"Minimax": Could MultiChoice Look To Replace Me With Another TV Channel On DStv?

During the year, MultiChoice had axed both 1Magic and Me from the DStv platform. Unlike the other 9 TV channels to have closed, further content from these brands had consolidated under Showmax which inherited its own TV channel, 1Max.

Of course, MultiChoice further reduced its availability to the consumers of 1Magic, Compact Plus. Despite most consumers already having a Showmax subscription it would make sense to offer it to consumers of Compact and Family.

This has led consumers of Me to wonder if M-Net would find other means in getting Summertide and White Lies SA to lower bouquets. Seeing as 1Max is Compact+ and a minority of consumers can't access Showmax.

Rumours had been swirling around that another TV channel was in development for lower bouquets possibly in place of Me. Of course, various details about the content or a name has not yet been disclosed at the time of publishing. 

Something that we had theorized earlier in the year was the possible demise of Me was the production of another TV channel. With the inclusion of 1Max, we presume a lightweight version of the channel perhaps titled Minimax is in development. 

With 1Max basically being 1Magic with additional content from Me alongside a demographic expansion to include the rest of Africa. Minimax would only focus on the local aspects of 1Max and perhaps infuse M-Net's existing local offering in the lineup. 

Me would initially evade themselves from airing a majority of local shows from 1Magic. Minimax on the other would further minimize the amount of content from M-Net seeing as the latter is on 1Max with M-Net being minimal on repeats on their channels. 

As seen with BBC UKTV, Minimax could as well be exempted from Premium and Compact Plus while being viewed on Family and Compact perhaps even Access seeing as the latter (e.g. Reyka) is not on Mzansi Wethu. 

1Magic was viewed as M-Net's BET channel with 1Max expanding that to include content from ROA. The content is meant to resonate with every aspect of consumer's lives but with Minimax it would be less traditional with shows like My Kitchen Rules SA and Trackers. 

Understanding 1Max: Why M-Net's Me And 1Magic Were Scrapped For More DStv Repeats?

During the week, M-Net's Me and 1Magic had merged to form yet another TV channel, 1Max. It serves as a promotional channel for Showmax featuring various original shows alongside third party content in partnership with NBCUniversal.

Since it's launch, 1Max has been getting a lot of mixed mostly negative reviews from consumers. Firstly from its exclusion to Family packages where Me once reside and another for the chunk of old content viewed across M-Net channels and Showmax. 

MultiChoice hasn't done much marketing for the channel and with the way feedback is being handled. It wouldn't seem far fetched if it was added onto more DStv packages eventually. 

The probable reason as to why M-Net would do away with 1Magic may not be entirely based on consumption numbers but trends as well. Initially content from M-Net would pull a vast household to DStv but with the likes of Netflix that audience had deteriorated. 

Me's cancellation was probably similar to Disney's endeavors with the likes of Disney XD and FOX Life as the focus shifts onto core brands. With Disney continuing operations with Disney Channel and Junior with MultiChoice its M-Net and their movie offering. 

Inclusion of content from Me and 1Magic on Showmax was probably MultiChoice's mean of strengthening the lineup. As Netflix has been branded off as the leading streaming service in Africa with 1Max is another attempt to lure potential DStv customers. 

Now the issue as mentioned with 1Max is accessibility if MultiChoice was looking to get more consumers. It would have made a lot more sense to include 1Max in more countries and DStv packages for which Netflix also reside within as well.

Although Netflix is the most recommended streaming platform at the moment. MultiChoice has over 20 million DStv subscribers and thought of excluding over 10 million DStv subscribers from the likes of 1Max further limits the amount of potential new subscribers. 

The Possible Damage Awaiting MultiChoice Following The Cancellation Of M-Net's Me And 1Magic On DStv

In a few days, DStv customers will be bidding farewell to two channels, 1Magic and Me. As M-Net further streamlines and consolidate their entertainment offering consumers will be paying more but have less channels at their disposal.

These channels would have joined B4U Movies, Deutsche Welle (DW), People's Weather, Ginx eSports TV, Emmanuel TV, NWTV and One Freestate Televisual to have been axed since the start of the year with WildEarth to follow soon.

MultiChoice in these endeavors have made their closures very distasteful with the lack of marketing to their consumers. Not even a press release on their website to probably explain the matter and what fate awaits the programming on these channels. 

As these channels play an important role in their respective packages and were one of the few reasons anyone would latch on to their consumers. With their inevitable demise,  MultiChoice risks losing more DStv consumers and revenue. 

Amidst these inflated prices, MultiChoice had promised their Compact Plus consumers a rebranded offering. This would see one of their current entertainment channels convert into open window for Showmax originals alongside third party content.

Seeing as it will not launch immediately after 1Magic and Me would depart from several consumers. The channel would have lost an audience as the only means of survival for this brand would be extending its reach to more DStv consumers. 

Not much details has shared on whether the channel would replace Me or if select shows would be accessible on the channel. With the amount of content coming from Showmax not much space would be available to accompany M-Net's existing offering.

Although some programming from Me such as Chicago Med and The Equalizer can be accessible on Universal TV they're lagging behind by several seasons from Me. Aside from that, they haven't obtained nor have plans to broadcast Chicago Fire.

Reminder: M-Net's Me And 1Magic Alongside Ginx eSports TV Will Close On DStv From 31 March 2024 (Schedule Attached)

MultiChoice will be axing M-Net's 1Magic and Me alongside Ginx eSports TV from the DStv platform by the end of March. This would bring the number of scrapped TV channels on the platform to nine joining B4U Movies and People's Weather which exited a month prior. 

Another brand looking to exit DStv soon is WildEarth as both parties failed to reach new agreement. Since then, a petition has been going around to keep it on DStv with the channel seeking donations as they've been going through financial woes.

1Magic

1Magic will end its run with the female led drama Lee Daniel's Star at 23:55 and from what we've seen most shows within that week would end to their climax. With a few exceptions such as Lockdown seeing as those are basically repeats.

According to the pay-tv company, further content from 1Magic would be available on the remaining M-Net channels. That would mean those currently watching 1Magic would have to revert their focus to Mzansi Magic for further content currently viewed on Showmax. 

Unlike most items on the list, MultiChoice had promised to supplement 1Magic with another TV channel known as Channel X. It has no relation to Elon Musk but will base their lineup and identity on Showmax as the revamped streamer also trademarks an X.

Me

Me will ends its run with reality based series The Real Housewives Of Atlanta based from The Real Housewives franchise at 23:10. Most shows within this week would reach their climax including M-Net originals Reyka and Recipe For Love And Murder.

According to the pay-tv company, further content from Me would be available on the remaining M-Net channels. That would mean those watching Me would need DStv Premium to watch the latest international and locally produced content on M-Net.

Although some of the entertainment like Chicago Med and The Equalizer is available on Universal TV with Young Sheldon on Comedy Central. These channels are lagging behind with one of two not having an estimated timeframe on new episodes. 

It's currently unknown whether Me will fold under Channel X or the pay-tv company will look find other means for compensation.

Ginx eSports TV 

Ginx eSports TV will end its run with The Games That Made Me at 23:00. Despite SuperSport handling distribution rights and other technical aspects of the brand, current seasons of programs won't be completed with other portions being repeats.

Unlike the other two, MultiChoice doesn't offer an alternative offering to Ginx eSports TV this leaves WWE as the only sports brand to be grouped under general entertainment section of their platforms. 

Recap To Last Month: New Channel With The Letter X In Development For DStv, Could A Second TV Channel Be On The Cards?

1Magic was a BET inspired channel operated by M-Net which would serve the freshest local and international content to premium households. The channel was home to shows such as The Real Housewives, Power, 1802: Love Defies Time and Bel-Air.

During the week, several consumers had spotted a notification on both Me and 1Magic where the pay-tv company inform consumers that these channels would sign off by 31 March 2024. Not only will consumers be paying more by April but getting less channels.

M-Net is streamlining its channel offering to provide a more seamless entertainment experience for DStv customers. After a comprehensive analysis of our content strategy, we have made the decision to terminate 1Magic [and Me].

As reported sometime ago, MultiChoice will be giving Showmax an open window to DStv consumers in a standalone channel under the working title Channel X. It would feature a lineup of original productions alongside third party content from other studios. 

This channel will be accessible on Compact Plus in place of 1Magic - a date has yet to be mentioned. With details pertaining to the fate of several programs from Me still underwraps.

If one had to guess, Channel X could also replace Me for Compact and Family consumers. But considering that Channel X will have a lineup of locally produced content there may not be much space to cater for Me leading to a theory of a second TV channel. 

Although MultiChoice has remained very discreet about some behind the scenes developments. The idea of a second TV channel wouldn't seem far fetched as Me also offered a local portfolio such as Reyka and Lioness whose positions have yet to be determined. 

Perhaps with the addition of Channel X, Me could resurface in another form perhaps as a DStv Access type channel probably from a third party brand. This would mean shows like Lioness and Reyka which is on season 2 would restart from season 1.

MultiChoice On The Closure Of Me And 1Magic On DStv: "Newer And Fresher Content As Well As Existing Shows Will Be Available On The Remaining M-Net Channels"

During the week, it was reported that both Me and 1Magic which serves as secondary channels to M-Net would be exiting the DStv platform by the end if March. Not only are consumers going to pay more for less channels but M-Net is doing away with secondary brands.

As mentioned, this news doesn't shock a majority as M-Net and MultiChoice tried to scrap last month only for them to get an extended stay. On top of that both brands had been struggling to retain audiences following M-Net's constant restructure of channels. 

Before Me and 1Magic, these two were just one channel known as The Series Channel. But M-Net continously morphed this offering and even went as far as dividing and excluding previously seen content from viewers that more and more people lost interest.

Although, 1Magic was able to garner attraction due to The River most of the attention only came once it debuted on Mzansi Magic. Although Me was able to retain shows from M-Net City and VUZU the whole format was a big turnoff to consumers.

M-Net City and VUZU despite being repeats channels had first run programming and widened its audience to Premium and Compact+. But Me on the other similar to BBC UKTV and KykNET Lekker was catered for low tiered consumers with zero exclusive content. 

In a statement as highlighted below MultiChoice is encouraging viewers of 1Magic to tune into remaining M-Net channels while those on Me would need to upgrade to Premium to watch M-Net or get a Showmax subscription.

MultiChoice is currently working on a TV channel with the letter X in its name. This channel would be based from Showmax and replace 1Magic and Me "soon" although it's not really known whether this channel would be added to Compact and Family.

Considering that two channels are being axed soon, Channel X will more likely serve as an independent brand from M-Net as seen with 1Magic. This means its likely that they won't do catch-up to shows like Reyka and Survivor from M-Net.

This is just mere speculation but it wouldn't seem far fetched as Channel X would feature a mix of international and South African produced content from Showmax. With so much local from 1Magic they wouldn't be much space to cater for Me consumers.

The only theory now would be the launch of a second TV channel by a third party brand either AMC Networks International, Ngwato Nkosi Group or Warner Bros. Discovery. 

With M-Net streamlining, they'll likely divert attention to brands like Comedy Central and Universal TV for which some of Me shows reside in with others on Showmax. Fans of local entertainment can tune into Mzansi Magic as we await news on Channel X.

Press statement from MultiChoice 

M-Net is streamlining its channel offering to provide a more seamless entertainment experience for DStv customers. After a comprehensive analysis of our content strategy, we have made the decision to terminate 1Magic [and Me].

While some of our popular telenovelas and shows have come to an end, newer fresher content as well as existing shows will be available on the remaining M-Net channels and platforms such as DStv Stream, Catch Up and Showmax.

Developing Story: MultiChoice Bids Farewell To Both M-Net Essentials (Me) And 1Magic On DStv By The End Of March

Earlier in the year, MultiChoice sent notifications to selected DStv customers that both 1Magic and Me would be exiting the DStv platform by early February. Time passed and those channels remained on air with MultiChoice silent on further developments. 

During that time, MultiChoice unveiled the new Showmax streamer which would serve as a joint venture with NBCUniversal. This partnership would lead to an extended library of content from NBCUniversal alongside further upgrades to Showmax's frequencies.

Amidst that time, 1Magic had converted to a Showmax repeats channel featuring shows like Outlaws and Adulting. With speculation going around that MultiChoice only extended this offering as a means to promote the newly revamped Showmax. 

With 1Magic set to go dark after 6 years with Me after 3 years by the end of March. The pay-tv company had issued a statement about the latter although not acknowledging Me.

M-Net is streamlining its channel offering to provide a more seamless entertainment experience for DStv customers. After a comprehensive analysis of our content strategy, we have made the decision to terminate 1Magic [and Me].

While some of our popular telenovelas and shows have come to an end, newer fresher content as well as existing shows will be available on the remaining M-Net channels and platforms such as DStv Stream, Catch Up and Showmax.

It is currently unknown how MultiChoice plans to supplement this offering to consumers without M-Net and Showmax. But for more medical and crime shows viewers are encouraged to watch Universal TV and Comedy Central with further local content on Mzansi Magic.

New channels

Although 1Magic and Me are set to be going dark on the DStv platform by the end of March. MultiChoice is currently working on a TV channel curated on Showmax which will feature a mix of South African produced and international shows.

But in a recent enquiry, it seems like this reported channel which would replace both 1Magic and Me ""might" not be available once these channels goes dark as sources tell Insidus to keep tabs on their social platforms for further updates on a new additions. 

Channel X: MultiChoice Teases The Launch Of A Revamped Showmax Curated Offering On DStv

During the week, MultiChoice adjusted the prices for each DStv package which comes to effect in April. They've also unveiled several attractions like La Liga and ESPN on Access with Compact Plus customers set to get revamped offering curated on Showmax.

As reported moments ago, the offering in question is most likely 1Magic as MultiChoice had planned to axe the channel earlier in the month. But it turns out only the first run offering was what shuttered as Champions debuted on Mzansi Magic after being greenlit for 1Magic.

This has left readers curious on MultiChoice's next phase of action for 1Magic. In a story published on News24, it had been revealed that MultiChoice has a project in development known simply as X (working title).

Channel X has no relation to Elon Musk as the name implies and if anything is based off the new Showmax logo. The project is set to reboot one of M-Net's linear channels and assist with the promotion of Showmax with a lineup of locally produced and international content.

There's still no word on Me

As mentioned, Me channel would have exited alongside 1Magic earlier in the month. As seen with the latter, Me has expanded catch-up to weekdays with 5 episodes of NCIS: Los Angeles for 5 straight hours something that most linear channels would confine on weekends.

On top of that several primetime shows like Tulsa King and Based On A True Story are seeing doubles. There's lots of theories going around as to why this may be the case one of which is that M-Net could be looking to merge Me with X seeing as both are second fiddle.

1Magic has a variety of content that would probably conflict with Me and therefore limit the airtime for several shows. Another theory that comes to mind here is that M-Net could look to restructure Me's programming (if not package) even throw a new coat of paint.

Mzansi Magic gets front row seat

Mzansi Magic has been evading shows from 1Magic with The River moving to 18:30 while Adulting which was slated for 2023 debut launching on 1Magic. Maybe Me will expand their catch-up offering outside of Housewives to include shows like The Mommy Club and Outlaws.

With the way some content rollout on Me, it's only a matter of time till there's not much catching up left for the channel so getting these shows away from Mzansi Magic would probably help build up the ratings.

Development Alert (Rumour): 1Magic To Undergo Yet Another Rebrand Before April With M-Net's Me "Likely" To Exit DStv Possibly For Channel 111 (NBC)

Update: the channels will close 31 March 2024 and for an updated statement: click here 

Earlier in the month, MultiChoice would have removed both 1Magic and Me from the DStv platform. Following their release from possible execution, 1Magic became a Showmax repeats channel moving further exclusive content like Champions to Mzansi Magic.

Prior to this fallout, MultiChoice had removed various local TV channels including Maisha Magic Movies and ROK3 as their content integrate with other brands. It is believed that they're prioritising their streaming endeavours as they plan to boost local spend on Showmax.

Not long ago, MultiChoice had announced their price adjustments for each package and it was mentioned by the pay-tv company that Compact Plus would have a "rebranded set of channels" curated on Showmax. 

It is evident here that 1Magic is one of the TV channels MultiChoice is looking to revamp soon. As seen by some DStv consumers, all the local content such as The Real Housewives Of Lagos, The Mommy Club, Adulting and Outlaws are all based from Showmax.

Not only that but 1Magic doesn't have a programme guide for the next month as the channel lists its name with no content present. That only leaves further questions as to what plans MultiChoice has for Me as it was the only means for viewers without M-Net. 

During the week, MultiChoice had begun work on a channel 111 which was always curated for M-Net Movies pop-up channels. But this channel had the working title NBC HD imprinted leading to some theories that this could serve as a predecessor to channel 115.

In an enquiry about Me and 1Magic, it was very much mentioned that Me would be exiting soon but a date had yet to be reached while more details were still awaiting 1Magic. 

This recent developments lead us to believe that NBC could be reference to the American company NBCUniversal which has minority stake in Showmax. Maybe Me and Universal will merge into one channel featuring content from M-Net and NBC for lower packages.

It could explain why MultiChoice was looking to throw away the only channel low tiered consumers would have access to local content like Reyka and My Kitchen Rules South Africa alongside international titles like The Voice and FBI: Most Wanted.

Recap To Last Month: Could Ngwato Nkosi Group Ramp Up Its Own 1Magic/Me Channel On DStv?

Last month, it was reported that M-Net's Me and 1Magic would be removed from the DStv platform by early February. This was after MultiChoice sent notifications to various subscribers and since then the trail has gone quiet as these channels continue to stay onboard.

Me has been filtering it's schedule with marathons of Home Economics and NCIS: Los Angeles while airing newer shows like Tulsa King in double bill form. 1Magic on the other hand had converted into a a Showmax repeats channel for Adulting and Outlaws.

There's been a lot of questions from various media outlets on what fate awaits these channels especially after the rebrand of Showmax. The terminations of both channels coincide with this new venture that NBCUniversal would be having some involvement.

Some theories that came to mind would be the integration of Me and 1Magic's programs to Mzansi Magic and NBCUniversal's slate of channels like Universal TV and E! Entertainment. There was also word from MultiChoice Africa that a replacement for 1Magic is in development.

Not much is known as to how similar this reported channel would be to 1Magic and if MultiChoice was even looking to retain any content from the affected brands. Initially, they were more open to just isolating these consumers with the existing line-up of channels.

But after word of a replacement, it kind of led me to think what if this supposed channel came from an existing partner e.g. Ngwato Nkosi Group.

Ngwato Nkosi Group already provides Movie Room, and Newzroom Afrika to consumers across Africa with Play Room in South Africa. All of which had proven to be favourable by DStv consumers and also cater to a local audience as seen with 1Magic.

The only thing missing from this line-up is a rival/complimentary offering to Mzansi Magic, MTV and Universal TV. If anything, my estimated guess is that if the group were looking to do another TV channel it would most likely take up the DNA of one if not all channels.

Could 1Magic And M-Net's Me Perhaps Merge Into A Showmax Repeats Channel?

Update: the channels will close 31 March 2024 and for an updated statement: click here 

In 2022, Warner Bros. Discovery halted original productions for TBS and TNT with further content on HBO leaving the latter to promote content from their Max streaming service. By the end of January, M-Net will become the only HBO as 1Magic is sidelined to streaming based content.

1Magic and M-Net Essentials (Me) were slated to close by the end of this week. But MultiChoice seems to have pumped the breaks as 1Magic introduces Showmax originals Outlaws and Adulting while as Mzansi Magic distances themselves from the channel's remaining shows.

1Magic was originally slated to air Champions in place of The River but that was picked up for Mzansi Magic with the revenge drama moving to 18:30. Prior to that, Adulting was set to air on Mzansi Magic before resurfacing on 1Magic of course that doesn't say much about Me.

Me as a result of this restructure continued adding shows like Tulsa King and A Million Little Things in the form of double bills. Half hour shows like Home Economics air 8 times weekly basically burning them off in a month.

MultiChoice is set to launch their rebranded Showmax streaming service in the month of February in partnership with NBCUniversal. It would recieve a wider variety of programming like The Office and Parks And Recreation alongside new films like Top Gun: Mavericks.

Also interesting to note, similar to how Showmax's local programs had been inserted on 1Magic. Tulsa King and Heels were one of the highlights for the streamer and now it's on Me so if anything it could be that these two channels are being used for "marketing purposes".

I mean if this proves to be the case then there's not much of a future left for the brands and they could as well go dark in the next few months. As both had been doubling up on primetime and further limiting the amount of new content.

With the possible closure of 1Magic, there's no guarantee that The Real Housewives will transmit on M-Net. If it did alongside various shows from 1Magic, it will more likely conflict with M-Net's current offering and rather restrain/reduce the pace of new content.

An alternative TV channel would prove to be favorable as it would lease the responsibility from M-Net and help further expand their offering. With the lack of international content available on linear platforms perhaps this channel could infuse the Me DNA.

Development Alert: 1Magic Adds Lee Daniel's Star Formerly Viewed On FOX, Could The Channel Undergo Yet Another Rebrand?

After Disney axed the FOX brand in 2021 across Africa ripping away The Simpsons and Grey's Anatomy as further content shifts to Disney+. M-Net had acquired rights to the 2017 musical drama Lee Daniel's Star which serves as a spin-off to one of FOX's leading shows Empire.

Except M-Net had opted to add the show onto 1Magic which is somewhat strange as the channel was basically their BET. That meant airing first run programming if not fresher content but the drop in quality could signal something that was announced much earlier in the month.

As some readers are aware, MultiChoice was looking to axe 1Magic and Me as it was confirmed in most parts of Africa with Southern Africa diverting that attention to Me. Since then, no termination notice had been put up at the time which led to various speculation.

One of which is the possible dismemberment of Compact+, 1Magic was one of those leading brands on the bouquet as most content had been integrated onto lower bouquets. Cancellation would probably signal the end of Compact+ that was until it was replacement was reported.

Although not much details had been announced about 1Magic's successor, we believe it could retain most programs seen on the channel and likely come from a third party. With the addition of Lee Daniel's Star, cater to other consumers particularly those viewing brands like Me.

As mentioned, MultiChoice could have delayed the terminations as they seek a replacement channel. Da Vinci Kids was also another victim to MultiChoice's endeavours as they had attempted to use Moonbug as leverage before going for something more locally produced like Play Room.

Recap To The Month: 1Magic Becomes The LOL Channel On DStv As M-Net's Me Dishes On The Wipeout And Home Economics

In the coming weeks, MultiChoice is set to axe both M-Net's Me and 1Magic on the DStv platform or at least from what initial reports suggests. The pay-tv company has confirmed this on various occasions and since then gone silent removing any mention of the terminations.

If anything it's likely that MultiChoice had decided to no longer move forward with these plans or at least on the estimated date: 2nd February 2024. They often review the costs of their products and services and unveil them within February so it's likely an update could follow by then.

As for 1Magic should the channel stay on past the reported cutoff date would air Laugh Out Loud - The Comedy Show in place of The River and 1802: Love Defies Time for 9 hours straight. Me has taken up a similar stigma with Wipeout and Home Economics which is just half of LOL's airtime.

This only confirms that MultiChoice hasn't changed their initial plans but possible the date. If anything, it wouldn't seem far fetched if these changes occurred in other African countries as they've been known to axe channels earlier and also not a lot of consumers reside within each market.

Another is that MultiChoice has been known for removing channels even after having a full schedule put in place e.g. Zambezi Reloaded and Da Vinci Kids.

As for Southern Africa, MultiChoice has over 8 million subscribers and closures of 1Magic and Me would anger consumers. They are looking to produce a new channel soon (specifically for 1Magic) but it is yet to be seen if any content would be retained.

But if M-Net is looking to do away with 1Magic and Me it only means that something big could be brewing on DStv. Perhaps the merger of Premium and Compact+, another could be that MultiChoice is diverting all the attention to M-Net and Showmax.

They are scheduled to revamp Showmax with more content from Comcast's NBCUniversal and Sky added to the lineup. It could be another streamlining attempt orchestrated by MultiChoice, as seen with M-Net Movies which reduced the movie offering from 6 to 4 channels.

M-Net On DStv Compact: Could This Be The Possible Outcome To The Cancellation Of Me And 1Magic?

With M-Net Essentials (ME) and 1Magic serving as M-Net's last secondary channels set to exit the DStv platform by early February. Some have led to wonder if a possible restructure to DStv packages could be in development as MultiChoice remains silent on how they'll retain their Compact+ consumers.

For several years now, MultiChoice's premium market has been declining rapidly similar to HBO and even Discovery Channel in the United States has seen a fall in consumption. These consumers have all integrated to Netflix and various other affordable plans.

Although MultiChoice has seen a decline in premium consumption their lower markets continues to rise. In the last annual results dated 30 September 2023, their mass market had increased from 54% to 57% while their premium and mid market decreased from 46% to 43%.

It kind of leads one to wonder what fate awaits their remaining premium offering particularly M-Net. As mentioned, there's been less consumption so much that MultiChoice remains discrete on its viewership numbers with House Of Dragons being the only notable show pulled around 8000 views.

Again with M-Net's Me and 1Magic exiting, could it be possible that Me's content will remain exclusive to M-Net as 1Magic's offering migrates to Mzansi Magic. When you kind of look at DStv, it offers Universal TV and Comedy Central brands seen airing selected content from M-Net.

Demise in Me would reduce the repetition seen amongst channels and could help elevate the viewership numbers on Universal TV and Comedy Central. Of course, if M-Net were to be added as compensation for Me where does that leave premium consumers.

Theoretically, a possible restructure to packages wouldn't seem far fetched a stretch if all bets were on M-Net becoming accessible. Compact+ has been losing value as the latter ESPN 2 and E! Entertainment all migrated to lower bouquets and a similar outcome arose when it launched snatching Premium channels.

If Premium and Compact+ merged, consumers on top tier bouquet would get exclusivity to brands like Discovery Channel, CBS Justice, History, Curiosity Channel, SuperSport Action, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr. and Qwest TV.

Could The River Be Changing Channels On DStv As Champions Debuts On Mzansi Magic?

Mzansi Magic is set to rollout Champions a sports based drama starring Sello Maake ka-Ncube, Tumisho Masha, and Jo-anne Reyneke by early February. It brought various questions from consumers as the show will debut in the timeslot of The River.

As several readers are aware, MultiChoice will be axing both 1Magic and Me prior to Champions debut. For several days, media outlets had been wondering how MultiChoice plans to retain their black premium audience as 1Magic serves as the M-Net's BET channel.

In ongoing conversations with the pay-tv company, it had been mentioned a replacement channel for specifically 1Magic was in development but no word on Me. Leading us to believe that M-Net and MultiChoice could be looking to merge these two channels.

Compact+ has been declining in linear consumption for several years as MultiChoice moves channels like ESPN 2 and Comedy Central to lower tailored bouquets. If anything, it's only a matter of time till MultiChoice opts to discontinue or fold it onto premium.

Although the content for this rumoured channel has yet to be confirmed, we presume M-Net could try to make it a more independent tier from Me as seen with 1Magic at the time. This channel would be the exclusive home to The Real Housewives alongside Beat Shazam and Bel-Air.

If possible from what other outlets presume, they could burn off The River onto this channel making Mzansi Magic the premier destination for local content while brands like Mzansi Wethu serve as the backburner.

Showmax had been producing various content that would often fold under Mzansi Magic. Perhaps, MultiChoice will look at redirecting these shows should a replacement channel be in the works.

Early reception never mentioned a replacement, if anything fans of local dramas on 1Magic would migrate to Mzansi Magic with selected content from Me on Universal TV. But when you look at it doesn't seem far fetched as M-Net also offers content you won't find elsewhere.

Me despite how the channel was perceived is very much necessity to DStv consumers. How else are consumers going to view shows like Summertide or Kitchen Rules SA I mean they could as well transmit on Mzansi Wethu to give the channel purpose to the Compact household.

Rumour: 1Magic (And Possible Me) To Be Replaced/Merged Onto Another TV Channel On DStv

Update: the channels will close 31 March 2024 and for an updated statement: click here 

MultiChoice is set to axe an additional two channels by early February, 1Magic and Me. The pay-tv company remains discrete on further information pertaining to these brands and have gone as far as hiding this news from DStv consumers until later this week.

In ongoing conversations with the pay-tv company, it was revealed that 1Magic will be replaced with another channel unlike Me. Considering that these terminations sort of affect consumers on the Family and Compact bouquet it's likely that this channel will be accessible to them.

Following the cancellation of 1Magic, there had been questions pertaining on how MultiChoice intended to distribute The Real Housewives and retain their black premium subscribers who'd view content like Power Book 4: Force Beat Shazam and 1802: Love Defies Time.

As I hypothesised in early stories, MultiChoice and M-Net are probably looking to substitute 1Magic (and possible Me) with a more robust offering. M-Net is filtered to the audience of SABC 3 and 1Magic was one way they could position themselves to SABC 1 and Mzansi Magic.

If anything, it's likely that this channel will offer the best of Me and 1Magic (which were basically VUZU and M-Net City) in one space. That is if all this turns out to be accurate, as mentioned they are looking to officially update consumers later this week on the fate of these channels.

More About M-Net's Me And 1Magic's Closure On DStv

Update: the channels will close 31 March 2024 and for an updated statement: click here 

During the week, we recieved word from various DStv consumers that MultiChoice will be axing both M-Net Essentials (ME) and 1Magic by February 2nd, 2024. In an enquiry, we were able to retrieve confirmation of the terminations which comes weeks before the demise of Emmanuel TV.

Since then, 1Magic has been allocating more airtime to their remaining shows while repeating past programs. Me on the other similar to The River on 1Magic, has been trying to wrap up remaining shows like And Just Like That and Lucky Hank in the form of a double bill.

An official statement from MultiChoice:

This is in line with our strategy to continuously review international and local content line-ups and optimise the suite of channels on offer on DStv. Due to this, we will bid farewell to 1Magic and Me. This is done to ensure we deliver unbeatable content to our consumers and that our services cater for the needs and viewing requirements of our customers.

MultiChoice is looking to produce more channels but it remains to be seen whether any of the content viewed on 1Magic and Me will be accessible on these channels. We presume they could require assistance of Ngwato Nkosi Group as seen with Movie Room and Play Room.

By early February, fans of crime and medical dramas on Me can tune into Universal TV for Chicago PD, Magnum Pi, Transplant and The Equalizer. Sitcoms such as Young Sheldon and Bob Hearts Abishola (both of which are ending) can be viewed on Comedy Central.

As for 1Magic, fans of local dramas can tune into the new series Champions on Mzansi Magic this February while 1802: Love Defies Time is streaming on Showmax. Other productions on the platforms include My Brother's Keeper, Gqeberha: The Empire and uThando Nes'Thembu.

MultiChoice will be revamping the Showmax streaming service in a joint venture with NBCUniversal. Serving as the streaming service made by Africans for Africans will feature content from Universal Pictures, NBC, Peacock, DreamWorks Animation and Telemundo. 

The Real Housewives is an NBC property and as such will fold under the streamer with variants being divided amongst M-Net's linear offering. Same applies to international variants viewed on these channels: Bel-Air, Beat Shazam and Power Book 4: Force.

Could NBCUniversal Acquire The Real Housewives For E! Entertainment Or Could It Fold Under M-Net Once 1Magic Exits DStv?

During the week, we recieved word from various DStv consumers that MultiChoice will be axing both M-Net Essentials (ME) and 1Magic by February 2nd, 2024. In an enquiry, we were able to retrieve confirmation of the terminations which comes weeks before the demise of Emmanuel TV.

Since then, several DStv customers are looking to cancel or migrate to a cheaper price plan. This puts their Compact+ tier under junk status while their Compact consumers have access to ESPN, Comedy Central and Disney Channel.

While Me was basically an outlet to access content from M-Net, 1Magic had garnered prestige for shows like The River, Unmarried and Being Bonang. It was also the home to reality franchise The Real Housewives by Bravo TV with consumers left in the dark about the fate of the franchise.

As mentioned, it was reported that Me would be exiting alongside 1Magic leaving M-Net as the only other contender for the franchise. 1Magic catered for a different target group so either way consumers on M-Net may not be very welcoming of the inclusion of Housewives.

MultiChoice in partnership NBCUniversal will be rolling out a revamped Showmax streaming service. It had been speculated that MultiChoice probably wants to prioritise Universal TV also owned by NBCUniversal in place of Me as both reside within the same package.

When Me and 1Magic cancellation were reported no word on a follow-up for either brand was announced as seen when M-Net City and VUZU were axed.

Several content from Me can be viewed on Universal TV and this included Magnum Pi, The Equalizer, Chicago PD and NCIS: Los Angeles. If anything, could it be possible that The Real Housewives may end up on E! Entertainment I mean it wouldn't seem that far fetched.

E! Entertainment had been airing content from Bravo TV for a while now and this included shows like Below Deck Mediterranean, Million Dollar Listing and Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen. Similar to Telemundo, the channel has been running short of new content.

The Real Housewives could help build up the schedule with the number of adaptations already produced. It would align NBCUniversal closer to their own assets as the latter would often get scooped up M-Net.

MultiChoice will be sharing more updates about these channels by next week.

Channel Termination: 1Magic And M-Net Essentials (ME) Will Stop Airing On DStv Platforms By 2 February

Update: the channels will close 31 March 2024 and for an updated statement: click here 

During the week, we recieved word from various DStv consumers that MultiChoice will be axing both M-Net Essentials (ME) and 1Magic by February 2nd, 2024. In an enquiry, we were able to retrieve confirmation of the terminations which comes weeks before the demise of Emmanuel TV.

1Magic was launched back in 2018 as a replacement to VUZU AMP combining the Mzansi Magic formula would feature curated local productions like The River, Unmarried And The Real Housewives Of Johannesburg alongside international content like Moesha and Grownish.

Me (also known as M-Net Essentials) followed three years later in 2021 as a replacement to both VUZU and M-Net City. The channel was catered for Family and Compact consumers while being made available to Premium and Compact+ featuring content from M-Net and 1Magic.

Both channels had their turnoff for 1Magic, there was Moesha, Hits and The Talk which had been bombarding the channel's line-up. The River was the one of the few reasons anyone would continue tuning into 1Magic but after launching on Mzansi Magic things went south.

Me suffered from the rippling effects of M-Net City, a brand which M-Net and several viewers held high on a pedestal serving as the more edgier and robust version to both M-Net and 1Magic with shows like Gotham, Black Lightning, Marvel's Runaways, Magnum Pi and Power. 

Although Me retained this offering, the channel didn't meet viewer's expectations that MultiChoice opted to not substitute it with another channel. It means consumers will have to watch Universal TV for Magnum Pi and Chicago PD while losing out on shows like The Voice and American Idol.

MultiChoice in this drastic turn of events has left their Compact+ and Compact customers without a premium tiered channel as M-Net remains exclusive to Premium customers. The only other means Universal TV resides on Family meaning consumers could just downgrade.

All of this has kind of lead consumers to speculate the possible demise of the Compact+ bouquet. As most channels like Comedy Central, ESPN 2, WildEarth, CBeebies and E! Entertainment had all migrated to other low tiered bouquets.

With the destruction of 1Magic, it leads one to wonder how long till channels like Channel O have till it drowns in its own pool of blood. Funny thing about its closure is that it occurs around the same time The River ends meaning the channel couldn't sustain itself without Lindiwe.

MultiChoice had shuttered HONEY last year and diverted content to Showmax meaning the latter (including 1Magic) would transmit on Mzansi Magic. They'll also be launching a revamped Showmax streaming service with a slate of content that might resurface on Universal TV.

Theoretically, it is believed that MultiChoice could be prioritising Universal TV as it garnered popularity following the closure of M-Net City. Although they're currently no plans to substitute the affected, MultiChoice will more likely find other means to keep viewers entertained.

Could Universal TV And Mzansi Magic Be The Final Outcome Of M-Net Essentials (ME) And 1Magic??? As The River Draws To A Close And Showmax 2.0. Rolls Out

During the day, it was reported that MultiChoice will be removing 1Magic and M-Net Essentials (Me) both of which were supplied by M-Net in the coming weeks. DStv customers have already recieved inboxes confirming the termination of these channels.

M-Net's Me and 1Magic will be exiting DStv from February 2nd and MultiChoice doesn't appear to be looking to commission another channel in place. This is through an ongoing enquiry where a representative only confirms the channel but no substitution.

When VUZU and M-Net City merged to form Me, MultiChoice highlighted that in their response to several DStv consumers in 2021 and fast forward to the new year the pay-tv company is hush hush. It wouldn't seem far fetched if none of these channels were replaced.

Where does that leave further shows from 1Magic?

When 1Magic launched in 2018, M-Net was basically ripping several local shows away from Mzansi Magic and making them available exclusively on the channel. They even had a line-up of international shows like The $100,000 Pyramid and Gossip Girl whose future will be on M-Net's linear offering and Showmax.

Funny thing about this was The River was also scheduled to close around the same date as 1Magic, February 2nd. As several fans predicted, 1Magic built it's whole existence around 1 show and couldn't survive in the long run.

Where does that leave further shows from Me?

Me was a mashup of the former M-Net City and VUZU which was basically M-Net Series. A catch-up channel tailored for lower bouquets like Compact and Family and with its termination consumers need to wonder if the whole acquisition and revamping of Showmax had a part in the cancellation.

Despite Me getting poor reception from several DStv consumers, would it seem far fetched if MultiChoice probably wanted to prioritise Universal TV as it had garnered popularity following the demise of M-Net City and both channels reside within the same packages.

Universal TV is operated by NBCUniversal that manage channels like Studio Universal, DreamWorks and Telemundo. They even have a 30% stake on the soon-to-be-revamped Showmax streaming service.