New kids' TV channel raises product-placement concerns

Hub, a channel aimed at kids that launches Sunday, is co-owned by cable giant Discovery Communications Inc. and Hasbro Inc., the nation's No. 2 toy maker.

The Hub is already in the crosshairs of media watchdogs who fear the network's programming, with shows based on toy lines G.I. Joe, Transformers, My Little Pony and Pound Puppies, amounts to little more than plugs for Hasbro products. "The notion of a toy company owning a television channel for the sole purpose of promoting their toys is egregious practice," said Susan Linn, director of the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood, which has emerged as one of the Hub's harshest critics. Linn acknowledged that she had yet to see any of the network's new shows. Whether the network's ties to Hasbro will lead to greater scrutiny from lawmakers and regulators remains to be seen. The Federal Communications Commission limits the number of commercials aired during shows aimed at children ages 12 and younger. And during shows based on a toy or game, the FCC bars advertisements for that toy or game. Looking to ease an outcry, the Hub plans to carry six minutes of commercials per hour in shows aimed at preschoolers, well below the FCC's limit of 12 minutes on weekdays and 10.5 minutes on weekends.