Disney conjures up more "Wizards" episodes

By Nellie Andreeva

LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Disney Channel has extended the third season of hit series "Wizards of Waverly Place" with eight additional episodes.

That brings the total order for the comedy starring Selena Gomez to 86 episodes, as well as a highly rated original movie, which premiered in August.

"Wizards," which centers on three siblings with magic powers, stars Gomez, David Henrie, Jake T. Austin, Jennifer Stone, Maria Canals-Barrera and David DeLuise.

The series recently won the Emmy Award for outstanding children's program. "Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie" ranks as cable TV's No. 2 scripted telecast of all time, drawing 13.5 million viewers in August.

(Editing by SheriLinden at Reuters)