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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...

Showing posts with label Starsat. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Starsat. Show all posts

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

New Channel Alert: ST Toons Coming Soon To StarTimes Platforms Across Africa Later This Month

After relaunching ST Movies on their platforms, StarTimes will be expanding the kiddies lineup with the addition of a second kids channel, ST Toons. With ST Kids inheriting the Nickelodeon DNA ST Toons will lean more onto Nicktoons. 

According to StarTimes, ST Toons will be a comprehensive cartoon channel covering Chinese, international and African programming. It would serve as a competitor to existing players such as eToonz and Play Room both of which are based in South Africa. 

Third party shows set to form part of the lineup include SpongeBob SquarePants, Totally Spies!, Power Rangers and Transformers. Still no word on the local portion coming to ST Toons if we had to guess they'll probably dub select shows in local languages. 

ST Toons will launch on channel 310 on DTH and 351 on DTT or least from what African officials mention. It will be available from the Basic package which serves as the African counterpart of Max with no word on a package for StarSat consumers in South Africa.

ST Toons will join other children's channels such as ST Kids, Baby TV, Da Vinci, Kartoon Channel, Toonami, Boing and CBeebies.


Thursday, February 29, 2024

News Shorts: Disney Channel's Southern Africa Feed Is Being Reduced Across Europe, Broken Bonds Makes It's Freemium Debut On eExtra And ST Movies Channel Relaunches On StarSat Channel 101

Disney Channel is going bust 


Now it has been reported that more European feeds might be looking to exit the Southern African feed following its induction in 2023. This was after a viewer had spotted Moon Girl And Devil Dinosaur and 44 Cats shows not seen on Disney Channel. 

Considering the launch of the Nordic feed is a few hours away, it's likely that more regions are looking to align their offering. Aside from 44 Cats and Moon Girl And Devil Dinosaur, the viewer had also spotted Pupstruction alongside various content from Disney Junior.

Unlike Africa, Disney Junior is also going dark on Disney Junior in Scandinavia by the end of March.
More Zee World repeats on Openview

During the week, it was reported that Katti Batti would be rolling out on eExtra this was after the channel provided various details pertaining to the 2018 series. As seen through various platforms, that is no longer the case as the channel adds Broken Bonds from Zee World.

Broken Bonds focuses on the lives of Shubhra, Kuldeep and their kids Roli and Rishi. After 10 years of their marriage, cracks start developing in Shubhra and Kuldeep’s relationship. Will Rishi and Roli succeed in erasing the differences between their parents? 

Originally titled Kyun Rishton Mein Katti Batti, it starts 4 March at 14:35 on eExtra.
St Movies Channel on StarSat

After ripping away TNT back in 2023 following contractual issues with Warner Bros. Discovery. StarSat decided to revive St Movies on channel 101 from 10 March following an abrupt end of the open window of the current St Movies Plus on channel 100.

St Movies Channel is a channel dedicated to Hollywood films, presenting the world's finest movies to our viewers. In partnership with several major Hollywood studios, the channel's line-up will consist of various genres including action, romance, comedy, and mystery.

StarSat remains silent on which package St Movies Channel will be allocated on but if we had to guess it will probably be available to the same consumers as TNT when it first broadcast on the platform.

Thursday, February 8, 2024

Recap To Last Year: Could The Crunchyroll Streaming Service Expand Its 24 Hour Service To DStv And StarSat Or Fold Under Openview's Ultraview?

Crunchyroll is an anime based streaming platform operated as part of a joint venture between Sony Pictures Television and Aniplex. Founded in 1994 as FUNimation, it is known for anime, films and TV series including Dragonball, My Hero Academia and Attack On Titan. 

Last year, Crunchyroll through one of their partners Sony Pictures Television expanded the streamer outside of its comfort zone with a 24 hour channel in Latin America. As some readers are aware, Crunchyroll is looking to duplicate this in key markets.

Although, they haven't specified which region would get access to the 24 hour service. It's likely that they're going to look into regions where they have no local presence whatsoever and others that do have some streaming presence but still recieve plenty of linear consumption.

The introduction of Crunchyroll Channel would come 13 years after Animax had exited Africa for also defunct brand Sony Max on DStv and other parts of the world. Since then, it has only been SABC 2, Toonami and Cartoon Network to ramp up a similar offering in Africa but not full-time.

The only problem pertaining to them is that the latter doesn't offer the full line-up of content. Take for instance Cartoon Network, it's current demographic only caters to shows like Pokémon followed by Toonami and SABC 2 whose slate has been repetitive in the last year.

As for Crunchyroll, I believe they're just looking to expand out of streaming and reach new audiences. It would prove to be very beneficial especially in regions which the brand lacks any type of local presence.

Similar to Disney+ and Britbox, even Crunchyroll has no presence in some of Europe and Africa. In some of these areas, there was an alternative offering Animax which too was managed by Sony battled a tough economic climate and struggled to sustain themselves in the regions.

If Crunchyroll were to debut in Africa it would help free up the responsibility from Cartoon Network and SABC 2 as they can prioritise on their other content. It would also serve as a replacement to the defunct Animax brand in Africa that is if DStv opts to carry the channel.

Other platforms in the market that could as well acquire Crunchyroll Channel include Openview Ultra, StarTimes, Azam TV, Canal+ and Zuku TV.

Tuesday, February 6, 2024

Could Canal+ Future Endeavours With MultiChoice Impact StarSat And Lead To More Content Changes On DStv?

During the week, Canal+ made an offer to acquire MultiChoice for R32 billion which got declined after owning a minority of the company. They already own Nigeria's ROK Studios and even SPI International who distribute brands like Filmbox, Timeless Dizi Channel and Gametoon on StarSat.

Since 2020, Canal+ had been acquiring a small stake in the pay-tv company this led to speculation of a possible takeover as they attempted to acquire MultiChoice Africa. With their current stake, they were able to distribute Zee World and M-Net Movies 4 in Francophone Africa.

These channels were curated specifically for MultiChoice consumers and with Canal+ offer over a possible takeover one has to wonder what fate might await linear offering viewed on StarSat and several other pay-tv platforms in Africa.

But if we had to guess Canal+ could look into integrating their assets with MultiChoice seeing as they have a stronger presence in the African market. Filmbox comes with a streaming service perhaps this merger can lead the service to be substituted with Showmax/DStv Stream.

Filmbox and Filmbox Action on Starsat could be phased out for either M-Net Movies 3, M-Net Movies 4 or Movie Room. As mentioned, Canal+ had been seen distributing various DStv curated channels on their platforms so the idea of them doing it on other platforms wouldn't seem far fetched.

Another instance is Filmbox being phased out from StarSat as well as various platforms across Africa if not replacing third party channels like TNT and Studio Universal on DStv. It would only leave brands like FashionBox, DocuBox, Gametoon, Arthouse and Timeless Dizi Channel.

With Canal+ aligning themselves with MultiChoice, it wouldn't seem far fetched a stretch if they tried to get SPI offerings on DStv. For instance Gametoon could come in place of Ginx TV, it is property of Canal+ therefore a sibling to that of M-Net and Mzansi Magic.

Then there's FashionBox and Arthouse, perhaps one of the two could look into replacing Spice TV since it is more of an overflow than a fashion channel. Followed by DocuBox which could as well compliment channels like People's Weather and Curiosity.

Timeless Dizi Channel could get spun off on DStv perhaps morph into an Afrikaans dubbed Turkish channel curated with content from kykNET. Another would be the phasing out of Turkish on kykNET as it has been conflicting with other local programming on the channel.

Canal+ owning brands like Mzansi Magic and Africa Magic could lead to global domination. The Africa Channel is already seen airing content viewed from these brands in international shores perhaps Canal+ could use SPI International's offering as a means to extend its reach.

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

New Channel Alert: Africa's First Housing Channel Debuts On StarTimes Channel 149, To Launch On DStv By March 2024

During the month, Nigeria’s leading affordable housing advocate, Festus Adebayo had announced the establishment of a first of its kind African home channel, Housing TV Africa. It is set to take on brands like HGTV and The Home Channel with a curated local offering.

According to a press statement, the purpose of establishing Housing TV Africa on StarTimes Channel 149 is basically to bring awareness campaigns down to various homes in Africa.

He further stated that the TV channel was to be extended to DStv before the end of 2023, until it was delayed to March 2024. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa would have marketed the launch on the pay-tv platform had it launched earlier.

Housing TV Africa will have 65% housing related contents, leaving the remaining 35% to contents around educative, political, sports, religion, entertainment, among others. Basically, it will not only be duplicating The Home Channel but Soweto TV as well.

In other developments, MultiChoice will be axing both 1Magic and Me from the DStv platform by early February. They served as M-Net's remaining linear offering to boost an extensive line-up of international content with the latter now folded under existing linear channels and Showmax.

Monday, January 1, 2024

Channel Termination Notice: Emmanuel TV Will Exit MultiChoice's DStv And GOtv From January 17 And Subsequently All Other Pay-TV Platforms

Just a few hours before the new year, DStv consumers were very alarmed to see a termination notice put up on Emmanuel TV. A christian television channel founded by the former TB Joshua is set to go dark various DStv and GOtv platforms across the country from January 17.

Emmanuel TV is currently one of the most subscribed christian channels on YouTube with over 250 000 active subscribers and nearly two million followers on Facebook. Emmanuel TV’s numerous videos online have amassed well over 200 million views.

Since its beginning in 1993, Scoan has grown to become one of the most sought after christian ministries across the world. The church’s television network, Emmanuel TV, was established in 2006 and has been broadcasting worldwide with a viewership of over 100 million.

In recent years or at least from what several outlets had uncovered, the channel went on a downward spiral telecasting old services. Basically, Emmanuel TV's entire existence revolved on TB Joshua and with his passing there's not much left of an Emmanuel TV.

Management had opted to rather leverage of his legacy instead of trying to restructure Emmanuel TV and look at other means for survival. Aside from MultiChoice, it had also been confirmed that Emmanuel TV will exit StarSat and other pay-tv platforms.
As to whether MultiChoice or affected pay-tv platforms will look into replacing Emmanuel TV. That has yet to be seen but if we had to guess both providers will likely focus on the existing bouquet of religious channels.

Although, Emmanuel TV will cease to exist on most major platforms across the world. The channel will remain on free-to-air HD decoders and put more emphasis toward its online presence through Apple TV or App Store, Roku, Fire TV Stick, Google TV and soon Google Play Store.

Saturday, December 30, 2023

20+ TV Predictions Set To Shake Up South Africa And Global By 2024

PLEASE NOTE WHATEVER YOU READ BELOW ISN'T FACTS BUT ARE BASED ON ASSUMPTIONS

2023 has been a very hectic year for South African households following the ongoing blackouts which had jeopardized various businesses in the market. Despite this cable providers had progressed with in terms of content and linear channels and made these past months productive for journalists, bloggers and various other media outlets.

Since we've reached the final stage of the year I thought of drawing up some first impression guesses for the coming year based on stories I've been following for a while and others based on assumption.

Presenting some predictions for the coming year

Local


> KykNET NOU! ends its run on the DStv platform with further content folded under KykNET. 

> Universal TV rebrands to Sky Witness while Studio Universal is replaced by Sky Cinema. Not much changes is added to the content following the switch.

> WildEarth ends its run on the DStv platform with further content on People's Weather, Curiosity Channel and BBC Earth.

> Discovery+ launches as a freemium service on DStv Stream alongside Paramount+. It features content from Discovery Channel, MTV, Nickelodeon, HGTV, TLC and Food Network.

> eMedia Investments and OUTtv form a joint venture with the streaming service, eVOD.

> Power Up goes dark on the platform and gets replaced by eLocal featuring programs produced by eMedia Investments with Kuiertyd repeats folded under ePlesier. It also airs content produced exclusively for the eVOD streaming service.

> SABC Variety and SABC Lehae (also known as SABC eKhaya and formerly SABC Parliament) are added onto the Openview platform. They are also made available on StarSat and DStv alongside SABC Education.

> France24 exits the Openview platform and this is due to the popularity of SABC Lehae.

> Play Room expands to regions across Southern Africa on channel 311 and ROA as a replacement to Aliki Kids.

> SuperSport launches a locally dubbed sports channel in Southern Africa. It offers football, wrestling, tennis, swimming, netball and rugby.

> Days Of Our Lives makes a comeback on Showmax and is also made available on DStv.

> Ignition TV extends its reach to the Openview platform through eReality.

> E! Entertainment adds drama series to the lineup with Till Jail Do Us Part and Diary Of Gigolo. The channel rebrands to Bravo and also includes content from Oxygen under the new name.

> eToonz expands its lineup with the launch of a second children's channel, eJunior. It broadcasts from 08:00 to 22:00 with shows like Peppa Pig, Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures, Fireman Sam and CoComelon.

> Muvhango is cancelled after 27 seasons with last episode slated within the year.

> SuperSportBET gets a dedicated TV channel, Ginx TV goes dark.

> Zee TV debuts another locally skewed entertainment channel but for West Africa titled Zee Naija. Promises to have reality shows, educational content, movies and drama series all of which will be dubbed in local languages.

> eMedia Investments reduce the prices of their Ultraview packages and rolls out a third bouquet home to various Asian dramas and films from tvN and KBS.

International

> E! Entertainment, Studio Universal and Universal TV ends its run as a linear channel in parts of the world with further content added to Peacock and Sky.

> Sky acquires majority stake in Disney's remaining linear offering in part of Europe. Therefore extending the reach of Sky Kids in parts of Europe under Disney Channel with Disney Junior becoming Sky Junior with National Geographic Wild folded under National Geographic.

> Hulu replaces the Star brand internationally.

> FX replaces the Star channels seen in parts of Latin America and Europe therefore making the Star brand exclusive to India.

> True Crime, a joint venture between AMC Networks International and Paramount Global expands to parts of Europe as a replacement to CBS Reality.

> Ginx TV ends its run as a linear channel to become an online only brand.

> Showtime Group's linear offering is being put up for sale alongside NBCUniversal. As mentioned prior, NBCUniversal's International operations particularly in Europe are managed by Sky which is also owned by Comcast.

> Paramount Network is discontinued this is due to the launch of Paramount+ With Showtime.

> Universal Kids ends its run in the United States.

> Cartoon Network cancels We Baby Bears after 2 seasons, Disney Channel cancels The Ghost And Molly McGee and Pretty Freakin Scary and lastly Nickelodeon cancels Monster High and Rock, Paper, Scissors.

Saturday, November 11, 2023

Possible Channel Termination: Could National Geographic Wild's Content Get Migrated Onto National Geographic And Disney+?

A few months ago, Disney and Spectrum renewed their agreement which saw brands like ABC, Disney Channel and National Geographic remain onboard their platforms while secondary channels like FXX, Disney Junior and National Geographic Wild went dark on their platforms.

Since then it has brought a lot of questions regarding the future of these brands as well as others distributed by NBCUniversal, Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery. Disney on the other hand had explored the possibility of selling some of their linear channels.

Current properties like Disney Star is said to be acquired by Reliance with Disney said to be holding minority stake in the company and a similar fate is said be awaiting both ESPN and National Geographic of course we've received an update on one of the latter channels.

According to sources, Disney is looking to sell or better yet fold National Geographic under A+E Networks. Home to factual brands like HISTORY, Lifetime and Crime + Investigation, it serves as a joint venture between Disney, Sky (Europe) and Hearst Corporation.

The idea of possible sale of National Geographic came through a recent survey into the market which revealed that ABC, FX and Disney Channel were priority brands for audiences especially Disney when it pertains to profit making National Geographic and Disney Junior obsolete.

A+E Networks operates a number of singular brands as mentioned above so wouldn't seem far fetched if National Geographic Wild were to merge onto National Geographic and Disney+ seeing now that the main channel is not viewed as a priority brand on both cable and streamer.

National Geographic would remain intact for the time being but overtime they'd be shortage in programming which could lead to more cord cutting or in this case National Geographic Wild. As the content from Wild would help build the lineup of the main channel.

HISTORY vs. National Geographic

As mentioned, HISTORY which operates under A+E Networks is a factual entertainment channel which offers programming based on mechanical and civil engineering, science, mystical creatures and organised crimes part of which resides within National Geographic.

With National Geographic Wild possibly on the chopping block perhaps the main National Geographic channel will take up the identity of Wild and focus solely on wildlife and natural history programming as seen with rival brands like BBC Earth. 

Another would be the company's property being distributed on National Geographic as a means to get more recognition for their portfolio.

In other developments, Disney is set to close their remaining linear offering in parts of Asia by the end of December and this includes National Geographic and National Geographic Wild as the company is putting more emphasis toward the direct to consumer business.

Sunday, November 5, 2023

Recap To The Year: More Channel Changes Coming Soon To DStv And StarSat??? As Spectrum And Soon DirecTV Look To Cut Down On Secondary Channels

A few months ago, the Charter Communications and Disney struck a deal after a heated carriage dispute to keep channels like FX and ESPN while as making Disney+ and ESPN+ freely accessible. This led to the demise of Disney XD, Disney Junior, Nat Geo Wild and Freeform.

According to Global Market Intelligence analyst Scott Robson from NextTV, Spectrum could look into dropping more channels and this includes secondary channels already seen on DStv and StarTimes such as E!, CNBC World, Nicktoons, Nick Jr. and Boomerang.

Similar to what MultiChoice has been doing in recent years, Spectrum is streamlining their portfolio and putting more emphasis on core brands. DirectTV is said to be ongoing a similar route by 2024 with Disney's linear offering which coincides with MultiChoice's pending agreement.

As seen with Spectrum, the channels to have been affected reside within DStv and StarSat and this included the preschool brand Disney Junior and factual channel National Geographic Wild while the animation centric Disney XD was axed in most parts of Europe years prior.

Disney XD hasn't gotten original content following the launch of Disney+ while the 24 hour Disney Junior channel serves as catch-up to the primetime block on Disney Channel. National Geographic Wild alongside the two brands had all seen a decline in cable households.

The decline in cable and also carriage for these channels could lead a brand like Disney to further downsize their portfolio as seen in most parts of the world where the latter is streaming exclusively on Disney+.

Cable remains a necessity in Africa as a majority of households can't afford to bulk Disney+, Netflix and Amazon Prime Video under one subscription. As mentioned, Spectrum is looking to make such platforms accessible and as more households use these platforms it further reduces the linear offering.

Thursday, November 2, 2023

News Shorts: The Final Season Of Chrysalis Is Currently Streaming On eVOD, Boing To Be Added On StarSat Platforms Across South Africa Soon, Queen Of The South Rumoured To Return With A Third Season On Telemundo Across Africa By 2024

Chrysalis S3 is on eVOD

Learning that Cana is pregnant, Nalan brought her to the mansion to confront Sedat, but she still could not learn the truth. Determined to take her revenge on Rafet, Pervin told Rafet about Gülcihan and Cavit's past. Pera, on the other hand, left Muzo on the wedding day with a note she left.

It starred Burcu Biricik as Nalan, Selma Ergeç as Selen, Enis Arıkan as Muzo, Feyyaz Şerifoğlu as Sedat, Nur Sürer as Feride, Şerif Erol as Adil, Hande Ataizi as Cana and Tuğrul Tülek as Levent.

The first 7 episodes are currently streaming on eVOD with more episodes to rollout weekly. Season 2 is set to debut sometime in 2024 on eExtra likely after Roekeloos Dade.

Boing is coming to South Africa

During the week, Warner Bros. Discovery and StarTimes unveiled 4 new channels for consumers, Investigation Discovery, TLC and Discovery Channel, with Boing missing from the pay-tv company's line-up for consumers in Southern Africa.

In a response from PR, it was revealed that they are currently in the process of seeking approval from ICASA for the acquisition of broadcasting rights for Boing. Only then we'll they issue a formal announcement until the channel the channel will rollout in the rest of Africa.

Boing is a children's channel which takes up the DNA of Nicktoons by featuring various archived material and content viewed on Cartoon Network and Cartoonito. Some shows to have been seen on the channel include Ben 10 (2005), Dexter's Laboratory and Adventure Time.

Kate Del Castillo is back on Telemundo

After four years in prison in the United States for the deaths of three DEA agents, Teresa Mendoza escapes but will have to face a world full of conspiracy, risking her life in order to clear her name and reunite with her daughter Sofía.

It starred Kate del Castillo as Teresa Mendoza, Pêpê Rapazote as Pablo Landero, Antonio Gil as Oleg Yosikov, Isabella Sierra as Sofía Dantes and Alejandro Calva as César Güemes "Batman".

Queen Of The South S3 is rumoured to replace Lord Of The Skies daily at 22:00 from Monday 1st January.

New Channel Alert: BOING Extends Its Reach To StarTimes And Possible StarSat Platforms Across Africa

Yesterday, it was reported that Warner Bros. Discovery and StarTimes had reached a new agreement which would see Investigation Discovery and TLC relaunch on the platform with Discovery Channel set to rollout as a new addition to the platform.

Now it has been revealed by sources that StarTimes will be rolling out their 6th TV channel from the brand, Boing.

Boing is a children's channel which takes up the DNA of Nicktoons by featuring various archived material and content viewed on Cartoon Network and Cartoonito. Some shows to have been seen on the channel include Ben 10 (2005), Dexter's Laboratory and Adventure Time.

The channel formed part of a showcase which saw one of Warner's classic brands Boomerang get reimagined as Cartoonito. It was also outlined at the time that Boing had seen a rise in popularity despite not being added to DStv had fan favorites like Clarence and Uncle Grandpa.

It is set to go live alongside the other Warner channels later today on channels 301/354 and it's currently unknown if the channel would be added in South Africa as StarSat hadn't mentioned anything. But as seen in ROA, Boing might be replacing Nickelodeon in the regions.

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

Development Alert: StarTimes To Add Discovery Channel As A New Channel On The Platform, TLC And Investigation Discovery Relaunch On The Platform

After TNT was ripped away from StarTimes and StarSat customers across Africa in September, Warner Bros. Discovery and the pay-tv operator seem to a struck a new deal which would reinstate Investigation Discovery and also lead the additions of Discovery Channel and TLC.

Taking to account only Discovery Channel is the new addition while the latter Investigation Discovery and TLC had already been on the platform.

Discovery Channel is considered the male counterpart of TLC which pivots towards motors, speculative investigation and even wildlife. It features shows like Deadliest Catch, Shark Week, Naked And Afraid, Gold Rush, Mythbusters and Wheeler Dealers.

This is not only the male counterpart of TLC but the premium outtake of Discovery Family. Consumers are getting back the shows that were ripped away from them in 2021.

Investigation Discovery (ID) is a factual entertainment channel comprises of Hollywood crimes, murder and forensic investigation. It features shows like Evil Lives Here, Til Death Do Us Part, Homicide Hunters and People's Magazine Investigation.

This channel was ripped away in 2021 after Warner Bros. Discovery and StarTimes couldn't come to an agreement. Since then, the channel was supplemented with CBS Justice in a joint venture with Paramount Global and AMC International.

TLC is a female skewed channel which pivots their content to reality television focusing on lifestyle and personal stories. Some of the content to have aired include Sister Wives, 90 Day Fiance, 1000-lb Sisters, Doubling Down with the Derricos and My Big Fat Fabulous Life.

Interesting enough, the channel is being reinstated on the platform after the pay-tv platform lost rights to DStv due to Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). Similar to Discovery Channel, consumers would be getting to see select shows from Real Time with the help of Investigation Discovery.

Which begs the question, how long will these channels stick around cause every year it's the same runaround with StarTimes one minute it's there next minute is gone, whose to say that CBS Reality and CBS Justice won't just get booted from these platforms.

These 3 channels are said to reside on the Smart package from 3 November and onwards: TLC Ch:165, ID Ch:223 and Discovery channel Ch: 224.

Development Alert: AMC Networks To Rebrand UK Channels, What Fate Awaits The CBS Channels Across Africa?

AMC Networks International has announced a rebrand of its portfolio of UK channels and streaming services owned by the CBS AMC Networks UK Channels Partnership with Paramount Global.

The rebrand, taking place on 22 November will retain the familiar colouring of the channel brands, which will be brought together by a ‘signature open box branding’.

CBS Reality, which has been the UK’s number 1 factual entertainment channel amongst adult women since 2016 and has been airing popular original, expert-led true crime programming, will be renamed to True Crime, and streaming brand True Crime from CBS Reality will change from to True Crime UK. The FAST channel is available through multiple platforms including Amazon Freevee, Rakuten TV and Samsung TV + services initially, with more major platforms rolling out shortly.

Entertainment channel Legend, which features action, sci-fi, adventure and western series and movies, and which was renamed from Horror Channel in 2022, will also go through a brand transformation.

On-demand content from both the True Crime and Legend channel brands are available currently on free on-demand player CBS Catch Up Channels UK which will become Watch UK. Watch Free UK is accessible directly via Freeview, Freesat and Youview, and downloadable via IOS, Android, and all major device and manufacturer stores.

Other channels in the portfolio to rebrand include Legend Xtra and True Crime Xtra, and time-shift versions Legend XTRA +1 and True Crime +1.

Sam Rowden, VP, Content Group said, “With such a vast array of content available across so many platforms, we wanted to elevate our UK portfolio to be more easily recognisable and accessible, and to clearly reflect our content offering. This rebrand closely aligns with our aim to provide carefully curated services catering to both existing and new audiences, wherever they choose to watch our programmes.”

The new look was developed with Second Home Studios alongside AMCNI UK’s in-house creative team led by Creative, Marketing and Communications Director Matt Stott, and the updated identity is supported by a marketing campaign including on air and digital media elements.

CBS Reality's demise in the UK means that the CBS brand name on linear TV has come to an end and similar to CBS Justice these would continue to function in Africa and other parts of Europe which begs the question as to what fate awaits these channels.

CBS Reality has been a crime filtered channel in the UK so the switch to True Crime makes sense. These channels had felt more AMC than Paramount so the names kind of makes sense which begs the question on the fate of its international counterparts.

Considering True Crime seems more permanent my guess is that CBS Justice in Africa will likely fold under that brand name and CBS Reality considering there's been not much put out there in terms of branding my guess would be, True Entertainment or True Television or weirdly enough True Reality.

Seeing as AMC International UK also manage the feeds seen across EMEA this rebrand is likely to be duplicated elsewhere.

Saturday, October 14, 2023

Recap To The Month: MultiChoice Blocks Openview And StarSat From Viewing Rugby And Cricket

During the month, eMedia Investments' took legal action against MultiChoice for blocking them from broadcasting the Rugby World Cup on Openview accusing them of being anti-competitive. MultiChoice lodged a counterclaim accusing them of free-riding.

Had the SABC not looked into licencing these matches it would have been exclusive to DStv Premium. If eMedia had won the case, they'd be required by MultiChoice to licence these matches or better yet assist the public broadcaster in obtaining them.

SABC has been going financial constraints that they relied on sponsors to get these matches. MultiChoice aware of their situation had looked to ease the burden by charging SABC less money which came at the price of restricting consumers outside DStv from viewing them.

Similar to eMedia Investments, even StarSat couldn't licenced rights to any matches from SuperSport and don't seem to be taking legal action or trying to get the funds to broadcast these matches through a reply from a viewer.

MultiChoice view these platforms as competitors and as such restrict them from their content. Should eMedia Investments or StarSat not bother to negotiate with SuperSport to get these matches it would drive away consumers and lead them to rival platforms.

Monday, October 9, 2023

Recap To Last Month: StarSat Turns To Poor Viewership And Consumer Feedback For The Cancellation Of All Elite Wrestling Across Their Platforms

Last month, it was reported that TNT went dark on StarSat and StarTimes platforms across Africa due to ongoing negotiations. Prior to that, the pay-tv platform blamed rivals such as MultiChoice for retaining the channel on an exclusive basis through DStv.

TNT doesn't have much "premium" value as most content can be transmitted or replicated on other brands like M-Net Movies and Studio Universal which led several consumers to seek answers from Warner Bros. Discovery regarding the sudden disappearance of the channel.

It was through them that it was learnt that StarTimes fabricated details regarding the removal of TNT. But this isn't the first time StarTimes lied particularly with Warner Bros. Discovery as other channels to have exited their platform include Real Time and Investigation Discovery.

As mentioned from last month, StarSat blamed the likes of MultiChoice's DStv for the removal of TNT as it was believed to be part of a exclusive deal. But through a StarSat subscriber, we've recieved a completely different statement which directs it's attention at viewers.

After blaming MultiChoice for TNT, StarSat ought to take it's frustration out on viewers saying that repeats and consumers complaints was what led to its sudden removal. They also take note of viewership which hasn't been performing to their expectation.

They promise to improve the offering on St Movies Plus as a replacement for TNT is currently under evaluation.

If repeats were to truly have been the reason, StarSat would need to have to sought out a channel very opposite to TNT and their current movie offering. FilmBox Family was spotted on the StarTimes app and if this is the supposed replacement it too would further boost the repeats.

And also prove that StarTimes is just spouting more nonsense.

Thursday, October 5, 2023

Development Alert: Crunchyroll To Get A Dedicated TV Channel In North America With Global Plans On The Cards, Could MultiChoice Or StarTimes Perhaps Get It?

Since 2006, Crunchyroll has been known as the leading destination for anime fans featuring shows such as My Hero Academia, Demon Slayer, Attack On Titan and One Piece. Since it's inception in 2006, it garnered 120 million subscribers globally with 1% of the population under a paywall.

For a decade, the Sony based brand was available only as a streaming service with a freemium tier available to low income households with select shows licenced to broadcasters in Africa such as Toonami and SABC 2.

Through the greenhouse website, it was revealed that the company is looking for a director/manager in charge of managing the upcoming linear service to the current Crunchyroll streaming service alongside the programming and operations for the brands.

For now, the channel will rollout in North America (likely Latin America) and through a statement it was also mentioned that the Crunchyroll Channel will rollout "in key markets around the world" so we assume they'll be targeting regions which already bundle the streaming service.

South Africa is the most notable within the African region to bundle Crunchyroll alongside various other streaming services such as The Walt Disney Company's Disney+, BBC and ITV Studios' BritBox and Vuclip's VIU. As other territories have yet to see these in their markets.

With a majority of gaming and anime fans residing within South Africa and selected African territories, there's no doubt that Crunchyroll Channel would be a resounding success but questions amounts to whether or if StarTimes and/or MultiChoice will look into adding the channel.

Crunchyroll catering for the same audience as Adult Swim and not Cartoon Network isn't regarded as a kids channel so if anything these channel will likely set alongside brands like Universal, M-Net and BBC Brit on DStv or FilmBox Africa, FilmBox Action and St Zone on StarSat.

Sunday, September 24, 2023

Could SABC Education Alongside Further New Channels No Longer Be Moving Forward On DStv And StarSat?

For three years, consumers on pay-tv platforms have wondered if plans were still underway to get SABC Education alongside other channels from the public broadcaster such as SABC Sport and SABC Lehae to DStv and StarSat as these brands are currently exclusive to free-to-view platforms.

Prior to the pandemic, SABC had unveiled an educational channel and as mentioned they were looking to get it on more platforms. Now the question is whether that's still on the cards or similar to the duration of SABC News on DTT those plans had been halted.

In recent years, MultiChoice had limited the broadcast rights to select sporting content to their consumers while as SABC removed their local content from DStv's catch-up service leaving consumers to rely on SABC 1-3 or to stream further repeats on SABC+.

It wouldn't really some far fetched to some if SABC Education alongside other channels by the public broadcaster never got the time of day on DStv (and it possible StarSat). The public broadcaster had been looking to charge pay-tv platforms if not collect TV licence for their channels.

Although, SABC Sport and SABC Education aren't under must carry regulations as seen with SABC 1-3. They are operated by the same company which kind of jeopardize their position on the platforms.

Another issue a viewer had brought up was the trust deficit for these channels. As seen with SABC Encore and e.tv's 4 Openview channels each had a 5 year duration on DStv and if SABC Education or SABC Sport lasted much longer then you'd know it's a success with MultiChoice.

Friday, September 22, 2023

Channel Shorts: Nick Jr. Global Expand To Latin America And Brazil, Star Channel Rolls Out In Netherlands And Flanders By November, And TNT Provides An Update On Their Status With StarSat

Nick Jr. Global expands to Latin America and Brazil

For several years, various cable providers had been streamlining and cutting back on content costs for their linear platforms in an attempt to boost their streaming endeavours. Nick Jr. alongside MTV seems to be having that ripple effect in parts of the world.

During the week, a viewer had noticed that Nick Jr. had started using the global feed in Latin America and Brazil. Although some level of localisation will still be seen on the brand particularly during ratings buds, advertisements, localised test on trailers, and local programming.

Star Channel to debut on various FOX brands in Europe

The Walt Disney Company has unveiled a new name and visual identity for the TV channel FOX is the Netherlands and Flanders.

As of November 1, it will operate as STAR Channel while at the same time remaining “the number one series channel and home to high-quality entertainment as we have come to expect from FOX”.

According to Walt Disney, STAR Channel’s mission is to continue broadcasting the best action, drama, horror and comedy series from leading studios, including favourites such as “Hudson & Rex”, “Below Deck” & “Chucky”. In addition, the channel will soon launch several new titles. It will kick off with the epic new horror series “FROM” (from the makers of LOST & The Game of Thrones), with more new series to follow later in the season, including “Robyn Hood” & “The Goodship Murder”.

Walt Disney also notes that content on STAR’s streaming platform on Disney+ and the linear channel STAR Channel will differ. Furthermore, STAR Channel will maintain its position in the channels’ electronic program guide (EPG).

StarSat is telling more lies to consumers

Last week, TNT went dark on StarTimes across Africa without prior notice to consumers as it was alleged that the reason for the exit had to with a change in broadcast rights. Warner Bros. Discovery had since then been investigating the matter with an update finally released.

According to Warner Bros. Discovery's PR, TNT was only removed due to ongoing negotiations with S
which seem to have hit a dead end. As StarSat is now looking to replace TNT with another channel and had removed and muted any mention of the channel across their platforms.

Basically, fans of Hollywood blockbusters and All Elite Wrestling (AEW) can continue to watch TNT Africa's programming on DStv (channel 137), GOtv (channel 16, channel 116 in Ghana and 316 in Uganda), Canal+ (channel 140 in Rwanda and 163 in Ethiopia) and C&W Seychelles (channel 207).

Monday, September 18, 2023

Development Alert: FilmBox Family Added Onto The StarTimes App, Might Launch Elsewhere

During the week, TNT went dark on StarSat and StarTimes platforms across Africa due to a change in broadcasting rights or at least that's what's been stated by them as Warner Bros. Discovery had launched an investigation with an update expected in the coming week.

Prior to the cancellation, StarSat promised consumers that they would look into replacing TNT with another movie channel. Although not much details is known about the possible new channel FilmBox Family had been slotted on the StarTimes app.

FilmBox Family is a general entertainment channel catered for children and family featuring films ranging from fantasy, adventure, animation, drama and comedy. It is operated by SPI International that also package FilmBox, FilmBox Action and Timeless Dizi Channel on the platform.

Although not much had been stated by either StarTimes or SPI International about the addition of FilmBox Family, would it seem far fetched if the channel were to be made available elsewhere at some point perhaps as a replacement to TNT.

The downside aside from the exclusion of All Elite Wrestling or sports in general, it caters to another level of consumers (as mentioned children and family) and if you take that to account this would be a downgrade in quality for consumers of TNT and particularly StarSat.

Saturday, September 16, 2023

Recap To The Week: The Mysterious Disappearance Of TNT, Could More Channels From StarSat Be On Their Way Out?

During the week, it was reported that TNT vanished from StarTimes and StarSat platforms across Africa. Following the removal of TNT, Warner Bros. Discovery had launched an investigation onto the sudden removal and are anticipated to share an update in the coming week.

According to StarSat, the likes of a competitor [MultiChoice] had led to the removal of the channel due to a change in broadcasting rights. As mentioned, this could be a lie I mean why would Warner Bros. Discovery need to launch an investigation on the matter.

In 2021, brands like Real Time, Investigation Discovery and Discovery Science were all booted from the platform. It was stated at the time that StarTimes had unresolved contract with Warner Bros. Discovery leading to addition of CBS Reality and CBS Justice.

Following the merger of Discovery Inc. and Warner Bros. Discovery a similar outcome could have awaited TNT. Another reason to believe StarTimes could be deceitful is in regards to the carriage of TNT.

I was told by a source that Canal+ in Ethiopia also package TNT alongside Cartoon Network and Cartoonito in a seperate agreement. The feeds currently viewed in Ethiopia is what's being transmitted on DStv across Africa but why it's still baffling.

Canal+ has a minority stake in MultiChoice and some consumers may not be aware but with that stake they were able to distribute M-Net Movies 4, Me, Zee World and SuperSport Variety 9 brands that are packaged exclusively for DStv onto their own platforms.

If StarTimes were to be lying and this matter were to never be addressed or reported, they were very much fortunate to deceive consumers pointing toward existing rivals such as MultiChoice instead of being transparent and say they can't afford to maintain a brand like TNT.

Other brands to be retained on StarTimes and operated by Warner Bros. Discovery include Toonami and CNN. In short, could these channels also be going dark on the platform if not other brands like National Geographic, National Geographic Wild, ESPN 1 and 2.