now oversee ABC Family original programming and acquisitions, franchise management, marketing, sales and operations. He had served as senior vice president and general manager at Radio Disney overseeing the kid-centric radio network and its 36 owned radio stations.

“I am extremely proud to have been part of a great team at Radio Disney and very much look forward to joining the incredibly passionate and inventive team at ABC Family," Riley said. "Their success over the past few years has been exceptional, driven by innovative storytelling, unique characters and iconic branding, and I’m honored to be given the opportunity to help build this amazing Millennial brand.”

Riley has been with Disney since 2008. Before that, he was senior vice president and general manager for Turner Broadcasting's Europe, Middle East and Africa operations.

Disney said a replacement at Radio Disney will be named in the near future.