Development Alert: Zee World's Upcoming Show Gouri Is Now Titled Hearts Crossed, Gangaa Added To Zee One

Initially announced as Gouri, Zee World will be changing the name of the name of the upcoming series to Hearts Crossed when it launches tomorrow. The series will play daily for half an hour as it replaces the second half of Un...fortunate Love at 19:30.

Synopsis for Heart Crossed

Dr. Ishan does not believe in God, but Gouri believes in God in her heart. With the arrival of Gouri, the gate of the temple is opened automatically, the veil of Goddess Kali's head is raised at the first sight of Gouri. As per the plot of the story, the doctor believes worship is superstition, to which Gouri replies, "Maybe from tomorrow you will trust the most".

Prior to its rollout, Heart Crossed will also be accompanied by another half hour series, My Journey To You. It serves as another ongoing series on Zee TV alongside Radha Mohan, Twist Of Fate and Un...fortunate Love. 

In other developments, Zee One had acquired rights to &TV series Gangaa after being made available on Zee TV channels years prior. The series is also gearing up to debut from 1st July replacing the supernatural drama, Can You See Me.

Synopsis for Gangaa 

Ganga, a child widow, undergoes many difficulties as she lives in a locality consisting of ultraconservative people. But, in an endearing yet courageous way, she questions obsolete traditions.

Development Alert: People's Weather To Become People's Planet From 1st July On Openview

After being known as a weather service throughout its existence, People's Weather will dumping the iconic trademark for ⁰something more earthly known as People's Planet. The channel is set to go live on Openview channel 115 from the 1st of July.

People's Planet is described as the definitive destination for nature, adventure, eco sport, wildlife, science and sustainability enthusiasts. It will basically be rivaling with BBC Earth, National Geographic and Curiosity Channel all of which are on MultiChoice's DStv. 

Details of the content have yet to be announced but if we had to guess SafariLIVE will be on People's Planet alongside most content from People's Weather. Any weather related shows like Today's WX and Waking Up With Nature will likely fall out of the schedule. 

Despite People's Planet distancing themselves from anything weather related on Openview. People's Weather will continue as an online service and if anything will likely appear on People's Planet for promotional purposes. 

The news of People's Planet comes months after the channel was axed on MultiChoice's DStv. It joined over 11 channels to have exited the platform in under 4 months including SafariLIVE's parent company WildEarth, Ginx TV and B4U Movies. 

Maisha Magic Vs. ZACU TV: Who Is Likely To Survive The MultiChoice/Canal+ Merger?

As some readers are aware, Canal+ intends to merge their operations alongside MultiChoice which would create an African powerhouse. This would need approval from local legislation including the Competition Commission and ICASA.

Since then, there's been a lot of concern of the implications awaiting this deal should it move forward. Canal+ serving as the new owners of MultiChoice would likely decrease the workforce on top of minimizing production and licensing agreements. 

One of the topics that up for discussion since the year started was the fate to some of their local offering seen in the market. Although, KykNET and Mzansi Magic don't have a suitor their sister channels in neighboring markets like Kenya and Nigeria do.

In Nigeria, this offering is referred to as Africa Magic which boosts over 3 channels with Canal+ ROK only consisting of 2 channels. All of which could be a subjected to a merger as to not create friction amongst their stable with iROKO being the only reminisce of ROK.

In Kenya or more frankly East Africa, MultiChoice operate the Maisha Magic channels and although Canal+ doesn't have a channel to beef up with most parts of the region they do have for Rwanda, ZACU TV. 

Unlike ROK and Africa Magic, is there a chance these two entities could just co-exist - we believe so. Mzansi Magic already caters to consumers in South Africa with Zambezi Magic catering to other Southern African regions like Zambia, Botswana and Malawi.

We don't envision Maisha Magic dying down but perhaps just reducing their focus to avoid competition. If we had to be honest, there wasn't much competition between these two brands as there was not much Rwanda coming to Maisha Magic to begin with.

July 2024 On Mzansi Magic & Mzansi Wethu | Returning Shows Including Kings Of Maskandi | Finale Alert: I'm With Your Ex | More

Pick of the month 

Queen Modjadji

Mzansi Magic| Sundays | 20:00

Born to the throne and blessed with a unique gift, Queen Modjadji tells the story of a matriarchal dynasty with the ability to summon the rain, placing the Balobedu royalty among the most revered African dynasties. Watch the season premiere of Queen Modjadji on Sunday, 14 July 2024 at 20:00 exclusive to Mzansi Magic channel 161.

PREMIERES

Sibongile & the Dlaminis Season 2

Mzansi Wethu| Mondays - Wednesdays | 18:30

A potent secret destroys a relationship and despite Sibongile trying to move on and achieve her life-long dream, she is thrust back into the Dlaminis world through a very compromising situation. Hope, love, loyalty, survival and betrayal are at the centre of Sibongile & the Dlaminis Season 2, catch the explosive new season premiere on Monday, 29 July 2024 at 18:30.

Kings of Maskandi Season 2

Mzansi Magic| Tuesdays | 20:00

Bahubhe finally decides to do right by his fiancée by proceeding with lobola. Abafana baka Mgqumeni let us in on their life in Joburg, and Khulekani is at peace with his relationship with his father. Catch all that and more in the first episode of Kings of Maskandi Season 2 on Tuesday, 16 July at 20:00 on Mzansi Magic channel 163.

Samukeleni

Mzansi Magic| Wednesdays | 20:00

We first saw them on Forever Thina, when couples went against all odds and married without their families’ approval now the couples are back seeking blessings for their unions post the wedding. Catch the first episode of Samukeleni on Wednesday, 17 July at 20:00 on Mzansi Magic channel 161.

Short & Sweet Season 2

Mzansi Magic| Thursdays | 20:00

Follow the lives of Shota, Thandazani and Vovo as they navigate life and seek to prove that just like age, height is nothing but a number. Watch the season premiere of Short & Sweet Season 2 on Thursday, 25 July 2024 at 20:00 exclusive to Mzansi Magic channel 161.

Vuka Mjita

Mzansi Wethu| Sundays | 20:00

A hard-hitting reality series taking men on a therapeutic journey to break down their inner walls and unlock the doors to the other side of healing as they reflect on the men they are becoming. Catch the first episode of Vuka Mjita on Sunday, 14 July at 20:00 on Mzansi Wethu channel 163.

Fixing the Game: Junior Khanye

Mzansi Wethu| Sundays | 20:00

A hard-hitting reality series taking men on a therapeutic journey to break down their inner walls and unlock the doors to the other side of healing as they reflect on the men they are becoming. Catch the first episode of Fixing the Game: Junior Khanye on Sunday, 14 July at 20:00 on Mzansi Wethu channel 163.

FINALES

I’m with Your Ex Season 2

Mzansi Magic| Sundays| 19:30

What if the love of your life is someone you shouldn't want? What if they used to be with someone close to you? How would you tell them the truth? And how would they react? Every week has been jaw dropping and extremely dramatic, the season finale is no different, catch the dramatic end to I’m with Your Ex Season 2 on Sunday, 28 July 2024 at 18:00 as another person learns that someone close to them is in love with their ex 

TELENOVELAS

Sibongile & the Dlaminis Season 1

Mzansi Wethu | Mondays - Wednesdays | 18:30

Vuma urges the youth to steer clear of adult matters as Nomalanga's plot hits a snag and Kwenzo surprises everyone. Velephi and Sangweni embark on a mission while Kwenzo faces a verbal lashing. Vuma tries to mend family ties, sparking a connection between Nomfundo and Njengaye. Deliwe attempts to win Vuma's heart amidst revelations, and Nomalanga's plans backfire, pushing Sibongile to defend her designs.

Thulisile and Wenzeni confront their demons, and Sis Mavis seeks a fresh start. A wedding looms as Phetheni and Vusi consider legal action against Sibongile, who finds unexpected support from Kwenzo. Nomalanga's fake baby bump creates chaos, and as Sibongile's venture is celebrated, Njengaye and Vusi's world begins to crumble. The season finale sees emotional farewells and new beginnings, with secrets unveiled and alliances tested.

Champions Season 1

A person with a football ball in front of a person

Mzansi Magic | Weekdays | 19:00

Sinesipho quickly realises the new chairman will be impossible to control. Philemon basks in the glow of victory, but Washington bursts his bubble. In the heat of the moment, Ferrari makes a life-changing decision. A mother worries that she is losing her son and in the heat of a moment a life-changing decision. Lebo's sees himself as deserving of a girlfriend upgrade and he makes a surprising investment.

Sinesipho is shattered when the people she believes in turn their backs on her life an important event at the Modise household is riddled with major hurdles. A celebratory event ends with an indecent exposure. Lebo’s romantic encounter earning him and Ferrari faces the consequences of betraying Sne. Nkele receives great news for her business. Lesibana is accused being a father and he eventually struggles with his new role. Two star-crossed lovers can't fight their connection anymore and a scorned Didintle wants to make sure that someone pays for how she's feeling .

My Brother’s Keeper Season 2

Mzansi Magic | Weekdays | 19:30

Drama and intrigue reach new heights as the DNA results of Nqubeko's baby shake his household, while Donga grapples with the allure of Nkosazana's promises of wealth. Ndumiso stumbles in his presentation, leading to regret. Tensions flare between Nqubeko and Fakazile over the baby, while Donga uncovers the reasons behind his missed opportunities. Strange encounters leave Fakazile bewildered, and confrontations escalate as Donga exposes Mshengu's sabotage. As Fakazile and Nqubeko move towards reconciliation, Nomsa falls for Baby Ndyebo.

Umkhokha: The Curse Season 2

A group of men standing together

Mzansi Magic | Weekdays | 20:30

Difa receives distressing news from the hospital, while Mabusi struggles to help those she loves most. Ndlovu's deceitful ways catch up with him, causing chaos within his family and community. Zisebenzele gets entangled in a love triangle, and Difa makes sacrifices to protect his loved ones. The Mthembu family is thrown into turmoil by illness. As power struggles ensue, Mabusi faces heartache, and new leaders emerge amidst the chaos.

Gqeberha: The Empire Season 2

A person in a suit standing in a hallway

Mzansi Magic | Weekdays| 21:00

Funeka's argument with Msimelelo takes a shocking turn, while Ntando and Nomaflower's first date is full of excitement. Hlumelo is drawn back to Yoliswa, and Nozuko fiercely marks her territory. A breakthrough occurs in Stokkie's case as the Makwethu family takes a step forward, but Nomaflower faces a mind-over-heart dilemma involving Ntando. Nozuko's renovation plans stir conflict with Nobomi and Thulani, and Lulama is shaken by a mysterious letter.

Anda threatens Lulama to expedite marriage plans, and despite Funeka's despair, Msimelelo manages to reach her. Lulama's drastic actions reveal her true self, and despite upheaval, hope emerges for the Makwetus. Zimkhitha investigates Ntando's new love, while Funeka and Msimelelo's future brightens as they decide to marry. Amidst Lulama's dramatic flair and Zimkhitha's scheming, love and resilience prevail.

DRAMAS

Ha Molefi

Mzansi Magic | Mondays | 20:00

Episode 03 | Monday, 01 July 2024

Thabang bonds with Sipho. Ntokozo gets in deep trouble with Mam'Thuli.

Episode 04 | Monday, 08 July 2024

Ntate goes on a mission to find out who scratched his car. Joy and Spice set Thabang up for failure. Joy makes a play for Sipho.

Episode 05 | Monday, 15 July 2024

Joy and Spice get their comeuppance. Ntokozo finally scores a date with Amo. Thabang plans to join the House of Nkoli.

Episode 06 | Monday, 22 July 2024

House of Dolls declares war on House of Nkoli. Thabang finds a way to make extra cash. Joy's date with Sipho is sabotaged.

Episode 07 | Monday, 29 July 2024

Thabang's booming business takes a wrong turn. Abhuti Ofee takes Ntate's love life into his own hands. Sipho confesses his feelings.

REALITY

Themba My inked Life Season 2

Mzansi Wethu | Thursdays | 19:00

Episode 08 | Thursday, 04 July 2024

Themba's sisters seek answers about the mysterious new woman in his life. The return of Mpho Wabadimo brings unexpected revelations that threaten to shake the foundation of their lives.

Episode 09 | Thursday, 11 July 2024

Nqobile and her sister engage in a long-overdue heart-to-heart conversation, hoping to mend their fractured relationship. Tulz embraces the challenges of his first day at a new job.

Episode 10 | Thursday, 18 July 2024

Two families collide as Themba and Mpho's loved ones finally meet face-to-face for a tension-filled conversation. Long-buried secrets are unearthed, and harsh truths are spoken.

 

Married at First Sight Mzansi

Mzansi Magic | Sundays | 18:00

Episode 04 | Sunday, 07 July 2024

The newlyweds embark on their honeymoons, but not all is smooth sailing. Thabang and Khumo travel back to Johannesburg as Khumo's work takes precedence.

Episode 05 | Sunday, 14 July 2024

As things unravel, Boitshepo and Sebenzile deliberate on Khumo and Thabang's marriage. Zithobile pays Sebenzile a visit to catch up and discuss the highs and lows of her marriage.

Episode 06 | Sunday, 21 July 2024

Sebenzile and Boitshepo are committed to presenting a perfect image, but beneath the surface, cracks begin to show. Khumo and Thabang continue to grapple with work-life balance, Dee and Khutso's passion flares, and Thami and Zithobile seek to understand their insecurities.

Episode 07 | Sunday, 28 July 2024

Thami's upbringing and black tax affect his self-esteem, Zithobile's body image issues come to the forefront, Sebenzile and Boitshepo face unresolved feelings, and Dee and Khutso's long-distance relationship is put to the test.

Izingane zeS’thembu Season 2

All I can say is drama' - What to expect when 'Izingane Zesthembu' returns  to screens | The Citizen

Mzansi Magic | Sundays | 19:00

Episode 10 | Sunday, 07 July 2024

Tirelo confronts Mpumelelo about his breakup with Vuyo meanwhile things fall apart after dinner. While Mpilo tries to keep everyone together Sne has a breakdown and blames Abongwe for ruining the night, while Vuyo regrets coming onto the trip.

Episode 11 | Sunday, 14 July 2024

It’s a beautiful day of fun and waves in Suncity and the siblings soak up the sun until a surprise guest joins the trip. The siblings are labelled fake while Mpumelelo’s secrets are brought to light. Mpilo and Abo struggle to contain their emotions and things get heated.

Episode 12 | Sunday, 21 July 2024

The siblings gather for the finale dinner and Sne confronts her family about their hidden dynamics. Lwandle gets heated and demands Sne for facts while Mpilo tries to calm things down. The dinner unravels leaving some siblings isolated.

Disney XD Might Be Coming An International Comeback After Being Spotted On Eutelsat 9B Satellite For The Cosmote TV Platform In Greece

Disney XD was an international children's channel targeting boys aged 7 to 14 years old. Operated by The Walt Disney Company, it was home to shows like Gravity Falls, Marvel's Spider-Man, Big City Greens and Kick Buttowski: Surburbian Daredevil. 

Following Disney+ inception in 2019, most of the international feeds of Disney XD had been closed with remaining feeds residing in America, Netherlands, Canada and Poland. This was part of Disney's attempt on prioritizing Disney+ which led to more cord cutting.

Although Disney XD continued to have a presence in these regions no original content had been commissioned with the latter residing from Disney Channel and Disney+.

According to the information obtained from KingOfSat, DigitalBitrate and Parabola.ca, Disney XD has appeared on Eutelsat 9B satellite for Cosmote TV platform in Greece. This endeavors had led some to wonder if Disney were to be reviving the channel. 

Disney Channel had been operating under a unified feed in parts of Europe and Africa. During the year, these endeavors were minimized as Scandinavia and Nordic opted for a localized feed to Disney Channel which led to cancellation of Disney Junior. 

New Series Alert: Gouri Coming Soon To Zee World

Not long ago, it was reported Zee World would be rolling out a new Hindi drama series My Journey To You in the coming weeks in place of Undercover Love. Now the channel is gearing up to accompany it with another program titled Gouri.

Synopsis for Gouri:

Dr. Ishan does not believe in God, but Gouri believes in God in her heart. With the arrival of Gouri, the gate of the temple is opened automatically, the veil of Goddess Kali's head is raised at the first sight of Gouri. As per the plot of the story, the doctor believes worship is superstition, to which Gouri replies, "Maybe from tomorrow you will trust the most".

It starred Mohona Maiti as Gouri Ghosh Ghoshal, Biswarup Bandyopadhyay as Dr. Ishan Ghoshal, Rishita Nandi as Tara Ghoshal, Samata Das as Sujata, Arindol Bagchi as Nibaron and Sinchana Sarkar as Tiya.

Known in India as Gouri Elo, it premiered on Zee Bangla from 28 February 2022 and ended on 24 November 2023. Since its inception, two remakes have already been filmed one in Odia titled Maa Jahara Saha and the second in Punjabi titled Shivika.

Gouri will air daily at 19:30 from 1st July with My Journey To You airing an hour later at 21:30. Both these series will only run for a 30 minute duration with Gouri that is set to limit Un...Fortunate Love's duration to 30 minutes (including ad breaks).

Max Originals Likely Dead Is A Good Sign For HBO And Cartoon Network

Not long ago, it was reported Warner Bros. Discovery had dumped the Max trademark from upcoming shows Harry Potter and IT with these being branded as HBO originals. Similar to Disney+ Star, Max will continue to exist for a collection of content. 

When Max launched in 2020, it served as a rival offering to Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Showmax and Disney+. It offered a range of animated shows like Close Enough and Jellystone alongside live-action shows like The Flight Attendant and Gossip Girl.

Not only that, it became the exclusive home of all things Cartoon Network and this included Tiny Toons Looniversity, The Fungies! and upcoming show Iyanu: Child Of Wonder. Unlike HBO, most shows to have been filmed by their studio were credited as Max Originals.

With the demise of Max, it means Cartoon Network will be more recognition after being shunned by Adult Swim as shows like Invincible Fight Girl and My Adventures With Superman were pulled from the network. 

The reason Max is being trimmed has to do with the current economic climate as the streaming market is oversaturated and Max is basically struggling to compete. Internationally, they're licensing content to various broadcasters including Sky and M-Net.

Another similar to Disney+ Star, consumers aren't familiar with Max the moment HBO was dumped from the name. In this day and age we're seeing companies revive or expand on IPs in order to get an extra buck and retain audiences while getting new ones.

As mentioned, HBO is expanding the universes of IT and Harry Potter while Cartoon Network is doing that with revivals to The Amazing World Of Gumball and Regular Show. 

Recap To The Decade: Canal+ Owned/Funded Channels Currently Seen On eMedia Investments' Openview And StarSat

As some readers are aware, Canal+ intends to merge their operations alongside MultiChoice which would create an African powerhouse. This would need approval from local legislation including the Competition Commission and ICASA.

Since then, there's been a lot of concern of the implications awaiting this deal should it move forward. Canal+ serving as the new owners of MultiChoice would likely decrease the workforce on top of minimizing production and licensing agreements. 

Although Canal+ doesn't offer any services within in South Africa they had producing content for M-Net. On top of licensing the entertainment channels FilmBox Africa through StarTimes platforms with France24 seen on the Openview platform. 

There has been a lot of concern from consumers that Canal+ may opt to scrap these agreements and make these channels exclusive to DStv consumers as seen with SABC News. Some even fear that StarTimes could opt to scrap FilmBox as they'd aid a competitor. 

But that may never be the case here as such would prove to be anti-competitive or unethical on StarTimes part. If anything, these assets won't be treated differently once Canal+ acquisition of MultiChoice is complete. 

It's possible that part of this offering may never see the light of day on DStv.

Take for instance, Timeless Dizi Channel which serves as one SPI International's most popular entertainment channels in Africa is already seen on StarTimes. But not on any of Canal+ platforms within Africa so if anything this offering could operate more independently. 

Of course nothing can be set in stone on what DStv consumers would get out of this acquisition in terms of additional services. But from what we've seen in recent months with the closures of Me and Ginx TV it's likely these services will lead to more content changes. 

Max Originals Likely Dead As ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘It’ Prequel ‘Welcome to Derry’ And Other Warner Bros. Tentpole Series To Be Branded as HBO Originals

To paraphrase a long-running network slogan, “It’s Not Max. It’s HBO.” HBO and Max content CEO Casey Bloys is changing the delineation between what an “HBO show” and a “Max show” is, moving most of Max’s upcoming big-budget, tentpole Warner Bros. IP projects to under the HBO umbrella.

That means the upcoming “Harry Potter” TV show, as well as the “It” prequel series “Welcome to Derry” and the just-announced Green Lantern adaptation “Lanterns” — in other words, major DC franchise and other big-budget titles — will all now be branded as HBO originals.

This is a switch from the most recent decision to place all series based on Warner Bros. IP in the Max bucket, which was first established when Bloys added oversight of Max in 2020.

“We felt like we had to delineate between an HBO show and a Max show,” Bloys said of that initial distinction. “The idea of using Warner Bros. IP as a delineation for Max felt right. At least that gives you a clear lane. But as we started producing those shows, we were using the same methods, the same kind of thinking, as how we would approach HBO shows. In a lot of cases, the same talent that has worked on HBO shows.”

On “Lanterns,” for example, writers include Chris Mundy, who worked on HBO’s “True Detective,” and Damon Lindelof, whose HBO output has included “The Leftovers” and “Watchmen.” Even DC Studios co-head Peter Safran has described “Lanterns” as “a huge HBO-quality event” that is “very much in the vein of ‘True Detective.’”

“What we ended up with is shows at this scope and scale that look great, and great narratives and talent we’ve worked with,” Bloys added. “The idea of the delineation kind of started to feel unnecessary. Like, why are we doing this? Let’s just call them what they are: HBO shows.”

The change officially takes effect with shows launching in 2025. That means “The Penguin” and “Dune: Prophecy,” both of which premiere later this year, are expected to still be called Max originals. Those shows had already been sold overseas with the Max label — and even last week, HBO sent out a “Penguin” teaser that still included the Max branding.

“We will start in 2025, although ‘The Penguin’ would be an obvious fit as an HBO Original,” Bloys said. “Unfortunately, the process of licensing it internationally has already started.”

Explaining the timing of the decision to realign the stable of HBO and Max Originals series, Bloys noted that it became even more clearer to him that these big shows should get the HBO label as Max started developing series that are more in the broadcast/traditional TV vein. That includes John Wells’ and R. Scott Gemmill’s upcoming 15-episode medical drama “The Pitt,” starring Noah Wyle, as well as the crime thriller “Duster,” from J.J. Abrams and LaToya Morgan, both of which remain Max series.

“That felt like a much more natural delineation of what we’re trying to do with Max versus HBO,” he said. “What we talked about with John was specifically how you would approach a network show for a streamer. Typically, the production budget allows you to do more episodes. There’s closed-ended storytelling per episode, which is not typically what you would see in an HBO show.

Bloys stops short of giving a budget mandate to the difference between HBO and Max shows, but clearly there is — and one might hover in at around the $15 million per episode threshold. Anything above that would clearly be in HBO territory.

That’s on the drama side. Comedy is a bit trickier, as budgets are different and it’s a little harder to tell the difference between a tentpole HBO laffer and a Max one.

“If I’m using the network analysis, with closed-ended stories, going about something at a certain budget level so that you can tap more stories, trying to be broader… it is definitely harder but we’re trying to do the same thing,” Bloys said. “But definitely, it’s fuzzier there for sure.”

Already, Amy Gravitt oversees comedy for both HBO and Max, so the separation matters a lot less internally anyway. As for the HBO and Max split on the drama side, that does mean that now Sarah Aubrey, who oversees Max’s original dramas, will work with HBO drama chief Francesca Orsi on the shows that will now bear the HBO banner (like “Harry Potter” and “Lanterns”). Beyond that, the structure does not change.

One other tweak: Now that shows like “Harry Potter” and “Lanterns” will be branded for HBO, they’re now guaranteed to run on the linear network in addition to Max. That guarantees a larger volume of programming for the network in 2025 — and Bloys is looking at keeping both Sunday and Thursday as original series nights for the channel.

“I like the idea of having a Sunday and a Thursday,” he said. “But as we schedule for 2025, 2026, 2027 together, we’ll lay that all out and figure out what works best.”

Of course, all of these shows will still stream on Max, so this tweak in branding will likely go unnoticed among most consumers. Indeed, Bloys noted that another reason to make this shift is that the majority of viewers already assume these are HBO shows.

“For a show that feels big and cinematic, they already are going to make the assumption that it feels like an HBO show,” he said. “This is just leaning into that.”

So, why not make all shows HBO shows, and let Max just be the platform that runs series from all of Warner Bros. Discovery brands?

“I do think it is helpful to have a brand that doesn’t put the expectations or the intention of an HBO show,” Bloys said. “If it’s not designed to do that, it shouldn’t have to. I like having that flexibility, that you can experiment with things creatively, format-wise.”

Of course, on the awards side, there already is no delineation. HBO and Max shows are submitted and campaigned in exactly the same way, as “HBO/Max.” And in marketing, most ads promoting HBO series also include a Max logo, since that’s where audiences will stream the show no matter what.

“It’s a confusing time in the business, consumers figuring out streaming and shows that were on linear and streaming and vice versa,” Bloys said. “We’re trying to adapt and figure out what is the best way to approach this in a world where streaming is dominant. So, there is going to be experimentation, there are going to be mistakes. Because this is all still relatively new in the history of television.”

News Shorts: StarTimes Debuts New Channel Rembo Plus, Vuyo Ngcukana And Zola Mhlongo Join Mzansi Magic’s My Brother's Keeper And An Iron Rose Rebroadcast Launches On Telemundo Across Africa

St Rembo to get a second TV channel 

Rembo was launched back in 2019 as a rival offering to M-Net's Maisha Magic offering content catered to East Africa. Most of the content would be broadcast in Swahili with other portions of the lineup made available in English and other indigenous languages. 

Now StarTimes looks to duplicate this offering on a separate TV channel known as Rembo Plus. The channel is set to go live from 1st July with content already viewed on other StarTimes channels such as Brothers, Viral Scandal and The Iron Heart.

New faces enter My Brother's Keeper

Vuyo Ngcukana, will join the telenovela as Menzi, a newly widowed attorney who meets Fakazile when she hires him as her attorney. Menzi is a bulldog in court but a loveable teddy in his personal life. Vuyo, is fresh off another production 1802: Love Defies Time (1Magic) and is also famously also known for his role as Schumacher on The Queen.

Also joining the MBK world is Zola Mhlongo who will play the role of Nkosazana, a former associate of Donga’s who he met through his tendering business. Nkosazana is a working girl, in waiting to be a kept girl! She smells like money, attracts money, money loves her and she looks set to turn someone’s world upside down. Zola has appeared on various productions such as How To Manifest A Man and Showmax’s Adulting.

To see what twists these two bring to the production, tune in to My Brother’s Keeper on Mzansi Magic, DStv Channel 161, weekdays at 19:30.  

Telemundo continues its eternal slumber

During the week, it was reported that a rebroadcast of Until Money Do Us Part and Case Closed will be added on Telemundo in the coming weeks. These comes ahead of the new series The People's Doctor set to take up Come Back To Me once it ends in July.

Now Iron Rose is also set to join the lineup but in place of El Baron weekdays at 23:00 from Saturday 6 July. 

Worlds collide and lives shatter when Altagracia, a powerful and elegant businesswoman, plots a twisted revenge while falling in love. With the help of her aunt who trains her in the art of manipulation and seduction, while pursuing the men who murdered her parents.

New Series Alert: My Journey To You Coming Soon To Zee World

During the month, it was reported that Zee World had undergone yet another rebrand as part of a new campaign, Living Every Moment. Now the channel is set to introduce its first ever series as part of these endeavors My Journey To You (Kaise Mujhe Tum Mil Gaye).

My Journey To You follows the lives of Amruta Jayesh Chitnis, a banker seeking a suitable and understanding partner, and Virat Singh Ahuja, a disillusioned man who has lost faith in love and believes relationships are driven by financial motives.

It stars Sriti Jha as Amruta Bhavani Chitnis, Arjit Taneja as Virat Singh Ahuja, Kishori Shahane as Babita Singh Ahuja, Aashish Kaul as Dildar Singh Ahuja, Hemangi Kavi as Bhavani and Iqbal Azad as Jayesh Chitnis.

The series premiered on Zee TV from 27 November 2023 with 207 episodes having been released so far. This serves as one of various ongoing shows by the Hindi broadcaster alongside Radha Mohan, Twist Of Fate and Unfortunate Love.

Now My Journey To You will serve as another entry to the channel daily at 21:00 from 1st July replacing Undercover Love. This will be the only 30 minute show on the channel alongside Sister Wives for consumers across Southern Africa. 

DirecTV Shuttered Audience Network Channel 101 After 21 Years Of Operation, Could This Be What Awaits M-Net Following The Canal+ Takeover?

Audience was an American based TV channel operated and curated exclusively for DirecTV consumers. For those aren't familiar with the channel, it carried a similar structure as M-Net offering a mix of original and acquired series, specials and feature films.

Some of which had already been made available to South Africa include Kingdom, Rogue and even the former e.tv soap, Passions. 

In 2020, the parent company AT&T announced plans to cease transmission of the channel and to merge all its efforts on Max. This was part of AT&T's to streaming endeavors as more consumers continue to opt out of linear television. 

Some insiders are concerned that M-Net could be subjected to a similar fate once Canal+ acquisition of MultiChoice is complete by April 2025. M-Net has been struggling to maintain consumers following increased competition from Netflix and Disney+.

Earlier in the year, M-Net's secondary offering Me and 1Magic were discontinued as the latter merged with Showmax. With M-Net serving as a premium tier, Me catered to low income households by giving consumers a portal to premium entertainment. 

1Magic was M-Net's BET channel which brought local talent like Sindi Dladu against Hollywood stars like Viola Davis.

Now questions amount to what could Canal+ do once this acquisition is complete and its likely M-Net could be kept in its current position. As for brand names, it wouldn't seem far fetched if it were to get the corporate name, CANAL+ PREMIERE.

M-Net and Canal+ have been working on original shows for a while now Spinners, Blood Psalms and Devil's Peak. Eventually you would anticipate that the Canal+ portion would take up the whole chunk of M-Net similar to how Boomerang folded under Cartoonito. 

This endeavors would be reflected on M-Net Movies seeing as it not only license third party films from Disney, NBCUniversal and Paramount but also distribute local content for which memory served were credited as M-Net.

The Bala Family Returns To Mzansi Magic For Another Drama-Filled Season

It was rated by viewers as one of the best reality shows in Mzansi and topped the trends list week after week. Now The Bala Family is set to make a much-anticipated return to Mzansi Magic from August, and this season promises even more family drama.  

Siblings Pinky, Zwai, Loyiso and Phelo and their mother, Mama V, will again be taking viewers into their lives. Following the passing of Tata Jafta, family matriarch, Mama Vuyiswa, is taking it upon herself to foster unity between the Bala and Jafta families as a way of honouring his memory. This includes having to provide for his children and especially his grandchildren, a matter which Zwai and Pinky are opposed to.

The siblings are looking at acquiring a family home and as a family, they are united in a decision to purchase a home for Mama V, marking their inaugural family residence. The question remains though; how do they sort out the financial aspect of this plan?

Also, on the cards this season is the decision to revive The Bala Brothers, who haven’t collaborated in years. Some in the family see the group’s reunion as an opportunity to help finance the new family home, while others have other ideas.

“The first season of The Bala Family was a huge success and positively welcomed by our audience. We are excited for the second season and in the same breath, saddened at the loss of Bab’ Jafta who has since passed on,” says Shirley Adonisi, Director for Local Entertainment Channels. “We continue to grieve with the family, honour Bab’ Jafta for his contribution to the show and we dedicate this season to his memory.”

There is so much more to see on this season of The Bala Family so be part of witnessing how they go about navigating their family and individual challenges. The new season premieres on Mzansi Magic, DStv Channel 161 from Sunday 04 August at  19:00.

Kartoon Studios To Launch “Winnie-the-Pooh” Megabrand On Amazon Prime Video Alongside Nationwide Retail Program in Partnership with Alliance Entertainment

Kartoon Studios today announced its most ambitious project in the history of the company, Kartoon Studios’ “Winnie-the-Pooh.” Plans include an animated holiday movie, five holiday specials, and a four year/104 episode series, to premiere on Amazon Prime Video, via Kartoon Channel!’s subscription service on the platform. Concurrently, Alliance Entertainment (NASDAQ:AENT), a leading distributor of physical entertainment that supports major nationwide retailers, including Walmart, Target, Amazon and Barnes & Noble, will debut new merchandise through a nationwide retail program, in conjunction with Kartoon Studios rollout of a global consumer products campaign.

Kartoon Studios’ “Winnie-the-Pooh” is based on the designs and stories of one of the most successful brands of all time, A.A. Milne’s “Winnie-the-Pooh,” a property that has generated over $80 billion in sales over the last four decades and is estimated to currently generate $3-$6 billion per year for The Walt Disney Company. The total lifetime revenues exceed those of “Barbie,” “Harry Potter,” “Star Wars,” “Mickey Mouse,” “Peanuts,” “Ninja Turtles,” “Power Rangers,” “Marvel,” and almost every major brand in the world.

“Disney created an iconic and tremendously successful global brand with ‘Winnie-the-Pooh’ that we have all admired so much over many decades.  When the property went into the public domain, we knew we could only undertake creating Pooh for a new generation if we could bring a completely new, different and unique look that was contemporary, protectable, and gave voice to the characters and stories created by A.A. Milne, as has never been done,” said Kartoon Studios’ Chairman & CEO Andy Heyward. “We are thrilled to launch with Amazon Prime Video and Alliance Entertainment to deliver unique and  exceptional content, as we build out a new iteration of this entertainment brand and ‘Winnie-the-Pooh’-branded consumer products to the global marketplace.”

Pre-production has already begun on the animated holiday movie, set to premiere December 24, 2025, on Amazon Prime Video, through Kartoon Channel!’s subscription distribution agreement with them. Concurrently, the global retail program will kick off with the debut of products featuring an array of special features, distributed through Alliance Entertainment Corporation.

Kartoon Studios’ “Winnie-the-Pooh” animated content is being developed with a unique ‘yarn- based’ design and palette for the characters and backgrounds, along with original modern stories inspired by Milne’s beloved classic books. The beautifully imagined yarn gives the characters a depth and warmth.  Additionally, the stories will be told in a ‘Seussian style’ rhyme to provide an enriched dimension to the stories.

“In designing Kartoon Studios’ ‘Winnie-The-Pooh,’ we combined the best of both AI and human creativity to arrive at the unique look of the characters and backgrounds that could not have been imaginable prior to the advent of AI in our industry,” commented Heyward.  “Our use of our AI platform will enable us to bring a level of efficiency, speed-to-market, and creativity, to the production heretofore not possible,” said Heyward. “At a time when our world can be confusing for children, Pooh is an oasis of goodness, grounded in family, friendship, kindness, and love.  Those are the exact values our version of Pooh will showcase as we focus on building Kartoon Studios’ “Winnie-The-Pooh” into a long-term global megabrand, through which the simple and comforting values A.A. Milne originally imagined, will endure forever.”

Heyward added: “We think this is a generational opportunity to capitalize on one of the greatest properties ever created, with a proven track record.  Audiences around the world are demanding healthy, positive, family-friendly stories that will inspire and entertain kids, alongside a new line of products, from toys to books, videos to apparel, and more, that are steeped in these enriching values.”

The series is being financed through Joint Venture Production financing of $30 million provided by WTP SPV 1, a subsidiary of Catalyst Venture Partners.  It is non-dilutive, production financing.

Steven A. Horowitz, Sr. Managing Director  of WTP SPV and its parent company, Catalyst Venture Partners, stated: “We have committed to provide $30 million to the Special Purpose Joint Venture for this exciting new version of A.A. Milne’s ‘Winnie the Pooh’ from Kartoon Studios, which is non-dilutive to any of TOON’s existing stakeholders.  Being able to participate in a timeless and proven children’s classic such as Milne’s ‘Winnie-The-Pooh,’ through the production of original animated content and the licensing of consumer products from those proprietary character designs and stories, is a unique opportunity we are very excited about.  Andy Heyward and the team at Kartoon Studios have a long history of producing hit properties for children.  An all-star array of award-winning talent across development, production, marketing, consumer products, and distribution has been assembled to manage the brand launch, and we are excited to be a part of what we are confident will be a hugely profitable and enduring business.”

“Capitalizing on the enormous equity inherent in A.A. Milne’s ‘Winnie-The-Pooh,’ the unique designs and storytelling, as well as the production efficiency by harnessing AI, Kartoon Studios’ new iteration of the timeless brand will have an exceptional array of attributes that we believe can lead to extraordinary profitability for the company,” stated Heyward.    

Former Hawaii Five-O And Magnum Pi Star Taylor Willy Has Died

Wily’s death was confirmed by KITV 4 Island News in Hawaii. Musician Lina Girl Langi, who had been close friends of Wily and his loved ones, announced the news on her lifestyle show, “Island Life Live.”

“It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of a Hawaii celebrity who was also a family friend,” Langi shared on the broadcast on Thursday. “Taylor Wily, former wrestler, MMA fighter and actor passed away today in Hurricane, Utah.”

She added: “He would look physically menacing until you just folded right into a hug, and that was it. My heart is breaking.” 

Her co-host, Davey D, described Wily as one of the “kindest” and “gentlest souls.”

His cause of death has not been revealed.

Wily — whose real name was Teila Tuli — played Kamekona on the CBS drama for 171 episodes for 10 seasons between 2010 and 2020. He reprised his role for seven episodes in “Magnum P.I.”

Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1968, Wily also appeared in the 2008 romantic comedy “Forgetting Sarah Marshall,” which starred Jason Segel, Kristen Bell and Paul Rudd. Other credits included “Radical,” “MacGyver,” “North Shore” and “Marker.”

Off-screen, Wily was a sumo wrestler under the name “Takamishu.”

According to TV Insider, he won his first 14 matches before becoming the first foreign-born wrestler to win the championship in the third-highest makushita division. In 2000, he lost to fighter Gerard Gordeau in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

He is survived by his wife, Halona, and their two children.

Recap To The Week: Zee World Unveils Brand Refresh With New Tag Line "Living Every Moment"

Zee World, known for its captivating entertainment is thrilled to announce its much-anticipated enhanced channel offering.  The refresh which comes with a tag line Living Every Moment rolled out on Monday 17 June 2024.  The channel features new graphics and airs ‘everyday’ people sharing their thoughts and feelings on ‘living every moment’.

This rejuvenation celebrates the legacy of Zee World while refreshing it for audiences across Sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands.

‘It is important for us to remind our viewers who we are at the core while extending it out to all age groups and cultures across Africa.’ said Somnath Malakar, CEO of Zee Africa. The tagline ‘Living Every Moment’ represents what Zee has always stood for and continues to be the inspiration that the brand endeavours to deliver to its audiences’.

Living every moment while being immersed in Zee World is not merely about escapism; it’s about finding meaning in the ‘right here, right now! It’s about embracing the magic of storytelling, which has the power to transport us to worlds beyond our own, keeping us connected.

To amplify the refresh, Zee World is expanding its programming schedule with more variety of series. Prime time now kicks off at 5pm, allowing viewers to indulge in their favourite shows sooner, with new titles at 7:30pm and 8:30pm.

It does not stop there! In July from 5pm to 10pm there will a total of eight shows, ensuring non-stop entertainment.

“Our channel refresh represents our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment that resonates with viewers across the continent, and we are doing it with flair.’ said Desiree Pillay, SVP Content & Marketing at Zee. “A brand-new logo, a brand-new tagline and a whole lot of brand-new shows, we invite our viewers to join us in ‘Living Every Moment’ on Zee World as we embark on this exhilarating new chapter together.”

Tune in to Zee World, DStv 166 and immerse yourself in the excitement of our new channel offerings. Get ready to embrace change, embrace the new, and start Living Every Moment.

Development Alert: Sharkdog Formerly Exclusive To Netflix To Make Its International Debut On Nicktoons, The Nick Jr. Block Loses Its Daytime Slot For Nick In Your Language

A few months ago, it was reported that Nicktoons would be airing the Nickelodeon produced show Sharkdog from Netflix in May. But that was never the case as Nicktoons began to rebrand their offering with Sharkdog serving as the first initiative from the rebrand. 

A user known as Narq uploaded a Polish promo for the preschool show on his YouTube channel with the series slated for June/July premiere. This can only confirm that Sharkdog instead of serving as an African premiere will be more global/European. 

Sharkdog follows 10 year old Max and his best friend Sharkdog - half shark, half dog, all appetite. Blissfully unaware of his own strength, stealth and general sharkiness, Sharkdog often leaves a trail of chaos in his wake. But, like all good half-dogs, he's Max's BFF and Max is his.

It is created by Singaporean creator Jacinth Tan and produced by Paramount Global's ViacomCBS International Studios, in partnership with Singaporean based CGI animation studio One Animation.

Although a release date has yet to be confirmed, Nicktoons does however a timeslot vacated from 1st July at 17:00 which is where new Rock, Paper, Scissors was seen. So maybe Sharkdog will just swoop in within that timeslot since that timeslot is known for premieres.

Nick Jr. get less airtime on Nicktoons 

As seen later in the month, Nicktoons introduced Nick In Your Language which is basically Nickelodeon’s way of connecting to a local audience. By that we mean dub various shows such as SpongeBob SquarePants to IsiZulu and Afrikaans. 

Following its popular inception to the channel, Paw Patrol was the second program to get locally dubbed for the channel. This came at the price of the Nick Jr. block whose timeslot is being used to handle these shows with the only other means of viewing it at late nights.

The news doesn't come as a shocker to some as the late night preschool block was more productive than its daytime slot. Then there's also this thing of Nickelodeon supplying the block with Nick Jr. also having its own channel for most of the content. 

Development Alert: A Rebroadcast Of Case Closed And Until Money Do Us Apart Launches On Telemundo Across Africa Ahead Of The People's Doctor

During the month, it was reported that Telemundo would be airing a new anthology series in July, The People's Doctor. The first Christmas Miracles dealt with festivities, Decisions dealt with daily dilemmas with The People's Doctor entering the medical issues.

Zombie TV as some would already know is what you'd call the current status of Telemundo and most other TV channels. As more households continue to switch to dump their TV sets the likes of NBCUniversal will reduce the amount of content for their channels.

My Heart Beats For Lola and Ana's Revenge which serve as the many rebroadcasts will be ending in the coming days. Cased Closed will replace My Heart Beats For Lola from 29th June with Until Money Do Us Part from 2nd July replacing Ana's Revenge. 

Until Money Do Us Part follows poor salesman Rafael and wealthy business executive Alejandra are two strangers who suffer a car accident that changes their lives and intertwines their futures. It starred Carmen Villalobos and Sebastián Martinez.

Case Closed dealt with family laws as specialist Ana Maria Polo acts as a judge to mediate conflicts and disputes between two parties.

Paramount Global Is Believed To Be Ending Their Partnership With AMC Networks International For CBS Reality And CBS Justice

Not long ago, it was reported that AMC Networks International will be axing one of the few CBS branded stations in Europe as part of a joint venture with Paramount Global, CBS Europa. Other channels part of this agreement include CBS Reality and CBS Justice. 

As we've mentioned sometime ago, we don't envision True Crime replacing the remaining feeds for CBS Reality but more likely the African feed for CBS Justice. Unlike the UK, CBS Reality was positioned as a factual channel so maybe something like Reality TV.

AMC Networks International had been phasing out the CBS trademark across their portfolio this started out in the UK by 2022 and will reach Poland in the coming months. Since then, it has been long speculated that Paramount Global is looking to exit this partnership.

This means channels like CBS Reality and CBS Justice will be phased out in these endeavors seeing as Paramount own the CBS trademark.  It also means AMC Networks International will have to find new names for these channels or close them altogether. 

Their other partner Paramount Global is going through financial constraints and had since auctioned themselves to several bidders. It attracted interest from Sony Pictures Television and Apollo with more advance talks reaching Skydance Media. 

However talks with Skydance Media fell through as Shari Redstone backed out of the deal at last minute. 

Shari Redstone who serves as majority shareholder has been trying to keep her family’s company together and under immense pressure. It will have to look at shedding costs either by getting out of all deals (including AMC) or selling BET and Showtime. 

Canal+ Increases Stake In Asian Streamer VIU To 36,8% With The Option To Get Majority Ownership

French media and telecom conglomerate Vivendi’s pay-TV unit Canal+ Group has increased its stake in Asian streamer Viu to 36.8 percent, the company said on Thursday.

“After satisfaction of key business milestones, Canal+ Group has released the last installment of its $300 million staggered investment,” it explained. “A further investment, at Canal+ election, could result in an increase of Canal+’s stake in Viu to 51 percent.”

The company didn’t immediately outline what would be needed for it to make such a decision to go for a majority stake in the Hong Kong-based video streamer. But it did highlight its interest in Asia. “This investment is a renewed testimony to Canal+’s commitment to develop Asia as one of the group’s growth engines and underlines Canal+’s confidence in Viu and its team.”

Canal+ first bought into Viu, led by CEO Janice Lee, in a June 2023 deal with Hong Kong telecom powerhouse PCCW Group, taking a 26.1 percent stake. As part of that deal, Canal+ secured the option of paying an additional sum to increase its stake to a 51 percent majority. 

Launched in 2015 with backing from PCCW, Viu’s video service offers both advertising and subscription-supported options in 16 territories in Asia, the Middle East and South Africa. When it unveiled the Canal+ deal last year, he company said it had more than 66 million monthly active users and 12 million paid subscribers, the bulk of which is believed to be based in Asia. Viu has specialized in licensing and producing original Korean content, but it also creates original content in Southeast Asian territories including Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia.  

Canal+ has 26.4 million subscribers worldwide, including 17.1 million in Europe, 8.1 million in Africa and 1.2 million in the Asia-Pacific region. Beyond its investment in Viu, it is also the largest shareholder in African pay-TV giant MultiChoice and in Viaplay, the Scandinavian pay-TV and streaming company. Earlier this year, it also took a stake in leading Senegalese production company Marodi TV.

After 25 Years, AMC Networks International Will Be Changing CBS Europa In Poland To Film Cafe

In June 2022, the British arm of the AMC-Paramount partnership revised their channel line-up with nearly all CBS branding being dropped. CBS Reality remained on air in the region during that time before being phased out for True Crime the following year.

Since then, the remaining CBS channels seen in Europe and Africa were a subject for numerous speculations. One of which included the possible demise of CBS Justice in Africa and CBS Reality following their demises in some parts of Europe as reported. 

According to the Polish website satkurier.pl, CBS Europa will change its name to Film Cafe by August 21, 2024. From what we've discovered, this trademark was already in use by AMC Networks International for another TV channel in Scretonia.

The only difference here would be the logos while Film Café in Scretonia operates independently from the rest of Europe. Based on the style and font, the one set to replace CBS Europa in Poland is being aligned to the AMC channels viewed in the UK.

Despite the variation in logos, CBS Europa and Film Café offer similar premises as they are movie channels revolved on the female audience. From what we assume, AMC and Paramount might be looking to retire the CBS trademark across their portfolio. 

No word on what awaits the feed of CBS Justice but by my guess that will probably rebrand to True Crime while CBS Reality is shortened to Reality TV or becomes True Reality.

Sentech Launches Freevision Play, A Streaming Service With No Monthly Fees

State-owned broadcasting company Sentech has launched Freevision Play, a free streaming television platform that may compete with the likes of SABC+ and eMedia’s Openview.

Described by the company as a “ground-breaking over-the-top video streaming platform”, Freevision Play will offer free access to a “wide array of local and community TV and radio channels”.

“Freevision Play is available to everyone with an internet connection and can be accessed via smartphones, tablets and smart televisions,” Sentech said in a statement on Wednesday. The service is available through freevisionplay.co.za, the company said. A Freevision Play app is also available for major smartphone operating systems.

The platform empowers users with access to educational, informational and entertainment content.

None of the SABC channels was available, although it was offering a range of community channels, including Soweto TV and Cape Town TV as well as something called the Brics Africa Channel. There was also a limited number of radio stations available to stream, but again none of the SABC channels is offered. No major commercial channels are available either.

“The platform empowers users with access to educational, informational and entertainment content, thereby fostering learning and engagement across the nation,” Sentech said in its statement.

“For broadcasters, Freevision Play offers an innovative solution to reach a broader audience without the high costs associated with creating and maintaining their own OTT (streaming) platforms and the challenge of aggregating audiences,” it said.

“By joining Freevision Play, broadcasters can expand their viewership, engage with their audience more effectively, and generate additional revenue through advertising. Freevision Play takes care of the upfront investment costs. It creates a multi-tenant platform, giving viewers and listeners a diverse range of choices while providing broadcasters with new audiences and viewers.”

Sentech emphasises that Freevision Play is “completely free to access”. It said users can also get access to on-demand catch-up content without a subscription.

“This ensures that everyone, regardless of their economic status, can benefit from the wealth of content available on the platform,” it said.

Important Notice Dated 19 June

As some readers have already seen we're trying to make this website flexible to access so we've moved featured post to the homepage same with popular posts. On the other of ads, hoping to resolve that situation soon hopefully end of the week nothing guaranteed for now.

Recap To The Year: Zee World Formerly Exclusive To MultiChoice's DStv And GOtv Is Also Available On Canal+ (Africa), Freeview Play (UK) And Rakuten (UK)

Zee World is an Indian entertainment channel operated by Zee Entertainment Enterprises that distributes various films and series in English. Since its launch in 2015, the channel currently ranks as one of the top 10 watched channels on DStv.

It introduced audiences to the complicated love story of Pragya and Abhi in Twist Of Fate and Bani, Piya and Rano's sisterly bond in The Promise. It also made Africa enter center stage in Dance Africa Dance (now known as Dance Naija Dance).

MultiChoice reserved rights to Zee World for their DStv and GOtv platforms but since Canal+ continued investment toward the company also offers the channel. As reported, MultiChoice will soon be owned by Canal+ as they seek to get approval from legislation. 

Since 2024, Rakuten and Freeview Play both of which are online platforms residing in the UK also package Zee World. Making this the first market outside of Africa and beyond the capacity of MultiChoice/Canal+ to offer the channel.

Lastly, eMedia Investments and StarTimes spun off the brand into a separate channel, Zee One. Described as a lightweight version to Zee World offers content already viewed on the brand while also licensing content that hasn't been viewed on the channel.

Unlock The Magic Of Co-Viewing With Your Children And Care Bears On Cartoonito Africa

Join in on the bellywarming journeys of the Care Bears. They are back with an all-new six-episode special titled ‘’Care Bears: Unlock the Magic”, scheduled to debut on Cartoonito Africa on Monday 1-7 July at 8:30 CAT. It will feature prominent characters like Tenderheart Bear, Wish Bear, Cheer Bear, Grumpy Bear, and Funshine Bear, and introducing the new addition, Togetherness Bear in one of the episodes. In relation to previous animations this special will introduce new exciting adventures to viewers.

The special follows this group of lovable BFFs who go on adventures and live the sweet life. Each special reveals a unique storyline, pushing the Care Bears into unfamiliar territories where they must rely on more than just their signature belly badge magic and empathy. They lean on each other and learn more about themselves, embracing courage, determination, and friendship to keep spreading those good caring vibes to the world.

We encourage parents to tune in and reap the benefits of co-viewing with their little ones, giving them the gift to reminisce on the iconic generational Care Bear themes. They can enjoy peace of mind from child safe programming and the return to the nostalgic 2D animation style. This time

spent together is beneficial for parent/child relationships and emotional development, all done in a fun and fulfilling way. Care Bears is the perfect watch to ‘unlock this magic’ and create those memorable moments. 

 

As expressed by Amanda Rogaly, founder of Baby Yum Yum, "Co-viewing Care Bears: Unlock the Magic isn't just about watching a show; it's about creating magical moments together. As parents, we can have the opportunity to join our little ones on adventures filled with friendship, kindness, and the power of positivity. Care Bears has been a beloved franchise for generations, and now, through the animated series, we can share its timeless messages of love and compassion with our children, weaving a tapestry of joy and connection that transcends generations."

 

Care Bears Competition

Along with all that whimsical fun, be the one to win some Cartoonito and Care Bears merchandise worth over R2000! Head over to the Cartoonito Africa website and answer a very simple question to enter. The competition will run from 24 June – 7 July. The winner will be randomly selected.

Tune in to Care Bears and unlock the magic of co-viewing together.

 

Let's create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime! The special premieres on Cartoonito Dstv Channel 302, from 1 – 7 July, at 8:30 CAT. New episodes will air at the same time every weekday. If you missed out on the care, DStv Catch Up has got you covered until 8 August.

Totally Spies! Live-Action Series In The Works At Amazon

A live-action TV series based on the cult classic French cartoon “Totally Spies!” is in development at Amazon with Will Ferrell as executive producer.

Described as a YA adaptation of the long-running Banijay Kids animated show of the same name, the new “Totally Spies!” will follow iconic best friends Clover, Alex and Sam as they navigate saving the world as international spies, while trying to survive the ups and downs of first year college life.

No writer or talent is currently attached to the potential “Totally Spies!” series, which is a collaboration between Amazon MGM Studios and Banijay Kids & Family, shepherded by Amazon’s head of Pan-English original series Rola Bauer.

Executive producing the project alongside Ferrell, under their Gloria Sanchez Productions banner, are Jessica Elbaum and Alix Taylor. Banijay Kids & Family CEO Benoît Di Sabatino is executive producer for the studio.

Created by Vincent Chalvon-Demersay and David Michel, the original “Totally Spies!” has aired nearly 200 episodes since debuting in 2001 and spawned a prequel film, “Totally Spies! The Movie,” and a spinoff series, “The Amazing Spiez!” The show recently premiered its seventh season in France and will air in the U.S. on Cartoon Network later this year. “Totally Spies!” is currently streaming on Amazon’s Prime Video.

“’Totally Spies!’ is a huge success for Banijay Kids & Family, having been translated in 60 languages and sold to more than 220 territories,” Di Sabatino said. “With a social media base of 3 million, the series continues to thrive in its animation form with the recently launched 7th season. Rola Bauer approached me for a live-action adaptation, and we were thrilled to partner with Amazon MGM Studios. With her, Ludovic Attal, and Punit Matoo’s support, we are honoured to join such a stronghold of female-focused producers in Gloria Sanchez Productions to produce for Prime Video.”

“Will, Alix and I are thrilled to be joining our partners at Amazon and Banijay to bring ‘Totally Spies!’ to life as a live-action show,” Gloria Sanchez president Elbaum said. “Gloria Sanchez was originally founded to tell stories about complicated characters and empower female voices and storytellers. As longtime fans of the animated show, we couldn’t think of a story more fitting to our ethos. The themes of girl-power, never sacrificing friendship, fun, or your true self to be successful resonated with us then, and feel ripe to revisit now.”

Sanlam To Buy 60% Of MultiChoice's Insurance Business

Sanlam will buy a 60% stake in MultiChoice's insurance business for R1.2bn in cash up front and a potential performance-based earn-out of up to R1.5bn, the groups said on Tuesday.

MultiChoice, Africa's biggest pay-TV company, said while its insurance business has demonstrated substantial growth in South Africa, its ambition to expand locally and in Africa “requires a step-up in resources, expertise and technology”.

“Sanlam's extensive presence and expertise in the African continent, coupled with its track record of success in insurance ventures with non-insurers, positions it strongly for a strategic venture with MultiChoice,” the companies said in a joint statement.

The potential cash earn-out payment is contingent upon the total gross written premium generated by the insurance business for the year ending December 31 2026, they added.

A pre-acquisition dividend of R59m will also be declared by MultiChoice's insurance business.

Shares in Sanlam were up nearly 5% up on Tuesday morning, while MultiChoice inched up 0.36%.

MultiChoice will retain a 40% interest in the insurance business and 40% in the broader commercial venture with Sanlam.

The deal gives Sanlam an opportunity to further expand its insurance and financial services business in Africa, the companies said. Opportunities outside South Africa will be facilitated through its SanlamAllianz business.

MultiChoice has a subscriber base of 21-million households in 50 African countries, while Sanlam operates in 31 countries, including eight of the top 10 largest African economies.