Disney’s Valentine in Talks for CEO Spot at Fledgling UPN

Walt Disney Television President Dean Valentine is in negotiations to become chief executive at United Paramount Network, according to sources.

Valentine, who also oversees Disney’s television animation unit, is said to be near to concluding an agreement with the fledgling network that could be announced within the next few days.

Valentine, 43, has three years remaining on his contract at Disney. But the studio, which has yet to give its official blessing, is not expected to block the move. Both Disney and UPN--a 50-50 partnership between Viacom and Chris-Craft Industries--declined to comment.

Valentine, a 10-year Disney veteran, oversees the production of such programs as “Home Improvement,” “Ellen” and “Boy Meets World,” as well as the half-dozen children’s shows Disney is producing for ABC, another Walt Disney Co. unit.

Valentine would replace Lucie Salhany, who announced that she will leave UPN in May while remaining on its operating committee. UPN currently programs three nights per week and has been engaged in fierce competition with Warner Bros.-backed WB Network.