Could Siyaya TV Be Looking To Debut Another TV Channel On DStv?

Since last month, MultiChoice had begun test running a duplicate feed to Moja 9.9. on DStv platforms. The channel is known for airing older seasons to shows on Moja Love including X-Repo, Uyajola 9/9 and Kasi-2-Kasi.

Of course, the version MultiChoice had been test running for DStv households has a separate feed to the current Moja 9.9. It does lead to us wonder if Siyaya TV could as well be looking to build up localised feed if not rollout a separate channel.

MultiChoice has a bunch of TV channels with localised feeds including M-Net, M-Net Movies 1, TLC, Zee World, Disney Channel and Nickelodeon.

It's kind of alarming that there's a separate feed to Moja 9.9. in development if anything it would have made more sense if it was Moja Love. As its usually flagship brands that get this type of 5 star treatment not subordinates.

Maybe Moja 9.9. is just serving as a placeholder for the actual channel that MultiChoice is looking to add soon. It's also possible that this channel may never launch as Media24's Via went through a similar scenario a few years back.

Reminder: Bloedspoor Crawls It's Way Back To eExtra For A Second Season

eExtra, a general entertainment channel operated by eMedia Investments that offers telenovelas from Turkey and around the world has announced the return of Bloedspoor. The second season is scheduled to replace Chrysalis on 13 April at 21:00.

Synopsis for Bloedspoor S2

This season shifts from the investigation of a single murder to a broader, more psychological series of interlocking crimes that test the marriage of Ilgaz Kaya and Ceylin Erguvan. It begins with the discovery of four bodies in a well, setting off a dark new investigation. 

Ilgaz theorizes that the "Well Killer" is attempting to create a "target family" by abducting specific people to play roles in a twisted psychological game. Ceylin becomes one of the abducted targets and is held captive with others, forced to fight for survival while Ilgaz frantically searches for her.

It also explores the death of Serdar (a recurring antagonist from Season 1) shocks both families. Ceylin finds herself torn between protecting her family and her belief in justice when her niece, Parla, confesses to the crime.

Kaan Urgancıoğlu (Ilgaz Kaya) and Pınar Deniz (Ceylin Erguvan Kaya) reprise their roles in this season. This season will star Doğaç Yıldız as Ömer Tilmen/Yakup Atamer, Samet Kaan Kuyucu as Burak Yıldırım and Emir Özden as Tolga Çırmak.

Canal+ Might Look To Reduce Local Commentary At SuperSport

As some people may have heard, the Competition Commission is monitoring Canal+ following it's acquisition of MultiChoice in 2025. This includes the company's decision to shut down Showmax with voluntarily retrenchments also underway.

According to Rapport, there's growing fear amongst the media that Canal+ could look to reduce local commentary at SuperSport. This is because the French giant can't retrench staff and are looking for ways to save money.

One way they could look to save up on costs is by scrapping Afrikaans commentary during cricket matches. Especially if there's not much people using this option when the games are broadcast.

Not long ago, Solidarity had questioned SuperSport, on its decision for not providing Afrikaans commentary for the New Zealand series. Their claim was later rebuffed after it was revealed that no local commentary was done at all.

This was because of the low viewership count for these matches and even when they do broadcast matches with SA teams. It's normal for some matches to not be dubbed while others that do usually cover several local languages.

There was also concerns about Canal+ scaling back on locally produced shows for more dubbed series as seen with the American drama, Landman. 

It was stated by them that it would make no sense in scaling back this offering as it serves as a core component in their strategy. Making Landman available in Afrikaans only helps broaden the reach of this offering to more consumers.

Why A Revival Of M-Net's 1Magic And Me Is Unlikely?

Two years ago, MultiChoice and NBCUniversal unveiled the revamped Showmax streaming service which served as a distribution outlet for Universal Pictures, DreamWorks Animation and Telemundo. It even bolstered originals like Youngins and Adulting.

During that time, MultiChoice and M-Net also made the decision to do away with Me and 1Magic as part of its efforts to get more people onto Showmax. This had yielded lackluster success as Canal+ deemed the streamer a "commercial failure".

Under the Naspers regime, MultiChoice had put a lot of hopes in creating a rival for Netflix since 2024 but the losses continued to double each year. That Canal+ made the decision to discontinue Showmax and deploy its own streaming app in these markets.

With MultiChoice doing away with Showmax, there's several DStv consumers that are probably wondering if these means we'll getting back our M-Net Essentials (Me) and 1Magic.

If I had to be honest this kind of seems unlikely.

DStv had been in decline for several years with the consumer base that once hit the 20 million mark under 15 million. The losses spread across all areas of DStv with Canal+ looking to restructure these packages in order to gain more consumers.

Another reason I don't see anything like these channels coming  has to do with their streamlining endeavours post the relaunch of Showmax.

When 1Magic was first introduced a lot of people in the media didn't like the fact that MultiChoice was creating competition and diluting value from Mzansi Magic. Same goes for Me, reviving it would only dilute the value of Universal TV and Bravo.

Universal TV has got a lot more purpose after the cancellation of Me with The Equalizer, Hudson & Rex and NCIS. Same for Bravo, if 1Magic existed, people wouldn't dare watch to have watched The Real Housewives as the later season was on 1Magic.

Even under Canal+, it doesn't seem like they plan to launch any variants of these channels anytime soon. As Canal+ Afrique already distributes these channels for its Francophone Africa audiences through the DStv English Plus add-on.

However it appears they found new ways of getting these shows to more DStv consumers. As Landman had found its way onto KykNET after being made available exclusively on M-Net and I wouldn't be surprised if we got to see King & Conqueror.

Either way KykNET's induction into the international scene wouldn't dilute what's seen on Universal TV as they'd prioritise authenticity from Binnelanders and Tussen Ons.

Development Alert: uMakhwapheni To Make Its Freemium Debut On Zee One In South Africa

Zee One, an English dubbed Bollywood channel operated by Zee Entertainment Enterprises and spinoff to Zee World will now be importing shows from Zee Zonke. With uMakhwapheni being the first entry to consumers in South Africa.

Following Zee Zonke's successful launch on DStv, eMedia Investments had attempted to replicate this offering with the short lived Uzozisola Regrets. With JioStar that launched Star Khanya into the market as a rivalled broadcaster to the lineup.

With Zee Zonke being confined to DStv, Zee TV is using Zee One's existing footprint to increase its reach. Zee One will not only be competing with Star Life but also Star Khanya when uMakhwapheni launches on 30th March at 7PM CAT.

Synopsis for uMakhwapheni 

The story follows Radhika, a devoted and somewhat overprotective wife, whose life is turned upside down when she discovers her husband, Gurunath (often called "Garry"), is having an affair with his trendy colleague, Shanaya. 

Gurunath leaves Radhika for Shanaya, even attempting to kick Radhika out of their home.

Instead of giving up, Radhika undergoes a massive transformation. With the support of her friend Saumitra, she works hard to build her own business, eventually founding a successful spice company called Radhika Masale.

In a major twist, Radhika becomes the boss of the very company where Gurunath and Shanaya work, leaving them shocked by her success.

As the drama unfolds, Shanaya eventually realizes Gurunath's true nature and switches sides to help Radhika. Radhika moves on from her toxic marriage and eventually finds true love and happiness with Saumitra. 

Known in India as Majhya Navaryachi Bayko, uMakhwapheni launches on Zee One from 30th March at 6PM CAT.

Development Alert: Onesipho To Make Its Freemium Debut On Zee One In South Africa

Zee One, an English dubbed Bollywood channel operated by Zee Entertainment Enterprises and spinoff to Zee World will also air shows from Zee Zonke. With Onesipho being another entry to consumers in SA following uMakhwapheni.

Following Zee Zonke's successful launch on DStv, eMedia Investments had attempted to replicate this offering with the short lived Uzozisola Regrets. With JioStar that launched Star Khanya into the market as a rivalled broadcaster to the lineup.

With Zee Zonke being confined to DStv, Zee TV is using Zee One's existing footprint to increase its reach. Zee One will not only be competing with Star Life but also Star Khanya when Onesipho launches on 30th March at 6PM CAT.

Synopsis for Onesipho

The story follows Nayan, a simple small-town girl who is born with the gift of premonition—the ability to see visions of the future before they happen. While many in her village view her powers with suspicion, she often uses them to help others.

Through a series of unexpected events, Nayan marries Devansh, a wealthy man whose life is constantly in danger.

Nayan discovers that her visions are meant to protect Devansh. She becomes his "shield" against various threats, most notably from his own family.

The primary villain is Devansh's stepmother, Rita. Driven by greed, Rita repeatedly plots to kill Devansh so she can inherit his vast property. She is frequently assisted by her brother, Pompy.

Known in India as Nayan - Jo Vekhe Unvekha, Onesipho launches on Zee One from 30th March at 6PM CAT.

This Is Love, Former Glow TV Series Will Be Dubbed In IsiZulu And Broadcast On Star Khanya As Uthando Lento

Star Khanya, a Zulu dubbed Bollywood channel operated by JioStar had picked up rights to the Bollywood drama Uthando Lento. Known as Yeh Hai Mohabbatein (This Is Love) in India, the series airs on weeknights at 20:30 from 2nd April.

To South African audiences, Uthando Lento had already been broadcast on the defunct Glow TV brand as This Is Love. Now Star Khanya will be giving DStv consumers the opportunity to complete the show 7 years after it ended.

To recap, Glow TV was removed from DStv as part of extensive review carried out by MultiChoice. This was before any of the shows on Glow TV could wrap productions.

Consumers had to rely on alternatives just to watch Uthando Lento for which there was Openview as it once carried Glow TV. Then there was DStv Indian which featured shows from Glow TV suppliers such as StarPlus, Colors TV and Sony Max.

Now the catch here is that This Is Love is coming back to South African audiences but as Uthando Lento. It's not being picked up by Star Life which aired it's spinoff and has wider reach but is being alienated from most parts of Africa.

It's not airing in English and Hindi which is what would have been the case if it aired on Star Life but Zulu as that is Star Khanya's target market.

Synopsis for Uthando Lento 

The story begins with Ishita Iyer, a kind-hearted Tamil dentist who is unable to have children. She forms a deep bond with her neighbour's daughter, Ruhi Bhalla, who is often neglected by her hot-headed Punjabi father, Raman Bhalla. 

Raman is embroiled in a bitter custody battle with his ex-wife, Shagun, who left him for his business rival, Ashok Khanna.

To ensure Ruhi stays with a loving mother figure, Raman and Ishita enter into a "marriage of convenience" despite their constant bickering and cultural differences. As they live together, Ishita helps Raman heal from his past. 

Uthando Lento will air daily at 20:30 from 2nd April.

Channel Premiere: Play Room Unveils Fast & Furious: Spy Racers From DreamWorks Animation

Play Room, a South African based children's channel operated by Ngwato Nkosi Group that offers content in English and Zulu will rollout its first new series, Fast & Furious: Spy Racers. It will broadcast on the channel daily at 17:30 from 1st April.

Synopsis for Fast & Furious: Spy Racers 

Teenager Tony Toretto follows in the footsteps of his cousin Dom when he and his friends are recruited by a government agency to infiltrate an elite racing league serving as a front for a nefarious crime organization called SH1FT3R bent on world domination.

The series is executive produced by Vin Diesel, Neal H. Moritz, Chris Morgan, Tim Hedrick (Voltron Legendary Defender) and Bret Haaland (All Hail King Julien). Diesel, Moritz and Morgan also served as producers on the live-action Fast & Furious film franchise.

The cast features Tyler Posey (Teen Wolf) as Dom’s younger cousin turned spy racer Tony Toretto; Camille Ramsey as Layla Gray, a notable underground racer who works for SH1FT3R and Luke Youngblood (Harry Potter) as Frostee Benson, a 13-year old tech genius.

Prior to its broadcast on Play Room, Fast & Furious: Spy Racers was also broadcast on eToonz (South Africa), Showmax (Africa) and Netflix (international).

Fast & Furious: Spy Racers has yet to be made available on DreamWorks Channel as most of its later shows are available on these outlets. With the only exception being Play Room as this is their first with others like Rio and Shrek being films.

Athletics South Africa Exits SuperSport After 4 Years With Further Matches Set To Be Broadcast On SABC

DStv consumers have to brace for more bad news as Athletics SA had announced that their agreement with SuperSport had come to an end after 4 years. As the new owners Canal+ are busy aggressively slashing costs at MultiChoice.

Canal+ stripped SuperSport of its acquisition power with decisions over what to broadcast made in Paris. Since then, DStv consumers had missed out on various events like World Darts Championship, Winter Olympics and now Athletics SA.

According to Cash N Sport, Athletics SA was in talks with the SABC and SuperSport but couldn't come to an agreement over which events would air on either broadcaster. They were aiming to restructure their broadcasting agreement with SuperSport.

After SuperSport and Athletics SA formed an alliance to have these matches broadcast exclusively on DStv. The plan was to make a non-exclusive agreement which would give them a cheque and increased exposure from the SABC. 

With Athletics SA losing a major broadcaster like SuperSport, there's growing fear about how they'll plan to accommodate it's staff and put on races. Advertising alone can't accommodate sports as opposed to general entertainment.

Even though these matches would be broadcast on SABC, the broadcaster has fallen on troubled times and relied on sponsors to cover such events. With them losing out on SuperSport, the quality of these matches will see further diminish.

 

Could MultiChoice Look To Replace BET As Canal+ Afrique Might Have A Suitor For Paramount Network France?

Last year, Paramount closed its doors in Africa and various parts of Europe affecting brands like BET, MTV Base and Paramount Network. These channels were distributed in Canal+ Afrique and MultiChoice territories that started the year with less channels.

Prior to their exist, MultiChoice had stated that at this stage they weren't looking to replace these channels. Looking at the number of channels to have exited their platforms it was believed that they weren't interested in replacing them.

They had widened the reach of Trace TV's remaining channels like Gospel and Ngoma (formerly Africa) to its DStv Access subscribers. To some this was probably their way of compensating for MTV Base but that was not the case here.

During the month, MultiChoice had launched Base Pulse in the same frequency as MTV Base. Oddly enough some of Paramount's staff are now seen on this newest addition by Pulse Entertainment.

Prior to its addition, they were whispers of an MTV Base revival and all of this was likely pointing toward Base Pulse. As both brands have "Base" in the name aside from channel number, staff and heavy focus on Amapiano vibes.

Canal+ Afrique had also been test running a TV channel with Paramount Network's frequency and it's a safe bet that like Base Pulse maybe some of the content will resurface on this channel. Unless it could as well be another Canal+ branded channel.

Following the acquisition of MultiChoice, they have access to M-Net's local archives so they might as well dust out some old IPs and introduce them to these consumers. As mentioned, it's just speculation as tests are still underway.

As for MultiChoice, I haven't seen any signs that they're looking to replace BET however a duplicate feed for Moja 9.9. is currently being tested. Sometimes when a duplicate feed is placed it's usually just a placeholder for another TV channel.

In rare cases, they're just making upgrades which I doubt as there's an SD and HD feed, and I also doubt they're launching a localised feed. These are usually reserved for flagship brands like Moja Love as rerun channels aren't prioritised for such in this instance.

MultiChoice has localised feeds for M-Net, M-Net Movies 1, Disney Channel and TLC but not for your M-Net Movies 2-4, Disney Junior and Real Time.

Could Paramount Look To Merge Cartoonito With Nick Jr.?

Paramount is looking to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery after Netflix walked out of the bidding war. As preschool brands like Cartoonito and Nick Jr. likely to be owned by the same company, with this merger set to close by the end of 2026.

According to Paramount, they intend to keep most of the company intact but with the amount of debt they'd be digesting it's hard to believe they'll retain both Cartoonito and Nick Jr. if this deal closes.

Cartoonito is home to shows like Bugs Bunny Builders, Batwheels and Grizzy And The Lemmings. While Nick Jr. offers Paw Patrol, Dora The Explorer and The Tiny Chef Show.

Even if Paramount plans to keep Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. while inheriting Cartoon Network and Cartoonito. There's definitely going to be some restructuring content wise, likely for its international variants of Cartoonito.

Cartoonito had been struggling to find it's footing in the US despite having hits shows like Batwheels. All the while Warner Bros. Discovery continued expanding its preschool slate the development of Hey BMO and Foster's Funtime.

Of course the problem part here is that none of these shows have a platform and with this buyout by Paramount. This offering will most definitely get picked up by Nick Jr.

Nick Jr. has global appeal and it's history dates to the 80s as opposed to Cartoonito which dates to the mid 2000s in the UK/Europe so it's safe to bet they will handle this department.

Cartoonito will likely lean more toward shows like Mr. Bean and Grizzy And The Lemmings perhaps become a complementary/extension to Nick Jr. Think of how Candle Media structured it's Moonbug and Blippi And Friends channels internationally.

Nick Jr. could offer a programming block on Cartoonito perhaps for older shows like Nella The Princess Knight, Bubble Guppies and Rusty Rivets.

Development Alert: Zee Dunia, A Swahili Dubbed Bollywood Channel Will Also Be Added To MultiChoice's DStv

Not long ago, it was reported that MultiChoice will be adding Sporty TV to DStv platforms soon most likely in Kenya. As the channel is already distributed on eMedia Investments' Openview platform for viewers in South Africa.

Now it looks like MultiChoice will be adding another TV channel to DStv platforms soon, Zee Dunia.

Zee Dunia is a Swahili and English dubbed Bollywood channel operated by ZEE Africa. It offers  storytelling with dramas, romance, action, family shows, movies, local programs, and international news since 2025.

Zee Dunia will be joining Zee TV, Zee Alem, Zee World, Zee Magic, Zee Bollymovies, Zee One and Zee Zonke list of channels to be 

It is broadcast on free-to-air platforms like Pang and Signet in Kenya, plus live streaming on its official YouTube channel. It is aimed mainly at Kenyan audiences so there's no doubt that Zee Dunia is aimed at East Africa as seen with Maisha Moto.

Compared to Zee Zonke, most of Zee Dunia's content had already been seen on Zee World. This includes Begusarai, Curse Of The Sands and Zara's Nikah with the only real exceptions being Marafiki Milele and Maisha Yangu Mdundo Wangu.

Reminder: NBA Playoffs Begin On ESPN Africa From April 19, 2026

NBA PLAYOFFS

The NBA playoffs is the annual elimination tournament of the National Basketball Association (NBA) held to determine the league champion. The four-round, best-of-seven tournament is held after the league's regular season and its preliminary postseason tournament, the NBA play-in tournament.

The Playoffs begin on 19 April 2026.

NHL PLAYOFFS

The Stanley Cup playoffs is the annual elimination tournament to determine the winner of the Stanley Cup, and the league champion of the National Hockey League. The four-round, best-of-seven tournament is held after the NHL's regular season. 

Please note: 

All fixtures and schedules are subject to change. 

Broadcast times are provided in CAT (Central African Time) 

How to tune in to ESPN:

ESPN: DStv 218, StarTimes 248 

ESPN2: DStv 219, StarTimes 249

MultiChoice Might Be Adding Sporty TV To DStv Consumers In Some African Countries

Sporty TV is a 24/7 free-to-air sports channel operated by Sporty Group, known for SportyBET. It positions itself as a "home of premium football" for African audiences, offering a mix of live matches, highlights, and specialized sports programming.

Since last year, it had been distributed on eMedia Investments' Openview platform offering a variety of events from Premier League, La Liga and Serie A. Most of which is already accessible via MultiChoice and Canal+ Afrique consumers.

Now it looks like MultiChoice might be adding Sporty TV soon but not to DStv customers in South Africa and probably most of Africa. As tests for this channel has been labelled as Sporty TV Kenya.

Why would MultiChoice want with Sporty TV as it a majority of content is on SuperSport?

But my understanding in this regard is that Canal+ took control of the company since September 2025 and stripped SuperSport of its decision making in Randburg as all of this is now done in Paris.

Post the takeover, Canal+ has been very vocal about the difference in strategies between both parties. 

MultiChoice offered Africa's leading streaming service Showmax which rivalled with it's DStv offering and cost the company billions in losses. Canal+ was all about alignment with it's content spread across platforms.

The same could be said about Canal+'s procurement of content they've done deals with Sky Sport, Bein Sport and DAZN. MultiChoice tried piling up these duties under SuperSport and that never panned out when ESPN first exited the African space.

You can only assume with the addition of Sporty TV, Canal+ has taken up a new approach in procuring content for MultiChoice customers. Canal+ is more focused on leveraging of existing IPs while MultiChoice wanted to be that have it all company.

Could Canal+ Afrique Also Be Looking To Add Base Pulse Soon?

During the month, MultiChoice added Base Pulse which serves as a Pan-African based brand operated by Pulse Entertainment. It serves as a replacement to MTV Base broadcasting African music ranging from Amapiano, Gqom and Kwaito.

Questions making the round now is whether Base Pulse could be looking to debut on Canal+ Afrique as a test card for MTV Base had also been inserted on their platforms.

Considering Canal+ Afrique's parent company also owns MultiChoice it wouldn't seem far fetched to think Base Pulse could be included on their platforms. Seeing as they already distribute M-Net Movies and Zee World as part of an add-on. 

It could also be another TV channel seeing as MultiChoice caters for English speaking markets while Canal+ Afrique manages French markets.

Maybe a French version to Base Pulse seeing as the channel is distributed across MultiChoice markets and not only in South Africa. It could also be the same feed seen in MultiChoice markets as Canal+ Afrique also offers Anglophone content.

April 2026 On History Across Africa | Channel Premiere: History's Deadliest With Ving Rhames | Returning Shows Including American Pickers | More

Brand New Episodes

AMERICAN PICKERS S26 

01 April

Wednesdays 20:15

American Pickers continues with Mike Wolfe, Robbie Wolfe, and Danielle Colby. Together they travel the back roads of America meeting fascinating people, searching for rusty treasures and telling the history of America, one pick at a time. This season their finds include saloon relics, classic cars, and even a carnival collection. Repeat: Thursday 12:35

Brand New Episodes

THE UNXPLAINED WITH WILLIAM SHATNER

04 April

Saturdays 20:15

From alleged UFO encounters to sudden disappearances and evil possessions, host William Shatner attempts to get to the truth behind the most bizarre and mysterious events ever reported. With the help of the world’s top scientists, first-hand “experiencer” accounts, and dramatic re-enactments, viewers gain shocking insight into what’s really happening--and why. From the producers of Ancient Aliens and The Curse of Oak Island. Repeat: Sunday 19:25

Brand New & Exclusive

HISTORY’S DEADLIEST WITH VING RHAMES 

07 April

Tuesdays 20:15

History’s Deadliest with Ving Rhames is hosted and executive produced by the awardwinning actor from ‘Mission: Impossible’ and ‘Pulp Fiction’ fame. Exploring the deadliest criminals, missions, battles, tyrants and more, the documentary series will reveal the stranger than truth facts behind some of the world’s most prolific and powerful killers. Repeat: Wednesday 12:35

Brand New & Exclusive

SWAMP PEOPLE S17 

09 April

Thursdays 20:15

Swamp People is back for a brand-new season. The long-running fan-favourite show follows alligator hunters on the swamps of the Atchafalaya River Basin deep in Louisiana. Swamp People is a look at the rugged lifestyle and family heritage of the fiercely proud “Swampers”. Repeat: Friday 12:35

Brand New & Exclusive

MYSTERIES UNEARTHED WITH DANNY TREJO S2

18 April

Saturdays 19:25

Mysteries UnEarthed with Danny Trejo season 2 examines the fascinating stories surrounding buried artifacts and lost civilizations, offering new insight and information, on various mysteries of the past and present. Anchored by Danny Trejo’s affinity for history and his natural curiosity into exploring the unknown, the show also includes captivating archival material, expert interviews, and compelling recreations. The series seeks to unearth what the human eye cannot easily detect. Repeat: Sunday 18:40

FAITH AND MIRACLES

From 5 April to 19th April , Sundays 20:15

This April, during the Easter period, ‘Faith and Miracles’ on The HISTORY Channel explores the places, events and evidence that have shaped Christian belief. Journey to Lourdes: Faith in Miracles, exploring one of Christianity’s most sacred pilgrimage sites, uncover the truth behind The Last Hours of Jesus Christ, and delve into history and archaeology with Lost Secrets of Jesus. These compelling documentaries offer thoughtful insight into the mystery and impact of Christ’s story.

Brand New & Exclusive

LOURDES: FAITH IN MIRACLES

05 April

Sunday 20:15

Located at the foot of the Pyrenees, the cave of Massabielle in Lourdes may appear as a modest cavity in the rock. However, for more than 150 years, it has held an enduring and enigmatic place among the most significant holy sites of Christianity. Each year, up to four million pilgrims from across the globe journey here to touch the sacred rock where it is said the Virgin Mary appeared. Such is the worldwide devotion to the cave that over a thousand replicas have been constructed around the world. Repeat: Saturday 21:05

Exclusive

THE LAST HOURS OF JESUS CHRIST

12 April

Sunday 20:15

It’s one of history’s greatest mysteries. From his arrest to his burial, many questions remain about the last 24 hours of Jesus Christ’s life. What do we really know about the last days and the last hours of Christ’s life? For what real reason was Jesus arrested and crucified? Using new technologies and the advice of the best historians, physicists, archaeologists and experts, this documentary looks back at the mysteries surrounding the last hours of Christ’s life to establish what really happened on the last day of his life. Repeat: Saturday 21:05

Exclusive

THE LOST SECRETS OF JESUS

19 April

Sunday 20:15

The Lost Secrets of Jesus peels back the layers of centuries old tradition and artistic interpretation to reveal the real historical and archaeological evidence behind the life of Jesus. Taking viewers on a captivating journey from the ruins of Bethlehem to the heart of Roman politics, this special uncovers the lost cities, astonishing discoveries, and hidden truths that shaped the world of Jesus. This documentary is a deep dive into the historical context and tangible evidence of Jesus’ time. Through expert insights and new findings, The Lost Secrets of Jesus challenges what we think we know, offering a fresh perspective on the man who changed the course of history. By exploring the past, we gain a richer understanding of Jesus and the world he lived in, making this special an unforgettable exploration of one of history’s most influential figures. Repeat: Saturday 21:05

April 2026 On National Geographic And National Geographic Wild Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Martin Scorsese Presents The Saints | Continuing Shows Including Critter Fixers | More

National Geographic 

LOST TREASURES OF THE BIBLE: SECRETS OF FAITH (6 x 60) 

Fridays, at 18:30 from 3 April (ends 8 May) 

The series follows archaeologists across the Middle East as they embark on a new season of excavations to uncover the cities and civilizations featured in the Bible. From the story of David and Goliath to the origins of the Ten Commandments and the Dead Sea Scrolls, their discoveries shed new light on the Bible’s most famous mysteries.

MARTIN SCORSESE PRESENTS THE SAINTS

Sundays, at 21:00 from 5 April (ends 17 May)

Hosted, narrated, and executive produced by Academy Award winner Martin Scorsese (Raging Bull; Goodfellas; The Aviator). Each episode of The Saints focuses on a singular saint, including Joan of Arc, Francis of Assisi, John the Baptist, Mary Magdalene, Moses the Black, Sebastian, and Maximillian Kolbe. The Saints is a docudrama that seamlessly weaves together expert interviews, elevated recreations, and insightful narration delivered by world-renowned filmmaker Martin Scorsese. 

The documentary component is driven by scholars who provide the details of the saints’ lives and contextualize them within the time and geopolitical situation in which they lived, while celebrities and people of faith help dissect questions of faith in an accessible way.

CONSTRUCTION FAILS S3 (6 x 60)

Tuesdays, at 18:50 from 14 April (ends 19 May)

From the Surfside condo collapse in Florida to the Bangkok skyscraper collapse in Thailand, “Construction Fails” Season 3 features the most headline-grabbing structural disasters. With access to police bodycam footage, archival images, and the show’s signature graphics, we ask the question: what went wrong?

PLANES THAT CHANGED HISTORY S1A (5 x 60)

Thursdays, at 19:40 from 16 April (ends 14 May)

Dive into the 125 years of aviation to uncover how aircraft have reshaped our world. The series explores the engineering secrets behind its success, its humble origins, and what made these aircraft icons years after their initial success.

CHERNOBYL: INSIDE THE MELTDOWN (4 x 60) double-billed

Thursdays, at 20:30 from 23 April (ends 30 April)

The Chernobyl disaster is the worst nuclear accident in history, releasing 400 times more radiation into the atmosphere than the Hiroshima bomb. On the 40th anniversary of this catastrophic event, this series tells the full story – from reactor meltdown to KGB cover-up, right up to the present-day war in Ukraine.

INSIDE THE CIA: SECRETS AND SPIES S1 (8 x 60)

Wednesdays, at 20:30 from 29 April (ends 17 June)

“Inside the CIA: Secrets and Spies” reveals real-life missions of elite intelligence officers, taking viewers deep into the world of espionage. From covert ops behind enemy lines to the hunt for bin Laden, uncover the untold, high-stakes stories that show what it truly takes to be a spy beyond the red line of danger.

CONTINUING SHOWS include DECODING HISTORY’S PROPHECIES S1 (5 x 60) on Wednesdays, at 20:30 from 4 March (ends 1 April); INSIDE AIRPORT LOST & FOUND S1 (10 x 60) on Thursdays, at 18:50 from 26 February (ends 30 April); YUKON RESCUE S1 (8 x 60) on Tuesdays, at 19:40 from 17 February (ends 7 April); and AIR CRASH INVESTIGATION S25 (10 x 60) on Thursdays, at 19:40 from 5 February (ends 9 April).

How to tune in to National Geographic:

DSTV: Channel 181

StarTimes: 220 on DTH, 220 on DTT (249 on DTT in Uganda)

National Geographic Wild 

SECRETS OF THE BEES

Saturday, 4 April at 18:00 (double bill, episodes 1 & 2 played back to back) 

National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory explores the extraordinary lives of bees - among the planet’s most important animals. Over three years, special cameras opened a rare window into a single hive, revealing their hidden world. But with more than 20,000 bee species pollinating one-third of the world’s food, this series uncovers their astonishing architecture and intelligence, unlocking their secrets.

BUILT TO SURVIVE STUNT

Sundays at 18:00, from 5 April (ends 26 April)

Celebrate the incredible ingenuity of life with Built to Survive, a survival-focused stunt that kicks off with the premiere of Africa’s Underground Desert. From the Kalahari’s harsh sands to Australia’s rainforests and savannahs, this stunt explores how animals adapt, outwit, and endure in the planet’s most extreme environments. Across a week of episodes and compilations, viewers encounter predators, prey, and extraordinary species whose survival skills inspire awe.

Programming includes:

Sunday 5 April at 18:00 - Wild, Smart and Deadly

In the wild, survive can hinge on secret powers and extreme abilities.

Sunday 12 April at 18:00 – Built to Survive

Phil Breslin dares into the savannah to find eagles, taipans and lizards.

Sunday 19 April at 18:00 - Africa's Underground Desert Premiere

Sunday 26 April at 17:11 - Animal Fight Club

In this treacherous terrain it's kill or be killed as angry elephants go on the rampage and hungry crocodiles fight ruthless lions.

EARTH DAY STUNT

Wednesday, 22 April at 18:00

Celebrate Earth Day with a compelling stunt that spotlights the delicate balance between nature and humanity, led by the premiere of Wild India: Nilgiris. 

From India’s first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and the vital role of pollinators to the wonders of the ocean and frontline conservation efforts, this curated collection of documentaries showcases the beauty, resilience, and importance of the natural world - while inspiring audiences to protect the planet we all share.

SITUATION CRITTERCAL

Saturdays at 18:00, from 25 April (ends 2 May)

This special stunt celebrates the International Day of the Veterinarian by highlighting the extraordinary work of Drs. Hodges and Ferguson in Critter Fixers: Country Vets. Across a week of compilation episodes, viewers follow these heroic vets as they tackle emergencies big and small, from tiny kittens and puppies to wild animals in need.

CONTINUING SHOWS include CRITTER FIXERS S5 (12 x 60) on Mondays at 18:00, from 9 February (ends 20 April).

How to tune in to National Geographic Wild:

DSTV: Channel 182

StarTimes: 221 on DTH, 210 on DTT (250 on DTT in Uganda)

Could SuperSport Be Looking To Revamp The Variety Channels In More MultiChoice Territories?

A few years ago, MultiChoice Africa decided to away with it's Variety 2-4 channels by folding them under Africa 1 and 2 with select content on SuperSport Action. This left them with Variety 1 which is likely due for a major overhaul.

Of course, these changes have yet to take affect in South Africa and it's not known whether SuperSport will make similar arrangements as tests are underway for another TV channel.

Speculated to be SuperSport Play, this channel takes a page of Variety 4 and features a lot of local content and highlights from premium sports channels. It also serves as overflow for various sporting events like Varsity Cup and PSA.

MultiChoice made SuperSport Play available to its Free-To-View customers on DStv Stream alongside paying consumers. Now under French giant Canal+, they might be looking to make it accessible of course nothing is confirmed as yet.

Of course, this channel they've been testing out for a while now had also been airing events live on Variety 2 almost like a simulcast with variations in certain timeslots. Maybe this channel in question will lead to a restructure of the existing Variety offering.

If it's SuperSport Play, I'd imagine they'd want to readjust the lineup a bit perhaps remove all that content from Blitz seeing as it's accessible across packages. That is what happened with SuperSport Schools when it was only viewable on DStv Stream. 

Rumour: Canal+ To Rebrand The FilmBox Channels In Poland To FilmBox+

According to unofficial information from satkurier.pl, six TV channels from the Kino Polska Group portfolio will soon undergo rebranding. The changes will cover the stations: Kino TV as well as FilmBox Action, FilmBox Arthouse, FilmBox Family, FilmBox Extra, and FilmBox Premium – i.e., all five FilmBox family channels currently available on the Polish market. 

The biggest change will be the transformation of the Kino TV channel into FILMBOX+ one. For the remaining stations, the "FILMBOX" part will be retained, but a "+" symbol will appear in their names. The second parts of the names will also be modified – for example: "arthouse" will be replaced by "festival", "family" by "comedy", "extra" by "emotion", and "premium" by "hits". Only the Action channel will keep its current second name part.  

Planned new channel names:

• Kino TV → FILMBOX+ one

• FilmBox Action → FILMBOX+ action  

ad  

• FilmBox Arthouse → FILMBOX+ festival

• FilmBox Family → FILMBOX+ comedy

• FilmBox Extra → FILMBOX+ emotion

• FilmBox Premium → FILMBOX+ hits  

The name changes will be accompanied by modifications to the programming schedules of the individual stations, but their film-and-series profile will be maintained.  

The planned date for implementing the rebranding of all six channels is June 10, 2026. According to our information, the decision to change the names stems from the need to more clearly differentiate the programming offer and to strengthen the visual recognizability of the FilmBox brand. The goal is also to better reflect the character and scope of the content broadcast on each channel.

Currently, 66% of the shares in the Kino Polska Group are held by SPI International B.V., a company fully controlled by the CANAL+ Group. The Kino Polska Group is one of the leading media groups in Poland and also operates on international markets. It deals with the distribution and production of content for television, VOD platforms, streaming services, and cinemas, as well as the sale of programming licenses. It is also the broadcaster of thematic TV channels. In addition to the mentioned stations, the Group's portfolio includes channels such as Stopklatka, Zoom TV, Kino Polska, Kino Polska Muzyka, and Gametoon.

The article is published by satkurier.pl

Rubi And La Fuerza Del Destino To Launch On TLN Network Across Africa

TLN Network, a Portuguese based entertainment channel operated by TelevisaUnivison will be rolling out Rubi and La Fuerza Del Destino. These shows formed part of TelevisaUnivison 2000s portfolio and recieved international acclaim during its run.

Synopsis for Rubi

The story follows Rubí Pérez, a stunningly beautiful but impoverished university student living in a poor neighborhood with her hardworking sister, Cristina, and their sick mother, Refugio. 

Rubí befriends Maribel de la Fuente, a wealthy but shy girl who is self-conscious about a childhood accident that left her with a leg brace. Rubí secretly envies Maribel’s wealth and despises her own poverty.

Through Maribel, Rubí meets two men: Alejandro Cárdenas, a handsome orthopedic doctor, and Héctor Ferrer, a wealthy architect.

Rubí falls deeply in love with Alejandro, but when she discovers he is not a millionaire—he is a middle-class scholar—she cruelly dumps him despite her feelings. She decides to seduce Héctor, Maribel’s fiancé, solely for his money. 

It starred Bárbara Mori as Rubí Pérez Ochoa, Eduardo Santamarina as Dr. Alejandro Cárdenas Ruiz, Jacqueline Bracamontes as Maribel de la Fuente, Sebastián Rulli as Héctor Ferrer Garza and Ana Martín as Refugio Ochoa Vda. de Pérez.

Synopsis for La Fuerza Del Destino 

The story begins in Álamos, Sonora, where 14-year-old Iván Villagómez and his mother, Alicia, return to seek recognition from his biological father, the wealthy and powerful Juan Jaime Mondragón. Juan Jaime rejects them, forcing Alicia to work as a servant for the Lomelí Curiel family. 

As a young man, Iván is seduced by the frivolous Maripaz Lomelí Curiel, who becomes pregnant. To hide the scandal and protect their family's name, Maripaz's mother, Lucrecia, orders her thugs to beat Iván. During the confrontation, a man is killed, and Iván is framed for the murder. With no other choice, he flees illegally to the United States. 

In Los Angeles, Iván is adopted by a kind businessman, Anthony McGuire, who provides him with an education and a new identity as Iván McGuire. Eleven years later, Iván returns to Mexico as a successful professional to clear his name and find his mother, only to discover she has died. 

He soon finds himself entangled with the Lomelí Curiel family once more, but this time his focus shifts to Lucía, Maripaz’s virtuous younger sister who has loved him since they were children. Together, they must navigate a web of secrets.

It starred David Zepeda as Iván, Sandra Echeverría as Lucía, Gabriel Soto as Camilo, Laisha Wilkins as Maripaz, Juan Ferrara as Juan Jaime and Alejandro Tommasi as Gerardo.

Disney Channel Celebrates 20th Anniversary in Africa

• Channel launched on 25 September 2006

• Brand-New Programming from Animation to Live-Action

• Viewers invited to celebrate with iconic stories, characters, surprises and more

 

On 25 September 2006, Disney Channel debuted on DStv (Channel 303) for the first time and welcomed viewers to a world of humour, music, friendship and feel-good fun, through iconic live action and animation series. Since then, the channel has continued to introduce unforgettable stories and characters and, in 2026, Disney Channel will be celebrating with fans and viewers across Africa. 

 

In the run up to the 20th anniversary, expect the very latest and greatest programming, on-screen superstars and fun, as well as extra surprise reveals, events, competitions and activations throughout the year, inspired by everything the channel has become synonymous with - music, fashion, friendship and adventure. Keep your eyes glued to the channel as well as on social media platforms for more details.  

 

Link to launch promo video 

 

Kicking off the celebrations this March, a special Throwback programming block will be introduced to the channel, bringing special themed episodes from iconic series. For the first time, fans will have a hand in curating the block by voting on social media for what they want to see - from Hannah Montana to Raven’s Home, Liv & Maddie, Bunk’d and more. With voting now open, the power lies in the hands of the fans.  

 

There is also a slate of brand-new content coming to the channel later in the year. These include the animated original Dragon Striker, set at an elite academy where sports and magic combine, as farm boy Key discovers his ultrapowerful natural talent and learns he may be destined to become the legendary Dragon Striker. Also on the animation front, the brand-new ZOMBIES: The Re-Animated Series follows the daily lives of Zed, Addison, and the entire Seabrook crew as A-spen’s alien time-warp technology gives them a chance to relive senior year with all their friends. Celebrating the high-energy music from the iconic Descendants and ZOMBIES franchises, the Descendants/ZOMBIES Worlds Collide Tour thrilled sold-out crowds in over 40 arenas across North America last summer - a concert special will be coming exclusively to Disney Channel.  

 

The channel will also continue its Movie Mayhem slot every Friday at 17:00 where fans can catch all their favourite Disney and Pixar movies - from Toy Story to Wreck it Ralph - as well as several Disney Channel Original Movies (DCOMs), including The Suite Life Movie and Phineas and Ferb The Movie: Candace Against the Universe. Fans of the wildly popular Descendants franchise will also be pleased to know the DCOM returns later this year, welcoming new Descendants from Alice in Wonderland and more! 

 

For two decades, Disney Channel has offered up some of the best in entertainment for kids as we’ve danced through the halls of East High with High School Musical, navigated the supernatural secrets of Wizards of Waverly Place, and grown up alongside legends like Miley Cyrus in Hannah Montana and Zendaya in K.C. Undercover.  

 

The channel also found local resonance with shows like the SAFTA award-winning series Disney’s Cookabout - a cooking adventure series that saw local kids learning about where their food comes from. The animated series Kiff - which premiered in 2023 was created by South Africans Nic Smal and Lucy Heavens. The buddy-comedy is currently in its second season and has been renewed for a third. 

e.tv Unveils New Daily Drama Emzini Set To Replace Smokes & Mirrors

Every family protects its secrets. But when a legacy is built on blood, betrayal, and deception, accountability becomes the ultimate price to pay. This is the world of Emzini, e.tv’s new prime-time daily drama set in the vibrant, fast-paced heart of Alexandra Township.

Centred on a popular and lucrative lounge of the same name, Emzini unfolds in a world where power, status, and family legacy are everything. On the surface, the brand carries all the hallmarks of success: wealth, influence, and a commanding presence in the community. Below that surface lies a history of personal sacrifice, moral compromise, and decisions that can never be undone.

The Creative Vision:

Emzini is brought to life by respected storyteller Loyiso Maqoma, whose work on Imbewu: The Seed and Smoke and Mirrors has built sustained audience loyalty through emotionally layered narratives and authentic South African storytelling. The series is executive produced by Zuko Nodada, the same creative team behind Smoke and Mirrors, returning to the 9 PM slot with another story that earns its place there.

The show’s visual identity reflects its central tension. The gold logo anchors the Emzini brand in the wealth, power, and premium lifestyle associated with the family’s successful lounge business, while the tagline “Family Legacy”cuts to the heart of the story: a dynasty built through ambition, sacrifice, and difficult choices. The creative direction holds both sides of that tension without resolving it. The glamour is real, and so is the cost.

The opening title track was created to carry that same weight. Haunting and deeply symbolic, it was composed with the director’s conceptual vision at its core, specifically the image of blood being washed away, a powerful metaphor for a past that cannot be outrun. The track draws on themes of ancestry, sacrifice, and consequence, reinforcing what the series asks of its audience: that every legacy leaves a mark.

Additional details about the Emzini cast and creative team will be announced in the coming weeks.

Canal+ And PPF Considering Viaplay Takeover After Building Up Stake At Pay-TV Company

Canal+ and PPF are considering a joint move that would bring Viaplay into private ownership, according to a Bloomberg report.

The move would mark the next stage in the Nordic streaming group’s post-recapitalisation reshaping. The two companies already hold roughly 29.3% each of Viaplay following the Swedish broadcaster’s 2024 rescue recapitalisation, meaning they already control close to 60% of the company between them.  

Neither Canal+, PPF nor Viaplay has commented publicly on the report. Viaplay has spent the past two years rebuilding after its near-collapse, with Canal+ and PPF emerging as cornerstone shareholders through the SEK 4 billion (€0.36 billion) recapitalisation completed in early 2024.  

Any deal would come against a backdrop of a sharp recovery in Viaplay’s market value from distressed levels, even if the stock remains far below where it traded before the crisis. 

Viaplay’s footprint today centres on the Nordics, the Netherlands and Poland, while the company has been focusing on profitability and simplification. It withdrew from a number of territories, including the UK, where it sold the former Premier Sports business back to its original owners.

Its latest full-year results, published on 19 February, also reflected the acquisition of the remaining shares in Allente, underlining that the group is still in active portfolio and ownership transition.  

BBC Studios Expands It's Footprint With The French-Language Launch Of BBC Earth With Canal+ In Africa

The launch will bring world-class natural history programming and premium factual storytelling to a wider African audience, providing 22 French-speaking sub-Saharan African countries access to the channel.

The new French-language feed will bring BBC Studios’ award-winning factual catalogue to millions of additional viewers, offering a breathtaking window into the natural world, pioneering scientific documentaries and extraordinary human stories.

At launch, BBC Earth will present a standout line-up of landmark natural history series and powerful documentaries from BBC Studios’ acclaimed factual library. Viewers can expect celebrated productions from BBC Studios Natural History Unit, including Seven Worlds, One Planet, The Green Planet, Frozen Planet II and Blue Planet II, all narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

The channel line-up also features a wide selection of specialist wildlife documentaries such as Natural World: Giraffes – Africa’s Gentle Giants, My Congo, Cheetah Family and Me, and Natural World: Cheetahs Growing Up Fast offering intimate portraits of remarkable species and the people working to protect them. Global series including Africa, Earth, Universe and The Planets will also be available on the channel, providing perspectives on the natural world.

Adventure and exploration are also central to the channel, with titles such as Where the Wild Men Are, Life Below Zero, Arctic with Bruce Parry and Steve Backshall’s Extreme River Challenge taking viewers into some of the world’s most remote and challenging environments.

The channel’s programming will be dubbed into French and expertly curated scheduling tailored to the interests and viewing habits of Francophone markets.

Pierre Cloete, VP for Africa at BBC Studios, said: “The French-language launch of BBC Earth on Canal+ marks a significant milestone in BBC Studios’ commitment to making exceptional factual content accessible to global audiences in their own language. We are thrilled to expand BBC Earth’s footprint in partnership with Canal+. African audiences have a deep passion for documentary storytelling and we are proud to bring even more people the very best of BBC Studios’ natural history, science, and factual catalogue.

Fabrice Faux, Channels & Content director for French-Speaking Africa said: “Canal+ is happy and proud to offer its subscribers the high-quality factual entertainment from BBC Earth, which will ideally complement its discovery vertical. Educational programming is also a key component of Canal+’s offers in Africa, and BBC Earth is a strong addition in this area."

The channel will be available on Channel 203 within Tout Canal+.

India: A Love Story, Brand New Brazilian Drama Launches On eExtra

eExtra, a South African based channel operated by eMedia Investments that offers dubbed telenovelas from Turkey and around the world has announced the rollout of India: A Love Story. The Brazilian Drama replaces Kuma: The Other Wife in April.

Synopsis for India: A Love Story 

Maya, a modern woman working at a call centre, falls deeply in love with Bahuan. Her world is shattered when she learns Bahuan is a Dalit (an "untouchable"), making a relationship between them a social taboo.

Raj is an executive who fell in love with Duda, a Brazilian woman, while working abroad. His traditional family, led by his strict father Opash, refuses to allow him to marry a foreigner. 

Under intense family pressure, Maya and Raj are forced to abandon their "impossible" loves and enter into an arranged marriage with each other. Maya enters the marriage with a massive secret: she is pregnant with Bahuan's child.

Known in Brazil as Caminho das Índias, it was broadcast on 19 January 2009 and concluded on 11 September 2009 after 160 episodes internationally.

It starred Juliana Paes as Maya Meetha, Rodrigo Lombardi as Raj Ananda, Letícia Sabatella as Yvone Oliveira Magalhães, Tony Ramos as Opash Ananda, Alexandre Borges as Raul Cadore and Débora Bloch as Sílvia Cadore.

Prior to its rollout on eExtra, India: A Love Story was initially slated to rollout on the now defunct eBella channel before getting pulled off from the lineup. The drama was also broadcast on M-Net's Mzansi Magic alongside the former Caribbean Love.

India: A Love Story will broadcast weekdays at 23:00 from 21 April.

eExtra Resumes Broadcast Of Uzozisola: Regrets Following It's Departure From e.tv

Last month, e.tv yanked the Zulu dubbed Bollywood drama Uzozisola: Regrets and replaced it with a rebroadcast of Broken Vows. This came after it was removed from e.tv's primetime offering and moved onto late nights.

Now it's scheduled to broadcast on eExtra from 14 April at 09:00 when most viewers will not be in their homes during this time.

The short-lived drama series likely had low ratings during its broadcast on e.tv which is why it went to eExtra. Even Broken Vows was met with a similar fate before getting redirected to eExtra.

Unlike Broken Vows, e.tv had misled the viewers labelling Uzozisola Regrets removal on the channel as an "finale". While those who already saw it on Glow TV know that wasn't the case and others that could only see on e.tv will be missing out.

The reality here is that eMedia Investments shunned this offering on eExtra to weekday mornings or late nights. Despite the existence of ePlesier and daily repeats on e.tv, rebroadcasts to Dokter Ali, Chrysalis and Yosef take up these timeslots.

That even getting to shows like Naagin, This Is Love and Two Women is just a luxury that viewers aren't willing to latch by the horns.

The last anyone got word on the ratings for eExtra it had around 300,000 to 500,000 viewers for shows like Gebroke Harte. Then there was Annekan Die Swa Kry which had 1.8 million viewers on e.tv and now imagine if that was Uzozisola: Regrets.

For Gebroke Harte and Annekan Die Swa Kry these were primetime slots where the viewership is larger compared to Uzozisola: Regrets where it's lower.

Canal+ To Shutter Showmax Streaming Service By The End Of April As Content Moves To DStv Stream

Showmax has today confirmed key dates marking the end of the streaming service that has operated across 44 markets in Sub-Saharan Africa for the past 11 years.

In an email sent to subscribers on Wednesday evening, the platform outlined a phased wind-down of its current service, with 31 March 2026 set as the final day for subscription renewals and voucher redemptions. From 1 April 2026, new subscriptions and renewals will no longer be available.

Existing subscribers will continue watching content until their subscription expires, or until the end of April 2026, whichever comes first.

This new update provides the clearest consumer-facing timeline yet, following the announcement roughly two weeks ago that Canal+ would shut down Showmax, citing “unacceptable” losses at the African streamer as it sought cost-saving measures.

That announcement sent shockwaves across the industry, from Nairobi to Lagos to Johannesburg, with filmmakers and actors raising concerns over the loss of a key African platform that had, for over a decade, commissioned and amplified local storytelling at scale.

At the same time, the announcement was also met with uncertainty, particularly due to the absence of a clear shutdown timeline or transition plan for subscribers.

Even now, some subscribers have already begun expressing frustration over the short transition window. “It’s really annoying how little time is left,” one subscriber and regular Showmax viewer said in a WhatsApp message.

Showmax Originals will now move to DStv Stream, positioning it as MultiChoice’s central hub for streaming offering, at least for now.

“Showmax is starting a new chapter, and your favourite shows are getting a shiny new home on DStv Stream,” the company said in the email.

But the language used in the communication also suggests that there is more to come. In stating that the content will join “a bigger world of entertainment, all in one place,” MultiChoice hints at a broader consolidation strategy — one that could see Canal+ and MultiChoice’s currently fragmented digital products folded into a more unified streaming ecosystem. There have been reports that Canal+ is exploring a single “super app”, one to rule them all, though this remains unconfirmed at this stage.

In the meantime, it remains unclear whether Showmax users will be migrated to DStv Stream, and what that process would look like in terms of pricing, packaging and access, especially given the current price disparity between the two services. 

The company says further details on how subscribers can continue “enjoying Showmax Originals and more” on DStv Stream will be shared soon.

For now, it’s confirmed without a doubt that Showmax is entering its final weeks.

April 2026 On Studio Universal Across Africa | Epic Easter Weekend With Channel Premiere: Fast X | Comedy After Dark With Cocaine Bear | More

 

Epic Easter Weekend

3rd – 6th April - All Day Every Day

We have an exciting line-up for the four-day weekend, including channel premieres Uncharted, Gran Turismo, and Fast X!

Gran Turismo

3rd April at 18:00

This high-octane drama, based on a true story, makes its channel debut. An ambitious marketing executive and the management of video game Gran Turismo launch a competition offering the winner a chance to become a real-life, professional racer. Fate brings together dedicated Welsh gamer Jann (played by Archie Madekwe) with cynical former driver Jack (David Harbour) and together, they set out to turn Jann from a console champion to fully fledged king of the racetrack in a Nissan-sponsored car.

Fast X

4th April at 20:00

Channel premiere. Louis Leterrier directs the tenth entry in the franchise, which sees Dom enjoying family life. After he and his team are asked to organise a theft in Rome, Cipher arrives warning him that Dante (Jason Momoa), Hernan Reyes’ son, wants revenge for his father’s death. Dom and wife Letty head to Rome, where Dante tries to cause mayhem with a bomb, but Dom ends up in the frame for the crime. With the Agency wrongly on his heels, Dom seeks to put an end to Dante, once and for all.

Gods Of Egypt

5th April at 17:50

Brenton Thwaites and Gerard Butler lock horns in this sword-and-sandal fantasy, in which Bek (Thwaites), a thief, sets out to defeat Set (Butler), the god of darkness. He has snatched the Egyptian throne, plunging the world into chaos and putting Bek’s lady love in peril. The streetwise mortal makes an unlikely ally in the form of Horus (Nikolaj Coster Waldau), a powerful deity, and together they take on the merciless Set, aiming to restore the Egyptian empire to its rightful glory.

Uncharted

5th April at 20:00

Channel premiere. Bartender Nate is spotted pick-pocketing clients by treasure hunter Sully, who invites him on his latest job: to find explorer Magellan’s gold. What Sully doesn’t know is that Nate’s missing brother had the same dream. After a bumpy start, the two men team up to locate the loot. However, they reckon without a ruthless rival, who dogs their steps at every stage of the globe-trotting hunt. Can they stay one step ahead and find the booty first? Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg star.

Action Weekend Warriors

11th – 26th April - Double-bills from 8pm War, what is it good for? Action Weekends, that’s what!

The Hard Corps

11th April at 20:00

Ex-soldier Phillip Sauvage, who has PTSD, joins the bodyguard team of heavyweight boxer-turned-businessman Wayne Barclay, after rap mogul Terrell Singletery is released from jail. He blames Barclay for his imprisonment and quickly targets him for assassination. Sauvage realises he needs to bolster Barclay’s security and calls in an old friend to train some hand-picked new recruits. But can they protect him from Singletery when the chips are down? Jean-Claude Van Damme and Vivica A. Fox star.

The Marine

12th April at 20:00

John Cena flexes his muscles and leans heavily into our Weekend Warriors theme, playing John Triton, a soldier who was sent home from the Iraq War against his will. Once back on U.S. soil, he must call on all his military skills after the head of a sinister criminal gang kidnaps his wife. Cue a deadly game of cat and mouse in the wilds of South Carolina as John faces arguably the most perilous – and urgent – mission of his life. Good support comes from Kelly Carlson and Robert Patrick.

Sisu

19th April at 20:00

Jorma Tommila heads the cast in this World War II drama, inspired by real events and set in Finland. During the German army’s violent retreat from the north of the country, ex-soldier and gold prospector Aatami’s latest haul is stolen by a ruthless SS officer. However, the latter reckons without the Finn’s implacable determination to take back what belonged to him, even in the face of impossible

odds. Before long, there’s a visible and bloody trail

of destruction. Aksel Hennie also features.

The Art Of War II: Betrayal

26th April at 20:00

Wesley Snipes stars in this sequel to the 2000 original, reprising the role of covert operative Neil Shaw. This time around, he’s reluctantly drawn out of hiding and thrust back into the fray after an old friend, who was harbouring political ambitions, is murdered. Shaw joins forces with the man’s daughter to track down the culprit, but the pair are caught up in a corrupt weapons maker’s deadly web, while Shaw is framed for a crime he didn’t commit. With Lochlyn Munro and Athena Karkanis..

Comedy After Dark

20th – 24th April - Monday-Friday @9pm

Five nights of funnies, including the channel premiere of Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell in Anyone But You

You Don’t Mess With The Zohran

21st April at 21:00

There are giggles galore in this action comedy from director Dennis Dugan. A bequiffed Adam Sandler heads the cast as Zohan Dvir, a top-class Mossad agent who dreams of being a New York hair stylist. After faking his own death with the help of his arch enemy, Zohan hot-foots it to the Big Apple, landing his ideal job in the salon of Palestinian owner Dalia. Life is perfect – until a face from his past threatens to destroy everything. Good support comes from John Turturro and Emmanuelle Chriqui.

The Hangover: Part III

22nd April at 21:00

Two years after the second movie, three quarters of the Wolf Pack – Phil (Bradley Cooper), Stu (Ed Helms) and Doug (Justin Bartha) – have happily embraced the stability of domesticity. The same can’t be said of Alan (Zach Galifianakis), whose family send him to a clinic and ask his friends to escort him there. Trouble ensues when the quartet are abducted by someone who demands to meet Mr Chow, and things only go downhill from there. The sparkling cast includes John Goodman and Melissa McCarthy.

Cocaine Bear

22rd April at 21:00

Elizabeth Banks directs this action comedy, which is based on real events. In 1985, a bag crammed with millions of dollars’ worth of cocaine falls from a drug runner’s plane into Georgia’s Chattahoochee National Forest, where it becomes a 500-pound American black bear’s lunch. While the criminals who lost the bag scour the wilderness for their missing booty, the animal embarks on a cocaine-fuelled, hours-long rampage, threatening everyone who gets in its way. Ray Liotta and Keri Russell star.

Anyone But You

24th April at 21:00

Will Gluck’s romantic comedy makes its channel premiere. Glenn Powell and Sydney Sweeney play a young couple whose first date goes like a dream. The following day, a miscommunication prompts the pair abruptly to go their separate ways, with no intention of ever meeting again. But fate has other plans, and the pair run into each other on the other side of the world, at a wedding in Australia. Instead of keeping their distance, they pretend they’re a couple, and comedic chaos ensues.