New Series Alert: The Walking Dead To Make Its Freemium Debut On e.tv's eXposed Channel

In 2021, The Walt Disney Company shuttered the FOX brand from across Africa as they continue to consolidate their content on Disney+. The Walking Dead was one of the highly profiled shows at the time as we had a final season of which would only be out in the following year.

But as seen already, The Walt Disney Company didn't take consumer's concerns into consideration even after drawing up petition. They ripped FOX away from households in the African market with no means for consumers to actually browse the final season.

After almost two years, The Walking Dead will be making a comeback through free-to-air platforms as eMedia Investments had picked up rights to the post-apocalyptic horror drama based on the book series of the same name by MnRobert Kirkman, Tony Moore and Charlie Adlard.

The Walking Dead takes place after the onset of a worldwide zombie apocalypse. The zombies, referred to as "walkers", shamble towards living humans and other creatures to eat them; they are attracted to noise, such as gunshots, and to different scents, e.g. humans.

It stars Andrew Lincoln, Jon Bernthal, Sarah Wayne Callies, Laurie Holden, Jeffrey DeMunn, Steven Yeun, Chandler Riggs, Norman Reedus, Lauren Cohan, Danai Gurira, Michael Rooker, David Morrissey, Melissa McBride, Scott Wilson and Michael Cudlitz.

Since it's debut on October 31, 2010, The Walking Dead has recieved positive reviews from critics. It has been nominated for several awards, including the Golden Globe Award for Best Television Series – Drama and the Writers Guild of America Award for New Series.

The Walking Dead airs daily at 21:30 on eXposed channel 109 only on Openview.

A Facebook Page Known As e.tv Entertainment Has Surfaced The Net

As we reach the end of the first quarter of the year, eMedia Investments has yet to welcome any new additions on the Openview platform. Since the news of Ultraview, consumers have been feeling sidelined especially after the removal of Glow TV.

Yesterday, a user on Facebook had come across a page known as e.tv Entertainment and not much is available except for the profile picture and the description which credits Openview consumers.

There's chances that this could be a fan/spam page or quite contrary a yet-to-be-launched channel which can only be viewed on the Openview platform as the description currently entails.

A reason this could be fake has to do with the brand name, e.tv Entertainment as it kind of resembles NBCUniversal's E! Entertainment and that was one of the reasons the eNews Channel on the DStv platform was shortened to simply eNCA.

But then again eNews brand name has been running segments on e.tv even after that and one of the Openview Ultra's yet-to-be-launched channel, Star Select is a trademark for sports channels on StarSat so another reason this could be real.

As mentioned, not much details is known about the brand but should it be real my guess is pop-up channel as seen with Power Up! or perhaps a revival to the Rewind brand which got replaced with eXposed back in 2022 featuring selected content from eMedia's channels.

Breaking News From Across The World In The Last 7 Days Dated 31 March

1. Unicorn Warrior Eternals slated to debut on [adult swim] from May 4th
2. My Adventures With Superman slated to debut in [adult swim] from May 1st
3. The Night Agent renewed for season 2 on Netflix
4. Suge Knight working on TV series based on his life
5. Big Time Rush reveals band in talks for a reboot
6. The Aristocats live-action remake is in development
7. Chanel West Coast exiting Ridiculousness after 30 seasons on MTV
8. Radha Mohan to make his debut on April 8th on Zee World
9. Ice Adonis to debut March 30th on St Novelas
10. Pepsi unveils a new logo
11. Elon Musk plans to terminate the blue checkmark by the end of March unless you pay
12. DreamWorks' Megamind TV series to debut in 2024
13. ALVINNN!!! And The Chipmunks renewed for season 6 & 7 on Netflix, Nickelodeon no longer have the rights
14. Trevor Noah working on new show for Amazon Prime Video
15. Rupali Ganguly aka Anupama wins Compassionate Change Maker Award Of The Year
16. Elena's Ghost debuts this April on Galaxy TV replacing Wild Skin (more info on the show)
17. SuperSport loses rights to IPL likely to Paramount+

The History Channel Africa Brings Viewers All New Series, New Seasons And A New Look

This April the HISTORY Channel Africa (DStv 186) will investigate the illegal antiquities trade, explore engineering disasters, dig into treasure quests across the globe and delve into the stories of the people, places and events that shaped our world.

Looting History is an all new series every Wednesday at 19h25 (starting 5 April) which shines a spotlight on how the trade in stolen antiquities and art has become a major source of income for criminal syndicates, gangs, and terrorists across the globe. Precious ancient treasures torn out of the ground. Priceless art ripped from walls. It’s a modern tragedy, as the grandest of mankind’s achievements are reduced to little more than obscene commodities.

Using a different case study, each episode of Looting History uncovers how and why everybody from Islamic State to the Chinese Triad have muscled in on the act, and why international law enforcement agencies are determined to shut it down, but often powerless to act. The series documents among others the pillage of Ancient Egypt, the exploitation of Syria’s precious ancient past and the Nazi looting campaign that saw one in five art objects in Europe stolen.

Then, a brand-new season of Massive Engineering Mistakes on Tuesdays at 20h15 (starting 11 April) investigates what went wrong in some of the world’s biggest engineering disasters. Season 4 will follow on directly from season 3. From a major freeway bridge collapse during peak hour traffic in the United States, to a shipping catastrophe blocking one of the most vital trade routes in the world - the Suez Canal.

Behind History on Sundays at 20h15 (starting 23 April) takes an in depth look at the stories behind some of the most momentous events, remarkable ideas, and extraordinary people the world has ever known.

Each episode of the six-part series focuses on a single theme and delivers a fascinating look into each subject, and in doing so reveals some of its lesser-known facts. Themes include ‘Icons’, which explores the people and places that have become globally recognised symbols, and ‘Breakthrough’, which looks at the political, scientific and medical advances that have shaped our world. Other episodes investigate the themes of ‘War’, ‘Leaders’, ‘Catastrophe’, and ‘Fame’.

From the Berlin Wall to Desert Storm, Pearl Harbor, the Hindenburg disaster and the end of Apartheid, we’ve read the headlines – but how much do we really know about what happened? Behind History offers a unique and fascinating take on key events and characters from our past.

In a History Channel Africa favourite, World’s Greatest Treasure Mysteries season 3 on Saturdays at 19h25 (starting 29 April) is hosted by real-life treasure hunters Rick and Marty Lagina (from Curse of Oak Island fame). The series uncovers the greatest treasure hunts of the past, present and perhaps the future. Great storytelling, compelling interviews with treasure-hunters, historians and experts, and on-location treasure hunts reveal amazing new details and clues, advancing the hunt.

With content that seeks to delve deeper, it is only fitting that the HISTORY Channel Africa logo has recently undergone a refresh. The channel’s new look and identity are part of a global refresh that started with A+E Networks in the US and then rolled out internationally, rolled out throughout EMEA this March.

The new elements communicate the idea of exposing what’s just below the surface: uncovering content hidden in plain sight and encouraging the curious to discover the history around them.

Tune in to the HISTORY Channel Africa, on DStv 186, to unearth the real stories that lie beneath the surface.

What To Expect On TNT Africa In April 2023?

CENTURY UP!
April 2023 marks Warner Bros. Studios’ 100th anniversary, and TNT Africa will join in Celebrating Every Story with five special themed weekends that commemorate the famous studio’s diverse genres – DC Universe, Action, Adventure, Crime and Comedy. Kick off Warner Bros.’ milestone birthday with TNT.

TUNE IN DETAILS (channel premieres)
DC Universe Weekend
Saturday, 1 April
17:25   –   Superman Returns (2006)
20:00   –   Man of Steel (2013)
Sunday, 2 April
17:55   –   Suicide Squad (2016)
20:00   –   Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
Action Weekend
Saturday, 8 April
18:05   –   Demolition Man (1993)
20:00   –   Eraser (1996)
Sunday, 9 April
17:50   –   The Fugitive (1993)
20:00   –   Payback (1999)
Adventure Weekend
Saturday, 15 April
18:05   –   Edge of Tomorrow (2014)
20:00   –   Geostorm (2017)
Sunday, 16 April
18:00   –   Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
20:00   –   Blood Diamond (2006)
Crime Weekend
Saturday, 22 April
17:35   –   The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
20:00   –   Mystic River (2003)
Sunday, 23 April
18:25   –   Swordfish (2001)
20:00   –   Out for Justice (1991)
Comedy Weekend
Saturday, 29 April
18:15   –   Keanu (2016)
20:00   –   Horrible Bosses (2010)
Sunday, 30 April
18:30   –   Little Nicky (2000)
20:00   –   Yes Man (2008)

WILD WILD WEDNESDAYS
Wednesdays get wild this April on TNT Africa with denizens of the deep, animals from the abyss, creepies from cold caverns and monsters from galaxies far, far away with TNT’s Wild, Wild Wednesdays! This collection of fearsome beasties takes on humanity every Wednesday – can the human race survive?

TUNE IN DETAILS (channel premiere)
Wednesday, 5 April
20:30   –   The Grey (2011)
22:30   –   Anaconda 3: Offspring (2008)
Wednesday, 12 April
20:30   –   Venom (2018)
22:25   –   Zombieland (2009)
Wednesday, 19 April
20:30   –   Primal (2019)
22:05   –   Jeepers Creepers (2001)
Wednesday, 26 April
20:30   –   Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)
22:15   –   Anacondas: Trail of Blood (2009)

AEW WRESTLING WEEKENDS
There’s more Rampage and Dynamite every Saturday and Sunday in April, with fresh episodes of the latest in AEW Wrestling action – and if you miss out, you can catch repeats on Wednesday afternoons and late on Friday nights. As if this isn’t enough, TNT Africa brings you AEW’s upcoming special quarterly event, Battle of the Belts VI, from the Ryan Centre at The University of Rhode Island, where every bout will be a title match with championship gold on the line.

TUNE IN DETAILS (channel premieres)
Every Saturday in April
10:00   –   AEW Rampage
Every Sunday in April
10:00   –   AEW Dynamite
Saturday, 15 April
10:50   –   AEW Battle of the Belts VI

Rumour: Treehouse TV In Canada Is Becoming Cartoonito From April 24

During the month, Canada’s most popular children’s cartoon channel, Teletoon, was rebranded as Cartoon Network.

The channel, which is a subsidiary of Corus Entertainment, launched 25 years ago in October 1997. Since then, it has aired original cartoon programs, while also playing TV shows from its sister channel Cartoon Network which had since then rebranded to Boomerang.

All that was left of the Corus brand on linear platforms was Treehouse TV. Following the demise of Teletoon, they were rumours swirling around for sometime that the channel will fold under Cartoonito as they've licenced shows like Batwheels and Bugs Bunny Builders.

Oh-oh-oh, Cartoonito! Kids and parents, get ready, because on April 24, @TreehouseTV will relaunch as @CartoonitoCN! Have fun with such recognizable characters as Caillou, Bugs Bunny, Thomas and more as we prepare to bring Cartoonito to Canada on cable & @stacktv! pic.twitter.com/9IaDynLkNb

— Corus (@TayvenSmittenTV) March 30, 2023

Through a promo by Twitter user @TayvenSmittenTV, it was announced that Treehouse TV would rebrand into Cartoonito from April 24 featuring shows like Caillou, Bugs Bunny Builders, Thomas And Friends basically all the shows from Treehouse TV.

The news of Treehouse TV's demise doesn't come as a shocker. As seen during the month, Teletoon was phased out for Cartoon Network and Boomerang entered the market so it only seemed logical for them to align these brands with Cartoonito.

Boing will join the latter as they to will be replaced by Cartoonito in France and just like UK, Italy and as seen Canada retain Boomerang as opposed to folding all their content under the Cartoonito banner as seen across EMEA.

For those who aren't unfamiliar with the Treehouse brand, it's basically home to shows once licenced by Boomerang and JimJam including Agent Binky: Pets Of The Universe, Caillou and Harry and His Bucket Full of Dinosaurs.

New Series Alert: Smoke & Mirrors Coming Soon To e.tv

This April, e.tv brings forth yet another brand-new drama, Smoke & Mirrors, produced by The Final Chapter Production. The show takes over the 9PM slot on the channel, replacing Imbewu.

Smoke & Mirrors is set in the landscape of a small mining town called Emnyameni. Here, we come to learn that the story lives up to its name- nothing and no one is truly as they seem. Introducing the character of Thandiswa, a hairdresser by day, an escort by night, and a girl on a mission to rid the town of “The Unholy Trinity”, the group of morally corrupt men who run Emnyameni.

“We’ve cooked up a story that is gripping at its core but yet has multiple facets that resonate with the viewer. A lot of research went into putting the show together and in the end, we are happy to say we have a good product to show and tell,” said Loyiso Maqoma, creator, writer and producer for Smoke & Mirrors.

“e.tv focuses on introducing untold stories to the South African audience and promises entertainment like no other. The introduction of Smoke and Mirrors opens a world that hasn’t been explored before, the combination of this story and cast will simply blow our audience’s minds away” – Helga Palmer, Head of Local Programming, e.tv.

Imbewu’s final episode airs on the 14th of April on e.tv. In a joint statement, executive producers Leleti Khumalo, Duma Ndlovu and Anant Singh said, “We are proud to have created a trailblazing show that showcased the multicultural environment of Durban and KZN. Imbewu changed the face of the daily drama offering on South African television with its unique storylines, cliffhangers and high drama, resulting in it becoming one of the most-watched shows. We are grateful to our broadcast partner, e.tv for its support and the opportunity.”

To fill the prime-time slot, the channel will also launch a brand-new local drama.

“We’d like to thank the production for its commitment in delivering five great seasons of compelling stories, despite the highly competitive timeslots it found itself in at 9.30pm and 9pm. The show managed to dethrone its biggest competitor in the 9pm slot and it is now the most-viewed show in the late-night slot. We are proud to be ending on a high,” said Helga Palmer: head of local programming at eMedia.

News Shorts: ALVINNN!!! And The Chipmunks To Move From Nickelodeon To Netflix For Season 6, Radha Mohan Makes It's Highly Anticipated Debut On Zee World And Ice Adonis To Rollout On St Novelas E Plus

Nickelodeon abandons yet another project

A Netflix renewal and rights extension is among a set of new deals for Bagdasarian Productions’ CG animated series ALVINNN!!! and the Chipmunks.

Netflix has confirmed additional licensing of the franchise, which has been on the platform since 2016. In addition to renewing seasons one and two, Netflix signed on for seasons three and four worldwide (excluding the U.S., LatAm, Germany, France, China, Japan, Korea and Taiwan).

Radha Mohan gets a release date on Zee World

Earlier in the year, Zee World unveiled a batch of productions set to rollout on the channel later in the year and one of shows on topic include the above-mentioned Radha Mohan which is set to premiere from April 8th.

In modern-day Vrindavan, Mohan, a charming flute player, loses his spark post a tragedy. Radha, who admires him since her childhood days, decides to remind him of his true love, Lord Krishna.

Ice Adonis expands to StarTimes

Stories and triangles revolving around the revenge of a woman who lost everything including her family and her one true love. The series launched in 2012 and consisted of 60 episodes. It was made available to eExtra back in 2021 as the first Asian/Korean based series.

Now the series expands to StarTimes on St Novelas E Plus every weekday at 21:30 from March 30th.

Pending Development Alert (Rumour): The End Of Paradise + The Fan + Law Of The Heart + Operation Pacific + More Rebroadcasts Coming Soon To Telemundo Africa

Telemundo launched in the African market 9 years ago supplying the best stories from Latin America and Mexico. Some of the shows included Behind Closed Doors, Ana's Revenge and A Passion For Revenge with super series like Iron Rose and Lord Of The Skies.

Over the years, the channel has garnered traction for its repeat padded lineup particularly with the anthology Decisions and on/off relationship with Fearless Heart and My Heart Beats For Lola.

Although some may have preferences about repeats, a lot of TV channels have engaged in similar antics and it's not like everyone is at home at the times these rebroadcasts come on so to some it may be a eyesore but to others it gives them time to catch-up.

The list of shows expected for the channel include:

- Operation Pacific (Operación Pacífico)

Inspired by real-life events, Amalia Ortega, a prominent and brilliant federal agent who leads an investigative unit for the national police.

- The Fan (La Fan)

Tells the story of a comical, cheerful, and humble woman who is a fan of a famous TV actor. A twist of fate will send her into his life unexpectedly, and although at first he doesn't pay much attention, later he cannot imagine living life without her.

- 100 Days To Fall In Love (100 Días Para Enamorarnos)

Two couples in struggling relationships decide to give each other another chance: 100 days for them to fall back in love.

- Law Of The Heart (La Ley Del Corazon)

The series takes place in a successful law firm that specializes in family law, dedicated to cases of separation and couple and family conflicts in general.

- The End Of Paradise (El Final Del Paraíso)

Catalina Santana's new mission will force her to face demons that threaten to destroy her and her family.

- Someone's Watching (Alguien Te Mira)

Mystery and drama surround the lives of four friends who, after witnessing a murder, get caught up in the midst of an investigation to find a serial killer who follows a set same modus operandi with all of his victims and who will cause unexpected consequences for each of them.

Other shows awaiting allocation:

- False Identity (Falsa Identidad)

Isabel and Diego, two complete strangers, must assume the identity of a dead American tourist and his wife in order to escape their pasts in Sonora.

- Close Enemies (Enemigo Íntimo)

A story about two siblings who are willing to use their power and status to seek revenge for their parents. The parents were killed by a drug cartel and the younger sister was kidnapped.

- Prisoners Of Love (La Querida Del Centauro)

Inmate Yolanda agrees to become the mistress of a famous drug dealer and lure him out of hiding in exchange for house arrest so she can protect her daughter.

Pending Development Alert (Rumour): The Story + Queen Of The South S3 + Nurses S4 + Lord Of The Skies S8 + More Shows Coming Soon To Telemundo Africa

NBCUniversal, the parent company behind Telemundo has been cutting back on content spend across their linear platforms. It's what's led to Bravo's inclusion on E! with Below Deck and Vanderpump Rules and Telemundo with Nurses and The Chosen Granddaughter.

During the month, Telemundo unveiled another production from RCN Television which is basically in charge of the above-mentioned shows alongside the latest addition, Until Money Do Us Part with Ana's Revenge from Caracol Television (Hidden Passions).

With the main network based in Latin America still building their original portfolio. Telemundo will continue to license content from these properties in the meantime.

Some of the content in question for the platform include:

1. The Story (Te La Dedico)

Adriana and Wilson are a couple who live from music, their dream is to be recognized and soon they are given the opportunity when a production company, headed by Henry Bedoya, launches a competition in which they come out winners, the problem is that they only want Adriana's talent. The couple's conflicts begin here, as the misunderstandings and difficulties grow.

2. In The Shadows (Entre Sombras)

"In the Shadows" is the story of Julia and Magdalena, members of an elite group that strives to solve the most perplexing crimes in record time. They both have very different lives.

3. Hidden Truth (Verdad Oculta)

The story of Colonel Diana, who after capturing a drug trafficker tries to save her marriage, but everything takes an unexpected turn.

4. To Love You (Pa' Quererte)

The plot revolves around 4 friends of different ages football fans who have a small team, in addition to this the 4 are non-conventional parents who will have to assume their role as parents.

Other shows also anticipated for the channel include:

1. Queen Of The South S3 (La Reina Del Sur S3)

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.

2. Lord Of The Skies S8 (El Señor De Los Cielos 8)

The season centers on the return of Aurelio Casillas, who supposedly died at the beginning of the previous season after falling into a coma following an attempt on his life. It is only the DEA who knows that Aurelio is alive, having hidden him in the desert. In enacting his plan of revenge, Aurelio establishes connections with old allies, while also facing new romances and uncovering family mysteries.

Recap To The Year: Roekeloos Dade To Rollout On eExtra, Now Titled Annekan Die Swa Kry

Few months ago, eMedia Investments unveiled several upcoming attractions for their platforms including Ramo, Om Elke Draai and ahead of its debut on eExtra Die Put S3 on eVOD. Joining the lineup is Hart Van Goud also on eExtra and Doodsondes S5 on e.tv.

During the week, eMedia Investments unveiled the highly anticipated Turkish drama Hayat Sarkisi based on the Korean drama Flames Of Dire. The series was first announced as Roekeloos Dade but will now go under go under Annekan Die Swa Kry once it replaces #DisComplicated on eExtra.

Born and raised in Işıklar Village near Mudanya, Bayram and his only friend Salih, who was his blood brother while growing up, engage their children Melek and Kerim at a young age in order to bind a conflict between them sweetly, and they continue to live in different cities until the children grow up and reach the age of marriage.

Having two children, Bayram does not forget his promise, even though he developed his business in Istanbul where he settled with his family and made a great fortune. He takes his young son Kerim with him on the day he graduated from university and knocks on the door of Salih, who lives with his two daughters, Hülya and Melek in Işıklar Village. Salih is also loyal to his promise and they finalize the wedding decision of the children with the arrival of Bayram.

However, the children of both families have established a life of their own over the past years and have turned towards different loves and goals. Although young people make decisions about this compulsory marriage among themselves and relax with the solutions they find; Hulya's plans, which they did not take into account at all, have already been put into effect.

Annekan Die Swa Kry stars Burcu Biricik as Hülya Çamoğlu Cevher, Birkan Sokullu as Kerim Cevher, Tayanç Ayaydın as Hüseyin Cevher, Ecem Özkaya as Melek Çamoğlu Cevher, Ahmet Mümtaz Taylan as Bayram Cevher, Seray Gözler as Süheyla Cevher and Deniz Hamzaoğlu as Kaya.

As seen through various platforms, Annekan Die Swa Kry replaces #DisComplicated from April 26 with Hart Van Goud replacing Verdeelde Liefde from April 4 with Die Put returning for a third season after Die Vertroueling in May.

Important Notice: The Estate, Skeem Saam, Uzalo And Generations Will Stop Airing On SABC 2 By The End Of March, To Be Replaced By Judge Jerry And More Repeats

Last year, the public broadcaster announced plans to restructure their offering one of which included the distribution of repeats. For decades, shows like Uzalo and 7de Laan have been viewed on multiple channels now the plan is to limit the offering on a single brand.

This means if The Estate airs on SABC 3 it can only be found on the exact channel or SABC+ if you miss out on previous episodes or a whole week. As advised few months prior these changes would take effect between now to April 2023 or in this case, SABC 2.

As of now, Skeem Saam, Generations: The Legacy, The Estate and Uzalo are airing in the 11:30 to 13:30 slot. From Monday 3 April, those shows will be replaced with rebroadcasts of Daddy Steps, Voetspore and Forever Young with other attractions such as Judge Jerry.

For those not familiar with the former eExtra program, Judge Jerry sees the former talk show host Jerry Springer put his law degree to use, hearing real cases and rendering verdicts in a TV courtroom. It ran for three seasons with its final season dating back to 2022.

Interesting to note, only SABC 2 will be the first to make these adjustments as SABC 1 and 3 still offer criss cross meaning consumers will have to wait a while longer till 7de Laan stops airing on SABC 3. Just curious what repeats will occupy these slots.

In other developments, it seems like e.tv is throwing in the towel and letting bygones be bygones as they picked up rights to SABC 1's uBettina Wethu also seen on BET alongside another original offering from the public broadcaster, Takalani Sesame.

Major Development Alert (Not April Fools): Takalani Sesame + uBettina Wethu + Housewives + Nikiwe + Ebumnyameni (RUMOUR) Coming Soon To e.tv

In 2021, SABC and eMedia Investments expanded their partnership to include SABC's 19 radio stations and the addition of SABC Sport which currently serves as the top 10 channels on Openview. It's clear now that the red brand had more up their sleeves aside from channels.

As noted, eMedia Investments on top of serving as an arch rival to the SABC will also be distributing selected content from the public broadcaster, Takalani Sesame and uBettina Wethu. They've been doing that with M-Net but it's more shocking in these circumstances.

Out of all shows, why did it have to be uBettina Wethu which is currently on SABC 1 with the channel set to rebroadcast the first season as if consumers haven't seen it already. Takalani Sesame is still present on SABC why play second fiddle to competition.

Most of the channel is local at this point and these shows are probably one way to improve the local quota particularly on the kiddies section following the demise of Craze's local youth offering Shiz Niz, Sistahood, Craze World Live and Frenzy.

uBettina Wethu follows the story of a naïve rural girl who gets a job working for one of Johannesburg's most eligible bachelors. As mentioned, SABC is currently on its third season with e.tv serving as the SABC Encore of the SABC with a first season.

Takalani Sesame is an educational show for preschoolers or local version of Sesame Street where viewers can learn about words, numbers and embrace their creative spirit. It features muppet based characters such as Neno, Grover, Kupukeji, Moshe, Zikwe, and Zuzu.

Both shows make their highly anticipated premiere on Monday 10 April. Isono is ending next month so uBettina Wethu takes up it's timeslot 20:30 while Takalani Sesame comes up 6 hours early being 14:30.

In other developments, Housewives is set to a make a comeback weekly at 10pm after its sudden disappearance from the short-lived Sunday Night Series slot. Nikiwe is set to replace Durban Gen later in the month.

As for Imbewu, I'm told that a new show possibly titled Ebumnyameni will replace the telenovela later in that month as well - nothing is confirmed as yet. Of course, this could be the project starring Zuko Nodada as she's filming an unknown project for the brand.

Recap To Last Year: WWE Network Fails To Launch On Showmax, DStv Channel 128 Remains Active In The African Market

Last year, SuperSport and the WWE extended their partnership with the world's biggest wrestling promotion which would see the WWE Network fold under Showmax as seen in Indonesia, Phillipines, Australia and India which have all terminated the brand.

SuperSport would continue to offer Raw, SmackDown, NXT and premium live PPVs across their platforms. As for the WWE Channel, that's expected to continue running on channel 128 but would it be shocking if it didn't considering it was never mentioned earlier.

Vince McMahon, the founder of WWE has been exploring a potential sale of the brand for several months and had recieved a number of potential buyers at the time including Comcast (NBCUniversal), Disney, Amazon and the Saudis apparently.

If you view this from a logical perspective, I can see why this deal was put on hold. If you take to account, the mentioned potential buyers at the time such as Disney. They probably wouldn't want to bundle WWE on Showmax especially if Disney+ already exists.

Although a buyer has yet to be announced, I can see imagine how WWE would operate under the Disney tile. They'd probably scrap SuperSport's WWE and merge it with ESPN meaning in order to view further content particularly archived you'd need ESPN+.

As mentioned, Showmax's deal with WWE does come off as suspicious if you take the following to account:

WWE® (NYSE: WWE) and MultiChoice today announced a major broadcast partnership that will see Showmax – the leading streaming service available in the region – become the new home of WWE Network in Africa.

The partnership incorporates all WWE Premium Live Events, including WrestleMania®, as well as WWE Network’s vast library of original and archived programming available to stream on-demand.

Additionally, SuperSport, the sport broadcasting subsidiary of video entertainment platform MultiChoice, will continue to broadcast live weekly episodes of Raw®, SmackDown® and NXT® as well as all of WWE’s Premium Live Events in a multi-year extension.

Although, MultiChoice mentions that the WWE Channel would remain onboard I find it hard to believe. Yes this channel brings the consumers and revenue but why not mention such a brand in early press statements when expanding this deal to Showmax.

Even more reasons to suspect the possible demise of channel 128 would be Showmax. Notice how they mention "WWE Network’s vast...archived programming" but SuperSport only references "live weekly episodes of Raw®, SmackDown®...WWE’s Premium Live Events.

Most people grew fond of this channel so maybe WWE Channel would be supplemented by another brand that could fill up the void and probably be WWE savvy but there's always chances that this could be nothing at this point.

To Celebrate The Launch Of Cartoonito, Regular Nick & Insidus Games Presents The Classic Toon Cup Now Downloadable On Android Devices Alongside The Premieres Of Junior And Craig Of The Creek S4 On Cartoon Network Africa

Boomerang Africa rebranded to Cartoonito Africa on Saturday, 25 March, with the best of Boomerang with more laughs, more adventures and more friends.

There’s still plenty of room for long-time Boomerang favourites like Zig & Sharko, Mr Bean, Masha and the Bear, Tom & Jerry, Scooby-Doo and Looney Tunes Cartoons to shine alongside newer friends such as Dino Ranch, Thomas and Friends: All Engines Go and Lucas the Spider. Cartoonito Africa brings them together – while adding brand-new shows like Batwheels, Bugs Bunny Builders and Interstellar Ella – just for starters - offering a wider variety of programmes filled with new friends, trusted fun and extraordinary adventures for the whole family to enjoy.

For more details on what to expect later in the month on Cartoonito: click here

HIGHLIGHTS FOR CARTOON NETWORK:

JUNIOR

Mikako Mayhem

Mikako, Africa, is home to Junior, an amazingly resourceful 10-year-old boy who always has a thousand and one remarkable ways to solve everyday problems – though some of his solutions just create new problems! His favourite phrase? “It wasn’t me, honest!”. Junior always has a reason, a totally improbable “how-what-why” story. However, having brilliant ideas is one thing - putting them into practice is another!  And that’s where the problems usually begin…

PREMIERE:        Monday, 3 April @ 17:00 CAT
TUNE IN:            Mondays – Fridays at 17:00 CAT

CRAIG OF THE CREEK – S4

Kids Rule!

Craig and his two best friends, Kelsey and JP, are always going on adventures in the untamed suburban wilderness known as the Creek - a kid utopia where tribes of children rule over tree forts and bike ramps. In this season’s new episodes, a rainy day of board games turns into an epic gaming challenge, a hike to a secret waterfall creates an unexpected friendship with former enemies referred to as Champions of The Other Side of the Creek and a dangerous staring contest with a prize at stake will animate Craig’s adventurous life in the Creek.

PREMIERE: Monday, 17 April at 15:15 CAT
TUNE IN: Mondays – Fridays at 15:15 CAT

BRING ON THE SPORTING ACTION WITH THE 2010 JAVA CLASSIC, COPA TOON NOW AVAILABLE ON ANDROID DEVICES

The Toon Cup is on! Join your favorite Cartoon Network characters and play this action packed 5-aside football game. Play through the entire competition or duke it out in a quick match to hone your skills. Use special powers to gain the upper hand and beware of the hazards on the pitch. What are you waiting for? Team up with Ben 10, Billy, Chowder, Zak Saturday or Buttercup and go for the goal.

Worried about space no worries, it's a 1MB game: click here to download

Recap To The Week: The Real Housewives Is Becoming A Cinematic Universe On DStv

The Real Housewives Of Johannesburg, The Real Housewives Of Cape Town, The Real Housewives Of Durban and these are just some of the few reiteration to the popular Bravo franchise seen across various M-Net channels through the DStv platform.

During the week, MultiChoice and NBCUniversal unveiled another Housewives instalment for the kykNET channel titled Die Real Housewives Van Die Winelands which will basically follow the hustle of various women in a certain geographical area.

It will follow the champagne catfights and soirée-filled social circles of a new group of Afrikaans-speaking women, all living and gossiping in South Africa's famed Cape winelands region around Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek, known for its "old money" and its centuries-old, multi-million rand family-owned wine estates.

According to kykNET, the Cape winelands offer "wealth, vineyards and wine" but it is also here where the tongues are wagging in the high-society social circles over the latest and never-ending gossip in the region over the ins and outs of this conspicuously wealthy community.

But that's not what's got me hooked personally I don't watch it not that it's bad or anything but everyone has their own preference which is the case here as MultiChoice has been dishing out more and more housewives adaptions across their platforms.

It had sort of got me thinking, could it be that M-Net may rollout a standalone channel featuring these local variations alongside the international components which have been gracing our screens for several decades I mean the idea wouldn't seem far fetched at this point.

WWE has got a dedicated channel why not The Real Housewives I mean M-Net has got too much of this content on their plate already that I doubt a lot of consumers particularly those into such content will be able to keep up to all these variations.

Just like WWE, my hunch for this channel would be that content that was probably not accessible on DStv would be found here while the fresh local offering will serve as rebroadcasts or simultaneous premieres I can see only of those options working.

On top of these instalments across DStv, we would also be getting doccies or behind the scene type programming. I mean after seeing brands like SuperSport Schools build their offering from various SuperSport channels the idea doesn't seem far fetched.

Curious as to how long it will be till MultiChoice announce the launch of The Real Housewives Channel. I mean hey they've found new ways of distributing repeats and making them knowledgeable to more consumers this case wouldn't be any different.

New Series Alert: Your Love Is My Fortune Coming Soon To TLNovelas Africa

Natalia Robles is a morally flawless woman who has been married to Adrián Cantú for the past twenty years, which she has devoted body and soul to ensuring her family's wellbeing. Our story begins at her twentieth anniversary party, where Andrea and Regina, her daughters, Adrián's lover Verónica, who is also Natalia's best friend and the girlfriend of Adrián's partner, Mario, are present, alongside their closest group of friends.

Adrian and Veronica have hatched a plan to flee on the same day of the celebration and once they have swindled the clients of the real estate agency of which Adrian, Veronica and Mario are partners.

Natalia collapses when she discovers that she has been betrayed, but she must also immediately solve her financial situation since Adrián has left her broke; she is devastated and resolves to rise again from the debris to help her daughters get ahead.

In a poor Mexico City neighborhood, Vicente Ramírez grieves the terrible loss of Lucía, his wife and mother of his only son Benjamín. The couple had achieved their dream of owning their own home, which they are still paying for. Little Benjamín becomes mute as a result of the impact of his mother's death. Vicente is a kind and sensitive man who has taken care of his family's financial stability: Doña Magos, his grandmother; Juan Gabriel and Pepe Pepe, his younger brothers.

The lives of Natalia and Vicente come together when he and the other creditors come to the real estate company to claim the money that was swindled from them. Natalia representing her husband, together with Mario, plead for time for them to be able to compensate the financial damage.

Natalia is left with only one house in a popular neighborhood where she must move in with her daughters. When she arrives, she finds out that Vicente is the supposed owner of the house, since he signed an invalid sales contract, which makes Natalia the real owner. Vicente refuses to receive them and Natalia, without hesitating, moves into the house that both will now share with their respective families, causing conflicts between the characters due to social and cultural differences.

Living together brings Natalia and Vicente closer. Without realizing it, he has fallen in love with the righteousness, tenacity, strength, decision, tenderness and kindness that she has displayed, especially with her son Benjamín; little by little Natalia will discover that after all the pain and sadness she has gone through, she is ready to give herself a second chance, and this time it will be with Vicente. Olga, who only wants to fulfill her whim of marrying him, hates Natalia and stirs up strong intrigues that separate them.

After overcoming adversity, our protagonists will confirm that real fortune is to be found in love.

Based on the Colombian telenovela La Quiero A Morir, Your Love Is My Fortune (Mi Fortuna Es Amarte) debuted on Las Estrellas from 8 November 2021 to 13 March 2022. Accumulating a total of 92 episodes, the series stars Susana González and David Zepeda.

The series debuts 29 May 2023 on TLNovelas (DStv 133). Ahead of its debut, the channel will rollout the classic series, Rubi.

New Series Alert: VanG Born Explorer: India Coming Soon To People's Weather

People's Weather, Africa's first and only 24/7 weather, environmental news and lifestyle channel. Striving to make Africa's nature more inclusive for all will be rolling out a new wilderness series from April 14 (or 10th), VanG Born Explorer: India.

VanG (full name Mathieu Van Goethem) journeys through all corners of the globe in search of fascinating, unique, rare wildlife and culture. Immerse yourself in an adventure that will take you all over the place.

Based in Cape Town, the Belgium filmmaker, conversationalist and nature guide expert operates a free online company, MatVanGeo. Raising awareness about environmental issues and stories and also documenting his adventures.

VanG has worked with a number of talents including Moonchild Sanelisiwe, Musgrave, Chad da Don, David Moscow, Graeme Swanepoel, Marty Bleazard, Noni Ndlamini, Mark Linfield & Vanessa Berlowitz.

As seen on various platforms, his new series VanG Born Explorer: India will air either on April 14 or 10 in the 18:30 timeslot. For further details an accurate launch date, consult the channel in discussion, People's Weather or browse your TV Guide closer to that period.

Why eVOD Ranks As The Best Alternative For eExtra's Kuiertyd?

A few days ago, a source had mentioned that Soete Wraak currently seen on eVOD would be launching on eExtra in the coming days and this was after the channel announced the launches of new series Hart Van Goud and Roekeloos Dade.

eMedia Investments has piled up their eVOD streaming service with four yet-to-be-seen developments for eExtra including Om Elke Draai, Chrysalis and Ramo with Die Put being one of the brand's longest running action series is currently on its third season.

Aside from kykNET, eMedia Investments has been having a bit of rivalry amongst their portfolio or in this case eVOD and eExtra. As seen already, consumers on the app are currently streaming the third season of Die Put with potential spoilers ahead of its launch on eExtra.

While as consumers viewing on eExtra are enjoying an even wider offering of fresh shows such as Elif and soon to exiting Verdeelde Liefde, #DisComplicated and Die Vertroueling. Other shows joining the lineup include Kurt En Shura and e.tv's Daai Crazy Somer.

The downside for eExtra particularly without eVOD is that these shows are arranged in particular hours of day and when load shedding hits sometimes even with rebroadcasts you're screwed as opposed to the streamer where you can view it anywhere at anytime.

Another aspect is that with streaming is the lack of censorship. I mean shows like Die Vertroueling and Die Put are confined to the nighttime while as eVOD gives you an option to watch these series in any hour of the day even with load shedding you could still find time.

I'm not saying eVOD is #1 as you have these shows on ePlesier similar to eExtra viewable at anytime. But considering this is a rival platform, the shows in question for eExtra are viewed firsthand meaning just like Die Put you're at risk of spoilers.

On top of that the platform has a tendency of signing you out no matter how frequent of a consumer you are as opposed to eExtra's current platform, Openview where you can experience signal loss but won't need to constantly log on to browse shows.

At this point, the only thing eExtra is good for at the moment is giving these shows more exposure and one way to better promote the vast offering seen on eVOD other than it's mostly rebroadcasts from the streamer or other platforms.

New Series Alert: Soete Wraak To Make Its Much Anticipated Debut On eExtra

Months after receiving no word from the channel about the romcom Soete Wraak, we finally have an update about the future of the show. Turns out, eExtra will be airing it in a double bill format every Sunday from 8pm signalling the possible return of Kuiertyd Premium.

Earlier in the year, Kuiertyd Premium was merged with the weekday offering now being used as a catch-up for Die Vertroueling. After a few months, that goes up in flames as consumers have to wait at least 2 hours before they can catch-up with what they've missed.

For a while now there had been questions about what eMedia Investments would do with the load of the content that has yet to be seen Om Elke Draai, Chrysalis and Ramo on eVOD as eExtra has its own offering Hart Van Goud and Roekeloos Dade now that's been covered.

Consumers will just have to wait a while as eVOD builds their offering. On the bright side, consumers are getting more choice in entertainment. As mentioned, Kuiertyd Premium might be returning to help consumers keep up with the action starting with Soete Wraak.

The series airs every Sunday at 20:00 after Come Dine With Me on eExtra. Thereafter, it's a catch-up of Die Vertroueling.

Synopsis for Soete Wraak:

It follows the story of two people who were together in college. Sinan has fallen in love with Pelin but he rejected his feelings and insulted her in front of all. They two meet each other again after many years and Pelin asks Sinan for help to change her fate and the situation brings them together. Pelin and Sinan both are in love, but faces many consequences.

News Shorts: Warner Bros. Discovery Issues Brief Description Of Cartoonito Africa, The Rich Also Cry Debuts On Joy Prime In The Coming Weeks And WWE Channel Opened To More DStv Consumers Ahead Of WrestleMania

Boomerang is now Cartoonito

Home to fan-favourites Zig & Sharko, hilarious Mr Bean and inseparable buddies Masha and the Bear alongside new flagship Warner Bros. franchise programmes like Batwheels and Bugs Bunny Builders, Cartoonito provides a safe space for kids 3-7, along with their families, to spend some time together and enjoy trusted fun. With fan-favourites beloved by kids and adults alike, including the iconic frenemies Tom & Jerry, the famous dog detective Scooby-Doo, and the wackiest Looney Tunes, alongside other rising cartoon stars such as Lucas the Spider and Interstellar Ella, the channel offers a wide variety of programmes, bringing together laughter, adventure and friendship!

Cartoonito Africa is available in English-speaking African countries on DStv (channel 302), GOtv (channel 68) (channel 155 in Ghana and channel 357 in Uganda), AzamTV (channel 227) and Canal+ Ethiopia (Channel 127).

The Rich Also Cry to make a landing on Joy Prime

Based on the 1979 Mexican telenovela of the same name, The Rich Also Cry (Los Ricos También Lloran) follows an orphan of both father and mother. She is left alone in the world when her godmother dies, which complicates her life more than she could have ever imagined.

The Rich Also Cry series stars Sebastián Rulli as Luis Alberto Salvatierra, Claudia Martín as Mariana Villarreal, Fabiola Guajardo as Soraya Montenegro and Azela Robinson as Elena Suárez.

Serving as a fourth production of Dream Factory (Fábrica de Sueños). The series airs next Monday on Joy Prime in Ghana.

More wrestling action for DStv customers

During the week, MultiChoice in select African territories decided to give consumers access to all the wrestling action on channel 128 from 20 March to 2 April. As somewhat of a countdown to WrestleMania. Some of the content seen on the brand include Raw, SmackDown, NXT, Notsam Wrestling and archived material viewed on the WWE Network.

In other developments, the pay-tv company is gearing up for Ramadan with yet another Islamic pop-up channel but this time based in Nigeria, Mustaeina TV.

Breaking News From Across The World In The Last 7 Days Dated 24 March

1. Marvel Studios Present Victoria Alonso exits post after 17 years of service
2. Fall 2 is in development
3. Good Burger Sequel is in development
4. Bel-Air renewed for third season at Peacock
5. Former child star Amanda Bynes put on psychiatric hold
6. Shazam: Fury Of The Gods becomes a box office disappointment
7. Scream VI becomes a box office success yet again
8. John Wick Star Lance Riddick has died
9. Andy Kaufman will be inducted into WWE 2023 Hall Of Fame
10. Jason Derulo confirmed as coach for The Voice Australia
11. Ted Bastien, Long-Time 'PAW Patrol' Director, Passes Away
12. Kabillion Debuts New ‘Woody Woodpecker’ Animated Shorts
13. Telemundo actress Rebecca Jones dies at 65
14. The Weeknd becomes the G.O.A.T. of music
15. Demi Lovato releases a rock version of Heart Attack
16. HGTV orders Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge
17. Nickelodeon orders King Of Corn pilot
18. Disney+ adds an anime collection
19. Vanessa Hudgens working on documentary exploring Asian roots

New Development Alert: Scandal + Imbewu + Splintered Pieces S2 + Yolanda Is Swanger Coming Soon To eVOD

In 2021, eMedia Investments unveiled they are much anticipated streamer, eVOD. What was meant to viewed as a momentous occasion for the red brand ended in chaos after Asian based streamer VIU accused the company of breaching their agreement.

VIU was launched in the market by March 2019 and at the time eMedia Investments signed a content agreement which gave the streamer exclusive rights to various content including Scandal and Imbewu through 2024 but that's not the case anymore.

As seen on various outlets yesterday, eMedia Investments reclaimed these shows so where does that leave VIU - we honestly don't know. But it wouldn't be shocking if they became another Acorn TV. For now consumers can stream these shows from April 4.

Joining the lineup is the second season to Splintered Pieces of which eMedia Investments has yet to make available on their linear platforms. The series follows.

On top of that the streamer has a new production titled Yolanda Is Swanger around the time, e.tv is set to unveil Nikiwe in the coming months.

Synopsis for Yolanda Is Swanger:

Yolanda (Lindsey Cele) has a secret – she might be pregnant. This is a huge problem for her as she lives in a small, coloured community known as Toekies near Randfontein, where everyone knows everyone's business. Her conservative and deeply religious family attend the local Dutch Reformed Church where her mechanic father, Pieter (Theo Jantjies), is a deacon. Her mother, Karen (Megan Carelse), receives weekly prayers from the church because of her chronic illness, and news of her daughter’s pregnancy might be a nail in her coffin. What will happen if they find out?

The series stars Lindsey Cele, Adrien Steyn, Loi Duplessis and Roderick Jaftha. Yolanda Is Swanger will be available to stream on the platform from April 18.

New Series Alert: Cabo Coming Soon To ZAP Novelas

Zap Novelas, a telenovela channel promoting the best of Turkey and Latin America will be joining a list of broadcasters in East Africa in sourcing content that has yet to be seen on the African feed of TLNovelas with Cabo.

Based on the 1985 Mexican telenovela Tú o nadie created by María Zarattini, Sofía and Alejandro get married in a dream wedding, but when Alejandro dies in a plane crash and Sofia travels to Cabo to meet his new family, she realizes that Alejandro is alive and that his real name is Eduardo.

The series stars Bárbara de Regil as Sofía Chávez, Matías Novoa as Alejandro Noriega, Eva Cedeño as Isabela Escalante, Diego Amozurrutia as Eduardo Torres, Rebecca Jones as Lucía de Noriega and Rafael Inclán as Alfonso "Poncho" Chávez.

It debuted last year on Las Estrellas pulling 3 million viewers at launch with its final episode drawing another million. The series currently has 85 episodes each consisting of 42-45 minutes.

Cabo will debut on Zap Novelas across Angola and Mozambique in April. There's no confirmation as to whether the series will be viewable in English but for now it's likely to only be viewable in Portuguese as seen with most of the content on the channel.

Recap To Last Year: Housewives + Splintered Pieces + uMbali Have Yet To Be Seen On e.tv And eXposed

Last year, eMedia Investments scrapped most of the international offering formerly viewed through weeknights on e.tv as they try to bolster their original portfolio with the likes of The Black Door, Daryn's Gym, Is'phindiselo and Christmas Without Gogo.

As seen since eVOD's rollout, eMedia Investments has been distributing content from the platform across their channels but there's still some portions of the content that have yet to find a home which includes shows like Splintered Pieces and uMbali.

e.tv amidst this reshuffle in 2022 had sourced selected content from the streamer which include various films such as An Eye For An Eye, Surviving Gaza and Atlantis with the first notable program, Is'phindiselo.

Is'phindiselo was actually the only drama on eVOD to air it's full run on the channel and it was meant to be used for the above-mentioned shows but after films struggled in their new timeslots. eMedia Investments backtracked on the plan for these shows.

Durban Gen, Imbewu and Isono are set to be ending on the network and it doesn't seem like eMedia Investments intends to use the above-mentioned shows to supplement this timeslot as they've begun filming replacements apparently.

If I had to guess, these shows will probably be allocated in the 10pm timeslot on e.tv which just like most of their schedule comes with a lot of conflict. But most of the timeslots are used for doccies so I can see them cutting back to accomodate these shows.

Besides that, if eMedia Investments wants these shows to succeed in terms of viewership an earlier timeslot would very much be needed. But by looking at the schedule this is probably the only way to get the shows onboard the brand.

Another brand, I wouldn't be shocked to see these shows on eXposed. They are more edgy or adult oriented with their offering I mean they offer rebroadcasts to The Black Door and have a lot of short-form series that fit their description.

Would it be shocking if these shows were Openview exclusives I mean most of eReality's offering unlike eExtra haven't been viewed on e.tv as yet. Most of the time you'd be lucky to view them if a certain program leaves the lineup which is kind of depressing.