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Sunday, October 29, 2023

'Friends' Star Matthew Perry Dead At 54...After Apparent Drowning

More details are surfacing about the circumstances surrounding Matthew Perry's death...as sources tell us he actually died at his own house after some physical activity this morning.

We're told Matthew came home sometime in the AM after a 2-hour round of pickleball, and that he sent his assistant out on errand shortly thereafter. We're told when the assistant returned about 2 hours later, he discovered Matthew unresponsive...and called 911.

Unclear if what Matthew was doing before his passing played any role in his death at this point -- the investigation into his death is underway.

Law enforcement sources tell us the actor was found Saturday at an L.A.-area home ... where we're told he appears to have drowned. Our sources say first-responders rushed over on a call for cardiac arrest. It's unclear where exactly on the grounds this happened.

Our sources say he was found in a jacuzzi at the home ... and we're told there were no drugs found at the scene. We're also told there is no foul play involved.

Perry is most famous for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit '90s sitcom, which ran for 10 seasons ... and with him in all 234 episodes. His character was a fan fave, as was performance -- mannerisms and lines of which have gone on to be recreated and spoofed by fans all over the world. One comes to mind, in particular ... "Could (blank) BE more .."

While 'Friends' was his biggest claim to fame ... MP had starred/guest starred in countless other TV shows over the years -- such as 'Boys Will Be Boys,' 'Growing Pains,' 'Silver Spoons,' 'Charles in Charge,' 'Sydney,' 'Beverly Hills, 90210,' 'Home Free,' 'Ally McBeal,' 'The West Wing,' 'Scrubs,' 'Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip,' 'Go On,' 'The Odd Couple' and more.

He had also acted in a handful of memorable films (mostly comedy) ... like 'Fools Rush In,' 'The Whole Nine Yards,' 'Three to Tango,' 'The Kid,' '17 Again,' 'Getting In,' and many others. He's been off the scene more recently ... not having acted since a TV mini series in 2017.

While his onscreen persona was affable and upbeat, Matthew suffered mightily behind the scenes -- notably, from his addiction to drugs and alcohol ... pain killers, specifically. He was hooked on Vicodin for years -- even while on 'Friends' -- and had been in and out of rehab.

Matthew opened up about this painful chapter of his life in a memoir he put out last year -- where he detailed the struggles he had ... including his clear weight-loss/gain on the show.

During his press run for his book ... Matthew did a number of interviews where he got incredibly emotional -- including one with Diane Sawyer, where he detailed his story.

While Perry appeared to be clean and sober a year ago, the year prior -- when he and the other cast members were plugging the 'Friends' reunion show -- drew concern from fans ... as they felt he appeared unwell, at times slurring his words and looking a bit out of it.

On top of his substance use ... Matthew also dealt with health issues, some of which were serious and required hospitalizations. One such incident stemmed from a gastrointestinal perforation -- which forced him to undergo emergency surgery ... but he luckily recovered.

Matthew never married, but he was briefly engaged to Molly Hurwitz a couple years ago...which came to an end after only 6 months. Before that, he'd been linked to Lizzy Caplan.

The Woman In Me By Britney Spears (PDF)

In June 2021, the whole world was listening as Britney Spears spoke in open court. The impact of sharing her voice—her truth—was undeniable, and it changed the course of her life and the lives of countless others. The Woman in Me reveals for the first time her incredible journey—and the strength at the core of one of the greatest performers in pop music history.
 
Written with remarkable candor and humor, Spears’s groundbreaking book illuminates the enduring power of music and love—and the importance of a woman telling her own story, on her own terms, at last. 

Saturday, October 28, 2023

Recap To The Year: Showmax Is Now Producing Original Animated Series (And Movies), Might Launch It Elsewhere

During the year, Showmax launched its first ever original animated series, Jay Jay The Chosen One. Inspired by the football legend Jay-Jay Okocha, it follows Austin, an 11-year-old football-loving school boy, blessed by animals with their abilities, becomes
the superhero Jay Jay, who tackles poachers and guides his school football team to victory.

At the time, it was stated that the streamer was looking to do short term series and depending on how the content performs they would look into rolling out more animation projects. So there entered the South African comedy Twende as the streamer's second attempt at animation.

The show follows a pangolin — an endangered species which is the slowest on the savannah and the most-trafficked type of animal in the world — who makes up for his natural lack of speed by driving a motorcycle taxi. A pilot was screened at Annecy back in 2021 and MultiChoice Studios handles international sales.

“Our long-term goal is to build the animation industry on our continent and to give our children characters and stories that reflect, educate and inspire them, and content they can enjoy with their parents,” says Phahle. “Ultimately we believe that if we do this well enough, the stories will also find audiences outside of Africa.”

Last month, Indigenous Film Distribution unveiled Headspace, the exciting new animation sci-fi feature from Johannesburg’s Luma Animation. The film starts with a freak accident, where Max, Sophie and Gus of the Space Protection Force, and their microscopic spaceship The SPF50, take up residence inside 14-year-old Norman’s brain. 

Disney Channel And Disney Junior's DISASTROUS 24 Hour Schedule Across Africa In November 2023

Disney Channel

Weekdays
00:00 Disney Saturdays
00:25 Disney Saturdays
00:50 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
01:15 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
01:40 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
02:05 Walk The Prank
02:30 Walk The Prank
02:55 Walk The Prank
03:20 Hamster & Gretel
03:45 Hamster & Gretel
04:10 Hamster & Gretel
04:35 Vikingskool
05:00 Vikingskool
05:25 Vikingskool
05:50 Descendants Wicked World
06:00 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
06:25 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
06:51 The Ghost and Molly McGee
07:15 The Ghost and Molly McGee
07:40 The Ghost and Molly McGee
08:05 The Ghost and Molly McGee
08:30 Big City Greens
08:55 Big City Greens
09:20 Phineas And Ferb
09:45 Phineas And Ferb
10:10 Disney Saturdays
10:35 Disney Saturdays
11:00 Zombies: The Re-animated Series
11:05 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
11:30 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
11:55 The Ghost and Molly McGee
12:20 The Ghost and Molly McGee
12:45 Kiff
13:10 Disney Saturdays
13:35 Disney Saturdays
14:00 Disney Saturdays
14:25 Disney Saturdays
14:50 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
15:15 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
15:40 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
16:05 Big City Greens
16:31 Big City Greens
16:55 Zombies: The Re-animated Series
17:00 The Villians of Valley View
17:25 The Villians of Valley View
17:50 Disney Saturdays
18:15 Disney Saturdays
18:41 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
19:06 Big City Greens
19:30 Big City Greens
19:55 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
20:20 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
20:45 The Villians of Valley View
21:10 The Villians of Valley View
21:35 Phineas And Ferb
22:00 Phineas And Ferb
22:25 Big City Greens
22:50 Big City Greens
23:10 The Villians of Valley View
23:35 The Villians of Valley View

Weekends
Italics for Sundays
00:00 Big City Greens
00:25 Big City Greens
00:50 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
01:15 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
01:40 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
02:05 Walk The Prank
02:30 Walk The Prank
02:55 Walk The Prank
03:20 Hamster & Gretel
03:45 Hamster & Gretel
04:10 Hamster & Gretel
04:35 Vikingskool
05:00 Vikingskool
05:25 Vikingskool
05:50 Descendants Wicked World
06:00 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
06:25 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
06:50 Zombies: Addison's Monster Mystery
06:55 Kiff
07:20 The Ghost and Molly McGee
07:45 The Ghost and Molly McGee
08:10 Phineas And Ferb
08:35 Phineas And Ferb
09:00 Phineas And Ferb
09:25 Big City Greens
09:50 Big City Greens
10:15 Big City Greens
10:40 StarStruck/Kiff
12:20 Hamster & Gretel
12:45 Hamster & Gretel
13:10 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
13:35 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
14:00 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
14:25 Disney Saturdays
14:50 Disney Saturdays
15:15 Raven's Home/The Villains Of Valley View
15:41 Raven's Home/The Villains Of Valley View
16:05 Descendants Wicked World
16:10 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
16:35 Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir
17:00 Kiff
17:25 Big City Greens
17:50 Big City Greens
18:15 Phineas And Ferb
18:40 Phineas And Ferb
19:05 The Villians of Valley View/Raven's Home
19:30 The Villians of Valley View/Raven's Home
19:55 Phineas And Ferb
20:20 Phineas And Ferb
20:45 Disney Saturdays
21:10 Disney Saturdays
21:35 Big City Greens
22:00 Big City Greens
22:25 Walk The Prank
22:50 Walk The Prank
23:10 Walk The Prank
23:35 Walk The Prank

Notes
> Disney Saturdays consists of 8 episodes meaning Disney Channel is airing the first half of season 1 within 2 days during weekdays.
> Hamster & Gretel continues to airs weekday mornings.
> Wandi & Kabz might be awaiting a timeslot as well in the month.
> Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir gets the most airtime.

Disney Junior

Weekdays

00:00 PJ Masks
00:25 PJ Masks
00:50 PJ Masks
01:15 Alice's Wonderland Bakery
01:40 Alice's Wonderland Bakery
02:05 Alice's Wonderland Bakery
02:30 Spidey and His Amazing Friends
02:55 Spidey and His Amazing Friends
03:20 Spidey and His Amazing Friends
03:45 Mickey Mouse Funhouse
04:10 Mickey Mouse Funhouse
04:35 Mickey Mouse Funhouse
05:00 Eureka!
05:30 Eureka!
06:00 Eureka!
06:30 Mickey Mouse Funhouse
07:00 Eureka!
07:30 Kiya & The Kimoja Heroes
08:00 Bluey
08:30 Superkitties
09:00 Bluey
09:30 Spidey and His Amazing Friends
10:00 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Space Adventure
11:00 Firebuds
11:30 PJ Masks
12:00 Eureka!
12:30 Kiya & The Kimoja Heroes
13:00 Alice's Wonderland Bakery
13:30 Bluey
14:00 Bluey
14:30 Firebuds
15:00 Firebuds
15:30 Spidey and His Amazing Friends
16:00 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures
16:30 Superkitties
17:00 Kiya & The Kimoja Heroes
17:30 Alice's Wonderland Bakery
18:00 Bluey
18:30 Bluey
19:00 Superkitties
19:30 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures
20:00 Firebuds
20:30 Bluey
21:00 Bluey
21:30 Superkitties
22:00 Spidey and His Amazing Friends
22:30 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures
23:00 Alice's Wonderland Bakery
23:30 Mickey Mouse Funhouse

Weekends
Italics for Sundays
00:00 PJ Masks
00:00 PJ Masks
00:50 PJ Masks
01:15 Alice's Wonderland Bakery
01:40 Alice's Wonderland Bakery
02:05 Alice's Wonderland Bakery
02:30 Spidey and His Amazing Friends
02:55 Spidey and His Amazing Friends
03:20 Spidey and His Amazing Friends
03:45 Mickey Mouse Funhouse
04:10 Mickey Mouse Funhouse
04:35 Mickey Mouse Funhouse
05:00 Eureka!
05:30 Eureka!
06:00 Eureka!
06:30 Mickey Mouse Funhouse
07:00 Eureka!
07:30 Kiya & The Kimoja Heroes
08:00 Bluey
08:30 Bluey
09:00 Bluey
09:30 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures
10:00 Firebuds
10:30 Superkitties
11:00 Bluey
11:30 Bluey
12:00 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures
12:30 Alice's Wonderland Bakery
13:00 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Road Rally/A Goofy Fairy Tale
14:00 Mickey Mouse Funhouse
14:30 Superkitties
15:00 Superkitties
15:30 Spidey and His Amazing Friends
16:00 Spidey and His Amazing Friends
16:30 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures
17:00 Alice's Wonderland Bakery/Superkitties
17:30 Alice's Wonderland Bakery/Superkitties
18:00 Alice's Wonderland Bakery/Superkitties
18:30 Alice's Wonderland Bakery/Superkitties
19:00 A Goofy Fairy Tale/Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Road Rally
20:00 Mickey Mouse Funhouse
20:30 Bluey
21:00 Bluey
21:30 Superkitties
22:00 Spidey and His Amazing Friends
22:30 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures
23:00 Alice's Wonderland Bakery
23:30 Mickey Mouse Funhouse

Notes
> Repeats are minimised unlike Disney Channel

Friday, October 27, 2023

Foley Is Good: And the Real World Is Faker Than Wrestling (PDF)

The book covers the last years of Mick Foley's in-ring wrestling career up until the birth of his second son, Michael Francis Foley, Jr., which he mentions in the book's epilogue.

It has a more celebratory tone than his first book, as he is writing about the time of his career where he has already achieved success. The book alternated between in-ring wrestling activities and Foley's life away from the ring. In the book, he also describes his obsessions, such as theme parks and Christmas.

He also writes about his experience writing his first book without the aid of a ghostwriter. He defends himself against being misquoted by news program 20/20, and explains the events surrounding his "I Quit" match with The Rock at the Royal Rumble in January 1999, which can also be seen in the documentary Beyond the Mat. 

The book also heavily defends the World Wrestling Federation against accusations of being violent. Foley made an effort to pointedly refute claims made by detractors, citing statistical data and other evidence he compiled himself. He criticizes the actions of the Parents Television Council.

Thursday, October 26, 2023

Important Notice: Curiosity Channel Might Scoop Up Content From Da Vinci Kids Once The Channel Goes Dark On DStv In November

During the week, it was reported that MultiChoice would be axing Da Vinci Kids from various DStv and GOtv platforms across Africa in November. With the future of Operation Ouch, Science Max and Horrible Histories residing within StarSat in South Africa and StarTimes across Africa.

Play Room is a children's channel operated by Ngwato Nkosi Group which offers fun and learning with popular animated shows dubbed in Zulu alongside live-action shows. The channel would replace Da Vinci Kids on channel 300 from November 6.

But from what we've analysed in regards to the content, Play Room's offering match that of Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network as opposed to Da Vinci Kids whose offering is similar to that of History and National Geographic so basically we're getting a random addition. 

Although Operation Ouch and Animal Rescue won't form part of the offering in the coming month. There's chances that some of this content may resurface on another TV channel or in this case, Curiosity Channel.

Curiosity Channel is a factual entertainment brand that was set up by Discovery founder John Hendricks. The brand offers a streaming service which bundles content from numerous brands like Tastemade, SOMM TV, One Day University and also Da Vinci Kids.

The only problem would be accessibility as MultiChoice regards this as premium channel and as such consumers would need to pay more in order to watch content from Da Vinci Kids or get StarSat which is very much affordable.

Recap To The Month: Consumers Seek The Help Of A Rival Platform For The Soon To Be Axed HONEY On DStv

During the week, it was reported that HONEY would be shutting down on DStv by the end of October and this comes after its disappearance from some parts of Africa on GOtv in August. With consumers curious on the fate of shows like 7 Colours, Making The Menu and The Buzz.

As mentioned, several shows from HONEY could resurface on various local channels from M-Net alongside Moja Love. A majority could end up dying out alongside the channel while other shows like Yes, I Have HIV Zambia could be restricted to only Zambezi Magic.

Similar to Novela Magic, consumers will be missing out on programming that is if no plan is set to motion to supplement this offering. Following the cancellation of HONEY, consumers have requested the help of another platform in order to keep the spark alive.

Even if an option was available (e.g. StarSat), they may not have the financial means to sustain it and another dealing with the content. Since it was technically funded by DStv, they have as much right to the content as Media24 meaning StarSat would need to find other content.

Although HONEY would end its run on DStv by the end of October with no replacement on the cards. Consumers can find a variety of entertaining shows on BBC Lifestyle (channel 174), Food Network (channel 175), TLC (channel 135) and Real Time (channel 155).

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

New Channel Alert: 1Free State TV Coming This November To DStv

During the month, it was reported that after HONEY would be exiting DStv by the end of October with Da Vinci Kids later in November. Play Room would be substituting the channel in South Africa and while Trace Urban would be added to DStv Access within the region.

It was also revealed that MultiChoice would be adding Zambezi Reloaded a sister channel of Zambezi Magic. Now the pay-tv company is set to unveil yet another TV channel, 1Free State Television (1FSTV).

Based in Bloemfontein, 1FSTV broadcasts a variety of programming including news, current affairs, entertainment, and educational shows. The channel is committed to promoting the culture and heritage of the Free State province, and to providing a platform for local voices to be heard.

1FSTV launched four years ago as a programming block on St Rise before getting a dedicated TV channel on StarSat. Now the channel expands to more platforms in South Africa with DStv from 16 November.

Details of a channel number and package have yet to be announced same with capacity as most new channels would usually come around the time another closes. If I had to guess it might be on Access or Easyview sitting between channel 251-299.


PRESS RELEASE: ONE FREESTATE TELEVISUAL LAUNCHES ON DSTV

One Freestate TV, a leading provider in high-quality entertainment, is thrilled to announce the launch of a 24-hour channel, which premiere on DStv channel 264 from Thursday, 16 November 2023 at 10:00 on all DStv Premium, Compact+, Compact, Family, Access and Easyview.

Our channel promises an immersive and engaging experience, providing viewers with access to the best in entertainment, education and information. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a fan of local movies, a lover of music, adventures or a seeker of thought-provoking documentaries, One Freestate Televisual has something for everyone.

"We are excited to have One Freestate TV added to our platform expanding our local representation in the form of content from our regions within the country, and delivered in local languages," says Georginah Machiridza Executive Head Of General Entertainment Channels at MultiChoice Group. "The addition of another community TV station helps to ensure that we also play a part in actively disseminating information at a local scale that resonates with our audiences."

The exciting addition to the DStv line-up is set to captivate the audience with entertainment with its different range of programming delivered in Sesotho and English. We are dedicated to showcasing the richness and diversity of Free State, with a focus on local culture, innovation and community engagement.

"Our vision at One Freestate TV, has always been to become the essential source of content that brings distinctive and diverse talent, and create jobs to the community. We are proud to partner with DStv to bring this exciting channel to viewers across South Africa and beyond," says Mr. Paul Phitse: Founder and CEO of One Freestate Televisual.

Tuesday, October 24, 2023

New Series Alert: Divya Drishti And The Broken Marriage Vow Coming Soon To Star Life And Novela E Plus

Based on the British drama series Doctor Foster, The Broken Marriage Vow follows the life of A seemingly perfect home gets shattered by broken trust and infidelity, bringing forth catastrophic effects into the lives of the couple, their son, and everyone else involved. 

It starred Jodi Sta. Maria as Dra. Jill Victorino, Zanjoe Marudo as David Ilustre, Sue Ramirez as Alexis "Lexy / Lex" Lucero and Zaijian Jaranilla as Gio V. Ilustre.

Divya-Drishti tells the story of the characters of the same name who are sisters with divine powers of seeing and manipulating the future but get separated by an evil witch, Pishachini. However, they vow to reunite and destroy the witch together.

It starred Nyra Banarjee as Divya Sharma Shergill, Sana Sayyad as Drishti Sharma Shergill, Sangita Ghosh as Pishaachini, Adhvik Mahajan as Rakshit Shergill and Mishkat Varma as Shikhar Shergill.

The Broken Marriage Vow S1 will air daily at 20:40 from 28 October on Novela E Plus while Divya-Drishti will air daily at 23:00 from 12 November on Star Life.

Warner Bros. Discovery Unleashes Scooby-Doo Extravaganza Across EMEA!

Hold onto your magnifying glasses and prepare to join the year's grooviest celebration! Scoobtober is the annual month-long extravaganza and thrill ride through the world of Scooby-Doo, bringing fans a tidal wave of programming, products, and events across all of Warner Bros. Discovery.

Originally launched in the US, it is now a firm fixture in the seasonal calendar with an ever-growing list of activations that include spooky social clips and crossovers, 48-hour Watch Party live stream of content with links to exclusive Scooby products from best-in-class partners such as Playmobil, Plastoys and Funko. In line with the growth of seekers of a spooky thrill in Europe, Scoobtober is gaining momentum in the EMEA region, led in 2023 by the strongest-ever slate of Scooby-Doo content programming for the initiative in this market.

Kicking off the festivities, a Scooby-takeover will run all month (1st October – 5th November) exclusively on Boomerang UK, with Scooby-Doo & Guess Who, Be Cool Scooby-Doo, What’s New Scooby-Doo, Scooby-Doo Mystery Inc airing all day 6am – 9pm. Scooby-Doo movies will give a fright on weekends and across half-term at 9am and 2pm, plus fans won’t want to miss the Scoobtober Watch & Win competition, airing exclusively on Boomerang UK. For more Scooby-Doo antics, fans can tune into OnDemand for a treasure trove of Scooby-Doo episodes, movies and compilations of Scooby-Doo’s most iconic moments.

Also on Boomerang FR, prepare for an uninterrupted month-long Scooby-Doo extravaganza on the BOOMERANG CINESTARS SPECIAL -   featuring the all-new Scooby-Doo et la Mission d’Halloween.

The excitement continues as Cartoonito Africa joins the celebrations for Scooby-Doo’s favourite month with specially curated Scooby-Doo episodes taking centre stage on the MOVIE STARS programming block on weekends.

On Cartoon Network MENA, Scoobtober will be celebrated across the Middle East & North Africa region with a Scooby-Doo-filled programming block featuring What's New Scooby-Doo, Be Cool Scooby-Doo, Scooby-Doo and Guess Who and lots more Scooby-Doo treats and movies, weekdays 5pm - 8pm.  It is set for a spooktacular Halloween in Italy, with Scooby-Doo movies airing on 31st October from 2pm – 7pm on Cartoon Network MENA.

Fans can also trick or treat with Scooby-Doo on HBO Max, available in Andorra, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Herzegovina, Hungary, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden.

From the evening of the 16th of October, fans can celebrate Scoobtober in the metaverse on the popular kid-centred gaming platform, Roblox.  For the first time ever, players can join Scooby-Doo and Shaggy on Cartoon Network Game On! in an immersive experience that transports them to a realm outside the bounds of reality.  With a brand-new spooky mission, kids can interact with Scooby-Doo and Shaggy to investigate some mysterious hauntings taking place in the game.  Cartoon Network Game On! allows players to experience the fully experiential virtual world of hit Cartoon Network series - and now, with the introduction of Scooby-Doo, for a limited time only, kids can immerse themselves in a ghostly game to unlock awesome Scoobtober prizes. 

Julian Moon, Head of Global Consumer Products EMEA & Asia Pacific, Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, says, “Scooby-Doo creates a world of spooky fun for playful spirits of all ages and instils an appetite for mystery that sparks curiosity. It is a brand that is synonymous with Halloween and an entry point into the world of mystery adventure and the classic whodunit.”

“The team are now looking to capitalise on the fantastic Scoobtober content programming and stunts seen across broadcast and WB Kids YouTube channels to provide licensing and retail partners with a long-term cross-divisionally supported opportunity to leverage the Halloween season, the popularity of which has grown exponentially across Europe.”

Following huge success in the US, Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products is now encouraging and recruiting new and existing Scooby EMEA partners to celebrate all things Scoobtober 2024. Inspiration can be found from the global consumer products rollout, which spans all categories and includes BlackMilk, BoxLunch, Funko, Random House and Coppel.

Development Alert: Loyiso Gola On The HISTORY Channel Africa

'Why Does Everyone Hate the British Empire?'
 
It's as funny as it is heart-breaking... Why Does Everyone Hate the British Empire unpicks the legacy of the British Empire in four countries, including South Africa.

In this new four-part series, British comedian Al Murray travels to India, Australia, Jamaica and South Africa and pairs up with a local comedian in each, to explore the history of British colonial rule in that country and its legacy. On Al's road trip across South Africa he's accompanied by local comedic legend Loyiso Gola.

Tune in every Saturday at 20h15, starting 28 October.

In the first episode of Why Does Everyone Hate the British Empire Loyiso hosts Al in South Africa, exposing brutal truths, modern day legacies and the global impact of some of Britain’s greatest colonial conquests. Loyiso and Al explore the Empire’s role in the gold rush, exposes the deals that started apartheid, and the battlefield secrets of KwaZulu-Natal.

This is colonial British history as it has never been told. In each episode, experts and every day folk also have their say as Al, with the help of his host, pieces together an honest account of what the British Empire really did in their country. How they did it. And who, if anyone, still cares.

"People usually back away from information if it's confrontational so this is very light, but it really has a potent message behind it."
- Loyiso Gola

"History is neither there to make us feel good, nor to make us feel bad. It's there for us to consider where we've come from." 
- Al Murray

Don't miss Why Does Everyone Hate the British Empire? this Saturday at 20h15 only on the HISTORY Channel Africa, on DStv 186. 

The Powerpuff Girls - The CW Reboot Pilot Script (PDF)

The Powerpuff Girls was an animated American superhero series that ran from 1998 - 2005. Fans fell in love with the three super-powered girls - Buttercup, Blossom, and Bubbles - who were created in a laboratory. The award-winning series was adorable, humorous, and filled with superhero action and girl power. Recently, The CW decided to revive the franchise as it announced its plans for a live-action Powerpuff Girls series. However, the series has had several hiccups along the way.

Hope for the Powerpuff Girls originally flourished when The CW cast Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.'s Chloe Bennet as Blossom, Disney channel star, Dove Cameron, as Bubbles, and Broadway star, Yana Perrault, as Buttercup. The talented actresses certainly formed a powerful trio, but it seems the script needed a bit more work. The CW delayed the show's fall debut, halting the series to rework the Powerpuff Girls' pilot.

Reliance In Talks To Buy Majority Stake In Disney's Star Indian Business

Over the past few months, there have been many reports that Disney has been looking at its options with regards to its business in India, called Disney Star, formerly known as Star India, which it acquired when it purchased 20th Century Fox in 2019. Disney Star includes the streaming service Disney+ Hotstar, film studios such as Star Studios, an array of over seventy linear channels, and much more.

In the past few months, Disney has been having talks with many different businesses, including Sony, Blackstone, Sun TV and New Delhi TV, about potentially selling some or all of its assets in India. According to Bloomberg , Reliance Industries Ltd, which is owned by Asia’s richest tycoon Mukesh Ambani, is getting close to completing a deal to buy Disney Star in a cash and stock deal. Disney is valuing its Indian business at around $10 billion (down from the $15 billion it was worth before Disney purchased it in 2019), and Reliance is valuing the business between $7 and $8 billion.

Disney is still looking to keep a minority stake in the company, but it would sell a controlling stake in Disney Star. But it still may keep hold of some assets. There might also be some regulatory issues that could cause delays with the buyout. We’ve seen with other large mergers that the Indian government might require some assets to be sold off separately.

It’s expected that the announcement of a deal could be made as early as next month. Disney does have a quarterly financial investors call on November 8th 2024, so announcing this deal, could help Disney offset the costs of buying out Comcast’s stake in Hulu, which is estimated to cost around $9 billion. Allowing Disney to basically sell off one business to cover its purchase, allowing Disney to focus on its core markets. Reliance would merge some of its media units into Disney Star.

JioCinema, which Reliance runs, has been a thorn in Disney’s side, having paid billions of dollars to get the Indian Premiere Cricket league rights, which resulted in Disney+ Hotstar losing over 20 million subscribers. Plus, recently, JioCinema also picked up the rights to HBO content, which was then removed from Disney+ Hotstar.

It’s unknown if Disney+ Hotstar will continue in its current setup or be merged with JioCinema. Could Disney+ just operate separately in India, without the Hotstar branding and content, which could move over to JioCinema? There are certainly more questions than answers right now.

So, what does this mean for Disney+ and Hulu around the world?

At the moment, officially, no deal has been announced, and no details on what’s actually going to happen have been revealed. There are many variables and potential outcomes from Disney selling its Indian assets. Selling Star India wouldn’t likely have much impact outside India, other than a potential move away from the Star branding and maybe changing the name of Disney+ Hotstar in some countries like Indonesia.

If Disney does sell off Disney Star, it wouldn’t be a huge surprise to see the Star hub within Disney+ around the world, rebranded to Hulu once Disney completes its purchase from Comcast. Disney has rebranded many linear channels to Star in countries worldwide, which might be another issue that results in more rebranding. While in Latin America, Disney runs a streaming service called, Star+, which is a Hulu & ESPN+ hybrid, but there is always hope Disney unifies Star+ and Disney+ in that region, to be similar to how Disney+ works internationally. The Star brand has only been used by Disney since 2019, and arguably, the brand is very generic and could easily be changed.

Disney is still running Hotstar as a separate streaming service in many countries, including Canada, Singapore and the UK, so those could be included in the deal. Hulu does have some Hotstar content from India, so this could continue to be licensed or eventually removed.

If Disney+ Hotstar was completely sold off, it would obviously have a significant impact on the global subscriber numbers for Disney+. However, Wall Street may prefer this, since a Hotstar subscriber generally brings in less than 60 cents per month, compared to over $7 outside of India. Investors may also like a more leaner Disney, focused on its core brands.

For Disney+ Hotstar subscribers, it does bring up many questions about what happens could be merged together and what the future is for its content. Internationally, it brings the Star branding into question. But ultimately, Disney does seem like its less interested in running a vast linear, streaming and studio business in India, instead treating it like more other countries in the world.

It’s important to note, that no final decision has been made, and Disney could still decide to hold onto the assets, but the Star Studios and linear channels, being sold off does seem much more likely.

Play Room's Disappearance From DStv And GOtv In The Rest Of Africa Explained

During the week, it was learnt that MultiChoice would be axing Da Vinci Kids across various DStv and GOtv platforms in Africa within November. Prior to the termination, MultiChoice would be debuting Play Room as new kids channel from Ngwato Nkosi Group in South Africa.

In an enquiry, it was revealed by a rep at Play Room that the channel will "for now" debut in RSA on DStv Channel 300. Consumers outside of South Africa on DStv and GOtv will have to make use of Disney Junior, Nick Jr. and other children's channels for a "similar offering".

As MultiChoice doesn't plan to replace Da Vinci Kids with another children's channel or in this case Play Room as this termination not only affected South Africa but the whole of Africa. Although, a reason for the exclusion hadn't been provided several theories come to mind.

Following Zee Zonke, the first theory that would come to mind would be language allocation. As the channel is confirmed to have "popular animated shows in isiZulu" and this included CoComelon and Akili And Me and something like this wouldn't be familiar in some countries.

Second theory which continues with the first was language switching. For all we know the content would be in English and Zulu with sign language incorporated so maybe the channel will look into adding more languages overtime but I'm not expecting that for South Africa.

The last theory would most probably have to do with costs, MultiChoice is not able to sustain themselves in some regions so much so that you'd have brands like Zambezi Magic covering large parts of Africa as opposed to having Mzansi Magic and kykNET operating in one region.

Considering how much money is being poured onto the local aspects of Play Room, MultiChoice Africa will probably want to filter it down to their budget and another would be them probably looking to launch a separate offering which is aligned to consumers in their region.

News Shorts: A Rebroadcast Of Pasion Prohibida AKA Forbidden Passion Launches On eExtra, Disney Channel And TNT Both Gearing Up With Respective Premieres Across Africa With Hailey's On It And 100 Years Of Warner Bros. Studios

Monica Spear and Jencarlos Canela star in a fan-favourite series

Forbidden Passion (Pasion Prohibida) is a 2012 soap opera produced by Telemundo Studios that told the story of a woman's scorn over her mother after discovering that her she cheated on her father prior to his death so she married the man she chased after there she falls for his nephew.

Based on the 2008 Turkish drama Aşk-ı Memnu which derives from the novel of the same name. It starred Monica Spear and Jencarlos Canela alongside Roberto Vander, Mercedes Molto, Rebecca Jones, Henry Zakka, Jorge Consejo and Carmen Aub.

The series broadcasts weekday mornings on eExtra from 1st  November.

Disney Channel rolls out another female led series

Hailey's On It is a comedy-adventure centers around a risk-averse hero who’s tasked with saving the world by completing every item on a long list of challenging tasks. Hailey’s On It! is slated for a 2023 release, and there was no additional information about its format at press time.

Auli’i Cravalho (Moana) is the voice actor behind lead character Hailey, with Manny Jacinto (The Good Place) as her best friend Scott. The series was created by Devin Bunje and Nick Stanton (Gamer’s Guide to Pretty Much Everything), and is in production at Disney Television Animation by a team that includes co-executive producer and supervising director Howy Parkins (Lion Guard), producer Wade Wisinki (The Owl House), story editor Karen Graci (Tuca & Bertie) and art director Lee Ann Dufour (The Breadwinner).

The series broadcasts weekday afternoons from 20 November on Disney Channel.

TNT is celebrating Warner Bros. Studios with a new documentary

100 Years of Warner Bros. takes a historical look at the legacy of one of America's leading studios. The documentary explores the origin, evolution and endurance of Warner Bros. - from a family affair to a global juggernaut.

Tracing a century of movie and TV history, these four documentary specials explore the unparalleled global impact of Warner Bros. on art, commerce, and culture. '100 Years of Warner Bros.' Doc featured George Clooney, Oprah Winfrey and Tim Burton.

It airs every Wednesday at 20:00 from December on TNT.

Monday, October 23, 2023

Development Alert: Zambezi Magic To Get Second TV Channel On The DStv And Possible GOtv Platform Known As Zambezi Reloaded, Still No Word On The Playout Test

Last year, MultiChoice and M-Net unveiled a new general entertainment channel tailored for their DStv Easyview and GOtv Lite consumers, Magic Showcase. It featured numerous local programming from multiple M-Net channels across Africa for 16 hours a day.

As seen in the past month, MultiChoice seems to be duplicating this format on another TV channel which we now know to be Zambezi Reloaded. It could launch on channel 165 seeing as Zambezi Magic is on channel 162 alongside a batch of local TV channels.

As the name implies, Zambezi Reloaded will serve as a sister channel to Zambezi Magic rehashing several drama series and reality shows viewed on the main channel including Kopala, Zuba, Malawi Know Your Stars and surprisingly Mzansi Magic's Shaka iLembe.

With HONEY set to go dark on the platform by the end of October, we assume MultiChoice would be substituting the brand with Zambezi Reloaded. The only question would be whether this channel would be viewable in South Africa as consumers don't have access to the content.

On top of that, Novela Magic was accessible to the same consumers as HONEY particularly Access and following the termination consumers had been ripped away from Zuba and Mpali as MultiChoice opted to exclude Magic Showcase from Access in which select content can be viewed.

Playout Test

For several months, MultiChoice had been conducting tests on a channel known as Playout Test. Several readers had asked Insidus on various details pertaining to the mysterious channel and from what we can gather up this could be the Zambian based brand Munati Television.

Although there's no official confirmation, one of their older posts talk about a "Playout Test" and "DStv" so putting those two together leads us to believe this could be mystery channel on the i-Plate.

Questions & Answers Regarding The Closure Of Da Vinci Kids And The Launch Of Play Room On DStv

Channel line-up review is done to ensure we deliver unbeatable content and that our DStv services cater for the needs and viewing requirements of our customers. As part of this ongoing process, Da Vinci Kids (DStv channel 318 & GOtv channel 66/157/359) will no longer be available on DStv & GOtv from 14 November 2023 at 23:59 CAT.

Why has MultiChoice decided to terminate this channel?

The channel termination is in line with MultiChoice’s strategy to continuously review international and local content line-ups and optimise DStv channels. As such, the business has decided to bid farewell to Da Vinci Kids (DStv channel 318 & GOtv channel 66/157/359). This is done to ensure we deliver unbeatable content to our customers and that our DStv services continue to cater to the needs and viewing requirements of our customers.

Will there be channels with similar content that will replace the terminated Da Vinci Kids in South Africa?

DStv customers can look forward to Play Room (channel 300) from 6 November, Play Room offers a whole new world of fun and learning in a uniquely local package carrying original South African and popular international content, including favourite animated titles dubbed in isiZulu.

For now the channel will only be available in South Africa.

Will there be channels with similar content that will replace the terminated Da Vinci Kids in the rest of Africa?

Consumers can find similar content on Disney Junior, Nick Jr. and other children channels - that's what we're told in an enquiry. As mentioned, Play Room will "for now" be available to DStv customers in South Africa meaning it's likely to be duplicated in other regions perhaps with an independent feed as seen with Newzroom Afrika and Movie Room (Africa).

Why is MultiChoice cancelling so many channels?

This is done to ensure we deliver unbeatable content and that our DStv/GOtv services cater to the needs and viewing requirements of our customers. MultiChoice regularly reviews its channel line-up to ensure we offer customers the best in local and international content.

Are you removing these channels because of poor ratings?

As Africa’s most-loved storyteller, MultiChoice continues to engage and work with third party channel providers to leverage its technology and provide world-class entertainment to our customers.

What content can consumers look forward to on Play Room?

The plan with Play Room is to combine education and entertainment through a mix of South African and international content like Paw Patrol and Game Shakers, together with animated titles dubbed into isiZulu.

Morning programming on Play Room will be centred around educational material for 4 to 6-year-olds, including interactive shows that encourage physical movement, as well as values-based and creative content designed to stretch children's imaginations.

Afternoons will feature live action and a local live show with high entertainment value for tweens.

Part 2: What To Expect On Warner Bros. Discovery Across Africa In November 2023?

Food Network

HOLIDAY WARS S4
New Season
Host Jeff Mauro joins judges Shinmin Li and Aarti Sequeria as they challenge nine teams of cake and sugar artists to create mind-blowing holiday cakes. In the end, only one team will win the championship title and a trip to see Iceland's northern lights.
First TX: 10 November 
TX Day: Friday 
TX Time: 17:00
Last TX: 29 December

CHRISTMAS COOKIE CHALLENGE S6
New Season
Eddie Jackson and Ree Drummond invite the most-talented cookie makers to craft stunning holiday creations like rotating carousels, oversized ornaments and heavenly angels. In the end, the winners take home the coveted golden ornament and a $10,000 prize.

First TX: 19 November 
TX Day: Sunday 
TX Time: 17:00
Last TX: 24 December

FESTIVE CHRISTMAS
Stunt
Titles included:
Christmas Cookie Challenge S3-4
Santa’s Baking Blizzard
Holiday Wars S3
First TX: 20 November 
TX Day: Monday-Friday 
TX Time: 14:20
Last TX: 25 December

HBC: GINGERBREAD SHOWDOWN S2
New Season
It's a festive competition of sugar and spice as three teams of gingerbreaders build huge, themed gingerbread displays. Host Carla Hall joins judges Stephanie Boswell and Kalen Allen to decide which team of cookie artists will win the $10,000 grand prize.
First TX: 11 November 
TX Day: Saturday 
TX Time: 18:00
Last TX: TBC

HOLIDAY BAKING CHAMPIONSHIP S9
New Season
Jesse Palmer welcomes 12 holiday bakers to bring festive cheer to judges Nancy Fuller, Duff Goldman and Carla Hall. One competitor will take home all the gifts under the tree, including $25,000, a spot in Food Network Magazine and the championship title.
First TX: 3 November 
TX Day: Friday 
TX Time: 18:00
Last TX: TBC

BEAT BOBBY FLAY: HOLIDAY THROWDOWN S1
Brand New
The Food Network family is challenging Bobby Flay to face his worst holiday nightmares. In each supersized hour, familiar faces battle it out to choose the final challenge and pick the teams in this epic Beat Bobby Flay Holiday Throwdown!
First TX: 27 November 
TX Day: Monday 
TX Time: 17:00
Last TX: 25 December

ZOE BAKES S1
Brand New
Zoë François bakes and cooks her
favorite recipes, from easy main dishes
to delicious desserts, with a little help
from her friends and family.
First TX: 18 November TX Day: Sat-Sun TX Time: 16:05
Last TX: 3 December

MAGNOLIA TABLE WITH JOANNA GAINES S4&5
New Season
Joanna Gaines shares more of her favorite
recipes in Season 4 & 5 including
raspberry chipotle pork tenderloin, basil
pesto chicken pizza, strawberry and
candied pecan salad, sopapillas, chicken
dumplings, chocolate hazelnut bread
pudding and chicken Florentine.
First TX: 2 November 
TX Day: Thursday TX 
Time: 17:00
Last TX: TBC

Investigation Discovery

ID SPECIAL REPORT: THE LONG ISLAND SERIAL KILLER
Brand New
The astonishing arrest of NYC architect and suspected serial killer Rex Heuermann sends shockwaves across the U.S. Now experts break down the latest in the case -- Who are the victims, who is Rex Heuermann, and how did he hide in plain sight?
First TX: 5 November 
TX Day: Sunday 
TX Time: 21:00

DOOMSDAY: THE TRIAL OF LORI VALLOW DAYBELL
Brand New
Follow the arrest and trial of Lori Vallow Daybell after the mysterious 2019 disappearance and murder of her children, 7- year-old JJ Vallow, and his older step-sister, 17-year-old Tylee Ryan, in Rexburg, Idaho.
First TX: 12 November 
TX Day: Sunday 
TX Time: 21:00

HOW TO CREATE A SEX SCANDAL
Brand New
With more twists and turns than a Hollywood thriller, this mind- blowing documentary exposes a devastating and scarcely believable true crime story that all begins in a swingers club in a small town in East Texas.
First TX: 26 November 
TX Day: Sunday 
TX Time: 21:00

A BODY IN THE BASEMENT S1
Brand New
These chilling stories of murder hit terrifyingly close to home -- each a real-life tale about the last thing anyone wants to find in their basement, a dead body. Every episode will make one think twice before ever stepping foot in the basement again.
First TX: 7 November 
TX Day: Tuesday 
TX Time: 21:00
Last TX: 12 December

THE MURDER TAPES S6A
Brand New
Homicide investigations unfold through dramatic real footage in this groundbreaking series. Viewers get an up-close perspective of each case using raw, unfiltered footage from body cams at the crime scene, surveillance cameras and interrogation rooms.
First TX: 15 November 
TX Day: Wednesday 
TX Time: 21:00
Last TX: 13 December

Discovery Family

WHEELER DEALERS S10
New Season
Viewers join host Mike Brewster and mechanic Edd China on their quest to transform automobiles back into mint condition. From completing major overhauls to tackling tricky detailing jobs, Mike and Edd teach all aspects of automotive restoration.
First TX: 8 November 
TX Day: Monday-Friday 
TX Time: 15:10
Last TX: 23 November

Travel Channel

GHOST HUNTERS S14
New Season
Renowned TAPS team members Jason Hawes, Steve Gonsalves and Dave Tango, along with Shari DeBenedetti, reunite to revisit their most chilling cases and investigate disturbing new hauntings.
First TX: 10 November 
TX Day: Friday 
TX Time: 21:10
Last TX: TBC

EXPEDITION BIGFOOT S3
New Season
An elite team of Sasquatch specialists journey into the unforgiving North American wilderness to prove once and for all that the elusive beast known as Bigfoot is real.
First TX: 26 November 
TX Day: Sunday 
TX Time: 21:10
Last TX: TBC

SCREAM: THE TRUE STORY
One-Off
Paranormal investigator Steve Shippy and psychic medium Cindy Kaza investigate the demonic forces that allegedly drove Danny Rolling, aka The Gainesville Ripper, to murder. The duo attempts to contact Rolling's spirit to uncover the truth behind the gruesome crime spree that inspired a blockbuster film.
TX: 12 November 
TX Day: Sunday 
TX Time: 21:10

THE CURSE OF LIZZIE BORDEN
One-Off
Dave Schrader assembles a team of paranormal experts to investigate whether a dark family curse led to the most infamous ax murders of all time. With new evidence that Lizzie Borden's ghost resides in the murder house, they conduct a seance to unearth the truth and finally close the portal of evil forever.
TX: 19 November 
TX Day: Sunday 
TX Time: 21:10

MICHIGAN HELL HOUSE
One-Off
It's the most terrifying story you've never heard: In 1974, the Pomeraning family was tortured by relentless, "humanly impossible" poltergeist activity. Using newly uncovered recordings, paranormal investigator Steve Shippy and psychic medium Cindy Kaza attempt to identify the evil that rocked a small Michigan town.
TX: 5 November 
TX Day: Sunday 
TX Time: 21:10

Real Time

Forbidden: Dying For Love S2&3
New Seasons
This series tells jaw-dropping stories of forbidden love: relationships that break taboos, cross boundaries, shock communities, and lead to extraordinary and shocking crimes.
First TX: 13 November 
TX Day: Monday-Sunday 
TX Time: 22:30
Last TX: 30 Nov

HOME AGAIN WITH THE FORDS S1
Brand New
Siblings Leanne and Steve Ford help people move back to where they grew up. These houses have a lot of love and history in their walls, and Steve and Leanne's challenge is to respect their past while updating the homes for the new generation.
First TX: 6 November 
TX Day: Monday-Friday 
TX Time: 15:50
Last TX: TBC

Part 1: What To Expect On Warner Bros. Discovery Across Africa In November 2023?

TNT

ALIEN MENACE
Stunt
A journey through sci-fi wonders and otherworldly confrontations that will ignite your imagination. Dive into the realm of extraterrestrial enigmas with 'Alien Menace’.
*Channel premieres are in bold
Saturday, 4 November 
18:05 Men in Black: International (2019) 
20:00 War of the Worlds (2005) 
Saturday, 11 November 
17:50 Pacific Rim (2013) 
20:00 Venom (2018) 
Saturday, 18 November 
17:35 Man of Steel (2013) 
20:00 Edge of Tomorrow (2014) 
Saturday, 25 November 
15:40 Star Trek (2009) 
17:45 Star Trek Into Darkness (2013) 
20:00 Star Trek Beyond (2016)

EDDIE MURPHY FAN MONTH
Stunt
This special tribute to Murphy's iconic career reaches its pinnacle with a not-to-be-missed movie marathon on the last Friday of the month. A drive through the unforgettable characters and comedy that define Eddie Murphy's legacy, now available on TNT for the first time ever.
*Channel premieres are in bold 
Friday, 3 November 
17:00 Beverly Hills Cop (1984) 
18:45 Beverly Hills Cop II (1987) 
20:30 Beverly Hills Cop III (1994) 
Friday, 10 November 
20:30 The Golden Child (1986) 
Friday, 17 November 
20:30 Boomerang (1992) 
Friday, 24 November 
13:30 Beverly Hills Cop (1984) 
15:15 Beverly Hills Cop II (1987) 
17:00 Beverly Hills Cop III (1994) 
18:50 The Golden Child (1986) 
20:30 Vampire in Brooklyn (1995) 
22:15 Boomerang (1993)

UNDER SUSPICION
Stunt
Experience uncertainty unfold, as characters navigate tangled webs of mystery. A weekly rendezvous with intrigue, where mystery takes center stage and perceptions are questioned.
There are no channel premieres in this stunt. Wednesday, 1 November 
20:30 Minority Report (2002) 
Wednesday, 8 November 
20:30 Transsiberian (2008) 
Wednesday, 15 November 
20:30 Mystic River (2003) 
Wednesday, 22 November 
20:30 The Fugitive (1993) 
Wednesday, 29 November 
20:30 The Fan (1996)

PULP FICTION
TNT Hit
The lives of two mob hitmen, a boxer, a gangster and his wife, and a pair of diner bandits intertwine in four tales of violence and redemption.
*Channel premieres are in bold
Sunday, 5 November 20:00 
Pulp Fiction (1994)

Discovery Channel

WHEELER DEALERS S18B
20th Anniversary Stunt
Wheeler Dealers returns to the UK as multi-talented mechanic Marc "Elvis" Priestley joins experienced car dealer Mike Brewer on a mission to find and restore iconic cars that they can later sell for a profit.
Continuation of stunt from October featuring a curated line up of best episodes leading up to the premiere of S18B in November.
First TX: 17 Nov 
TX Day: Friday 
TX Time: 20:00
Last TX: 19 Jan 2024

THE GARDEN: COMMUNE OR CULT
Brand New
On 22 acres of backcountry land in the American South lies The Garden -- an off-the-grid community living by its own laws, free from the pressures of modern society. Every spring brings a new crop of people and questions about The Garden's cult-like vibe
First TX: 22 Nov
TX Day: Wednesday 
TX Time: 20:00
Last TX: 25 Dec

NAKED AND AFRAID: CASTAWAYS
Brand New
Naked and Afraid takes on a true-life survival situation when nine seasoned challengers are stranded on a remote island. Abandoned with no map or tools, they must fashion what they need to survive from wreckage and debris strewn across the island.
First TX: 1 Nov
TX Day: Wednesday 
TX Time: 20:55
Last TX: 20 Dec

GOLD DIVERS S11B
New Episodes
In Nome, Alaska, the gold rush is on. Driven by gold fever and sometimes desperate need, miners pilot their ragtag dredges and dive with hoses to suck up gold from the bottom of the frigid, unpredictable Bering Sea.
First TX: 13 Nov 
TX Day: Monday 
TX Time: 20:55
Last TX: 15 Jan 2024

TLC SA

90 DAY FIANCE S10
New Season
Using a unique 90 Day Fiance visa, overseas fiances will travel to the US to live with their partners for the first time. Each couple will have just 90 days to decide to get married or send their international mate home.
South Africa:
First TX: 9 November 
TX Day: Thursday 
TX Time: 20:00
Last TX: 21 March 2024

MEGAN THEE STALLION VS TORY LANEZ: FIVE SHOTS
One-Off
The shocking shooting of Megan Thee Stallion, revealed by insiders and lawyers involved. Told from both perspectives, it looks at how Tory Lanez still protests his innocence but examines why Megan was vilified on social media despite a terrifying ordeal.
South Africa:
TX: 26 November 
TX Day: Sunday 
TX Time: 21:00

SAY YES TO THE DRESS WITH TAN FRANCE
Brand New
Brace yourself for some explosive drama, outrageous comedy, stunning dresses and an outpouring of love, as Tan France (Queer Eye, Next in Fashion) takes over the wonderful world of "Say Yes to the Dress”.
South Africa:
TX: 14 November 
TX Day: Tuesday 
TX Time: 22:00
Last TX: 2 Jan 2024

TLC Africa

MEGAN THEE STALLION VS TORY LANEZ: FIVE SHOTS
One-Off
The shocking shooting of Megan Thee Stallion, revealed by insiders and lawyers involved. Told from both perspectives, it looks at how Tory Lanez still protests his innocence but examines why Megan was vilified on social media despite a terrifying ordeal.
Africa:
TX: 26 November 
TX Day: Sunday 
TX Time: 21:00

SISTER WIVES S11B
New Season
The Brown family boldly faces the worst year they have ever had. As Kody and Christine's relationship falls apart, family members take sides and tensions rise. Nothing will ever be the same again for the Browns.
Africa:
First TX: 1 November 
TX Day: Wednesday 
TX Time: 21:00
Last TX:20 March 2024

HGTV

LUXE FOR LESS
Brand New
Designer Michel Smith Boyd uses clever budget
hacks to help homeowners create luxurious
renovations without stretching their bank
accounts. Along with his creative team, Michel
brings upscale design within reach to deliver
beautifully overhauled spaces.
First TX: 15 November 
TX Day: Wednesday 
TX Time: 22:00
Last TX: 20 December

UGLIEST HOUSE IN AMERICA S4
New Season
Comedian Retta travels across five different
regions of the US to tour properties competing for
the ugliest home around. After crowning the worst
of the worst, HGTV designer Alison Victoria
surprises the homeowners with a spectacular
$150,000 renovation!
First TX: 2 November 
TX Day: Thursday 
TX Time: 22:00
Last TX: 23 November

MY LOTTERY DREAM HOME S15
New Season
Recent lottery winners go on over-the-top house
hunts for their new dream homes with David
Bromstad, and he'll help them decide if they
should spend all their winnings on an extravagant
mansion or settle for a sound investment.
First TX: 20 November 
TX Day: Monday 
TX Time: 22:00
Last TX: TBC

BUILDING ROOTS S2
New Season
Design masterminds Ben and Cristi Dozier take
on boundary-pushing projects as they turn basic
Colorado homes into one-of-a-kind spaces. Their
passion for doing the impossible drives them to
help clients plant roots and discover what it means to be home.
First TX: 30 November 
TX Day: Thursday 
TX Time: 22:00
Last TX: 18 January

Daran Norris Confirms New 'The Fairly OddParents' Project Is In Development

Speaking on the Ned's Declassified Podcast Survival Guide, Norris, who voiced characters such as Cosmo, Timmy's dad, and Jorgen Von Strangle on the long-running animated series, revealed that, following last year's live-action/CG-animated hybrid spin-off Fairly OddParents: Fairly Odder, that "we're in the process of doing something new":

During the podcast episode, Norris also reminisced about working on three shows - Fairly OddParents, Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide and Veronica Mars - at the same time and working on Team America: World Police.

The news follows the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) revealing earlier this year that Paramount Global, the parent company of the Nickelodeon brand, has applied to register The Fairly OddParents: A New Wish with the USPTO under several NICE classes, including NICE class "41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services", which is for Goods & Services pertaining to "entertainment services in the nature of continuing program series, featuring live action, comedy and drama provided through cable television, broadcast television, internet, video-on-demand, and through other forms of transmission media; providing online information in the field of entertainment concerning television programs".

Paramount has also applied to register the title under NICE classes 28 for "Games; toys; sports equipment" and 25 for "Clothing; footwear; headgear".

At the moment, not much information is available about The Fairly OddParents: A New Wish, including whether it'll be a TV series of a movie, a reboot or a revival of the original series, live-action or animated (or a hybrid of both), and whether it'll be for Nickelodeon, Paramount+ or both. The news comes as Nickelodeon is in the midst of reviving a raft of iconic properties, including Rugrats, iCarly, Good Burger, Zoey 101, The Thundermans, Dora the Explorer, and more. The Fairly OddParents: A New Wish would also be the second Fairly OddParents revival in recent years, following last year's animated/live-action hybrid Paramount+ Original series Fairly OddParents: Fairly Odder.

Nickelodeon’s beloved animated The Fairly OddParents series, which ran from 2001-2017 with 172 episodes, followed the magical adventures of 10-year-old Timmy Turner and his well-meaning fairy godparents, Cosmo & Wanda, who grant him wishes. During its run, The Fairly OddParents became one of Nickelodeon’s most beloved properties from both fans and critics alike, having won and been nominated for dozens of awards. The Fairly OddParents was created by Butch Hartman.

Paramount, Home To MTV And Nickelodeon Reportedly Up For Sale or Merger

Recently, Paramount, the parent company of Nickelodeon and Paramount+, has been looking to sell some of its assets and make cuts to others. Now, according to a report from CNBC, Shari Redstone, president of National Amusements and controlling shareholder of Paramount Global, is open to a merger or selling the company if the price is right.

Shari Redstone owns roughly 80% of Paramount Global voting stock and was reportedly the main force behind merging CBS and Viacom back in 2019. That merger resulted in the company we now know as Paramount.

Paramount holds a lot of assets that would attract many potential buyers. Its local affinities and the CBS network alone are highly attractive, especially for their NFL contract. However, the company has a lot more to offer, including Nickelodeon, Paramount+, MTV, Pluto TV, Comedy Central, Showtime, and more. This also includes popular shows and franchises like SpongeBob SquarePants, Star Trek, South Park, and more.

In recent years, most media companies, including Paramount, have been struggling with the growth of  cord cutting. Paramount’s market capitalization has reportedly dropped to $7.7 billion as 2023 hit many media companies hard. That is the lowest level it has been at since the 2019 Viacom and CBS merger. That drop could make the company a target for a merger or a sale.

According to CNBC’s sources, any potential deal for Paramount would have to be at a good price or the Redstone family wouldn’t accept it. Exactly what that price is was not disclosed in the report.

Paramount has a lot going for it right now, with Paramount+ hitting 61 million subscribers, a number that other major streaming services could only dream of. It also has very lucrative sports deals, including the NFL, March Madness, and a new deal with the Big Ten that will see more college football and basketball games on CBS. This could help Paramount outlast any further drop in the market, but it also makes it very attractive to potential buyers.

Some outsiders have said they believe Paramount is too small in the long run, though, to compete with Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, NBCUniversal, and a growing number of streaming companies like Amazon along with Apple. Even with its large catalog of shows and networks Paramount is facing massive companies like Disney and the newly merged Warner Bros. Discovery.

For years we have heard predictions that there would be consolidation in the market because of cord cutting. Disney’s deal to buy 21st Century Fox was likely only the start of what could be a number of big mergers. We also saw Discovery and Warner Media merge recently. Now, there are rumors that Warner Bros. Discovery and even NBCUniversal could be interested in buying up some or all of their competitors. Could that mean they are looking at Paramount? For now, we will have to wait and see.

Sunday, October 22, 2023

Colombian Actress Alejandra Villafañe Who Starred In The Chosen Granddaughter And Nurses Dead At 34

On the afternoon of Saturday, October 21, the world of Colombian show business and entertainment was shocked after learning of the death of actress Alejandra Villafañe due to severe cancer that had been afflicting her for a few months. 
You may be interested in: Alejandra Villafañe's boyfriend announced a tribute to the actress: 

“The only thing left to do is honor her life” After her departure, her boyfriend, also an actor Raúl Ocampo, decided to say goodbye to her with a short but heartfelt dedication through social networks, where he also He shared several photographs of the last moments he lived with Alejandra. 

Ocampo accompanied his girlfriend Alejandra Villafañe until her last moments of life on Instagram. In the photographs revealed by the actor who played Carlos in the production Café con Aroma de Mujer, they reveal the love that united them and how Ocampo and Villafañe enjoyed his last moments alive. 

Almost immediately, the comment box of the publication made by the artist was filled with messages of condolence, support and solidarity from family, friends, colleagues and followers of the couple, who also wished them a lot of strength for the difficult time they are now going through. 

Juliette Pardau, Lorna Cepeda, Verónica Orozco, Carla Giraldo, Natalia Jerez, Carlos Torres, among others, expressed their pain and mourning over the death of the 34-year-old actress. It is worth mentioning that before confirming the news that mourns the acting world, Raúl Ocampo rode a bicycle and went up to the traditional Patios sector, in La Calera, as he showed in his stories, because he has always shown that this sport is another of his passions.