ABC ENTERTAINMENT AND MARVEL TELEVISION LAUNCH "MARVEL'S AGENTS OF S.H.I.E.L.D.: ACADEMY" ON MAoSACADEMY.COM, ABC.COM AND THE WATCH ABC APP

ABC Entertainment and Marvel Television test the physical and mental limits of three super-fans as they compete for the adventure of a lifetime in this new five-part digital original series, "Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.: Academy."

Sponsored by Lexus, "Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.: Academy" debuts today on MAoSAcademy.com, ABC.com and the WATCH ABC app. Viewers can logon and watch as three diehard fans compete for a chance to play an agent on the set of "Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." Viewers at home can watch as the Academy recruits undergo a series of extreme challenges, ranging from timed underwater tasks and courage evaluations to high-octane obstacle courses designed to put their intelligence, strength, and agility to the test. Stars from the popular show appear in support of the respective candidates, as they navigate their way through each perilous challenge, often recreating stunts previously highlighted in past seasons of the show.

The remaining four episodes will post at 9:00 a.m. PDT: March 23, April 6, April 20 and May 4

"Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.: Academy" is a collaboration between Disney|ABC Digital Media Studios, Marvel Entertainment and Lexus. Presented by Lexus, the series features the 2016 Lexus RX 350 F SPORT.

"Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." airs TUESDAYS (9:00-10:00 p.m. EDT) on the ABC Television Network. The series stars Clark Gregg as Director Phil Coulson, Ming-Na Wen as Agent Melinda May, Brett Dalton as Grant Ward, Chloe Bennet as Agent Daisy Johnson, Iain De Caestecker as Agent Leo Fitz, Elizabeth Henstridge as Agent Jemma Simmons, Nick Blood as Agent Lance Hunter, Adrianne Palicki as Agent Bobbi Morse, Henry Simmons as Agent Alphonso "Mack" MacKenzie and Luke Mitchell as Lincoln Campbell.

The show is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format with a 5.1 channel surround sound. A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to the airdate.

About Lexus

Lexus launched in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since that time, Lexus has expanded its line-up to meet the needs of global luxury customers. Lexus is now going beyond its reputation for high quality vehicles with the integration of innovative technology, emotional exterior and interior designs, and engaging driving dynamics and performance. With six models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers seven F SPORT models and two F performance models. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 236 dealers who are committed to exemplary customer service.