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.

Paramount Buys Out Tyler Perry’s Stake in BET+, Plans To Fold It Under Paramount+

Paramount Skydance has acquired Tyler Perry’s stake in BET+ and will fold it into Paramount+ at the beginning of June.

Perry had held a 25 percent stake in BET’s streaming service since 2019. Now, the more than 1,000 hours of content on BET+ will move to Paramount+.

Perry is still under an overall deal with BET Media Group that will run through 2028. He will continue delivering content to BET and now Paramount+.

In an internal memo, Louis Carr, president of BET Networks, said, “As we continue to drive BET’s growth, our stories have to live in more places. Beginning in June, we are expanding our reach by making Paramount+ the new home for BET+ content. This powerful next step ensures the stories we champion, the creators we support and the culture we represent go further than ever before.

“Paramount+ will bring global fans over 1,000 hours of iconic series, films, originals and cultural touchstones that reflect the full spectrum of the Black experience, including hits like The Ms. Pat Show, All The Queen’s Men, Zatima, Average Joe and Diarra from Detroit. Our celebrated Black storytelling will live alongside Paramount’s premium series, sports, specials and films, where it will be clearly branded, prominently featured and easy to find in the BET Hub.”

Unlike MultiChoice's DStv, Paramount's Channels Are Being Replaced In Other Parts Of The World

At this current stage, MultiChoice has no plans to replace CBS Reality, CBS Justice, MTV Base and BET once they go dark on DStv. This will only enrage consumers by next year and lead to the potential loss in subscribers as seen with high end packages.

From what is understood, the decision to remove these channels was a corporate decision coming from Paramount and AMC Networks International. MultiChoice has no control over that and are as much customs as of its subscribers.

But as MultiChoice a service is being provided by them so it would only seem logical in this scenario for consumers to get some form of compensation. Rather than widening down the reach of existing channels as if your top level or mid entry subscribers don't exist.

In New Zealand, Sky had launched two channels Sky Comedy and Sky Kids that have licensed content from Paramount's cable networks.  Even in Poland whose CBS Reality is scheduled to close at the same time as Africa is treating this as a rebrand with another set to launch in place.

Even in Australia, Foxtel had launched its replacements for MTV's cable networks: CMC, Australian Played and Trending. This is despite the fact that Spotify and YouTube Music are booming within the streaming space.

Then you have MultiChoice which is losing 4 channels despite closing an additional 2 channels in the year and between 7 to 12 channels in the previous financial year. They had only managed to launch like 1 channel and another 1 or 2 in the previous year.

In general, things at MultiChoice are really a mess and those following the media can only just hope that this tie up with Canal+ can only benefit existing clients in the long run. There's likely going to be more corporate restructuring within the media landscape.

Paramount is currently in pursuit of Warner Bros. Discovery and if they're able to sink their teeth into Discovery Channel and Cartoon Network. Expect a similar outcome to await these brands and MultiChoice won't have much leverage by then.

Some consumers are threatening to cancel their DStv subscription once MTV Base goes dark this was somewhat like the Mzansi Magic of music. Judge Judy that's also being axed without airing it's final season alongside reruns to Cheaters as this content won't be found elsewhere.

"There Are A Variety Of Other Channels That Contain Similar Content", MultiChoice On The Closures Of MTV Base, BET, CBS Reality And CBS Justice On DStv

As reported moments ago, CBS Reality, CBS Justice, BET and MTV Base will be exiting DStv soon due to a corporate restructure at Paramount. For DStv consumers particularly high end subscribers that are hoping to be compensated there no plans to replace these channels.

MultiChoice when asked about the matter pertaining to BET and MTV Base 

"There are a variety of other channels that contain similar content, such as Sound City, Channel O, Trace Urban or Trace Africa for music, or Mzansi Magic, M-Net, Bravo, and Movie Room for viewers who prefer series and movie entertainment.”

MultiChoice when asked about the matter pertaining to shows like Judge Judy on CBS Reality 

"Customers can continue to enjoy a wide range of local and international reality and investigative content across our bouquet of channels.”

However the fact that MultiChoice has no workaround to such doesn't mean there won't be one eventually. Best guess here is that MultiChoice will be widening the reach certain channels within 2026.

For MTV Base, this could as well be Trace Africa to DStv Access but like MultiChoice has stated there's plenty of channels for local music. There's been an increase in online usage for platforms like Spotify which partially contributed to the channel's demise.

For CBS Reality, this could as well be the additions of Discovery Family to DStv Access or Curiosity Channel to DStv Family subscribers. As highlighted, there's a wide range of local and international reality and investigative content.

Lastly for other DStv consumers, MultiChoice had been part of a corporate buyout by French broadcaster Canal+. Through its sub division, Canal+ Afrique had boasted about 4000 hours of African content which is currently being integrated with MultiChoice. 

From 9 December, MultiChoice will be adding Sunu Yeuf, Pulaagu, Mandeka, Maboke and Zacu TV currently seen on Canal+ Afrique to DStv. These channels form part of 4000 hours content slate the company is introducing in select African markets.

Scheduling Update: BET And MTV Base Will Stop Airing On DStv From January 1st At 9AM CAT

As reported moments ago, CBS Reality, CBS Justice, BET and MTV Base will be exiting DStv soon due to a corporate restructure at Paramount. This had led to several linear channels to shut down from across the globe and this included various MTV branded channels.

MultiChoice sent a notice to various DStv consumers informing them that these 4 channels would be exiting DStv by 31 December 2025. Yet on the programme guide, BET and MTV Base are only scheduled to close by 1 January 2025 at 9AM CAT.

This could mean several things the first Paramount could be curating special programming for the channels. As I understand it, MTV Base had been curating content to celebrate 20 years perhaps BET with its 10 year presence is being stringed along.

Their closures seemed abrupt when it was first announced and this could be their way of trying of settling the score or rather make amends. 

On the MultiChoice side of things, the company will now to have work around the clock to allocate more content or risk losing subscribers. Since their buyout by Canal+, DStv consumers have seen some enhancement with the addition of Ligue 1 and NBA on SuperSport.

Canal+ is expected to provide a detailed report about its plans for MultiChoice by next year. Some of which include merging their operations with that of MultiChoice a process in which the company is expected to conclude within 12 to 18 months.

Channel Closure: BET And MTV Base Will Stop Airing On DStv From 31 December 2025

Paramount is in the process of shutting down some of its linear operations in Europe and Africa by the end of 2025. This includes music brands like MTV Base alongside the black focused entertainment channel, BET both of are seen on MultiChoice's DStv.

MTV Base was launched in Africa by February 2005 offering content from local and African artists. Since it's inception, MTV Base had been regarded as #1 music network in West Africa which is where most of its relevance resided.

BET followed by September 2014 offering a mixture of reality shows, drama series, sitcoms and movies. As it began bolstering it's local portfolio, BET started garnering prestige with shows like Queendom drawing in over 200,000 viewers part of which had to do with its expansion to DStv Access.

With both channels shutting down soon, MultiChoice would not only be losing two more channels but the international content slate would further diminish. BET very much like M-Net and Universal TV boasted shows like Sistas, Abbott Elementary and Empire.

MultiChoice very much Paramount in this regard is putting their focus on core brands in an effort to bolster their streaming endeavours. This included directing content from 1Magic and Me to M-Net and Showmax.

Unlike 1Magic and Me where most consumers could view select content on Universal TV, Bravo and Mzansi Magic. In BET's case, this pipeline is closing and the only other way to view similar international titles is to upgrade to a higher package.

As for shows like MTV Shuga and Having Faith on MTV Base, it's unclear whether these will resurface on MTV or get phased out. Paramount does offer a localised feed for MTV unlike it's children's channels which is conjoined to other European markets.

Last month, MultiChoice became a subsidiary of Canal+ which is set to boast about 10,000 hours of African content. The plan is to merge MultiChoice's existing catalogue with that of StudioCanal so it's likely something could come out of this perhaps to even fill the void from BET.

Channel Closure: BET Will Stop Airing In France From 30 November 2025 With Africa Likely To Follow Soon

During the month, it was reported that Paramount will be closing MTV's international music channels by the end of the year with the US being an exception. As the company is prepping for a round of layoffs affecting 2000 jobs with additional cuts for international shores.

The French version of BET is also scheduled to close on 30 November 2025 in France. Months prior, it was even reported that BET's operations in Africa could also be affected by these strings of cuts.

BET was launched in France a year after it launched as BET International in Africa by 2015. It was black based entertainment channel offering reality shows like Real Husbands Of Hollywood and The Wendy Williams Show alongside dramas like Being Mary Jane and The Oval.

Aside from Africa and France, BET was once available in the UK before Paramount opted to put more emphasis on growing its digital footprint. Following Paramount's buyout by Skydance, this endeavours now affect remaining feeds.

Paramount has remained silent on further updates regarding BET's operations in Africa but if I had to guess the channel could go dark by the end of 2025 or early 2026. BET has a weekday soap Black Gold they could be waiting on that before yanking the channel from Africa.

It wouldn't seem far fetched a stretch I mean that's what happened when The River concluded on 1Magic with Helstorm on FOX. 

Three DStv Channels Possibly Closing Soon

MultiChoice is set to go undergo further restructure as French conglomerate Canal+ had completed its acquisition of the South African company. The merged company are currently re-evaluating their strategy in the African market with more details expected in the first quarter of 2026.

Aside from MultiChoice, several entertainment brands who are currently contracted with the company are also doing some restructuring of their own. The first induction Bravo had launched in the African market as Comcast looks to fold E! and MSNBC under a separate company, Versant.

Fact of the matter is that NBCUniversal can't distribute E! as they no longer own the brand and Bravo was the only option under the restructured company. Besides that, E! had allocated several shows from the channel ahead of its launch.

Following E! in a not so distant future could be BET and MTV Base as Paramount Global following its corporate buyout by Skydance Media is looking to reduce operational costs. This includes shuttering it's local operations in South Africa which might affect MTV, Comedy Central and Nicktoons.

According to The Sun, Paramount is looking to close all of its international music channels except for the ones in the US. MTV Base would join a long list of UK/Pan-European feeds which are set to be shuttered by the end of December.

As for BET, several factors contribute to its potential demise in Africa firstly similar to MTV Base, it was the brand in which Paramount put most of its local aspirations. In Brazil, such channels are shutting down as they aren't financially feasible.

Paramount intends to retain MTV, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr. and Nicktoons pushing their focus on core brands. BET for sometime has been pivoting toward streaming with the company's president calling it a building block to its streaming strategy.

 

Continuing on Paramount's reign of destruction would be CBS Reality that the company operate alongside AMC Networks International. The channel has seen a decline in carriage across Europe and very much like E! reduced programming and a zombified lineup.

It's not clear whether this could affect CBS Justice which would serve as the African equivalent of True Crime as AMC Networks International is still licensing content for the brand.

BET's Potential Closure Or Exit From Audiences On DStv And The Rest Of Africa Explained

A few months ago, it was reported that Paramount Global prior to its acquisition by Skydance Media is looking to halt local operations in Africa. According to some insiders, Paramount Global is also looking into possibly closing BET and MTV Base in the region.

MultiChoice in a response had stated that they were monitoring the situation and would communicate in due course.

As some consumers know, BET Africa has been seen as the flagship network for shows like Being Mary Jane, The Real Husbands Of Hollywood and Tyler Perry's House Of Payne. It also offered local productions such as uBettina Wethu, Redemption and DJ Zinhle: Bossing Up.

If Paramount Global is looking to do away with BET Africa a number of reasons would factor into this.

When it comes to scale, BET doesn't have much of a global presence as seen with Paramount's other cable networks such as MTV and Comedy Central. The only reason it managed to sustain its operations in Africa is due to the pipeline of local content being funded by Paramount Global.

SABC even MultiChoice's M-Net serve as rivals to BET with shows like Generations: The Legacy, Deal Or No Deal SA, Sibongile And The Dlaminis and Date My Family. In viewers, these shows can get anywhere from 500,000 to a million viewers while Queendom on BET could only garner less than half.

In the UK, Paramount has been trying to push the brand to streaming and seeing as Showmax is the exclusive home to Paramount+. I can only assume a similar strategy is awaiting viewers in Africa with the focus shifting on MTV, Comedy Central and Nickelodeon.

Paramount Global Looking To Shutter Both BET And MTV Base Africa In Major Restructure

Paramount Global‘s Africa offices may close, local channels may be shuttered, and staffers’ roles could be impacted, company executives told employees in the region on Tuesday.

The company has been prioritizing investments in its growing streaming business and core global content as it navigates shifts in audience behavior and the macro-economic environment. As part of that, it is reviewing its international pay TV strategy and considering adjustments to its linear channel portfolio in international markets, with a focus on cable brands. Management has also signaled a focus on businesses and regions with the most opportunity for revenue growth.

Tuesday’s news comes as Paramount continues to wait for FCC approval of Skydance Media’s deal to acquire it. THR understands that Paramount has fewer than 100 employees in Africa between its offices in Johannesburg, South Africa and Lagos, Nigeria.

“We are at a point in our journey where we are facing immense industry disruption,” Monde Twala and Craig Paterson, co-general managers of Paramount Africa, said in a staff memo obtained by THR. “Our team is not immune to potential changes as our organization evaluates its pay TV strategy and local channel footprint here in Africa.”

In June, Paramount unveiled further U.S. workforce cuts to the tune of 3.5 percent, following a 15 percent reduction last year. As of the end of 2024, Paramount Global had 18,600 employees worldwide. Co-CEOs George Cheeks, Chris McCarthy and Brian Robbins said in a June memo that the focus was on U.S. headcount but the moves “may also result in some impacts to our workforce outside the U.S. over time.”

Twala and Paterson acknowledged in their staff memo: “Today was incredibly difficult. We want you to know your greatness is seen. We reach out with a heavy heart, but also with immense pride. Your dedication to excellence, creativity and passion for leveraging the power of our content have been the driving force behind our many accomplishments.”

They concluded: “We understand the coming weeks may be tough and feel unsettling. Through it all, please know your efforts are valued beyond measure.”

"New Paramount" May Be Looking To Discard Cable Networks Like MTV, Comedy Central, BET And Nickelodeon

The landscape of television is undergoing a seismic shift, with streaming services increasingly dominating the entertainment industry. This transformation is forcing media conglomerates to re-evaluate their strategies, and for Paramount, this means a potential downplaying, or even outright disposal, of once-iconic cable networks like MTV and Comedy Central.

According to a recent report from The Hollywood Reporter, these networks, along with Nickelodeon and BET, are “simply not as high a priority” for the incoming Skydance regime following the anticipated merger with Paramount. This news raises serious questions about the future of these channels, which have played a significant role in shaping pop culture over the past few decades.

The report suggests that CBS is the only television asset considered completely safe under the new leadership. Incoming company president Jeff Shell has previously referred to CBS as a “crown jewel,” indicating its central importance to the merged entity. This prioritization of CBS comes at the expense of other networks within the Paramount portfolio.

The signs of this shift have been evident for some time. Paramount has reportedly entertained numerous bids for BET, including offers from prominent figures like Tyler Perry and media mogul Byron Allen. This willingness to consider selling BET demonstrates a clear shift in priorities away from these formerly key cable assets.

Perhaps the most alarming indicator of this deprioritization was the recent wiping of digital archives for networks like MTV News and Comedy Central. This erasure of digital history suggests a lack of commitment to preserving the legacy of these channels, further fueling speculation about their future.

The current strategy of bringing established sitcoms like “Friends” and “The Big Bang Theory” to MTV raises further questions. This move suggests a reliance on established, syndicated content rather than investment in original programming, potentially signaling a decline in the network’s focus on creating new, cutting-edge content. This is a far cry from MTV’s earlier days as a trendsetting music and youth culture channel.

The Hollywood Reporter cites a December 19 Bank of America research report from Jessica Reif Ehrlich, which predicts a trend of media companies divesting their cable TV network assets. The report suggests these assets would be “better positioned as a consolidated, linear-focused vehicle with scale benefits that can drive affiliate and advertising negotiation as well as synergies.” This analysis points towards a potential consolidation of remaining cable networks as a way to maintain some level of competitiveness against the streaming giants.

The potential decline of MTV and Comedy Central raises broader questions about the future of cable television as a whole. As streaming continues to gain momentum, traditional cable networks are facing an existential crisis. The convenience and on-demand nature of streaming have proven highly attractive to viewers, leading to widespread cord-cutting.

Whether these legacy networks can survive independently or face extinction remains to be seen. However, the winds are clearly blowing in the direction of streaming, and media conglomerates are adapting accordingly. The anticipated Skydance and Paramount merger is likely to accelerate this trend, potentially marking the beginning of the end for some of television’s most iconic cable brands. The focus on “synergies,” as mentioned in the Bank of America report, suggests that any remaining cable assets may be bundled together or sold off as a single entity, further diminishing their individual prominence in the media landscape.

Paramount Global Is In Exclusive Talks To Sell BET For $1.6 Billion

Paramount Global is in exclusive talks to sell its Black Entertainment Television network to buyers that include BET Chief Executive Officer Scott Mills and Chinh Chu, who runs the New York-based private equity firm CC Capital.

The group has been discussing an offer of $1.6 billion to $1.7 billion, people familiar with the matter said, asking not to be named revealing information that’s not public. 

Last year, the same group had discussed an offer of a little under $2 billion, Bloomberg reported in December. Chu and Mills are rekindling discussions with Paramount for BET after Shari Redstone, who has a controlling stake in Paramount, walked away from a proposed merger with Skydance Media, the company led by David Ellison. 

Representatives for Paramount and Chu declined to comment. Mills didn’t respond to a request for comment. The shares jumped on the news and were up 4.2% to $10.56 at 2:28 p.m. in New York.

Paramount, which owns CBS, MTV and other networks, had also previously received an offer from media mogul Byron Allen, who put together a $3.5 billion bid last year for both BET and the VH1 channel, and emphasized that BET should be Black-owned. Actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry, who is an investor in the BET+ streaming service, also held discussions about purchasing a stake in the larger enterprise.

The sale process last year was “disrespectful,” Perry said at a Bloomberg event last year. “Don’t try to get me to pay for something that’s not worth anywhere near the value” Paramount said it was, he said at the time.

Founded in 1980 by businessman Robert L. Johnson, BET was sold to Paramount’s predecessor, Viacom, in 2001 for about $3 billion. The network has strong ties to some of the most successful Black entertainment creators, including Perry, Kenya Barris and Rashida Jones, who are investors in the BET Studios production company.

Paramount has said it’s working to cut $500 million in costs to boost profitability. 

News Shorts: Supa Strikas Now Has A Release Date On Play Room With Ambani Tech Squad, Black Tax To Make Its Freemium Debut On e.tv With A Season 2 And Via Allocates Two New Afrikaans Series In August

Play Room is now a Supa Striker

Last month, it was reported that Play Room had acquired rights to Supa Strikas (currently seen on Moonbug) although not announcing it officially. They gave viewers a teaser on their social platforms and it didn't take long to link the logo with Supa Strikas.

Now the series is slated to air daily at 17:00 from 17 June with a third season. In other developments, the channel will be rolling out an educational segment Ambani Tech Squad (through Ambani Africa) dwelling on technological concepts.

Ambani Africa, an award-winning EdTech powerhouse that uses augmented reality, captivating animation, and exciting gamification to enhance the learning journey for students, parents, educators, and organizations alike.

More DStv repeats on e.tv

BET is a general entertainment channel operated by Paramount Global that celebrates black culture through films and series. It is home to locally produced shows such as Redemption, Queendom, Isono alongside international shows like Basketball Wives.

For several years, eMedia Investments had been distributing various content from the broadcaster on their linear platforms and even co-produced some content with e.tv now slated to rollout Black Tax at 19:30 from 15 June.

Black Tax is a comedic series that follows Thuli as she is brought up in a tightly-knit black community and grows up to be successful. However, as her family starts growing she questions the importance of the black tax.

Upcoming shows on Via

Die ontwerpers

Season 1

1 August – 24 October 2024

Thursdays 17:30

In each episode of this show, an interior designer takes the viewer on a tour of three spaces: One they designed themself, one that inspires them, and – finally – their own home.

Wie was dit?

Season 1

2 – 30 August 2024

Fridays 20:30

A new competition show for lovers of true crime and police dramas. We all know someone who's good at solving the fictional crimes they see on TV. In this show, we'll set out to see if these "couch detectives" are truly as smart as they claim to be. Four "couch detectives" will check into a hotel in a sleepy countryside town and, in each episode, they will be presented with a fictional crime that they need to solve. The contestant who cracks the most cases by the end of the season, is the winner. This season will feature celebrity contestants.

Klankbank

Season 5

2 August – 25 October 2024

Fridays 20:00

In each episode of this game show, three contestants go head-to-head to test their knowledge of popular music. How much money can they collectively bank for the ultimate winner to take home in the end? Hosted by Arno Greeff.

Reminder: BET Unveils New Daily Drama Queendom, Might Rollout On e.tv

BET Africa imagines a more inclusive future with a riveting new daily drama, Queendom. Coming to DStv channel 129 on 22 April, the new scripted daily drama celebrates the strength, resilience, and power of women who shape their own destinies.

 

Following the success of Isono and Redemption, BET Africa’s latest original daily drama is inspired by authentic African royal legacy. Rooted in destiny and centred around the life of Nthandokayise Mthombeni, played by Linda Mtoba, the story presents a world in which women rise, flip patriarchy on its head and reign.

 

Queendom explores themes of cultural heritage, tradition, fate, ancestry, power struggles, identity and survival. It tells the story of Nthandokayise (Linda Mtoba), a maverick community leader in Tsakane, who discovers that she is the rightful heir to the throne of Khahlamba Kingdom. Her mother, Tholakele Mthombeni, played by Sindi Dlathu, has been keeping this secret from her for 30 years.

  

Queendom brings South African acting royalty to TV screens with a distinguished cast including Hamilton Dlamini as King Banzi Khahlamba, Mduduzi Mabaso as Prince Andile Khahlamba, Pallance Dladla as Prince Mcebo Khahlamba and Dawn Thandeka King as Queen MaNdlovu. Other prestigious cast include Slindile Nodangala, Themba Ndaba, Mike Mvelase, Lehasa Moloi, Nhlanhla Kunene and Patrick Mofokeng.

 

Reflecting on her role, Linda Mtoba says, "I am thrilled to be part of 'Queendom,' a story that goes beyond the ordinary and delves into the complexities of love, destiny, and the power within. Ntando is not just a character; she's a symbol of the strength all African women possess. In her story, we witness the collision of two worlds, the power of destiny and the rise of a queen. I can't wait for viewers to embark on this journey with us." 

 

Sindi Dlathu who plays Tholakele Mthombeni, a resilient and protective mother to Nthando says, "Taking on the role of Tholakele in 'Queendom' has been a profound experience. Tholakele beautifully captures the essence of familial bonds, empowerment, and the strength of a mother's love. Mzansi is in for a treat, and I am excited to be part of this extraordinary project. It’s an important story to tell."

 

The multitalented musician and actor Jabulani "Sjava" Hadebe is another notable member of the Queendom cast, playing Prince Mkhuseli Khahlamba, the first born son of King Banzi. The award-winning artist, known for hits like 'Ekseni' and 'uThando,' has crafted the title track of Queendom. The song is titled Wena Wamanzi promises to resonate with the emotional depth of this powerful story. The acclaimed artist notes that, “Being a part of Queendom has been a beautiful experience. I’m honoured to be part of something that pays homage to African culture and I’m honoured to have been able to contribute a piece of my music to the narrative.”

CAST & CREW

 

Production Company: Clive Morris Productions

 

Directors: Andries van der Merwe (Head Director), Athi Patela  and Menga Nhlabathi (Series Directors)

 

Head Writer: Lunga Radebe

 

Director of Photography: Chuck Manganyi

Creative Producer: Kayla Ahmed Jardine

Show Runner: Sayitsheni Mdakhi

 

Wardrobe: Phindile Mlambo

 

Make Up: Mmabatho Malinda

Key Cast: Linda Mtoba, Sindi Dlathu, Hamilton Dlamini, Mduduzi Mabaso, Pallance Dladla, Dawn Thandeka King, Jabulani "Sjava" Hadebe, Slindile Nodangala, Nhlanhla Kunene and Patrick Mofokeng, Themba Ndaba, Mike Mvelase, Sibulele Gcilitshana and Samkelo Ndlovu.

 

Synopsis: Ntandokayise Mthombeni, a maverick community leader in Tsakane, discovers that she is the rightful heir to the throne of the Khahlamba Kingdom. She must overcome the ruthless and immoral Prince Mcebo in a life-threatening battle to fulfil her destiny as Queen.

 

Premise: Ntando, a resilient and street-smart law student, battles financial hardships while juggling multiple jobs to support her mother, step-father and loving boyfriend in Tsakane. Unbeknownst to her, she is the long-lost heir to the throne of the Khahlamba Kingdom. Her mother, Tholakele, had kept this a secret, having fled for her life from the Khahlamba Kingdom over 30 years ago. Hurt that he is not next in line, Prince Mcebo, is set to destroy the kingdom through his greed and corruption. Will Ntando awaken to the significance of saving her people and the sacred life-sustaining spring water at the heart of the Khahlamba Kingdom?

News Shorts: Da Vinci Acquired Broadcasting Rights To Future Chicken, Praise Petey Removed From Disney+ & Star+ Globally And BET Announces Production Of New Series Queendom

Birds flock to Da Vinci

Multiplatform content co. Wind Sun Sky Entertainment (WSS) has partnered with family streaming outfit Da Vinci to expand the reach of its kids’ eco-initiative Future Chicken around the globe.

Future Chicken is a climate justice initiative for kids (6-10+) created to address the eco-anxiety they are experiencing today by leveraging evidence-based positive storytelling to let children know that there is hope for the planet and that they can make a difference when it comes to their future. In November, Future Chicken launched in multiple formats of content, on Roblox, YouTube and the property’s dedicated website, futurechicken.com.

With young viewers flocking to shortform content, the Future Chicken ‘Ecotainment’ shorts series laid the foundation for launch. A mixed media content offering, Future Chicken shorts feature Potato the Chicken (a.k.a. Future Chicken) and her team of planet protecting friends highlighting to kids the positive things happening to support the future of the environment. With a blend of humor, ingenuity and collaboration, Potato, her egg sidekick Frittata and their friends set out to create a hope-filled future built on caring communities, thriving oceans, greener cities and renewed optimism.

Praise Petey exits Disney+

Last November, it was revealed that the 20th Television animated series, “Praise Petey”, had been cancelled after one season. The show was released on Freeform and Hulu in the United States and was also released as a Star Original on Disney+ around the world.

The series followed Petey, a New York City “it” girl who has it all until her life comes crashing down around her. As luck would have it, a mysterious gift from her father gives her a new lease on life: She’s going to “lean into” modernizing his small-town cult.

However, just over three months after the cancellation of the show, “Praise Petey” has now been removed from Star+ in Latin America and from Disney+ in many countries around the world, including the UK, Canada and Australia.   

Queendom coming to BET 

Dlathu and Mtoba have been announced as part of the cast of BET Africa’s new daily drama, ‘Queendom’.

Following the success of ‘Isono’ and ‘Redemption’, BET Africa is back with a new scripted daily drama which celebrates the strength, resilience and power of women who shape their own destinies.

‘Queendom’ explores themes of cultural heritage, tradition, fate, ancestry, power struggles, identity and survival.

It tells the story of Nthandokayise Mthombeni portrayed by Mtoba, a maverick community leader in Tsakane, who discovers that she is the rightful heir to the throne of Khahlamba Kingdom.

News Shorts: Sky News Named News Channel Of The Year At RTS, BET Announces New Series In Bloom + Release Date And NCIS Spinoff Greenlight By Paramount Plus

Sky scores big in the UK

Sky News has been named News Channel of the Year for the seventh consecutive year at the Royal Television Society Journalism Awards. 

Responding to Sky News winning the award, David Rhodes, Executive Chairman for Sky News Group said:

“It’s been a momentous year for news and I couldn’t be more proud that Sky News has been recognised by winning News Channel of the Year for a phenomenal seventh year in a row. To provide audiences with the full story first, our 800 journalists around the world have told

compelling human-interest stories, held those in power to account, have gone deep into the data and delivered powerful eyewitness reports from around the globe”.

The BBC, which similar to Sky News is based from the UK and made substantial changes to its news output in the last year walked away almost empty-handed. The broadcaster did secure a win for its coverage of the Ukraine conflict and for a BBC Wales investigation into Welsh Rugby.

BET launches new local drama

In Bloom has been produced by MTV Staying Alive Foundation with continued support of Paramount and grant support by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The thought-provoking collection tells unheard stories addressing a range of crucial issues including period poverty, child marriage, gender-based violence, HIV self-stigma, family planning and women’s economic empowerment. 

The anthology comes from five female filmmakers from Nigeria, Kenya, India, the US and Brazil, creatively championing new voices and enabling insightful conversations to dismantle systemic injustices.

In Bloom will also premiere on BET, DStv Channel 129 on March 8 at 20:00 CAT

NCIS spinoff in development 

CBS Studios is expanding its ever growing NCIS franchise by bringing back two fan favorite characters from the mothership series, Tony DiNozzo, played by Michael Weatherly, and Ziva David, portrayed by Cote de Pablo, who will reunite on screen for the first time in 10 years. Paramount+ has given a 10-episode series order to the untitled spinoff headlined by Weatherly and de Pablo and written by John McNamara (Trumbo, The Magicians). All three executive produce.

Nicknamed NCIS: Europe, the new action-packed spinoff, set to start production later this year, will follow Tony (Weatherly) and Ziva (de Pablo) as they find themselves on the run across the continent.

NCIS is one of CBS Studios’ most valuable franchises and its expansion has been a goal for the studio. This is one of two new NCIS offshoots greenlighted this year, along with the Young Gibbs prequel series for CBS, NCIS: Origins. It is also the second extension of the NCIS franchise beyond the U.S., following NCIS: Sydney, which has been airing on CBS in the U.S.

Recap To The Month: Byron Allen Offers To Buy BET From Paramount Global For $3.5 Billion

Allen, who is founder and CEO of Allen Media Group, emailed Paramount Global senior executives and board, offering $3.5 billion for BET Media Group, which includes the BET cable channel, VH1, BET Studios and streaming service BET+, sources familiar with the situation confirmed to Variety. That’s up from $2.7 billion that Allen had offered earlier in 2023.

Reps for Paramount Global and Allen Media Group declined to comment. Bloomberg first reported on Allen’s renewed offer for BET. Other potential buyers of BET Media Group include BET CEO Scott Mills, a 26-year veteran of the company, and Chinh Chu, a former executive at private-equity firm Blackstone executive who runs CC Capital Partners, who have discussed a price tag of under $2 billion, Bloomberg reported.

In the email to Paramount brass, Allen wrote, “You are pursuing an inside sale at a below-market price with management that will not yield the highest price for the stockholders. We believe it would be an egregious breach of fiduciary duty by the Paramount Global management team and board of directors if BET is sold for anything less than the highest price, particularly, in order to provide a sweetheart deal to an insider at the expense of public shareholders.”

Earlier this year, Paramount Global had been exploring the sale of a majority stake in BET Media Group, with bidders said to include Allen, Tyler Perry and Sean “Diddy” Combs. In August, Paramount called off the bidding process for BET because “a sale wouldn’t result in any meaningful deleveraging of its balance sheet,” the Wall Street Journal reported.

The renewed interest in a deal for BET comes amid talks between Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Global about a potential merger. Meanwhile, Shari Redstone, whose National Amusements owns a controlling stake in Paramount Global, has been in talks to sell her shares in NAI, according to multiple reports.

A deal for BET Media Group would dramatically expand Allen’s media empire. Allen Media Group, which encompasses Entertainment Studios (founded 30 years ago as CF Entertainment), owns 12 cable networks, including the Weather Channel, JusticeCentral.TV, Cars.TV and Pets.TV, a theatrical movie distribution company and a stable of 28 broadcast stations affiliated with the Big Four broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC). Allen Media Group also produces, distributes, and sells advertising for 73 television shows, making it one of the largest independent producers/distributors of first-run syndicated TV programming for broadcast stations. The company has nearly 2,300 employees.

Paramount Is Reportedly In Talks To Sell BET For Almost $2 Billion

For most of 2023, Paramount has been looking to sell BET. Reportedly, earlier this year, Paramount decided that the offers for BET were not worth it now though Paramount has decided to once again look at deals to sell BET.

According to a report from Bloomberg, Paramount is in talks with multiple potential buyers, include BET Chief Executive Officer Scott Mills and Chinh Chu, a former Blackstone Inc. member. The deal will reportedly be for just under $2 billion.

Originally this deal would reportedly include BET cable networks, BET+, a subscription streaming service, and BET studios. VH1 is now also managed by BET and would reportedly be included in this deal. Now though, it is unknown if VH1 will be a part of this new deal.

Paramount in the past, was reportedly interested in a minority stake but is likely looking for ways to cut back on expenses and earn cash to pay down its debts. It is unknown if this deal will still include a minority stake in the channel.

Paramount also recently agreed to sell Simon & Schuster to Penguin Random House for $2.2 billion, but regulators killed the deal. Paramount also sold the classic CBS NYC headquarters known as Black Rock and a large number of websites back in 2020.

Now selling BET seems to be the next step in Paramount’s efforts to free up cash to pay off debts and invest in Paramount+. 

Credit: Luke Bouma.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recap To The Week: Paramount Is No Longer Selling BET

Paramount notified bidders late Wednesday night about its decision to conclude the BET Media Group sale process, said a person familiar with the decision who was not authorized to speak publicly. The person said the company determined maintaining a heavy stake in BET creates more value for Paramount than any of the proposals after consulting with a couple highly-experienced financial advisors.

Some popular suitors included actor-director Tyler Perry, music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs and businessman Byron Allen. At one point, some considered Perry as a leading contender based on the two successful series, “The Oval” and “Sistas,” airing on the network. He also owns a minority stake of the BET+ streaming service.

Along with BET, the deal would have included the cable channel VH1.

BET was originally started by Robert and then-wife Sheila Johnson in 1980. Robert Johnson created BET from the basement of his Washington home after securing a $500,000 loan from longtime cable executive John Malone and eventually built the brand into the leading TV network for Black Americans.

Johnson expanded BET by creating smaller digital networks geared to fans of jazz, gospel and hip-hop along with being a publishing house and event production firm. The network was initially led by popular shows like “Bobby Jones Gospel,” “Rap City,” “ComicView,” “Lift Every Voice” and “Teen Summit.”

In the early 1990s, the network became the first Black-controlled television company to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

BET has seen a decline in subscribers and revenue over the past decade. Subscribers fell to an estimated 66.3 million in 2022 from 89.5 million in 2014, a peak year for cable television, according to S&P Global. S&P said the cable network’s annual profits have fallen from an estimated peak of $319 million in 2013 to $188 million in 2022.

Source: Hip-Hop DX