The Canal+ Effect: How The French Company Might Arrange MultiChoice Going Forward?

As some readers are aware, Canal+ is looking to finalize a takeover deal with MultiChoice. This sees Mzansi Magic, KykNET and Africa Magic under the management of a French based company Vivendi whose been looking to build their global portfolio. 

There's been many questions as to how Canal+ will align MultiChoice's assets and below is what we believe could be the final outcome:

StudioCanal

As the name implies, StudioCanal is a French based film production and distribution company that currently owns the third largest film library in the world. This is where ROK Studios resided after it was acquired in 2019 with MultiChoice Studios to follow. 

Interesting enough, StudioCanal also offers subsidiaries of the same name within Austria, Germany and the UK. If I had to guess StudioCanal Africa could be on the final piece of this puzzle.

MultiChoice Studios resides within 22 million households while StudioCanal resides within 8 million. Combining this would make it an African powerhouse and probably leading Africa to have its own subsidiary within the French company. 

StudioCanal is also home to the linear ROK channel and will likely be where Mzansi Magic, Africa Magic and KykNET reside.

M7 Group/Canal+ Luxembourg S.à.r.l.

M7 Group is a Luxembourg based and also one of Europe's leading pay-tv operators offering culture and language specific packages in eight countries including Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary. 

As we've seen in recent years, Canal+ has been buying out companies as a means to expand. MultiChoice's DStv and GOtv packages would serve as distant relatives and also another means to get the M7 Group services into Africa.

Metropolitan France/Canal+ Premium

This section is dedicated to their linear offering which consist of self titled brands part of which reside in Africa like Canal+ Discover and Canal+ Sport. Even SPI International brands like FilmBox Africa and even FightBox have a dedicated section in this category. 

In terms of content, M-Net and SuperSport will be handled under this section. They are expected to be remain in operation but as far as branding is concerned that is yet to be determined. 

M-Net had been pivoting toward streaming in recent years by reducing their movie offering even shutting down their secondary network Me. If you look at it, M-Net could get a proper send-off or at least by name ideally it could rebrand to Canal+ Premium/Canal+ First.

Thereafter, M-Net could remain as a trademark for a collection of local channels like Pearl Magic, Africa Magic and Maisha Magic. Never got the sense in having M-Net as a singular brand and also for a collection of locally curated channels.

If the plan was to incorporate the Canal+ trademark on sports ideally Canal+ SuperSport would make a lot of sense. This is something that they could apply temporarily and overtime simplify the name to Canal+ Sport to get viewers accustomed. 

Could M-Net And MultiChoice Look To Close The 1Max Channel On DStv Soon?

Last month, M-Net and MultiChoice had shuttered both 1Magic and Me channels from the DStv platform. As they consolidate further content to boost their streaming endeavors with the pay-tv company that had since then folded selected content on 1Max.

1Max is a Showmax based channel that is home to African originals alongside third party content. The channel kicked off its launch with Red Ink and Tracking Thabo Bester that garnered traction on Showmax alongside international shows like The Good Doctor and Ted.

From what has been established here, this channel was basically added as a replacement to both 1Magic and Me. But that may not be the case as Me was a low tiered brand while 1Max which is just 1Magic with more content is reserved on Compact+.

Why would Compact+ consumers care about 1Max if they have Showmax???

The channel was only unveiled when 1Magic and Me had shuttered with the media that wasn't informed beforehand about 1Max. If this was a channel MultiChoice intended to keep some marketing would have been included or notice days prior. 

Now we need to look at it like this 1Max is an absolute mess content wise. The channel features a chunk of repeats from other M-Net channels, retained 1Magic's music and sitcom block and finally retained Me's presence by 2 hours.

When M-Net City and VUZU merged to form Me although we'd get less adrenaline from the city it did however bundle lot of fiction. 1Max took a dunk on that and made it far worse as variety had been killed and overshadowed by those repeats. 

If 1Max was a channel MultiChoice intended to keep why not inform loyal consumers of Me about the channel or new season of The Good Doctor being broadcast. Another consumers in the rest of Africa are told to enjoy the 1Max experience on Showmax. 

Almost as if they're trying to destroy any chance this channel has of survival and distance consumers from the content. It wouldn't seem far fetched if 1Max was merely being used as a pawn to lure DStv consumers to Showmax and overtime just closed.

1Max is airing Wura which serves as a West African adaptation of The River perhaps the channel will close once it comes to an end similar to how The River was initially meant to close 1Magic before getting extended.

Recap To The Month: Akwaaba Magic Extends Its Reach To DStv Access And GOtv Value Customers In ROA, Akwaaba Magic Abusua Set To Close

The roll out of Akwaaba Magic on DStv was the first step in MultiChoice quest to make authentic Ghanaian content accessible across the African continent. Since the channel was launched in 2021, this 24/7 entertainment flagship channel has been exclusive to DStv Compact, Compact Plus and Premium customers. 

Making this announcement, Managing Director of MultiChoice Ghana, Alex Okyere said: “we are excited that all customers on DStv can now watch hit shows like Inspector Bediako S2, Brenya, Play By Ear, Accra Stand Up, The Billionaire’s Wife and Nana Akoto amongst others from as little as Ghs80 per month. In the past three years, Akwaaba Magic has rekindled interest in Ghanaian content production and fulfilled our commitment to developing and upskilling the film ecosystem”.

He adds from the 1st of April, a section of our customers who hitherto did not have access to the diverse shows on Akwaaba Magic, will now be able to watch their beloved Ghanaian stars on our Ghs 80 per month pack”.

Head of the Akwaaba Magic Channel, Nosisa Doe explains that “this move is In line with MultiChoice’s commitment to offering more value to its customers and reinforces our strategic vision to be Africa’s most loved storyteller.” Customers can expect new Ghanaian shows, series and movies starting with the second season of Inspector Bediako every Monday evening on the channel. Furthermore, the Akwaaba Magic Abusua channel would be terminating on the 12th of April 2024 and all unfinished series would be moved to channel 150 on DStv.

Akwaaba Magic will continue to run never-before-seen premium local Ghanaian content 24/7 in English and content in diverse Ghanaian languages with subtitling in English.  The Akwaaba Magic channel will be available to subscribers on DStv Access and for GOtv customers on the Value packages on channel 102.

Channel Closure: Africa Magic Urban Will Stop Airing On DStv (And GOtv) By 30 April

Last month, it was reported WildEarth would be the 10th TV  exiting DStv by the end of April. This comes after the channel had been going through financial constraints and all of a sudden demanded carriage fees from MultiChoice.

This is also part of a bigger conspiracy seen within DStv as 9 channels had already exited their platforms in under 4 months. This includes 1Magic, Me, People's Weather, B4U Movies, Ginx TV, Emmanuel TV, DW, One Freestate Televisual and NWTV. 

With Africa Magic Urban that is set to be the 11th TV channel to exit DStv platforms across Africa. According to MultiChoice, they're consolidating their efforts as part of a strategic shift in order to deliver the highest quality entertainment that resonates with viewers. 

Similar to 1Magic and Me, MultiChoice is likely looking to cutback on content commissions for these channels in order to boost their streaming endeavors with Showmax. It was revamped in February to include a lineup of archived material from NBCUniversal.

Africa Magic Urban launched as Africa Magic Movies 1 in 2012 was a premium version to Africa Magic Epic and Family. Initially catered to local films expanded to include series most of which are now set to fold under Africa Magic Showcase and Family. 

If we had to be honest, there was not much variation with the content same with seasons. It was like how you'd view Moja Love and Moja 9.9. were instead of them gaining some independence same content launched elsewhere with variation being the package. 

Statement from MultiChoice about the closure of Africa Magic Urban:

Please note that this strategic shift allows us to focus on delivering the highest quality content that resonates most with our diverse audience. By consolidating our efforts, we can better invest in new and exciting programming that aligns with your interests. 

News Shorts: New 8-Bit Rugrats Game Available For Pre-Order, ‘Mandalorian & Grogu’, ‘Moana’ Live Action & ‘Toy Story 5’ Stake Out 2026 Release Dates And ‘Quantum Leap’ Canceled By NBC After 2 Seasons

Rugrats: Adventures In Gameland Honors The 8-Bit Era

Adventures in Gameland appears to be an old-school platformer where you need to do a little exploring and a little digging (literally) to find your way forward. My demo ended with a dramatic, multi-screen battle against the boss, "Big Boy" Pickles, the imaginary younger brother of Angelica Pickles from the TV show — a nice nod to Rugrats fans.

Last month, at PAX East at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, I was lucky enough to chat with Tomas Guinan, lead developer at The MIX Games, about what went into the creation of Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland. I was also fortunate to demo one of the game's six levels.

Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland doesn't have a firm release date, but it should arrive by the end of spring, according to Guinan. It will launch on PC, Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series, and, coolest of all, NES. 

Disney unveils a slate of content 

In big 2026 news, Jon Favreau’s big screen version of The Mandalorian — The Mandalorian & Grogu— is the updated Star Wars title on May 22, 2026. Star Wars films on a theatrical release calendar far far away use to release around Memorial Day weekend. The last one to do so was Solo: A Star Wars Story. No rival wide releases on Mando‘s date.

Toy Story 5 is the title of the untitled Pixar movie on June 19, 2026. Warner Bros/New Line also have this date on hold for an untitled release. The live action version of Moana, impacted by the Thanksgiving release this year of Moana 2, will hulla- dance its way from June 27, 2025 to July 10, 2026. No competitive releases on that date.

The 20th Century Studios Rami Malek thriller, The Amateur, keeps getting kicked around the calendar, it’s moving from Nov. 8, 2024 this year to April 11, 2025. 

Quantum Leap axed on NBC 

NBC has decided not to proceed with a third season of its Quantum Leap reboot starring Raymond Lee. The news comes more than a month after the two-hour Season 2 finale aired Feb. 20.

The development is not entirely surprising as the series, from Universal Television, had been on the bubble. That is in contrast to last season when Quantum Leap received a very early renewal in December 2022.

A follow-up to the original series, which aired on NBC from 1989-93, Quantum Leap is set in present day. It’s been 30 years since Dr. Sam Beckett stepped into the Quantum Leap accelerator and vanished. Now a new team has been assembled to restart the project in the hopes of understanding the mysteries behind the machine and the man who created it.

Recap To The Week: 1Max Has Been Excluded From The DStv Compact And Family Packages

During the week, MultiChoice had launched the standalone 24 hour service to Showmax, 1Max. After promising Compact+ consumers a rebranded offering, 1Max debuts on channel 103 with content already seen on 1Magic with a major boost from Me.

After having closed Me on channel 115 which targeted consumers on the Compact and Family packages. MultiChoice had opted alienate them from viewing further shows from M-Net and this includes Yellowstone and The sixth season of The Good Doctor.

Consumers on Compact+ confused and frustrated over the switch to 1Max as various traits from 1Magic had surfaced on the channel. This includes sitcoms Moesha and One And One with further additions of content viewed on Africa Magic and KykNET. 

From what we've grasped, 1Max is a Showmax tailored channel basically BBC UKTV and Nicktoons - secondary network. All the premium bonanza was axed when the premiere of Champions moved from 1Magic to Mzansi Magic. 

Honestly speaking, 1Max's debut on DStv almost seems rushed as the programme guide still includes 1Magic's termination card. On top of that, further details as to the name and programming was only unveiled by yesterday.

MultiChoice in these regards opted to unveil further details about 1Max through content highlights on their website. They didn't think to even brief the media beforehand not even a press release leading some to question MultiChoice's confidence on 1Max.

One of two theories come to mind over the lack of marketing first being its current positioning as the latter is on Showmax. If anything, its likely that the availability has to do with some content viewed on channel like Ted and Red Ink.

From Old Favourites Like Moesha And Wura To Originals Like Tracking Thabo Bester And Red Ink: List Of Confirmed Shows For DStv's Newest Addition, 1Max

Not long ago, it was revealed that 1Max was the name of the TV channel set to replace 1Magic and Me on DStv. It is currently unknown if 1Max will also be included on Compact and Family as tests are also being conducted on 1Magic's channel number.

1Max from what we could figure based on the logo is a Showmax tailored channel. Unlike 1Magic which was catered to Southern Africa with a separate feed in West Africa, 1Max seems to be following its streaming counterpart and unifying this lineup.

The West African telenovela Wura after launching on the Africa Magic channels in 2022 will rollout on 1Max. Based on the 1Magic telenovela The River, Wura follows an iron lady who doesn’t care whose ox is gored in her path to get what she wants.

This will be followed by the Afrikaans romcom Troukoors (Wedding Fever) after debuting on KykNET in 2021. Starring an all elite cast, It followed a wedding planner who surrounded by friends and family is on a journey toward self discovery. 

There's also going to be some flash from the past shows from 1Magic such as One On One and Moesha which will form part of a classic sitcom block. Joining this lineup will be Me favourites such as 6th installment of The Good Doctor alongside Yellowstone. 

In hindsight, 1Max is basically 1Magic with a new coat of paint and additional content. Initially structured to offer an independent lineup from M-Net through 1Magic will also serve as an open window to shows exclusive and already seen on DStv Premium.

If we had to guess, MultiChoice will probably be putting more buzz on Tracking Thabo Bester, Red Ink and Sport Wives.

Tracking Thabo Bester is a four part miniseries based on the lives of the titular character alongside medical doctor Nandipha Magudumana. It debuted on Showmax last month and had the most views compared to any other doccie.

Red Ink is a eight-part thriller tells the story of a journalist turned publicist, Lucy Khambule, who is approached by an imprisoned serial killer to tell his story. Followed by Sports Wives, a reality show that follows the lives to wives of South Africa's sporting greats.

Development Alert: MultiChoice And M-Net To Rollout 1Max As A Replacement To 1Magic And Me On DStv

Earlier in the year, it was reported that MultiChoice was currently working on a TV channel with the letter X in its name. Not much details was shared about the content or when this channel would be ready for distribution to consumers.

As reported last month, MultiChoice and M-Net had shuttered the M-Net's Me and 1Magic channel on DStv. As they continue streamlining their portfolio further reducing the amount of linear channels available. 

Not long ago, the pay-tv company had begun experimenting on the reported Channel X brand which we now know is 1Max. It describes itself as the best TV channel for Showmax viewing offering shows such as Tali's #JoburgDiary, Wura and The Good Doctor. 

Considering that M-Net will be merging Me and 1Magic into a single TV channel. It would make a sense for the channel to be available to consumers as Me and 1Magic but MultiChoice had promised this channel would be available to their Compact+ consumers.

There's chances that certain DStv customers might be excluded from this offering. But considering that MultiChoice had failed to address the situation pertaining to the shows chances of that risk 1Max joining the latter to have been axed.

The Possible Damage Awaiting MultiChoice Following The Cancellation Of M-Net's Me And 1Magic On DStv

In a few days, DStv customers will be bidding farewell to two channels, 1Magic and Me. As M-Net further streamlines and consolidate their entertainment offering consumers will be paying more but have less channels at their disposal.

These channels would have joined B4U Movies, Deutsche Welle (DW), People's Weather, Ginx eSports TV, Emmanuel TV, NWTV and One Freestate Televisual to have been axed since the start of the year with WildEarth to follow soon.

MultiChoice in these endeavors have made their closures very distasteful with the lack of marketing to their consumers. Not even a press release on their website to probably explain the matter and what fate awaits the programming on these channels. 

As these channels play an important role in their respective packages and were one of the few reasons anyone would latch on to their consumers. With their inevitable demise,  MultiChoice risks losing more DStv consumers and revenue. 

Amidst these inflated prices, MultiChoice had promised their Compact Plus consumers a rebranded offering. This would see one of their current entertainment channels convert into open window for Showmax originals alongside third party content.

Seeing as it will not launch immediately after 1Magic and Me would depart from several consumers. The channel would have lost an audience as the only means of survival for this brand would be extending its reach to more DStv consumers. 

Not much details has shared on whether the channel would replace Me or if select shows would be accessible on the channel. With the amount of content coming from Showmax not much space would be available to accompany M-Net's existing offering.

Although some programming from Me such as Chicago Med and The Equalizer can be accessible on Universal TV they're lagging behind by several seasons from Me. Aside from that, they haven't obtained nor have plans to broadcast Chicago Fire.

Reminder: M-Net's Me And 1Magic Alongside Ginx eSports TV Will Close On DStv From 31 March 2024 (Schedule Attached)

MultiChoice will be axing M-Net's 1Magic and Me alongside Ginx eSports TV from the DStv platform by the end of March. This would bring the number of scrapped TV channels on the platform to nine joining B4U Movies and People's Weather which exited a month prior. 

Another brand looking to exit DStv soon is WildEarth as both parties failed to reach new agreement. Since then, a petition has been going around to keep it on DStv with the channel seeking donations as they've been going through financial woes.

1Magic

1Magic will end its run with the female led drama Lee Daniel's Star at 23:55 and from what we've seen most shows within that week would end to their climax. With a few exceptions such as Lockdown seeing as those are basically repeats.

According to the pay-tv company, further content from 1Magic would be available on the remaining M-Net channels. That would mean those currently watching 1Magic would have to revert their focus to Mzansi Magic for further content currently viewed on Showmax. 

Unlike most items on the list, MultiChoice had promised to supplement 1Magic with another TV channel known as Channel X. It has no relation to Elon Musk but will base their lineup and identity on Showmax as the revamped streamer also trademarks an X.

Me

Me will ends its run with reality based series The Real Housewives Of Atlanta based from The Real Housewives franchise at 23:10. Most shows within this week would reach their climax including M-Net originals Reyka and Recipe For Love And Murder.

According to the pay-tv company, further content from Me would be available on the remaining M-Net channels. That would mean those watching Me would need DStv Premium to watch the latest international and locally produced content on M-Net.

Although some of the entertainment like Chicago Med and The Equalizer is available on Universal TV with Young Sheldon on Comedy Central. These channels are lagging behind with one of two not having an estimated timeframe on new episodes. 

It's currently unknown whether Me will fold under Channel X or the pay-tv company will look find other means for compensation.

Ginx eSports TV 

Ginx eSports TV will end its run with The Games That Made Me at 23:00. Despite SuperSport handling distribution rights and other technical aspects of the brand, current seasons of programs won't be completed with other portions being repeats.

Unlike the other two, MultiChoice doesn't offer an alternative offering to Ginx eSports TV this leaves WWE as the only sports brand to be grouped under general entertainment section of their platforms. 

Development Alert: NBC Renews Law And Order: SVU For Season 26, Law And Order For Season 24, Chicago Fire For Season 13, Chicago PD For Season 12 And Chicago Med For Season 10

Dick Wolf is in for another busy season at NBC. No surprise here, the Peacock network has renewed “Chicago Med,” “Chicago Fire,” “Chicago P.D.,” “Law & Order” and “Law & Order: SVU” for the 2024-25 broadcast TV season. Among Dick Wolf scripted series, that leaves just “Law & Order: Organized Crime” on the bubble; a renewal for that show, which has experienced multiple showrunner changes in its short life, is still in discussion.

Among the shows, this will rep the 26th season of “Law & Order: SVU,” the 24th season of “Law & Order,” Season 13 for “Chicago Fire,” the 12th season for “Chicago PD” and the 10th season for “Chicago Med.” All of the renewed series are produced by Universal Studio Group’s Universal Television division, along with Wolf Entertainment, and all shows stream the following day on Peacock. (Wolf’s deal with Universal is currently through 2027.)

Per NBC, “Chicago Fire,” “Chicago Med” and “Chicago P.D.” (collectively known as “One Chicago“) are the top three Wednesday shows in total viewers and rank among the top 10 primetime entertainment shows this season. Also, Season 25 of “Law & Order: SVU” is Thursday’s top-rated entertainment show in the 18-49 demo.

Across all platforms, Chicago Fire” is averaging 12.6 million viewers (+86%) and is +236% in the adults 18-49 demo (live+35); “Chicago P.D.” is averaging 12.0 million viewers (+114%) and is +287% in the demo; “Chicago Med” is averaging 10.5 million viewers (+57%) and is +141% in the demo; “Law & Order: SVU” is averaging 11.2 million viewers (+111%) and is +325% in the demo; and “Law & Order” is averaging 7.7 million viewers (+56%) and is +122% in the demo.

Dick Wolf is creator and executive producer on “Law & Order: SVU”; David Graziano, Julie Martin, Mariska Hargitay, Norberto Barba, Kenneth Brown, Arthur Forney and Peter Jankowski also executive produce. Wolf is also creator and executive producer on “L&O,” with Rick Eid, Pamela Wechsler, Alex Hall, Arthur Forney and Peter Jankowski are executive producers.

“Chicago Fire” executive producers are Dick Wolf, Derek Haas, Andrea Newman, Reza Tabrizi, Arthur Forney and Peter Jankowski; Dick Wolf, Diane Frolov, Andrew Schneider, Stephen Hootstein, Eli Talbert, Derek Haas, Arthur Forney, Matt Olmstead, Michael Brandt and Peter Jankowski are executive producers on “Chicago Med”; “Chicago P.D.” executive producers are Dick Wolf, Gwen Sigan, Chad Saxton, Rick Eid, Derek Haas, Gavin Harris, Jason Beghe, Arthur Forney, Peter Jankowski and Michael Brandt.

Recap To Last Month: New Channel With The Letter X In Development For DStv, Could A Second TV Channel Be On The Cards?

1Magic was a BET inspired channel operated by M-Net which would serve the freshest local and international content to premium households. The channel was home to shows such as The Real Housewives, Power, 1802: Love Defies Time and Bel-Air.

During the week, several consumers had spotted a notification on both Me and 1Magic where the pay-tv company inform consumers that these channels would sign off by 31 March 2024. Not only will consumers be paying more by April but getting less channels.

M-Net is streamlining its channel offering to provide a more seamless entertainment experience for DStv customers. After a comprehensive analysis of our content strategy, we have made the decision to terminate 1Magic [and Me].

As reported sometime ago, MultiChoice will be giving Showmax an open window to DStv consumers in a standalone channel under the working title Channel X. It would feature a lineup of original productions alongside third party content from other studios. 

This channel will be accessible on Compact Plus in place of 1Magic - a date has yet to be mentioned. With details pertaining to the fate of several programs from Me still underwraps.

If one had to guess, Channel X could also replace Me for Compact and Family consumers. But considering that Channel X will have a lineup of locally produced content there may not be much space to cater for Me leading to a theory of a second TV channel. 

Although MultiChoice has remained very discreet about some behind the scenes developments. The idea of a second TV channel wouldn't seem far fetched as Me also offered a local portfolio such as Reyka and Lioness whose positions have yet to be determined. 

Perhaps with the addition of Channel X, Me could resurface in another form perhaps as a DStv Access type channel probably from a third party brand. This would mean shows like Lioness and Reyka which is on season 2 would restart from season 1.

Could MultiChoice And M-Net Also Look To Close M-Net Movies 3 And M-Net Movies 4 On The DStv Platform?

During the week, it was reported that both Me and 1Magic which serves as secondary channels to M-Net would be exiting the DStv platform by the end if March. Not only are consumers going to pay more for less channels but M-Net is doing away with secondary brands.

Since then, consumers having been going on a downward spiral with some looking to cancel their subscription by the time the new prices come into affect with others downgrading to more affordable packages.

M-Net is streamlining its channel offering to provide a more seamless entertainment experience for DStv customers. After a comprehensive analysis of our content strategy, we have made the decision to terminate 1Magic [and Me].

Of course these endeavors does lead some to wonder if more TV channels could be affected particularly M-Net Movies. If M-Net is capable of doing away with a brand such as Me what's stopping them from doing the same with their movie offering.

Ever since M-Net Movies was restructured almost four years ago, M-Net Movies 1 and 2 have been lurking around the same corridor as their lower tiered counterparts M-Net Movies 3 and M-Net Movies 4 which had bombarded with repeats and other older films.

MultiChoice has been looking to further limit amount of repeats seen on DStv. The movie offering has the most repetition before M-Net Movies 1 and M-Net Movies 2 previous iterations were more priotised with fresher releases now that's not the case.

Former DStv Channel: What Happened To The Afrikaans Music Sensation MK?

Musiek Kanaal (MK) was a youth oriented music channel with similar styling to the early 2000s MTV and Channel O. It was distributed by M-Net on DStv channel 324 when it launched by mid-2005 as MK89 with the 89 being its original frequency on the platform. 

As mentioned, MK had the MTV influence and prestige with reality shows like Jol24, Hoeneer and Petrolkop with music from Hoordoosis, Ondergrond and Kraakvars. Aside from catering to a much younger audience it was well known for infusing music genres. 

By 2013, it was announced that MK would be exiting the DStv platform after 8 years with audio version launched in place. M-Net and MultiChoice noticed its strong online presence so kept various social accounts on air in an attempt to build its streaming base.

Prior to its discontinuation, KykNET launched its third spinoff channel KykNET NOU (formerly KykNET Musiek) which is described as a variety channel incorporating music and other programming into the mix.

Although, MultiChoice had the intention of retaining MK through an international service with other content viewed on the audio bouquet. This proved to be unsuccessful as MK barely had much content in the pipeline that it wasn't long till it got discontinued to its entirety. 

To date, MK's content is still accessible on YouTube although owners Google were looking to deactivate millions of inactive accounts. With thousand hours of MK content on the platform one has to wonder how long the brand would continue to be accessible. 

Understanding the downfall of MK

According to MultiChoice, most of its consumers preferred using online platforms than watching outdated television which contributed to its low figures. But that couldn't be any further from reality as a various scenarios could have formed the exiting of MK.

KykNET NOU was introduced as the new kid in the block a year before MK was shut down. Unlike MK, KykNET NOU was grouped alongside KykNET's other linear channels despite offering similar content to MK which was grouped with MTV Base and Trace Urban.

MK was a premium channel while KykNET NOU was available all the way down to Family. KykNET NOU had the figures and combining that with MK put it at a disadvantage so if the problem was viewership they could have restructured the content as opposed to closing. 

MultiChoice On The Closure Of Me And 1Magic On DStv: "Newer And Fresher Content As Well As Existing Shows Will Be Available On The Remaining M-Net Channels"

During the week, it was reported that both Me and 1Magic which serves as secondary channels to M-Net would be exiting the DStv platform by the end if March. Not only are consumers going to pay more for less channels but M-Net is doing away with secondary brands.

As mentioned, this news doesn't shock a majority as M-Net and MultiChoice tried to scrap last month only for them to get an extended stay. On top of that both brands had been struggling to retain audiences following M-Net's constant restructure of channels. 

Before Me and 1Magic, these two were just one channel known as The Series Channel. But M-Net continously morphed this offering and even went as far as dividing and excluding previously seen content from viewers that more and more people lost interest.

Although, 1Magic was able to garner attraction due to The River most of the attention only came once it debuted on Mzansi Magic. Although Me was able to retain shows from M-Net City and VUZU the whole format was a big turnoff to consumers.

M-Net City and VUZU despite being repeats channels had first run programming and widened its audience to Premium and Compact+. But Me on the other similar to BBC UKTV and KykNET Lekker was catered for low tiered consumers with zero exclusive content. 

In a statement as highlighted below MultiChoice is encouraging viewers of 1Magic to tune into remaining M-Net channels while those on Me would need to upgrade to Premium to watch M-Net or get a Showmax subscription.

MultiChoice is currently working on a TV channel with the letter X in its name. This channel would be based from Showmax and replace 1Magic and Me "soon" although it's not really known whether this channel would be added to Compact and Family.

Considering that two channels are being axed soon, Channel X will more likely serve as an independent brand from M-Net as seen with 1Magic. This means its likely that they won't do catch-up to shows like Reyka and Survivor from M-Net.

This is just mere speculation but it wouldn't seem far fetched as Channel X would feature a mix of international and South African produced content from Showmax. With so much local from 1Magic they wouldn't be much space to cater for Me consumers.

The only theory now would be the launch of a second TV channel by a third party brand either AMC Networks International, Ngwato Nkosi Group or Warner Bros. Discovery. 

With M-Net streamlining, they'll likely divert attention to brands like Comedy Central and Universal TV for which some of Me shows reside in with others on Showmax. Fans of local entertainment can tune into Mzansi Magic as we await news on Channel X.

Press statement from MultiChoice 

M-Net is streamlining its channel offering to provide a more seamless entertainment experience for DStv customers. After a comprehensive analysis of our content strategy, we have made the decision to terminate 1Magic [and Me].

While some of our popular telenovelas and shows have come to an end, newer fresher content as well as existing shows will be available on the remaining M-Net channels and platforms such as DStv Stream, Catch Up and Showmax.

Developing Story: MultiChoice Bids Farewell To Both M-Net Essentials (Me) And 1Magic On DStv By The End Of March

Earlier in the year, MultiChoice sent notifications to selected DStv customers that both 1Magic and Me would be exiting the DStv platform by early February. Time passed and those channels remained on air with MultiChoice silent on further developments. 

During that time, MultiChoice unveiled the new Showmax streamer which would serve as a joint venture with NBCUniversal. This partnership would lead to an extended library of content from NBCUniversal alongside further upgrades to Showmax's frequencies.

Amidst that time, 1Magic had converted to a Showmax repeats channel featuring shows like Outlaws and Adulting. With speculation going around that MultiChoice only extended this offering as a means to promote the newly revamped Showmax. 

With 1Magic set to go dark after 6 years with Me after 3 years by the end of March. The pay-tv company had issued a statement about the latter although not acknowledging Me.

M-Net is streamlining its channel offering to provide a more seamless entertainment experience for DStv customers. After a comprehensive analysis of our content strategy, we have made the decision to terminate 1Magic [and Me].

While some of our popular telenovelas and shows have come to an end, newer fresher content as well as existing shows will be available on the remaining M-Net channels and platforms such as DStv Stream, Catch Up and Showmax.

It is currently unknown how MultiChoice plans to supplement this offering to consumers without M-Net and Showmax. But for more medical and crime shows viewers are encouraged to watch Universal TV and Comedy Central with further local content on Mzansi Magic.

New channels

Although 1Magic and Me are set to be going dark on the DStv platform by the end of March. MultiChoice is currently working on a TV channel curated on Showmax which will feature a mix of South African produced and international shows.

But in a recent enquiry, it seems like this reported channel which would replace both 1Magic and Me ""might" not be available once these channels goes dark as sources tell Insidus to keep tabs on their social platforms for further updates on a new additions. 

News Shorts: Warner Bros. Discovery To Close Rooster Teeth After Plans To Sell Backfire, A Rebroadcast Of Timeless Love Launches On TLNovelas Across Africa And Young Sheldon Spinoff Officially In Development At CBS

Rooster Teeth is a bust

Parent company Warner Bros. Discovery, after unsuccessful attempts to sell the unprofitable fandom, gaming and comedy entertainment division, is shutting down Rooster Teeth’s operations. RT general manager Jordan Levin announced the shutdown of Austin-based Rooster Teeth at an all-hands meeting Wednesday and in a memo distributed to staff.

Warner Bros. Discovery is currently in talks to sell the rights to certain Rooster Teeth catalog content and intellectual property such as the popular anime-style series “RWBY” (pictured above), pioneering sci-fi spoof “Red vs. Blue,” and Michael B. Jordan’s animated mecha series “Gen:Lock.” In addition, WBD is seeking to sell the Roost podcast network, with shows spanning gaming, true crime, fandom, comedy and food, which for the time being will continue to operate.

Primetime is halted 

After announcing the inclusion of Shadows Of The Past, TLNovelas will be making another U-turn in their upcoming plans with a repeat of Timeless Love from April 22. Further growing the number of reruns on the channel to take on rival Telemundo.

Based on the 1988 telenovela La Mentira, Timeless Love (Cuando Me Enamoro) is the story of Renata and Jeronimo, whose all-embracing love for each other is undermined by bitterness and betrayal, and by the insidious poison of a malicious lie.

Georgie and Mandy TV series in development 

CBS has formally ordered a spinoff of Young Sheldon — itself a Big Bang prequel — that will focus on Georgie (Montana Jordan), Sheldon’s older brother, and his fiancée, Mandy (Emily Osment), as they raise their young family in Texas. The project has been in the works since January, and a straight-to-series order was expected after deals closed.

Young Sheldon executive producers Chuck Lorre, Steven Molaro and Steve Holland will continue in their roles on the new series, which will be part of CBS’ 2024-25 slate. Warner Bros. TV, Lorre’s longtime home, is producing.

News Shorts: Sky News Named News Channel Of The Year At RTS, BET Announces New Series In Bloom + Release Date And NCIS Spinoff Greenlight By Paramount Plus

Sky scores big in the UK

Sky News has been named News Channel of the Year for the seventh consecutive year at the Royal Television Society Journalism Awards. 

Responding to Sky News winning the award, David Rhodes, Executive Chairman for Sky News Group said:

“It’s been a momentous year for news and I couldn’t be more proud that Sky News has been recognised by winning News Channel of the Year for a phenomenal seventh year in a row. To provide audiences with the full story first, our 800 journalists around the world have told

compelling human-interest stories, held those in power to account, have gone deep into the data and delivered powerful eyewitness reports from around the globe”.

The BBC, which similar to Sky News is based from the UK and made substantial changes to its news output in the last year walked away almost empty-handed. The broadcaster did secure a win for its coverage of the Ukraine conflict and for a BBC Wales investigation into Welsh Rugby.

BET launches new local drama

In Bloom has been produced by MTV Staying Alive Foundation with continued support of Paramount and grant support by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The thought-provoking collection tells unheard stories addressing a range of crucial issues including period poverty, child marriage, gender-based violence, HIV self-stigma, family planning and women’s economic empowerment. 

The anthology comes from five female filmmakers from Nigeria, Kenya, India, the US and Brazil, creatively championing new voices and enabling insightful conversations to dismantle systemic injustices.

In Bloom will also premiere on BET, DStv Channel 129 on March 8 at 20:00 CAT

NCIS spinoff in development 

CBS Studios is expanding its ever growing NCIS franchise by bringing back two fan favorite characters from the mothership series, Tony DiNozzo, played by Michael Weatherly, and Ziva David, portrayed by Cote de Pablo, who will reunite on screen for the first time in 10 years. Paramount+ has given a 10-episode series order to the untitled spinoff headlined by Weatherly and de Pablo and written by John McNamara (Trumbo, The Magicians). All three executive produce.

Nicknamed NCIS: Europe, the new action-packed spinoff, set to start production later this year, will follow Tony (Weatherly) and Ziva (de Pablo) as they find themselves on the run across the continent.

NCIS is one of CBS Studios’ most valuable franchises and its expansion has been a goal for the studio. This is one of two new NCIS offshoots greenlighted this year, along with the Young Gibbs prequel series for CBS, NCIS: Origins. It is also the second extension of the NCIS franchise beyond the U.S., following NCIS: Sydney, which has been airing on CBS in the U.S.

DStv Shorts: Big Brother Mzansi Opened To DStv Family And Access For Limited Time, M-Net And Mzansi Magic Debut New Series, White Lies And Queen Modjadji

BBM on Access

Big Brother Mzansi will become available for all DStv Access subscribers  this weekend from Friday, 1 March 2024, until Sunday, 3 March 2024. Viewers can expect exciting arena games, the Saturday Night Party and the Sunday Live Eviction Show

The cameras never stop rolling, giving you an all-access pass to the jaw-dropping events inside the Big Brother Mzansi house, 24/7. But wait, there's more! Brace yourselves as the charming Phila Madlingozi and the fabulous Khosi Thwala join on the fun as celebrity guests this week!

Big Brother Mzansi season 4 is broadcast live 24/7 on DStv Channel 198. Sunday eviction shows are at 18:00 on Mzansi Magic.

More local on DStv 

After its first epic historical series Shaka Ilembe, MultiChoice and M-Net is following it up with Queen Modjadji for Mzansi Magic in a drama inspired by the Balobedu legend of rainmaker Queen Modjadji whose bloodline has ruled Southern Africa's Lobedu clan for centuries.

Produced by Rhythm World Productions and Duma Ndlovu, Queen Modjadji will tell the "story of a matriarchal dynasty, whose ability to transform the clouds and summon the rain has earned the Balobedu royalty a place among the most revered of African dynasties," Mzansi Magic says. 

Prior to this M-Net will be rolling out a new series White Lies with synopsis below:

Journalist Edie Hansen (Dormer) gets caught up in the Cape's ugly underworld after her brother is murdered in the wealthy neighbourhood of Bishopscourt in Cape Town's southern suburbs, a description of the show reads.

News Shorts: Epic Mickey Getting Remade For The Nintendo Switch Later In The Year, Arch Nemesis Coke And Pepsi To Face Off In Standalone Film And Harry Potter TV Series To Stream On Max In 2026

Disney is doing another remake

Developer Purple Lamp and publisher THQ Nordic announced that their 3D platformer remake dubbed ‘Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed’ will be coming to PC via Steam, PlayStation, Xbox consoles, and the Nintendo Switch later this year. Previously a Nintendo Wii exclusive by Warren Spector many moons ago, this beautiful remake sends Mickey Mouse on an epic journey through Wasteland, a realm of forgotten Disney characters. As Mickey, you will dive into a fantastical world and, armed with paint and thinner, shape your adventure and the fate of this alternate world.

Cola Wars greenlit by Sony

Sony has stepped up with a seven figure bid to uncap Cola Wars, a movie pitch that tells the true story of Pepsi’s attempt to challenge Coca-Cola’s century-long reign as the world’s top cola, sparking the unforgettable “Cola Wars” of the mid-1980s. This behind-the-scenes account, from Michael Jackson’s fiery mishap to the New Coke debacle, tells the ultimate underdog tale of history’s most iconic second-place contender vying for the No. 1 spot. Sources said it was around $1.5 million while Sony said it was $1 million, still a whopping deal for a pitch.

It falls into place alongside films about products like the Ben Affleck-directed Air, about the battle by Nike to win Michael Jordan for a shoe line that transformed the company. There were rival bids massing with elements attached, but Sony stepped up. Maia Eyre, the exec who oversaw the hit Anyone But You, will shepherd this one.

Harry Potter remake coming in 2026

Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav confirmed Friday that a long-planned Harry Potter series is aiming to debut on Max in 2026.

This new Max Original series will dive deep into each of the iconic books that fans have continued to enjoy for all of these years,” said Casey Bloys, Chairman and CEO, HBO & Max Content about the project, which he also assured fans would be “a faithful adaptation.