February 2026 On Disney Channel And Disney Junior Across South Africa | Returning Shows Including Disney Jr's Ariel | Movies Including Cars 3 | More

Also Read

DISNEY CHANNEL: DSTV CHANNEL 303

BIG CITY GREENS

SEASON 4 NEW EPISODES

STARTS 9 FEBRUARY

MON - FRI, 16:30 CAT 

Animated comedy-adventure series which follows the offbeat adventures of 10-year-old Cricket Green, a mischievous and optimistic country boy who moves to the big city with his wildly out of place family – older sister Tilly, father Bill and Gramma Alice. Cricket’s natural curiosity and enthusiasm lead him and his family on epic journeys and into the hearts of his new neighbours.

VAMPIRINA: TEENAGE VAMPIRE 

SEASON 1 NEW EPISODES

STARTS 16 FEBRUARY

MON – THU, 17:00 CAT

Vee leaves her home in Transylvania for boarding school, to chase her musical dreams. As she keeps her vampire identity a secret, unexpected obstacles threaten to return her to the shadows

MOVIE MAYHEM

OUR WEEKLY MOVIE SLOT – FRIDAYS AT 5PM

INVISIBLE SISTER

6 FEBRUARY

Cleo has always been overshadowed by Molly, her popular older sister. But when Cleo's Halloween science experiment causes a freak accident that leaves Molly invisible, it's now Molly who nobody notices. By working together to reverse the invisibility, the sisters learn to overcome their differences and find they have more in common than they ever expected.

CARS 3

13 FEBRUARY

Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers led by arrogant hotshot Jackson Storm, the legendary Lightning McQueen (Owen Wilson) is suddenly sidelined and pushed from the sport he loves. To get back on track, he’ll need the help of eager young racing technician Cruz Ramirez, inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected twists and turns of fate. Bring home the high-octane hit that’s fully loaded with unforgettable characters, spectacular animation and full-throttle fun!

GIRL VS. MONSTER

20 FEBRUARY

Skylar discovers her parents are monster-hunters after accidentally releasing some monsters from a secret containment chamber. Now these monsters are out for revenge, and she and her techno friends must recapture all the monsters and save her parents.

PRINCESS PROTECTION PROGRAMME

27 FEBRUARY

Carter is a small-town girl and couldn't be more different from Rosalinda, a South American Princess from the country of Costa Luna. The girls are thrown together after Carter's father, an agent in the covert Princess Protection Program, rescues Rosalinda from a military takeover. It's now up to the two to devise a plan to take down Costa Luna's dictator and return Rosalinda to her rule.

DISNEY JUNIOR: DSTV CHANNEL 309

DISNEY JR’S ARIEL

SEASON 2 NEW EPISODES

STARTS 23 FEBRUARY

12:00 CAT

Season 2 of Disney Jr. Ariel – The Little Mermaid makes its premiere from Monday 23 February and, in this season, Ariel and her pals discover a magical new undersea realm and embark on imaginative journeys through the beautiful Crystal World, meeting new friends like the adventurous mermaid Akiko and her crystal axolotl, Axyl.

Canal+ Looking To Launch It's Own Streaming Service In Place Of Showmax

Also Read

Canal+ SA is considering deploying its streaming app, which includes deals with Apple TV and Warner Bros Discovery’s HBO Max, to clients of South African pay-TV operator MultiChoice Group, which the French firm bought last year.

“All of the content is embedded on the Canal+ app, and as a user, you do not have to go on another app,” chief financial officer Amandine Ferre said in an interview on Thursday.

Canal+ gained control of MultiChoice — part owner of streaming service Showmax with Comcast — late last year in a deal that valued the African platform at about $3 billion.

The Johannesburg-based firm’s operations are mainly in the south and east of the continent, as well as Nigeria and Ghana, while the French company already has a presence throughout francophone western Africa.

It hasn’t taken a final decision on what to do with Showmax — MultiChoice’s streaming offering — or on the roll-out of the Canal+ app to countries where MultiChoice operates, Ferre said.

Canal+ shares surged as much as 15% in London on Thursday and are at a record.

The combined entertainment platform will likely deliver more than €400 million in earnings before interest, tax and amortisation, and about €300 million in free cash flow cost savings by 2030, it said in a statement Thursday.

Canal+ is working to start growing MultiChoice’s subscriber numbers after the company lost almost 3 million customers over the past two financial years.

It has already renegotiated a contract for set-top boxes and has provided cheaper units since November, she said.

“We are really working on the entry ticket and the best packages, and making sure we have the best price,” said Ferre.

The combined entity has returned National Basketball Association content to the SuperSport offering after an eight-year break, and also added French Ligue 1 football matches to its platform.

MultiChoice was created by Cape Town-based Naspers.

In 2019, the company was spun off from Naspers and in 2024, Canal+ made a takeover approach. Its premium service is priced at about $60 a month.

February 2026 On Cartoon Network And Cartoonito Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Pokémon The Movie - Hoopa And The Clash Of Ages | Returning Shows Including Mr. Bean | More

Also Read

Cartoon Network

The Wonderfully Weird World Of Gumball S2 - New Season

Welcome back to Elmore, where the laws of reality are a joke, and family life is anything but ordinary. Whether he's battling an evil fast-food empire, facing off against a sentient AI in love with his mom, or trying to stop Banana Joe from wearing pants, Gumball Watterson drags his brother Darwin, sister Anais, and the rest of the town of Elmore along for the ride.

Regular Show - Rebroadcast 

Mordecai, a blue jay, and Rigby, a raccoon, are groundskeepers at a park, but these best friends are lazy and don't let their jobs interfere with their ability to have fun. While Mordecai tries to be responsible and do a good job, he's frequently led astray by his immature pal, who is totally without fear or shame. The friends often end up having to pay for their irresponsible actions as they usually get into more trouble than they anticipated. Their slacking off at work causes much chagrin for their hot-tempered gumball machine boss, Benson.

The Love Bug

"The Love Bug" on Cartoon Network refers to a recurring Valentine’s month programming event, specifically promoted in February. It featured popular Cartoon Network characters acting irrationally or "lovestruck" in special themed marathons.

POKÉMON 30TH ANNIVERSARY 

The entire year of 2026 is being celebrated as Pokémon's 30th Anniversary, as February 27, 2026 will mark the thirtieth anniversary of the original Japanese release of Pokémon Red and Green and therefore the thirtieth anniversary of the Pokémon media franchise as a whole.

Pokémon Horizons - New Episodes 

Two young adventurers on a quest visit new lands, unravel ancient mysteries, and encounter Pokémon and Poké Balls they have never seen before.

Pokémon the Movie: Hoopa And The Clash Of Ages

When Ash, Pikachu, and their friends visit a desert city by the sea, they meet the Mythical Pokemon Hoopa, who is able to summon things - including people and Pokemon - through its magic ring. After a scary incident, they learn a story about a brave hero who stopped the rampage of a terrifying Pokemon long ago. Now, that Pokemon is in danger of breaking loose again! Can Ash help overcome the darkness within - or will a dangerous secret erupt into a clash of legends?

Cartoonito

Mr. Bean S4 - New Episodes 

This series follows Mr Bean, his best friend Teddy and his long-suffering landlady Mrs Wicket as we witness more of the mishaps that surround Mr Bean's daily life.

Bugs Bunny Builders - New Episodes 

Bugs, Lola, Daffy, Porky and Tweety use their amazing vehicles to take on the looniest construction builds while learning valuable lessons -- they never give up, because The Looney Builders always get the job done.

Grizzy And The Lemmings - New Episodes 

Grizzy the bear loves to snack and relax in a Canadian forest cabin, where a pack of adorable, thrill-seeking lemmings are always making mayhem.

Scooby-Doo And Krypto Too!

Scooby and the gang join forces with Superman's dog when members of the Justice League mysteriously disappear.

Tom And Jerry: The Movie - Premiere

Kayla is responsible for organising a high-profile wedding in a fancy hotel. But when Jerry, a mischievous mouse, wreaks havoc in the hotel, she enlists his arch-rival's help to get rid of him.

Tom And Jerry: Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory 

Tom and Jerry help Charlie, an orphan, win a ticket to Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. However, they must deal with Wonka's rival from stealing his prized candy, the Everlasting Gobstopper.

Tom And Jerry Sherlock Holmes 

Tom and Jerry Meet Sherlock Holmes is a 2010 animated direct-to-video film where the iconic cat and mouse pair help the legendary detective solve a London jewel heist. While trying to assist Holmes and Dr. Watson in clearing the name of a singer named Red, the duo continues their classic rivalry. 

Happy Valentine's Stunt 

Similar to The Love Bug on Cartoon Network, it is a recurring programming event mainly in February which features various Cartoonito shows including Mr. Bean, Zig & Sharko, Masha And The Bear, Barney And Friends and Grizzy And The Lemmings.

Ben 10 (2016) Will Be Making A Re-entry On Several International Cartoonito Channels

Also Read

After Cartoon Network in Africa had picked up rights to Looney Tunes Cartoons and Scooby-Doo! And Guess Who? from Cartoonito. It has been reported that reruns of the Ben 10 reboot will be airing on Cartoonito in various European countries from February 2nd.

Confirmed territories include Balkans, Baltics (except Latvia), Benelux, CIS, Georgia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Poland and Slovenia. It is currently unknown if it's the same fate awaits the feeds in Africa but both are headquartered in the UK.

Warner Bros. Discovery had remained silent on the sudden inclusion of Ben 10 but if we had to guess several scenarios do come into equation.

Firstly, a lot of their cable networks ranging from TLC, ID and Travel Channel have begun cross promoting content for sometime. And it's very likely that Cartoonito is just following a trend.

Another is that Cartoonito had been operating under a different structure in the US and Europe. 

Despite replacing most Boomerang feeds by 2023, Cartoonito was still regarded as a family channel or the preschool equivalent to Cartoon Network. Ben 10 would serve a similar purpose as Spidey And His Amazing Friends on Disney Junior.

Synopsis for Ben 10 (2016)

During summer vacation, Ben, Gwen, and Grandpa Max travel across the country in their RV, the Rustbucket. Ben stumbles upon the Omnitrix, a mysterious high-tech watch that allows him to transform into ten different alien heroes, each with unique powers. Throughout their travels, Ben battles a variety of villains, including Dr. Animo, Hex, and Zombozo, while honing his skills as a hero with the help of his family. The series includes multi-part episodes that introduce significant arcs, such as the initial confrontation with the alien warlord Vilgax and the introduction of new aliens and armored forms in later seasons. 

From Discovery Channel To CNN: Could MultiChoice Have Broadened The Reach Of More Channels On DStv?

Also Read

During the week, it was confirmed by MultiChoice that DStv Access subscribers would be gaining 3 additional 3 channels. This would consist of 2 music channels Trace Ngoma and Trace Gospel alongside wrestling promotion WWE.

This news came right after several DStv subscribers had spotted this channels on the company's website now listed under Access. It appears that MultiChoice may have broadened the reach of more channels.

As it should be noted, MultiChoice was running an Upsize promotion for various DStv consumers which is scheduled to end by 31 January 2026. Since then, a majority of Warner Bros. Discovery's channels are now listed under particular packages.

And it goes follows:

Discovery Channel - DStv Premium to Compact 

Discovery Family - DStv Family to DStv Access

HGTV - DStv Family to DStv Access

Food Network - DStv Family to DStv Access 

ID - DStv Compact to DStv Access

Travel Channel - DStv Family to DStv Access

Cartoonito - DStv Family to DStv Access

CNN - DStv Compact to DStv Access

Canal+ made a last minute deal with Warner Bros. Discovery for these channels which led to HBO and Warner Bros. content to get exempted from M-Net. Now it appears that the value of the higher end packages are being diluted.

According to a rep at Warner Bros. Discovery and MultiChoice, these channels are part of the Upsize promotion which runs from November 2025 to 31 January 2026. Of course, it still doesn't answer why these channels are listed on these packages.

Global Phenomenon Landman Dubbed In Afrikaans On KykNET

Also Read

kykNET has struck a major blow for Afrikaans viewers by purchasing the dubbing rights to this hit series, which captivates audiences everywhere with nail-biting intrigue in the turbulent world of the Texas oil industry. 

“We are very excited to see how viewers will react to this series—including those for whom Landman is completely new, as well as those who may have already watched the series in English on M-Net and now want to experience it in their mother tongue. Landman is one of the major TV highlights of recent years, and we believe the story world created by Taylor Sheridan will be gripping for many kykNET viewers—and entertaining!” says Waldimar Pelser, M-Net Director of Premium Channels. “Be warned, however: it gets quite hot there in Texas!”

The series was created by Taylor Sheridan, who was also responsible for hit series such as Yellowstone, 1883, and 1923. Landman is set in West Texas and tells the complex story of a group of people—from billionaires to oil field workers—whose lives revolve around oil. 

Billy Bob Thornton stars as the landman Tommy Norris. In Afrikaans, a landman is someone involved in working farmland. In this case, it refers to the crucial link between oil companies and landowners; the one who must negotiate rights for extraction and development while considering legal regulations that a team of highly-paid lawyers naturally tries to bend in favour of their employers. 

Landman, however, does not only revolve around landowners and rich oil bosses. West Texas borders Mexico, meaning the area is also used by drug cartels as a distribution route. 

Who's who

• Tommy Norris (Billy Bob Thornton, voiced by De Waal Stemmet): A hardened landman working for M-Tex Oil who handles all their negotiations. Keeping everyone, from oil bosses to drug dealers, happy is no easy task.

• Angela (Ali Larter, voiced by Natasja Jacobs): Tommy's ex-wife and the mother of his two children, Cooper and Ainsley.

• Cooper (Jacob Lofland, voiced by Rowlen von Gericke): Studied geology but dropped out and now works for M-Tex as a roughneck on the oil fields.

• Ainsley (Michelle Randolph, voiced by Anré Buguegnon): A high school student.

• Rebecca Falcone (Kayla Wallace, voiced by Sue Pyler): A lawyer who does work for M-Tex Oil.

• Dale Bradley (James Jordan, voiced by Antowan Nöthling): A petroleum engineer and a good friend of Tommy.

• Monty Miller (Jon Hamm, voiced by Charl van Heyningen): The owner of M-Tex Oil who has a long-standing professional and personal relationship with Tommy.

• Cami Miller (Demi Moore, voiced by Renske Jacobs): Monty's wife.

• Nathan (Colm Feore, voiced by Jakkie Groenewald): An attorney and administrator at M-Tex Oil.

• Ariana Medina (Paulina Chavez, voiced by Claudia Jones): A young widow whose husband died in an accident on one of M-Tex Oil's fields. 

A formidable team of translators, including Morné Coetzer, Janine Opperman, and Francois le Roux, excelled at the challenging task of capturing the atmosphere of this brilliant series in Afrikaans. The dubbing directors are Rina Nienaber and De Waal Stemmet.

kykNET's Afrikaans version is one of the few dubbed versions of the series available worldwide. 

Showmax Has Been Deemed As Unsuccessful, Canal+ Looking To Wind Down On Investments

Also Read

Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada says MultiChoice’s streaming platform, Showmax, was not a commercial success and that the company will cut further investments into the service.

Speaking during Canal+’s presentation on cost-cutting targets following its acquisition of MultiChoice, Saada was asked about his company’s plans for Showmax.

“Showmax is not a commercial success. It’s quite obvious. There were a lot of dedicated investments on the marketing side, on the content side, on the technology side,” the CEO said.

“We are in a position to reduce those investments. They are included in the synergies. I won’t say how much, but it is significant.”

However, he explained that their strategy was all about growth. So, when making these decisions, Canal+ will be very careful to avoid losing potentially valuable subscribers.

“Although we are very quick at assessing the investments that we believe are required and those that are not. We are also very cautious not to negatively impact the top line,” Saada said.

“Otherwise, it would be like a bandaid we could rip off, but we are not going to do that. There was so much investment there that we had a lot of room to improve the situation.”

Groupe Canal+ gained control of the MultiChoice Group in September 2025, following a lengthy mandatory buyout process. The final phase of the transaction commenced on 13 October 2025.

MultiChoice first launched its Showmax streaming platform in 2015. However, it received significant upgrades and relaunched as Showmax 2.0 in February 2024.

The DStv-owner had high hopes for the revamped platform, pinning its entire future on it and telling investors that it expected to generate $1 billion (R15.7 billion) in net revenue in five years.

The first indications of MultiChoice’s plans for Showmax surfaced in March 2023, when it announced a deal that would give its streaming service access to the technology behind NBCUniversal’s Peacock.

The deal’s terms stipulated that MultiChoice would sell a 30% stake in Showmax to NBCUniversal and Sky.

Showmax 2.0

MultiChoice invested in marketing, technology, and new content for Showmax’s relaunch. MultiChoice announced three subscription plans for Showmax alongside its relaunch.

These are Showmax Entertainment, Showmax Entertainment Mobile, and Showmax Premier League. The latter is a mobile-only subscription providing access to all 380 English Premier League matches.

Showmax Entertainment offers content like series, movies, and kids’ shows. It is also available in a mobile-only format for a lower monthly fee.

Showmax’s relaunch included an expanded local catalogue, including 21 Showmax Originals from four African countries. It promised that 1,300 hours of new Showmax Originals would be released in 2024.

The company’s strategy aimed to leverage the African streaming market entering an anticipated boom phase, and position Showmax to become the continent’s leading video streaming service.

It highlighted that Africa is home to more than 450 million smartphone users and 250 million football lovers, which MultiChoice saw as a significant untapped market.

“It is critical that we make our move now before others reorganise themselves and make a play for Africa, which is seen as the last remaining growth market,” MultiChoice Group CEO Calvo Mawela said.

A year after Showmax’s relaunch, MultiChoice said it was seeing significant growth in its subscriber base, with the number of paying customers increasing 50% year-on-year by September 2024.

“It was a landmark year for Showmax, which grew its paying subscriber base, excluding discontinued services, by 50% year-on-year,” it said.

In its results for the period, the broadcaster said it expected the growth to accelerate as its strategic initiatives start to bear fruit.

“Showmax streamer was named Best Television/Streaming Network at The National Film and TV Awards South Africa and Entertainment App of the Year at the Stuff App Awards,” it added.

While the streaming platform recorded further year-on-year growth in the 2025 financial year, it hasn’t been the success that MultiChoice had envisioned.

The streamer recorded 44% year-on-year growth and said the number of Showmax Originals offered on the platform had increased to 89.

The revenue it generated during the financial year was approximately R750 million, and MultiChoice said its revenue growth was impacted by discontinued products, like Showmax Pro, ahead of the relaunch.

MultiChoice initially projected that Showmax would make trading losses, which would begin decreasing by the 2025 financial year. However, the opposite happened.

MultiChoice’s latest annual results showed that Showmax’s trading loss had worsened by 88% from R2.6 billion to R4.9 billion. At the same time, revenue also significantly declined.

“The increased trading losses reflect the start-up nature of the business, with a step-change in content costs and increased platform costs,” MultiChoice said.

“Its results were also impacted by discontinuation of the Showmax Pro and diaspora packages in 2H FY24, prior to re-launch.”

The Group also recognised a R1.5 billion net loss from Showmax in its bottom line for its last financial year. Considering it owns 70% of the platform indicates that its overall net loss was R2.15 billion.

Canal+ Expects Billions In Savings After MultiChoice Deal

Also Read

Canal+ expects to generate more than €400-million (R7.5-billion) in annual earnings “synergies” from its acquisition of MultiChoice Group, underlining the strategic importance of Africa to the French media group’s long-term growth ambitions.

In a statement released on Thursday, Canal+ said the combined group is targeting run-rate cost synergies of more than €400-million at earnings before interest, tax and amortisation (Ebita) level, and more than €300-million in free cash flow, from 2030 onwards.

The group said the acquisition, which gave Canal+ effective control of MultiChoice in September 2025, had created a “unique global entertainment platform” anchored in Europe and Africa, with increased scale allowing it to optimise costs across content, technology and other group functions.

Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada said the deal positioned the group to capitalise on Africa’s long-term growth potential, while also delivering substantial efficiencies. “Our increased scale will enable us to generate substantial synergies, particularly across our cost base,” he said.

Africa is central to Canal+’s growth plans. The company said a combined management team is now responsible for all African markets under the leadership of Canal+ Africa CEO David Mignot, bringing together executives from both businesses.

The group cited favourable long-term trends on the continent, including rapid population growth, improving economic prospects and rising electrification and pay-TV penetration. Canal+ said its African subscriber base grew from 400 000 to nine million between 2010 and 2025, while MultiChoice’s customer base expanded from 3.9 million to 14.1 million over the same period.

Cost base

Together, the combined group has more than 40 million subscribers and operates in more than 70 countries. Canal+ said it is targeting between 50 million and 100 million subscribers over the longer term.

The company added that work is already under way to return MultiChoice’s African operations to growth following subscriber pressure in recent years. Further details on its plans for MultiChoice markets will be shared alongside Canal+’s full-year results in March.

Canal+ estimates the combined group’s 2025 cost base at around €8-billion, split between content costs of about €4.6-billion and technology and other costs of roughly €3.4-billion.

Cost synergies are expected to ramp up steadily, with more than €150-million in Ebita and free cash flow benefits targeted in 2026, rising to more than €300-million by 2028 and reaching full run-rate levels from 2030.

The group said more than €80-million of free cash flow synergies for 2026 have already been secured, including through new content partnerships, renegotiated hardware prices, optimisation of broadcasting and technology infrastructure, and the refinancing of MultiChoice’s long-term debt.

Implementation costs linked to the integration are expected to total about €35-million in 2026, rising to €40-million in 2028 and then declining to €20-million in 2030.

To support delivery of the synergies, Canal+ has centralised key group functions, including sports and entertainment content acquisition, technology, and procurement. It has also established dedicated governance structures to track and manage integration and cost savings.

Canal+ will provide further detail on the combined group’s strategy when it publishes its results for the year ended 31 December 2025 on 11 March 2026.

Canal+ Might Be Shedding More Costs On SuperSport With The Upcoming Spring Classics

Also Read

The Spring Classics are an early season event that kicks off the major pro cycling calendar, with Milan-San Remo (longest one-day race, often sprint finish), Strade Bianche (gravel roads, dramatic), and Paris-Roubaix (cobbled sectors, iconic) being huge draws.

SuperSport historically covered many events (e.g., Tour de France via ASO partnerships), but different organizers hold rights: ASO for Paris-Roubaix, RCS for the Italian races. This leads to gaps where SuperSport secures some but not others.

In an enquiry, SuperSport had confirmed they secured rights to the Paris-Roubaix but not Milan-San Remo and Strade Bianche. It's less likely that SuperSport will try to secure them at a later stage.

Rights for these races (organized by RCS Sport) are typically secured well in advance for major broadcasters. The races will commence in March with Strade Bianche on March 7 and Milan-San Remo around March 21.

Fans will have to rely on VPNs, international streams, or other platforms as workarounds.

Several scenarios do enter the fray as to why SuperSport opted to not secure the rights. Firstly, Canal+ took over MultiChoice in late 2025 and had been slashing costs within the company as seen with Philly's Games and World Darts Championship.

Another stems from licensing costs, the relatively small South African cycling fanbase, and rights fragmentation.

February 2026 On Travel Channel, Discovery Family And Real Time Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Selena + Restaurant | Returning Shows Include Salvage Hunters: The Restorers | More

Also Read

Travel Channel 

Naked and Afraid S1

NEW TO CHANNEL

One man and one woman, who meet for the first time in the nude, are paired and tasked with surviving in some of the world's most extreme environments for 21 days with no food, water or clothing.

First TX: 9 February

TX Day: Weekdays

TX Time: 14:20

Last TX: 26 February

Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives S1 & S2

NEW TO CHANNEL

Guy Fieri road trips across America to check out classic greasy spoons. With a new generation of owners and delicious homemade food, these are the kind of places that make America special.

First TX: 9 February

TX Day: Weekdays

TX Time: 13:30

Last TX: 24 February

Returning shows include House Hunters International S134, S133, S135 on 4 February at 06:00 (ends 27 February).

Discovery Family 

Expedition X S1

New to Channel

Josh Gates and his team investigate the realms beyond the "unknown ."

First TX: 20 February

TX Day: Weekdays

TX Time: 21:05

Last TX: 3 March

Into the Jungle with Ed Stafford S1

New to Channel

Ed Stafford sets up an extreme survival school that will put struggling modern dads and their children through the toughest challenges.

First TX: 2 February

TX Day: Weekdays

TX Time: 20:10

Last TX: 9 February

Wild & Weird America  S1

New to channel

Watch uproarious, real-life moments: backyard mishaps, car chaos, avalanche disasters, stunts, spills and thrills, all unforgettably caught on camer.

First TX: 20 February

TX Day: Weekdays

TX Time: 20:10

Last TX: 27 February

World’s Greatest Cars S1

New to channel

In the ultimate treat for petrolheads, top motoring experts count down the best vehicles ever made in this turbo-charged series.

First TX: 12 February

TX Day: Thursday

TX Time: 18:25

Last TX: 19 March

Returning shows include Salvage Hunters: The Restorers S4 on 23 February at 15:00 (ends 20 March) and Wheelers Dealers S14 on 10 February at 15:50 (ends 20 February).

Real Time

Who's Afraid of a Cheap Old House? S1

New to Channel

Historic house experts Ethan and Elizabeth Finkelstein help homebuyers find cheap, old properties and restore these architectural gems to new glory.

First TX: 2 February

TX Day: Weekdays

TX Time: 14:35

Last TX: 11 February

The Mountain Kitchen S1

New to Channel

For Annie Starke, it's all about great eats and good times as she prepares delicious meals indoors and over the fire at her family’s mountain ranch in Montana.

First TX: 11 February

TX Day: Weekdays

TX Time: 13:45

Last TX: 16 February

Selena + Restaurant S1

New to Channel

After working with the world's top chefs, Selena Gomez is raising the stakes! She heads out to work in Los Angeles' hottest restaurants, where she'll be put through her paces and have to learn fast to create a dish good enough for the restaurant's menu!

First TX: 16 February

TX Day: Mon-Wed

TX Time: 11:15

Last TX: 18 February

Returning shows include Lone Star Law S6 on 1 February at 23:20 (ends 24 February) and House Hunters International S197 & 198 on 9 February at 15:50 (ends 25 February).

February 2026 On Discovery Channel, TLC, HGTV, Food Network And Investigation Discovery channel Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Inside The Arrest | Returning Shows Include Fixer To Fabulous | More

Also Read

Discovery Channel 

Brand New

Ed Stafford's Rite of Passage S1

From 24 hours of agony in Brazil to jumping over bulls in Ethiopia, adventurer Ed Stafford courses the world to experience how indigenous peoples turn boys into men.

First TX: 4 February

TX Day: Wednesday

TX Time: 20:05

Last TX: 11 March

Brand New

Inside the Arrest S1

British police make 2,000 arrests a day, but one bad move can endanger themselves and jeopardize a whole investigation. Frontline experts analyze footage of the most dramatic arrest footage, revealing the detailed planning that goes into each operation.

First TX: 10 February

TX Day: Tuesday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 31 March

Returning shows include Filthy Fortunes S2A on 26 February at 20:05 (ends 16 April), Mud Madness S2 on 8 February at 21:55 (ends 5 April) and Gold Divers S13A on 23 February at 21:00 (ends 15 June).

TLC

* For the rest of Africa

Ruby & Jodi: A Cult of Sin & Influence S1

New To Channel 

Mom vlogger Ruby Franke and rogue therapist Jodi Hildebrandt preach discipline — and yet behind closed doors, their teachings fuel a cult-like system of control, isolation and abuse . When a child escapes, the truth unravels and echoes beyond prison walls

First TX: 1 February

TX Day: Sunday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 22 February

Toxic S1

New to Channel

Elizabeth Chambers had to unravel the lies and red flags of her own marriage . Now, she meets with victims to investigate how love turns toxic

First TX: 10 February

TX Day: Tuesday

TX Time: 22:00

Last TX: 17 March

*Amazing Water Homes S1

New To Channel 

Follow individuals, couples and families as

they search for the amazing waterfront

home of their dreams .

First TX: 1 February

TX Day: Sunday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 22 February

Returning shows include 1000-lb Sisters S6B on 20 February at 21:00 (ends 17 April) and 90 Day: The Single Life S5 on 25 February at 20:00 (ends 10 June).

HGTV

Cheap A$$ Beach Houses S1

Brand New

Big beach dreams meet small budgets as buyers search for affordable homes in the sand, chasing their slice of seaside paradise where the views are priceless without wiping out their wallets .

First TX: 23 February

TX Day: Monday

TX Time: 22:00

Last TX: 13 April

Returning shows include Fixer to Fabulous S7 on 10 February at 22:00 (ends 7 April) and House Hunters: Amazing Water Homes S4 on 1 February at 21:00 (ends 1 March).

Food Network

Baking Championship: Next Gen S1

Brand New

For the first time ever, 12 teams of young siblings between the ages of 8 - 14 compete to win $25,000 and become the next generation of Baking Champions!

First TX: 27 February

TX Day: Friday

TX Time: 16:05

Last TX: 24 April

Returning shows include Bobby's Triple Threat S4 on 16 February at 17:00 (ends 20 April) and Guy's Grocery Games S39 on 15 February at 17:00 (ends 3 May).

Investigation Discovery

Louvre Heist: Minute by Minute

New to channel

Dive into a real-time investigation of the shocking daylight robbery at Paris' Louvre Museum. Former thieves, security staff, eyewitnesses and investigators piece together the crime and ongoing chase to recover France's crown jewels before it's too late.

First TX: 1 February

TX Day: Sunday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX:1 February

Inside the Heist S1

New to channel

Experts go behind daring robberies to reveal how the criminal elite use their ingenuity to plan the world's most iconic heists.

First TX: 1 February

TX Day: Sunday

TX Time: 21:00 & 21:55

Last TX: 22 February

Returning shows include The Curious Case of…S2A on 9 February at 21:55 (ends 30 March) and Body Cam S6A on 18 February at 21:55 (ends 22 April).

New Dragonball Super Anime Has Been Announced

Also Read

An extensively remastered version of the popular anime series “Dragon Ball Super” will premiere in fall 2026 under the new title “Dragon Ball Super: Beerus,” the franchise announced at the Dragon Ball Genkidamatsuri event in Japan.

The enhanced edition features comprehensive visual upgrades including new animation cuts, revised sequences, complete re-rendering of all footage, freshly recorded voice acting, and an overhauled musical score and sound design. The project, which commenced several years ago, aims to deliver a more faithful adaptation of creator Akira Toriyama’s original work through cutting-edge visual techniques.

The announcement was made during a live stage presentation at Makuhari Messe, with voice actors Masako Nozawa (Son Goku) and Koichi Yamadera (God of Destruction Beerus) appearing alongside executive producer Akio Iyoku.

A launch trailer and key visual were unveiled at the event, showcasing the enhanced production values. The narrative follows the God of Destruction Beerus awakening from a prolonged sleep and targeting Earth after hearing about a Saiyan who defeated Frieza, setting up a confrontation with Goku and his allies.

The enhanced series represents a complete reconstruction of the original “Dragon Ball Super” television anime, which featured Toriyama’s original work, story concepts and character designs. The production promises heightened visual immersion, particularly in battle sequences.

The same event also revealed “Dragon Ball Super: The Galactic Patrol,” a separate new anime series that continues the storyline following the “Universe Survival Arc” from the 2015-2018 broadcast run.

More Mergers And Acquisitions On The Horizon

Also Read

Since last year, MultiChoice now forms part of the Canal+ ecosystem after the French company managed to acquire full ownership of the brand. This has led to various enhancements like NBA on SuperSport and the expansion of Zacu TV to DStv.

Now, all eyes are on Warner Bros. Discovery whose entangled themselves in a feud with Paramount as Netflix serves as frontrunner for its streaming and studios company. 

Paramount wants to acquire the entirety of Warner Bros. Discovery who plan to form Discovery Global which houses all the cable networks. At the moment, we're just standing in the sidelines waiting to see how this matters continues escalating.

Below is other deals I believe consumers should be on the lookout for some could be speculated 

Warner Bros. Discovery

During the bidding process, Warner Bros. Discovery had stated they've got several solicited offers from potential buyers some like Netflix are in it for the studios. Then Paramount wants to buy the whole enchilada which would risk over $50 billion in debt.

Would you believe me if I said that shareholders at Warner Bros. Discovery can do without Paramount's offer?

Even if the Netflix deal fails, Warner Bros. Discovery can continue to split the company and look to sell the split parts and still make as much as Paramount's current offer which is $108 billion.

According to some insiders, Starz Entertainment and Standard General have both been eyeing Warner's cable networks. It should be noted that there's barely any overlap in assets making approval chances a lot higher.

It's clear here that both companies similar to Canal+ are trying to increase scale in a landscape ruled by social media and YouTube. They both lack broad appeal and Discovery Global gives them that advantage.

At the time news of their bids were made transparent it was stated that it was not applicable. That doesn't mean they're not interested, they're probably focused on the Netflix deal and will explore this at a later stage.

Paramount/NBCUniversal 

If Paramount is able to own CNN and Cartoon Network expect massive cost synergies amounting to possibly $5 billion. They'll be wasting over $100 billion to get what they want and in most M&As the acquiring company tries to recover those funds.

Some sources have indicated or speculated that if their bid fails to garner traction. The other option would be a possible buyout or merger with either Lionsgate and NBCUniversal.

NBCUniversal's owners Comcast served as another bidder for Warner Bros. Discovery whose plans included merging it with NBCUniversal. This was the only way they could get clearance for the deal as Trump dislikes the company's CEO and CNBC.

Since then, various media outlets long predicted that Comcast could explore a potential sale or partnership for the brand and who better than Paramount.

Before Skydance acquired Paramount, they were talks of the two potentially merging and in Europe the two are basically partners with the rollout of SkyShowtime.

A+E Global Media

Starz Entertainment which had already made a bid for Warner Bros. Discovery's cable networks had also explored acquiring A+E Global Media. They'll probably be more updates on this during the year as of right now it's kind of quo.

A+E Global Media is responsible for the distribution of Lifetime and History channels in the US while in Europe those rights are held by Sky Studios.

Canal+

MultiChoice isn't the final pitstop in buyouts for the French broadcaster as they acquired majority stake in a MC Vision. A Mauritius based broadcaster operating in French speaking Africa.

They also have stakes in VIU which is based in Southeast Asia and Viaplay in the Nordic regions. All of these the French broadcaster could look to gobble within the year as they aim to reach 50 million to 100 million subscribers by 2028.

Another buyout that wouldn't surprise me for the year would be for Senegalese based production company, Marodi TV.

ITV

A few years ago, ITV Choice was yanked from DStv consumers and since then the channel's owner ITV plc had been undergoing restructure. This included and was not limited to a sale of their company.

CVC Capital Partners, TF1 Group, RedBird Capital Partners, All3Media, Mediawan and KKR had been linked to as potential buyers. Even Comcast's Sky had entered talks to acquire only the linear networks and ITVx.

February 2026 On TNT Across Africa | Love Beyond Romance Stunt With Channel Premiere: Bridesmaid | TNT Hit Stunt With Channel Premiere: Warcraft | More

Also Read

*premieres in bold

Love Beyond Romance

Stunt

This Valentine’s Day, TNT Africa is flipping the script on love! From quirky crushes to laughout-loud breakups, and friendships that steal the spotlight, we’re serving up a marathon of feel-good hits that prove love isn’t just about roses and candlelight.

Saturday, 14 February

11:40 Happy Feet (2006)

13:29 Shrek The Third (2007)

15:05 We Broke Up (2020)

16:28 The Nutty Professor (1996)

18:05 Pitch Perfect (2012)

20:00 Bridesmaids (2011)

Mind Games

Stunt

Step into the shadows this February with a thrilling lineup where nothing is what it seems. Every Sunday, brace yourself for psychological warfare, shocking revelations, and mindbending twists that will leave you questioning everything.

Sunday, 1 February

17:35 The Negotiator (1998)

20:00 Split (2017)

22:00 Fight Club (1999

Sunday, 8 February

17:50 Inside Man (2006)

20:00 Ex Machina (2015)

21:55 Get Out (2017)

Sunday, 15 February

18:10 Paper Spiders (2020)

20:00 The Purge (2013)

21:35 The Devil’s Advocate (1997)

Sunday, 22 February

18:15 Emily the Criminal (2022)

20:00 The Game (1997)

22:10 Us (2019)

Heatwave Action

Stunt

Every Friday, dive headfirst into epic battles from scorching deserts to untamed jungles. These stories are packed with adrenaline-fueled thrills that will leave you breathless!

Friday, 6 February

18:25 The Mummy (1999)

20:30 Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985)

Friday, 13 February

18:50 Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior (1981)

20:30 Gladiator (2000)

Friday, 20 February

18:10 Apocalypto (2006)

20:30 Journey 2: The Mysterious Island (2012)

Friday, 27 February

18:25 Point Break (1991)

20:30 Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

TNT Hit

Stunt

Synopsis: A few human survivors must team up with a group of dissenting Orcs to stop an Orc horde from invading their planet through a magic portal.

Saturday, 7 February

20:00 Warcraft (2016)

M-Net Acquires Rights To Historical Drama King & Conqueror, Canal+ Will Launch It Simultaneously In Over 40 Countries

Also Read

CANAL+ announces the exclusive launch-window premiere of the historical epic series KING & CONQUEROR starting February 12 in over 40 countries across Europe and Africa where the group operates. This large-scale, simultaneous multi-territory launch is a first for a series licensed by CANAL+ and illustrates the group’s global strategy in licensing and launching content.

Following Canal+'s takeover of MultiChoice in late 2025, this deal has been extended to include M-Net. This serves as one of the various enhancements the French company told regulators to expect on DStv.

The inclusion of King & Conqueror comes after the company announced it no longer has rights to premium TV series from HBO and Warner Bros. content. With HBO Max, that might be gearing up to rollout in Africa sometime in the year.

KING & CONQUEROR is the story of the clash for the English throne between Harold of Wessex and William of Normandy (who would become William the Conqueror), portrayed respectively by James Norton (HAPPY VALLEY, PLAYING NICE) and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (GAME OF THRONES). The cast also includes Emily Beecham, Clémence Poésy, Juliet Stevenson, Eddie Marsan, and Jean-Marc Barr.

KING & CONQUEROR

British series – 8 episodes of 52 minutes

Created by Michael Robert Johnson

Executive produced by Michael Robert Johnson as well as James Norton and Kitty Kaletsky for Rabbit Track Pictures, Baltasar Kormákur and Magnus Vioar for RVK Studios, Robert Taylor for The Development Partnership, Dave Clarke and Richard Halliwell for Shepherd Content, Ed Clarke, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, and CBS Studios’ Lindsey Martin.

Directed by Baltasar Kormàkur, Balint Szentgyorgyi, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Erik Leijonborg

Written by Michael Robert Johnson, David Mar Stefansson, Sam Hoare and Rachel Kilfeather

Produced by The Development Partnership, Rabbit Track Pictures, Shepherd Content, RVK Studios and CBS Studios in association with the BBC.

International distribution: Paramount Global Content Distribution

Starring James Norton, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Emily Beecham, Clémence Poésy, Juliet Stevenson, Eddie Marsan and Jean-Marc Barr.

When King Edward dies in 1066 without an heir, Harold of Wessex and William of Normandy engage in a fierce struggle to seize the English crown, culminating in the Battle of Hastings. A clash between two dynasties that defined a country – and a continent – for centuries.

DStv And Showmax Subscribers Bid Farewell To Euphoria And Peacemaker As Canal+'s Doesn't Renew Content Deal For HBO And Warner Bros.

Also Read

Last year, Canal+ and Warner Bros. Discovery created a media debacle when it was announced that Cartoon Network and 11 other channels would be removed from DStv. Paramount was already closing 4 other channels on the platform.

It was not until a last minute deal was reached where Canal+ thought of merging MultiChoice's contract with that of its operations in Europe. This deal included a possible rollout of HBO Max as Canal+ will be rolling it out in various markets.

Initially, it was reported by some outlets that this new agreement saved the licensing deals for M-Net and Showmax. But others were quick to spot it's sudden exclusion from this new agreement.

According to News24, this new agreement excluded premium TV series from HBO and Warner Bros. film and TV studios. This means DStv and Showmax consumers will be missing out on Game Of Thrones spinoff, A Knight Of Seven Kingdoms.

This is because Canal+ is busy slashing tires at MultiChoice with TLNovelas that is scheduled to close by 31 January 2026. 

MultiChoice had been losing subscribers with those numbers dropping from 17.3 million in 2023 to 14.5 million in 2025. This whole ordeal took a bigger plunge in some African markets particularly Kenya where cuts reached between 80% to 90%.

Canal+ is trying to put out a fire even if that means DStv and Showmax subscribers miss out on The White Lotus and House Of Dragons. As the French company deemed M-Net's agreement with Warner Bros. non viable.

As mentioned, MultiChoice has been losing DStv consumers and their premium market has been under siege post the pandemic.

M-Net has been the glue to the DStv Premium structure but with massive cord cutting seen in the United States and elsewhere. One channel alone isn't enough to entice viewers to subscribe especially if they're more affordable options.

That doesn't mean the loss of The White Lotus and The Glided Age won't impact M-Net's remaining viewers immensely as this will just lead to even more cord cutting for DStv.

Canal+ has been boasting about being a super aggregator and the plan is to have HBO Max funnel all this content. The problem is that for linear viewers that aren't streaming it only leads to even lesser content.

HBO Max's parent company is currently undergoing a takeover process by Netflix and should the deal succeed all this content will likely be made exclusive to the streamer.

Reminder: Paula S1 (Monday – Wednesday @ 21:00, Starts 19 January 2026) On SABC 3 (S3)

Also Read

Synopsis: – Paula and James are worlds apart. They might both live in Dublin, but Paula is a respected teacher, whereas James scratches out a living doing maintenance jobs and stealing from his mother. When Paula hears strange scuttling noises in her basement, she hires James to exterminate the rats and silence her fears. The two share a frenzied and fateful one-night stand. Paula is quickly pulled into a vicious game of cat and mouse. James seems to lurk on every street corner and behind every shadow – along with looming ghosts and silent children, buried shame and harrowing secrets. As James’ grip strengthens, Paula’s ‘normal’ life shatters. She is forced to dig deep, and access the darkest depths of her soul, in a battle to survive.

Episode Highlights

Episode 1 – Monday, 19 January 2026

Paula is trying to end an affair with the handsome but married teacher Philip, which hasn’t gone unnoticed by the headmaster. If that wasn’t enough, she discovers a rat infestation in her basement. Paula asks handyman James to sort out the problem. There is an instant spark of animal attraction between the two, leading to a passionate one-night stand. Everything is not as it seems with James, with too many mouths to feed at home he is desperate for money. The pressure is on him, and since meeting Paula something seems to be haunting James…. Having learnt about the affair he tries to blackmail Philip. Things go terrifyingly wrong when he flies into a rage.

Episode 2 – Tuesday, 20 January 2026

Paula struggles to come to terms with Philip’s death and Mac’s superior seems determined to believe that it was suicide. Paula notices some things missing from her home and starts to believe that James was involved in Philip’s death somehow, she enlists Mac’s help. James meanwhile is trying to cope living with two warring women; Crystal accuses Morgan of speaking to the police and reacts violently. James fears that the police are closing in on him and his hallucinations are getting worse. He goes on the run. Paula again is trying to cope with her brother’s alcoholism and is having nightmares herself.

Episode 3 – Wednesday, 21 January 2026

Mac tries to recover from the attack but faces fierce repercussions at work. Meanwhile James is facing charges. Determinedly Mac continues to dig into James’ past, discovering that he had a troubling start to life. As if things couldn’t get any worse for Paula, she faced with the awful reality that Callum may never fully recover. She and Mac continue to get closer, but she is haunted by the image of James coming after her. When he is released, she faces him once more, but this time she is prepared for a fight.

 

DStv In Trouble. Netflix Obtains Global Rights To Sony Group Films Including Spider-Man And Jumanji

Also Read

Netflix obtained global streaming rights to Sony Group’s films after they complete their run in theatres and pay-per-view, adding releases from one of Hollywood’s biggest studios.

A multiyear agreement announced on Thursday (Jan 15) expands a partnership the companies struck in 2021. That accord gave Netflix US rights to show Sony films after their theatrical release and after they are available for online purchase or rental, as well as rights in Germany and parts of Asia.

Sony Pictures will gradually start appearing on Netflix globally later this year as individual territory rights become available, the companies said in a statement, with the rollout complete by early 2029. As part of the deal, Netflix will also be able to license select films and TV series from Sony’s library, which includes hit franchises such as Spider-Man and Jumanji. 

The deal is worth roughly US$7 billion and runs till 2032, according to sources familiar with the matter, who asked not to be named as the terms are not public. It beefs up Netflix’s lineup of theatrical pictures, a slate that could grow even more if the streaming company acquires the studio operations of Warner Bros Discovery. It’s vying with Paramount Skydance with duelling bids for Warner Bros.

In 2024, Netflix expanded a deal with Comcast’s NBCUniversal, adding rights to stream live-action films to an agreement for animated pictures from the studio’s DreamWorks Animation and Illumination divisions. 

Starting in 2027, the live-action films from Universal Pictures and Focus Features, which include franchises such as Fast & Furious and Jurassic Park, will appear on Netflix “no later than eight months following theatrical release”, the companies said at the time.

DStv Needs To Be Restructured

Also Read

Rationality is realising that gone are the days when DStv could offer a bouquet of entertainment from across the world. As suppliers and consumers shift their focus to online viewing further reducing the portfolio for linear consumers.

In general, there's nothing wrong with DStv if it offered more Zee World than HBO content as that's where most consumers reside. It's not that House Of Dragons and The White Lotus aren't superb but most would rather pay for this if it were on Showmax.

If Canal+ is hoping to scale up on subscriber count through its MultiChoice buyout the only best option would be rethinking how content gets packaged.

The premium market needed to be restructured even before the pandemic. Consumers haven't gotten anything worthwhile outside of sports and what little is left is being duplicated and becoming more accessible on cheaper packages.

MultiChoice initially offered DStv Select 1 and 2 in South Africa and from what I recall it's active in few African markets. Think of DStv Easyview but with only the must haves of DStv but expensive which is M-Net, KykNET, BBC Earth and SS Grandstand.

This is something I believe needs to be revived somehow then there's the other which is a standalone sports package or add-on.

SuperSport takes a very large audience share within DStv while eMedia, SABC and even Netflix can offer select sporting events. SuperSport continues to offer the whole enchilada from Premier League, NBA, La Liga, WWE and Moto GP.

Canal+ you could try to offer a promotions to consumers who wish to see select sporting events.

Getting back to the packages, MultiChoice had explored an entertainment only package maybe split this offering into two separate packages. One package carries premium networks like Mzansi Magic while the other has Mzansi Wethu.

Existing Threat Awaiting SuperSport And DStv Customers

Also Read

In 2024, it was reported Netflix had acquired global rights to WWE's catalogue which include Raw, SmackDown, NXT and live PPVs like Summerslam. As of last year, it has been streaming in the US, UK, Canada and various other international markets.

At the time, SuperSport had confirmed that they remain the exclusive home to WWE's offering across Africa. Of course, this multi-year agreement between both parties was finalised back in 2022 and will conclude sometime in 2027.

If anyone remembers how Disney+ panned out, you had various countries in Europe and other parts of the world awaiting for the streaming service. This was because of existing agreements with other broadcasters.

Then when that fell through it opened up the doors for Disney+.

This is what is expected to happen with SuperSport once their current agreement for WWE expires. You won't have a 24 hour channel for old PPVs, Mzansi Magic and all other SuperSport channels will no longer have live broadcasts to Crown Jewel.

MultiChoice is less likely to replicate WWE and even if that were to be the case it's likely to end up like TNA Wrestling on e.tv. The only logical option would be bulking up the offering on SuperSport Action in the event WWE ceases to exist.

If I'm being honest here, SuperSport has a lot going for itself despite existing threats in the market. To some extent, recovery is possible for them unlike DStv which has seen more content being taken away without alternatives in place.

Maybe I'm exaggerating here and WWE continues through 2030 on SuperSport but if you read between the lines. This deal is sort of being built up like that of Disney+ were some things SuperSport can't prevent from occuring happen.

Were Mexican Imports On TLNovelas A Miss On DStv?

Also Read

As I've reported, TLNovelas will be going dark on DStv in the coming weeks likely as part of Canal+'s aggressive cost cuts at MultiChoice. The channel is on track to wrap up Love To Death and It Had To Be You as Fall Into Temptation concludes this week.

Fans of the shows feel like MultiChoice's response is vague because often when a channel is removed the same statements. All consumers want is some clarity and what led TLNovelas to become an afterthought as Telemundo lives another day.

Over the years, Telemundo had seen a major drop in primetime and TLNovelas was regarded to some of these viewers as their holy grace. It features content from Mexico's biggest broadcasters Las Estrellas with Rubi, Love Spell and A Woman Of Steel.

What went wrong?

Firstly, we live in a market which is dominant by African stories and this content takes up a 40% audience share in primetime. TLNovelas was most likely not pulling up those same numbers making it vulnerable to potential cuts.

As for Telemundo, this is basically the HBO of Spanish television with shows like Iron Rose and Queen Of The South commanding a wider audience. It wouldn't be something you'd just let go despite Canal+'s scrutiny.

TLNovelas entire existence was solely based on archived Mexican telenovelas and those can often lead to low viewership.

Another problem stems from TelevisaUnivison, they had existing agreements with other local broadcasters for these shows. TLNovelas was basically another Discovery Family or Nicktoons funneled with repeats for some viewers.

February 2026 On Studio Universal Across Africa | Super-Charged Week With Alita: Battle Angel | Valentine's Special With Channel Premiere: The Super Mario Movie | More

Also Read

Super-Charged Week

Mon 2nd – Sun 8th

Super-Charged Week returns to Studio, drifting into your February schedule for seven sensational days! A triple-billed, adrenaline-fueled takeover from 5pm

2 Fast 2 Furious

3rd February at 18:45

The second movie in the blockbusting action franchise hit cinemas two years after the original, with the pedal pressed all the way down. Former cop Brian O’Conner has moved to Miami, where he plans to turn over a new leaf. However, his love of street racing prompts him to fall foul of the law, and only a deal with the FBI to help take down a ruthless drug kingpin will keep him out of jail. Paul Walker reprises his role as O’Conner, while Chris ‘Ludacris’ Bridges and Tyrese Gibson co-star.

Bad Boys

3rd February at 20:35

Martin Lawrence and Will Smith play detectives Marcus Burnett and Mike Lowrey in this first outing in the action franchise. When millions of dollars’ worth of heroin recovered from a robbery is stolen from under their noses, they have three days to get it back before the narcotics division is shut down. But what should be an open-and-shut case hits closer to home than they imagined. Stay tuned during Super-Charged Week as Smith and Lawrence return in sequels Bad Boys II and Bad Boys for Life.

Alita: Battle Angel

7th February at 17:00

Robert Rodriguez directs this take on Yukito Kishiro’s blockbusting manga series, about a cyborg with no memory of who she once was. Named Alita by the scientist who revived her, she learns she has a human brain and, eager to know more, soon discovers there is also more to her creator than meets the eye. Determined to unravel the mystery of her past, Alita embarks on a violent journey of discovery. Rosa Salazar plays the eponymous lead, while Jennifer Connelly and Christoph Waltz co-star.

Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw

8th February at 21:25

A stellar cast features in this spin-off tale, focusing on chalk-and-cheese duo Luke Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson) and Deckard Shaw (Jason Statham). They are forced to put aside their many grievances and join forces to take down Brixton Lore (Idris Elba). He’s a psychopathic former MI6 agent with a brilliant intellect, pretty much indestructible, and in possession of a deadly pathogen he’s not afraid to use against humankind. Watch out for appearances by Ryan Reynolds and Helen Mirren.

Valentine’s Special + Action Weekend

Valentine’s Day Special: Sat 14th @ 6pm, Action Weekend: Sat 21st – 22nd Feb (Double-bills from 8pm)

Will Bowser woo Princess Peach with his awesomeness? Tune in to find out! and...No one should come between one man and his dog. Action Weekend? Try Action Wick-end!

The Super Mario Bros. Movie

14th February at 18:00

Look no further for Valentine’s Day romance than this channel premiere. Plumbing brothers Mario and Luigi’s business is on the brink of disaster, and they hope solving a city leak will put them back on top. Instead, a pipe whisks Mario to the Mushroom Kingdom, where Princess Peach rules, while Luigi ends up in the Dark Lands, where overlord Bowser aims to make Peach his bride. Mario and a host of characters set out to overcome all obstacles, save Luigi, protect Peach and preserve their business.

John Wick

21st February at 20:00

This beautifully choreographed action thriller not only revived Keanu Reeves’ flagging acting career, it spawned two sequels, a comic book and a spin-off. It all began here, with assassin John Wick, retired from his work and ready to embrace domestic bliss. However, the sudden death of his wife leaves him reeling, and when the puppy that was her last gift to him is killed by a mobster’s goons, Wick sets out to have his bloody revenge. Willem Dafoe, Alfie Allen and Michael Nyqvist also feature.

John Wick: Chapter 2

21st February at 21:50

Three years after the hit first film, Keanu Reeves is back as the stylish assassin in this sequel. After striking a peace deal with Abram Tarasov, Wick aims to go back to his quiet life. However, Camorra crime boss Santino D’Antonio has other plans, and calls in the debt that Wick owes him. Although he initially refuses (with violent consequences), Wick eventually agrees, only for the situation to spiral quickly out of control. Riccardo Scamarcio, Common and Ruby Rose are among the cast.

John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum

22nd February at 22:05

The third film in the blockbusting franchise catches up with the legendary assassin as he tangles with Manhattan’s criminal underworld while having a price on his head thanks to a fatal mistake. Every hired gun in the city and beyond is eager to bring Wick down and claim the bounty. With almost every form of help denied him, the suited and booted ‘excommunicado’ Wick must use every ounce of his wits to stay alive. Keanu Reeves again heads the cast, with Halle Berry and Laurence Fishburne.

Could Discovery Global Look To Overhaul Cartoon Network?

Also Read

Continuing onto last year, Warner Bros. Discovery is exploring a potential sale where Netflix bags IPs such as Harry Potter and Looney Tunes. Then there's Paramount that wants the whole enchilada including CNN, Cartoon Network and TLC.

For the part that Netflix excluded from the deal, the plan is to get that spun off into a separate entity, Discovery Global. It will be loaded in debt which amounts to $20 billion as Netflix takes up $10-$15 billion from its buyout of Warner Bros.

Discovery Global is expected to generate a lot of cash flow but with immense cord cutting as seen with that of Canal+'s DStv. The revenue will continue to plummet and channels like Cartoon Network and Cartoonito (or. Boomerang) aren't immune.

Netflix had stated that if it's buyout of Warner Bros. succeeded that the company would continue to operate independently. Licensing agreements with Canal+, Sky and even Discovery Global would be retained.

These means shows like Tiny Toons Looniversity and Teen Titans GO! would continue to be seen on Cartoon Network. But then there's lingering fears from various consumers about the viability of the brand under Discovery Global.

Bloomberg did it's piece on Cartoon Network last year where it was reported that the network makes between 15% to 20% of what it had in 2014. And also that Warner Bros. Discovery only relies on the brand for its older catalogue.

The fear for some here again is that Discovery Global will slash the tires of Cartoon Network or possible keep only the international variant. Think of Universal Kids, it's predecessors are Sky Kids in the UK and DreamWorks Channel everywhere else.

Discovery Global could lean more toward existing partnerships with Hasbro for Discovery Family and WeTV for MeTV Toons.

Trace Ngoma, Trace Gospel And WWE Channel Now On DStv Access???

Also Read

MultiChoice had been running an Upsize promotion on the DStv platform since November 2025 as part of a 30 year celebration. This meant lower packages would get access to premium content at no additional charge.

Unbeknownst to some viewers was the sudden inclusion of Trace Ngoma, Trace Gospel and the 24 hour WWE channel on DStv Access.

WWE Channel (Channel 128) is a dedicated 24-hour channel for all things World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). It offers flagship shows like Raw, SmackDown, and NXT, as well as pay-per-views documentaries, and archival content.

Trace Gospel (Channel 332) is a 24-hour music channel dedicated to showcasing the diversity and richness of local and international gospel music.

Trace Ngoma (Channel 326) is the new home for South African music and culture, with a strong focus on local genres and artists. "Ngoma" reflects themes of drumbeat, celebration, and heritage.

Last year, Paramount had shuttered MTV Base, BET, CBS Reality and CBS Justice due to a restructuring following it's buyout by Skydance. It was stated by MultiChoice that consumers could browse similar content on Mzansi Magic and Channel O.

This was their way of saying no plans are underway to retain Judge Judy much less rollout replacements. Consumers would be starting the new year with 4 less channels.

Since late 2025, Trace Africa, Trace Gospel and WWE brands which had been exclusive to DStv Premium, Compact+, Compact and Family are now listed on Access.

In an enquiry to MultiChoice, they were only able to confirm the inclusion of Trace Urban's other TV channels. We can only assume that maybe MultiChoice wants to make Access the premier destination for Gqom and Amapiano.

As for WWE, MultiChoice had been very mim about whether it's a permanent addition but if you do browse the company's services in other parts of Africa. WWE does serve as a permanent fixture to these consumers and oddly it wasn't the case in SA.