Disney Channel brings new star in to fold

LOS ANGELES – With Miley Cyrus' "Hannah Montana" of the air and star Demi Lovato on hiatus while she faces personal issues, a new actress is entering the Disney fold.

U.S. cable network Disney Channel has greenlighted a new live-action comedy series, "Ant Farm," starring new talent China McClain.

The 12-year-old plays middle schooler Chyna Sparks, a musical prodigy who gets into a gifted program called Accelerated Natural Talent at the local high school.

Along with her fellow "ANTs," she must navigate the halls of a new school of older kids who are not particularly fond of grade-skipping newbies.

The series brings with it plenty of behind-the-scenes Disney pedigree. The pilot was written by Dan Signer from the networks' "The Suite Life on Deck." Meanwhile, director Bob Koherr has worked on episodes of "Hannah Montana," and "Wizards of Waverly Place."