Rumour: Nigerian Idol Reportedly Cancelled Due To Cost Cutting At Canal+'s MultiChoice

Canal+ completed its acquisition of MultiChoice by late 2025 and have plans to save up toward R7.5 billion in costs. Several DStv consumers would have noticed the disappearance of HBO content on M-Net followed by the Winter Olympics on SuperSport.

Now there's word going around that Nigerian Idol might have gotten the boot at MultiChoice. Although this has yet to be confirmed several consumers had noticed there's been a lot of silence regarding the possibility of an 11th season.

Coincidentally, Nigerian Idol S10 even won at the 2026 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards for Best Unscripted M-Net Original.

A few years ago, MultiChoice and M-Net cancelled Idols SA due to low viewership from what was heard about the show. Since then, it was reported that a revival was in the works or being shopped to another broadcaster being the SABC.

The first season went on air in October 2010 and is shown on 15 different channels all across Africa.

There have been ten following Nigerian Idol winners to date: Onyekachi Elizabeth Gilbert, Mercy Chinwo, Moses Obi Adigwe, Evelle, K-Peace, Kingdom Kroseide, Progress, Victory Gbakara, Purp and Chima Udoye.

With the possible cancellation of Nigerian Idol, this would leave DStv consumers with the African variants to Big Brother. Unlike Idols SA, Big Brother continues to be a staple at MultiChoice spanning adaptations in South Africa, Nigeria and Angola.

CANAL+ Becomes First French Company To List In Johannesburg

Shares of pay-TV group CANAL+ rose on its Johannesburg Stock Exchange trading debut on Wednesday, when it became the first French company to list in South Africa following a deal with local broadcaster MultiChoice Group last year.

The company, which has a primary listing in London, climbed to 58.50 rand at market open

At the time of CANAL+’s acquisition of MultiChoice in 2025, it said it would have a secondary listing in South Africa, providing a boost for Johannesburg’s stock exchange, which has suffered from a series of departures and few high-profile joiners in recent years.

CANAL+, which had a market capitalisation of £2.25 billion (51 billion rand) on the day prior to its pre-listing announcement on May 12, is the only global media and entertainment group on the exchange.

Its move into English-speaking Africa reflects its stated ⁠ambition to become a global entertainment platform across Europe, Africa and Asia.

CEO Maxime Saada said the Johannesburg secondary listing aligns the group’s capital, government relationships and creative resources with African investors, partners and audiences.

“Our hope is for this listing to enhance the liquidity of our shares, to broaden our shareholder base and to support our growth ambitions. But more than that, we believe that we can create value in Africa,” he told spectators before blowing into a Kudu horn to signal the company’s market debut.

JSE chairman Phuthuma Nhleko said the listing reflects strong global confidence in South Africa’s capital markets, reinforcing the bourse’s role in linking international capital with African growth opportunities, and highlights continued belief in the continent’s long-term prospects.

June 2026 On National Geographic And National Geographic Wild Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Hidden Beneath The Cities | Returning Shows: Heartland Docs | More

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC 

CAR SOS S14 (10 x 60)

Tuesdays, at 18:50 from 2 June (ends 4 August)

Car SOS returns with ten more undercover restorations, heartwarming stories, mechanical magic & star-studded reveals. Travelling all over the UK, Tim and Fuzz take on everything from a 1950’s Austin-Healey buried in a garage for over 50 years, to a life-saving 4x4 and, in a Car SOS first, the boys go from four wheels to two with a Triumph motorbike.

ANCIENT STRUCTURES: SECRETS REVEALED S1 (6 x 60)

Fridays, at 18:50 from 5 June (ends 10 July)

Throughout history, ancient civilizations erected structures that continue to inspire awe and wonder, but how did they do it? And what secrets lie hidden within the walls of these incredible monuments? Archaeological finds and new technologies reveal clues to these long-enduring mysteries.

HIDDEN BENEATH THE CITIES S1 (10 x 60)

Wednesdays, at 20:30 from 24 June (ends 26 August)

“Hidden Beneath the Cities” uncovers the extraordinary worlds lying just below modern urban centers. Beneath the streets of stone, soil and concrete exist hidden realms shaped by survival, ritual and imagination. Each story reveals ingenuity, resilience and mystery, proving every city conceals a hidden world waiting to be discovered.

MEGA MARINE MACHINES S3 (6 x 60)

Tuesdays, at 19:40 from 30 June (ends 4 August)

This series explores the world's largest ships, focusing on advanced technologies used in exploration, scientific research, and tourism. The series showcases incredible marine engineering, including massive industrial ships, specialized vessels for challenging ocean environments, and advanced maritime technology

CONTINUING SHOWS

AMSTERDAM CENTRAL 24/7 S2 (6 x 60)

Mondays, at 18:50 from 25 May (ends 29 June) 

The gateway to Amsterdam is Amsterdam Central Station. Every day, more than 200,000 travellers flow through the gates; from tourists from around the world to commuters. Behind the constant flow of passengers is an army of invisible heroes who work day and night to keep the station safe, clean, and on time.

ENGINEERING BY CATASTROPHE S1 (6 x 60)

Thursdays, at 19:40 from 21 May (ends 25 June) 

Engineering by Catastrophe explores how some of the world’s most advanced structures and technologies have been shaped by failure. From collapsing bridges and burning spacecraft to tunnel disasters and structural breakdowns, each episode revisits major engineering catastrophes to uncover what went wrong. Through expert analysis, archival footage and advanced simulations, the series reveals how these failures exposed critical flaws and ultimately led to safer, smarter and more resilient designs. It is a story of innovation driven by disaster, showing how lessons learned from the past continue to influence the future of engineering.

TO CATCH A SMUGGLER S10 (8 x 60)

Thursdays, at 18:50 from 7 May (ends 25 June) 

CBP and HSI respond to a surge in cocaine trafficking across U.S. land borders and at sea, which leads to boat chases, arrests and record-setting seizures worth millions of dollars

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

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

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

TUCCI IN ITALY S2 (5 x 60)

Wednesdays, at 18:50 from 13 May (ends 10 June) 

Stanley Tucci believes that the best way to understand a country is through its food. Nowhere is this truer than in Italy, where the shape of your pasta and the sauce you serve it with speak directly to identity - and differentiate each region from the next.

How to tune in to National Geographic:

DSTV: Channel 181

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

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC WILD 

BENEATH THE WAVES

Sundays at 18:00, from 7 June (ends 28 June)

Join Nat Geo Wild for a special programming event dedicated to exploring the wonders of the ocean. Through breathtaking documentaries and expert insights, we’ll dive deep into the mysteries of the deep sea, uncover the impact of human activity, and highlight the urgent need for conservation. Together, we can inspire change and protect the blue heart of our planet. Don’t miss this immersive journey beneath the waves.

Programming includes:

Sunday 7 June at 18:00 – Nature’s Glow

Witness a thrilling dive into the world of bioluminescent life and discovery.

Sunday 14 June at 18:00 - Red Sea: Evolution's Magic Garden

Discover natural history’s largest and most biodiverse coral reefs on Earth.

Sunday 21 June at 18:00 - Shells: Shaped by Nature

Discover the splendor of the shells that grace Africa’s marine realms.

Sunday 28 June at 18:00 – Deep Sea Titans

From sunlit shallows to crushing depths, ocean giants battle to survive.

INCREDIBLE DR. POL: ICONIC CASES

Saturdays at 18:00, from 6 June (ends 27 June)

Set in Central Michigan's farm country, Dr. Pol, along with his wife Diane, own and operate a veterinary clinic that services over 18,000 clients. From sick goats to sick pet pigs, Dr. Pol and his colleagues have their hands full with a variety of cases and several animal emergencies.

HEARTLAND DOCS S5 (10 x 60)

Wednesdays at 18:00, from 1 June (ends 17 August)

Drs. Ben and Erin Schroeder devote their lives to their family-run vet clinic and all of the creatures great and small that call rural Nebraska home. From stable to exam table, there’s no shortage of bones to be healed, babies to be saved, or baffling ailments to be diagnosed in this tight-knit heartland community.

How to tune in to National Geographic Wild:

DSTV: Channel 182

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

Paramount May Look To Axe (Paramount+ With) Showtime Once Warner Bros. Discovery Deal Closes

Paramount which houses brands such as CBS, Showtime and MTV is looking to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery that offers HBO, TLC and TNT. They are looking to get approval for this deal within the third quarter of the year.

While this merger isn't expected to monopolize the media landscape with Paramount's current market share. There is concerns from various outlets about the future of some of these assets from both companies or in this case, Showtime.

Showtime is a premium entertainment channel that offers original drama series and films. For those who aren't familiar with the brand would know it for shows like Billions, Dexter: Resurrection, Ray Donovan, Shameless and City On A Hill.

Since 2023, the remainder of Showtime's offering had been consolidated under the entity, Paramount+ With Showtime. With the Showtime trademark retained for Paramount's cable networks.

With the Warner Bros. Discovery tie-up underway, Paramount could look to retire (Paramount+ With) Showtime and consolidated it's remaining endeavours under HBO and CBS. This merger is intended to make them competitive in the long term.

Compared to HBO, Showtime and CBS, the brand that lacks in scale and familiarity in this scenario would be Showtime. Sure it has a couple of good shows but HBO and CBS had built franchises and you don't see their operations winding down.

Besides, a majority of HBO and CBS programming get licensed to various international broadcasters if not take up a large chunk of these broadcaster's schedule. In this scenario, Showtime would be left with the bits or serve as a plot filler.

June 2026 On Investigation Discovery, Travel Channel, Discovery Family And Real Time Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Undercover Underage | Returning Shows: House Hunters International | More

Investigation Discovery 

Boy Band Confidential: A Hollywood Demons Event

New to Channel

Candid interviews with artists from Boyz II Men, Backstreet Boys, NSYNC, and others reveal the darker realities of power struggles and exploitation.

First TX: 26 June

TX Day: Friday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 3 July

Returning shows include Deadly Influence: The Social Media Murders S2 on 15 June at 21:00 (ends 27 July) and On the Case with Paula Zahn S14A on 11 June at 21:00 (ends 27 August).

Travel Channel

Returning shows include House Hunters

International S141 on 12 June at 06:00 (ends 29 June) and Expedition X S4 on 11 June at 21:10 (ends 24 September).

Discovery Family

Three Men Four Wheels S1

NEW TO CHANNEL

Three automotive experts settle arguments, once and for all, to determine the greatest racing cars of all time.

First TX: 2 June

TX Day: Tuesday

TX Time: 17:35

Last TX: 30 June

Returning shows include Expedition Unknown S7 on 10 June at 21:05 (ends 3 July).

Real Time

Undercover Underage S1

NEW TO CHANNEL

Roo Powell and her team work to keep minors safe from online sex abuse.

First TX: 10 June

TX Day: Everyday

TX Time: 23:20

Last TX: 15 June

Chopped S22, S23

Competitors

race to turn mystery ingredients into

extraordinary

three -course

meals .

This

competition is all about skill, speed and ingenuity .

June Premieres

NEW TO CHANNEL

First TX: 8 June

TX Day: Weekdays

TX Time: 11:15

Last TX: 13 July

Beat Bobby Flay S31, S32

NEW TO CHANNEL

Talented chefs battle for the chance to take down

Chef Bobby Flay .

First TX: 9 June

TX Day: Weekdays

American Monster S6

NEW TO CHANNEL

Never -before -seen footage looks into the eyes of

ruthless killers hiding among us.

First TX: 17 June

TX Day: Weekdays

TX Time: 21:40

Last TX: 26 June

June 2026 On Discovery Channel, TLC, HGTV And Food Network Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Sara Price: Chasing Dakar | Returning Shows: Jay & Pamela | More

Discovery Channel

BRAND NEW 

SARA PRICE: CHASING DAKAR S1

Raised in a racing family, nothing about Sara Price's rise was easy. Now, on her third Dakar attempt, Sara has her first factory drive with Defender Rally, and her best chance yet to become the first American woman to win the Dakar Rally.

First TX: 5 June

TX Day: Friday

TX Time: 19:10

Last TX: 19 June

BRAND NEW

NAKED AND AFRAID: GLOBAL SHOWDOWN S1

Survivalists from around the world compete in a 40-day primitive bushcraft competition representing their homelands with partners, testing their skills for national pride and the largest cash prize in franchise history.

First TX: 10 June

TX Day: Wednesday

TX Time: 20:05

Last TX: 12 August

Returning shows include HOMESTEAD RESCUE S7B on 18 June at 20:05 (ends 23 July) and THE LAST WOODSMEN S2B on 30 June at 20:05 (ends 18 August).

TLC 

* For the rest of Africa

* BRAND NEW SPECIAL

Rubiales Vs Hermoso: The World Cup Kiss

Luis Rubiales faces star football player Jenni Hermoso in Spain's controversial criminal trial. Was the World Cup Kiss a sexual assault?

First TX: 2 June

TX Day: Tuesday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 9 June

* BRAND NEW 

Design Down Under S1

Richie Morris and Georgia Ezra design unique homes in Melbourne, Australia.

First TX: 18 June

TX Day: Thursday

TX Time: 21:50

Last TX: 17 September

Returning shows include 90 Day: The Last Resort S3 on 17 June at 20:00 (ends 14 October) and Jay & Pamela S2 on 26 June at 20:00 (ends 21 August).

HGTV

BRAND NEW

Wild Vacation Rentals S1

Comedians and best friends D'Arcy Carden and Sherry Cola hit the road to discover the wildest vacation rentals across America.

First TX: 10 June

TX Day: Wednesday

TX Time: 22:00

Last TX: 1 July

BRAND NEW

World's Bargain Dream Homes S1

Across the world are dreamy houses at jaw - droppingly low prices, and expert local guides show house hunters how to dream big and own one!

First TX: 16 June

TX Day: Tuesday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 21 July

Returning shows include My Lottery Dream Home S19 on 22 June at 21:00 (ends 3 August).

Food Network

Brand New

The Ultimate Baking Championship S1

Sixteen of America's most elite pastry chefs compete to win $50,000 and the title of Ultimate Baking Champion.

First TX: 5 June

TX Day: Friday

TX Time: 17:00

Last TX: 7 August

Brand New

100 Cooks S1

Host Terry Crews welcomes 100 of America's elite

home cooks to compete in unpredictable pro-chef level cooking challenges to win as much as $250,000.

First TX: 13 June

TX Day: Saturday

TX Time: 17:00

Last TX: 8 August

Returning shows include 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing S3 on 23 June at 17:00 and Beat Bobby Flay S39 on 29 June at 16:05.

June 2026 On TNT Across Africa | Channel Premiere: The Matrix: Resurrections | Frightfully Young Stunt With Something In The Water | More

Channel premieres in bold

Frightfully Young

Stunt

TNT celebrates bold, fearless youth energy with a horror marathon where high-stakes create unmissable, edge-of-your-seat moments.

Tuesday, 16 June

17:00 Vicious Fun (2020)

18:40 Eight Legged Freaks (2002) TBC

20:30 Something in the Water (2024)

22:05 Final Destination (2000)

23:45 Spree (2020)

Under Fire, Under Pressure

Stunt

This June on TNT, Saturdays mean double the danger. Two back-to-back action hits where tension is nonstop, stakes are sky-high, and every fight pushes heroes to the edge.

Saturday, 6 June

20:00 Passenger 57 (1992) TBC

21:30 Escape from New York (1981)

Saturday, 13 June

20:00 Romeo Must Die (2000) TBC

22:00 The Survivalist (2021)

Saturday, 20 June

20:00 Training Day (2001) TBC

22:05 Ambulance (2022)

Saturday, 27 June

20:00 Universal Soldier: Day of Reckoning (2012)

21:55 Deadlock (2021)

Protectors

Stunt

Anchored in the Father’s Day spirit, TNT delivers a powerful action event saluting protector figures fathers, leaders and unlikely heroes—in a thrilling, feel-good celebration.

Sunday, 21 June

13:55 Apocalypto (2006)

16:10 Skyscraper (2018)

17:55 U-571 (2000)

20:00 Hostage (2005)

21:55 We Were Soldiers (2002)

TNT Hit

Stunt

When Keanu Reeves steps back in, reality shifts. TNT Hits delivers a bold, mind-bending channel premiere on 5 June.

Friday, 5 June

20:30 The Matrix: Resurrections (2021) TBC

StudioCanal Acquires Minority Stake In Babylone Studio

Morgan Lewis advised STUDIOCANAL on its minority investment in Babylone Studio, a production group founded by Sébastien Borivent and Emmanuel Daucé, two renowned French fiction producers known for series including Paris Police 1910, Un Village Français, and L’Affaire Laura Stern.

Based between Paris and Abidjan, Babylone Studio aims to develop international content centered on contemporary, sophisticated stories deeply rooted in the diversity of the regions where it operates. The investment forms part of STUDIOCANAL’s international development strategy and marks a new step in its engagement with African creative ecosystems.

Babylone Studio will hold a majority stake in On Est Ensemble Productions, an Abidjan-based company led by Samantha Biffot and Pierre Ceccaldi, which has established itself as a leading player in audiovisual production in French-speaking sub-Saharan Africa, with more than 300 hours of programming produced each year, notably for CANAL+ Afrique. Babylone Studio is also supporting the launch of Hisia Films, a new French production company led by producer Sabine Barthélémy, in which Babylone Studio will hold a minority stake.

The Morgan Lewis team consisted of partner Sébastien Pontillo and associates Thomas Maincent and Romain Nowak.

June 2026 On Universal TV And Bravo Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent | Continuing Shows: Below Deck Mediterranean | More

Universal TV

LAW & ORDER TORONTO: CRIMINAL INTENT

Season 1 - Channel Premiere

Premieres Tuesday 9th June @8pm

Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent brings the iconic franchise north, following Toronto’s Specialised Criminal Investigations Unit as they unravel high profile murders.

Continuing shows include NCIS: SYDNEY Season 3 -  Mondays at 8pm, LAW & ORDER: SPECIAL

VICTIMS UNIT Season 27 - Wednesdays at 8pm and THE EQUALIZER Season 5 - Fridays at 8pm.

Bravo

Kandi & The Gang

Premieres Saturday 27th June at 19:00 (Saturdays at 19:00)

Kandi & The Gang pulls back the curtain on the high pressure, highdrama world of Atlanta’s Old Lady Gang restaurant as Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker juggle family dynamics, demanding staff, and the realities of running a successful hospitality business. A spirited spin-off of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, the series blends workplace chaos with personal ambition, offering a uniquely authentic look at Blackowned entrepreneurship where business, family, and friendships collide.

Continuing shows include Below Deck Mediterranean Season 10 on Sundays at 18:10 and Watch What Happens Live on Monday-Friday at 22:00.

MTV Staying Alive Foundation Rebrands As Shuga Global Following Paramount Split

The MTV Staying Alive Foundation has rebranded as Shuga Global, marking the end of its 27-year association with Paramount and signalling a broader expansion of its partnerships and content strategy.

According to the organisation, the rebrand follows the conclusion of its partnership with Paramount at the end of March 2026. Shuga Global said the transition was made through a mutual agreement based on a shared vision for the organisation’s future direction.

As part of the relaunch, Shuga Global introduced its first project under the new identity, the Mashariki Offscript Podcast. The podcast is hosted by Makena Kahuha and media personality Muchina Maloba. Episodes are available on Spotify, YouTube and other digital platforms.

“Rebranding as Shuga Global signals an exciting new era for our organisation as we continue to evolve,” Shuga Global executive director Wame Jallow said. “Building on the legacy of our ground-breaking Shuga series, our immersive storytelling and engagement with young people is needed now more than ever.

“Young people increasingly face complex interconnected issues, and we will continue to innovate and look forward to working with new partners and supporters to grow our impact on young people’s lives and their communities.”

Shuga Global said its flagship MTV Shuga series has continued to expand its audience across Africa. The Kenyan edition, MTV Shuga Mashariki, returned in 2025 after an absence of more than a decade. The organisation said the first season recorded about 5.3 million views, while the second season, which premiered on Citizen TV in February 2026, has surpassed 8.3 million views on YouTube.

The organisation also announced the development of Shuga Mashariki Shorts, an anthology film series scheduled for release in June 2026.

Shuga Global, formerly known as the MTV Staying Alive Foundation, produces educational entertainment content focused on health and social issues affecting young people. Its MTV Shuga franchise is broadcast in 40 African countries.

Canal+ Might Look To Rollout Viu In K+ Territories

K+ was a defunct pay-TV service in Vietnam, known primarily for holding exclusive broadcast rights to the English Premier League and other major sports properties. It formed part of a joint venture between VTV (Vietnam Television) and Canal+.

Its shutdown marked the end of a 16-year era where K+ was the "undisputed king" of sports broadcasting in the country. But due to various economic factors like piracy, cord cutting and streaming K+ ceased operations in Vietnam.

Canal+ had since been banking on Viu in which they operate alongside PCCW Media Limited. Its a streaming service based in Hong Kong that accumulated 66.4 million subscribers of which 12.2 million serve as paying subscribers.

Canal+ has been using Viu to distribute K+ content across 16 markets in Asia, Africa, Oceania and the Middle East including Australia, Bahrain, Egypt, Hong Kong, Singapore, New Zealand, Malaysia, Myanmar, Oman, Philippines, and Saudi Arabia.

Prior to K+ closure in Vietnam, Canal+ had also shuttered its pay-tv operations in Ethiopia and the buyout of MultiChoice gave them re-entry in the region. The closure of K+ in Vietnam is likely telling a similar tale to its failed Ethiopian business.

Canal+ has a 36.8% stake in Viu with the option of increasing it to 51% giving them majority control. It could be that they're awaiting to buy up the the number of shares before expanding as there's not much they can do with the current stake.

Paramount May Look To Merge CNN With CBS News

Paramount is looking to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery in the coming months as they await regulatory approval. This deal would bring CNN and it's global operations under the mercy of CBS News with it's minimised presence.

CBS News operates a 24 hour channel in the US and has existing deals with some international broadcasters for various programming. Now that it would join forces with CNN, viewers may start to see CBS News bulletins on CNN.

CBS News will not be expanding abroad. Instead, CNN will become the international pipeline that fuels both networks.

Figuring out how to brand a CNN-produced package on a CBS evening broadcast without confusing viewers is a problem executives have actively debated since the deal was approved.

CNN has over 3000 employees while CBS News has less than half and with the Paramount transaction plans are underway to reduce the number of buildings. This would most definitely lead to layoffs particularly for the staff at CNN.

Interesting to note was that Paramount had entered talks with Warner Bros. Discovery back in 2019 over using CNN's global footprint to replace the current ones by CBS News. Now these plans abandoned plans are now set to be in motion.

Paramount had stated if it is able to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery that they would make changes at CNN. One of the reasons some people don't even like this buyout is the amount of political involvement this transaction has.

Donald Trump initially wanted to be involved in the approval process of this deal before stepping aside and Paramount's investors are well acquainted with the US president.

CNN isn't how I would put it an anti-trump channel but they divulge on realism and public opinions some of it toward Donald Trump. With it under Paramount whatever strategy and ideology was given to CBS News will be brushed onto CNN.

Paramount Aims To Finalize Warner Bros. Discovery Acquisition By July

Paramount Skydance is reportedly aiming to finalize its merger with Warner Bros. Discovery as soon as July.

Paramount, home to CBS, Paramount Pictures and Paramount+, is internally eyeing July 15 as its target date to finalize the deal, the Status newsletter reported late Tuesday.

In public statements, David Ellison-led Paramount has said it expects the $110 billion deal to close by the third quarter, or Sept. 30.

Shareholders have already approved the merger between Paramount and WBD, which owns CNN, Warner Bros Pictures and HBO, though it remains subject to regulatory approval.

UK regulators are getting ready to begin their review of the deal, with their deadline for public comments closing last month.

Paramount has also asked the Federal Communications Commission to approve foreign investment in the deal. Investors outside the US will account for 49.5% of the equity of the combined company.

Another potential hurdle could come at the state level, with California Attorney General Rob Bonta launching a probe of the deal in March.

“There are red flags everywhere for us,” the Dem said earlier this month. “We’re looking at things like higher prices, lower wages, fewer jobs, less quality, less choice, less competition — the things that you look at when you’re looking at an antitrust case and a proposed merger.”

Paramount’s chief legal officer Makan Delrahim has argued that the mega-deal will bring “new competitive” energy to the entertainment business.

In the event that the merger does not close by Sept. 30, WBD shareholders will receive a 25 cent-per-share “ticking fee” for each quarter until closing.

On the chance the deal falls through all due to regulatory woes, Paramount will pay WBD a $7 billion termination fee.

June 2026 On History Channel Across Africa | Channel Premiere: The Last Hunt For Nazi Gold | Returning Shows: Hardcore Pawn | More

Brand New

HARDCORE PAWN S3

01 June

Weekdays 18:10

Pawnbroker Les Gold and his two children, Seth and Ashley, operate Detroit’s largest pawnshop. They’ve bought and sold items from the most ordinary to the most outlandish of things. Every day brings new danger as the Gold family operate in the heart of one of America’s most troubled citi es. But Les is a street-smart old schooler known for driving a hard bargain. Repeat: Next Weekday from 09:00

Brand New

HARDCORE PAWN S4

06 June 

Weekdays 18:10

This season, the Gold family have the chance to snatch up rare pieces like signed Michael Jackson memorabilia, a genuine Olympic torch and Saddam Hussein’s signed personal documents. But all is not smooth sailing at Detroit’s biggest pawn shop. With the owner Les’ daughter, Ashley, having stormed out after a family feud, will they be able to patch things up? Don’t miss the high-drama and intense customer negotiations. Repeat: Next Weekday from 09:00

Brand New

EGYPT’S UNEXPLAINED FILES S1

01 June

Mondays 19:25

Ancient Egypt is one of the world’s greatest civilisations, spanning 3000 years of history. But, even today, it is shrouded in mystery. For the past two centuries archaeologists and historians have slowly been unravelling its secrets. Yet experts believe some of the most important discoveries of this ancient world lie undiscovered beneath the desert sands. Now, new technology is decoding some of Egypt’s most enduring enigmas, to reveal the hidden truths that are rewriting human history. Egypt’s Unexplained Files explores these mysteries, combining expert scientific analysis with first-hand testimony from archaeologists to shed light on the hidden world of the ancients. Repeat: Tuesday 11:45

Brand New & Exclusive 

AMERICAN PICKERS S27 

03 June

Wednesdays 20:15

Season 27 of American Pickers follows Mike Wolfe, his brother Robbie, and Danielle Colby as they hunt for rare treasures across America. This season sees them hit the roads in the South, including Tennessee and Kentucky. The season highlights historical storytelling, featuring major finds like legendary guitarist James Burton’s memorabilia, rare motorbikes, and vintage finds at a 1950s Kentucky drive-in. Repeat: Thursday 12:35

Brand New & Exclusive 

EXTREME AIRPORT AFRICA S1

04 June

Thursdays 19:25

In the wilds of Southern Africa, aviati on takes over where roads don’t go. Extreme Airport Africa brings you into the world of high-octane, high-risk bush flying where pilots brave rough runways, wild fires and wild animals. Go behind the scenes at Southern Africa’s major airports, into the cockpits of airliners and heavy lift helicopters, and over the wilds of Kruger National Park and the Okavango Delta. Out in the bush, scientists take to the air to search for lost elephants and pilots land on dirt airstrips while baboons invade. Even in Johannesburg, the main aviation hub for Southern Africa, nature still makes its presence felt, as staff battle flocks of birds overrunning the runways and pilots fly through some of the most intense storms in the world. Aviation doesn’t get any more intense than this. Repeat: Friday 11:45

Brand New & Exclusive 

THE LAST HUNT FOR NAZI GOLD 

07 June

Sundays 20:15

Eight decades after the war, the historian and presenter Guy Walters has decided to step away from his desk and get his hands dirty. He will be driving across Europe in his mostly reliable Land Rover armed only with some old documents and maps, a spade, fork and pickaxe, on a mission to find some Nazi Gold before it gets too late. As the author of an acclaimed history of Nazi hunti ng, Guy has long been fascinated by how the Nazis hid their loot in the dying days of the war. Repeat: Saturday 21:05

Brand New & Exclusive 

HISTORY’S GREATEST MYSTERIES WITH LAURENCE FISHBURNE S7 

27 June

Saturdays 20:15

The latest season of History’s Greatest Mysteries once again casts a spotlight on some of the top theories surrounding the world’s most enigmatic unsolved mysteries. From what the US government is really hiding at Area 51, to the daring theft of the Mona Lisa, and who pulled off the infamous Luft hansa heist – walking away with $5 million in cash and $800,000 in jewellery from a luxury airline hangar. Join host narrator Laurence Fishburne, as he unpacks these and other puzzles. Repeat: Sunday 19:25

Sun Africa Group Set Major Long Term Theatrical Partnership In South Africa With StudioCanal

STUDIOCANAL has announced a three-year theatrical distribution partnership with Sun Africa Group (SAG), a member of the Telefilms Group, covering the release of English-language feature films across South Africa — a deal that signals growing confidence in the country's cinema market at a time of significant upheaval in African entertainment.

Under the agreement, SAG will distribute STUDIOCANAL's main slate in the territory, including animation titles, films from its genre label 6th Dimension, and select South African productions developed in partnership with M-Net.

The first release under the deal will be Pressure, a thriller directed by Anthony Maras and starring Andrew Scott, Brendan Fraser, and Kerry Condon. Further titles include Danny Boyle's Ink, Elsinore, Full Phil, The Custom of the Country, and Sean Byrne's The Mannequin.

The announcement comes against a turbulent backdrop for the African media landscape. Canal+ finalised its acquisition of MultiChoice in October 2025 for approximately $2 billion, gaining them control of DStv and the group's broader content production and distribution operations. The deal reshaped the continent's pay-TV sector but also triggered painful restructuring. Canal+ labelled MultiChoice's streaming service Showmax an "expensive failure" and announced it would shut down in early 2026. Showmax halted new sign-ups on March 31, with a full shutdown following on April 30, 2026, with content migrating to a dedicated section within the DStv Stream app.

The STUDIOCANAL-SAG partnership can be read partly as a response to that streaming contraction, a bet on theatrical exhibition as a durable pillar of the South African entertainment market. The two companies have an existing working relationship, with SAG having previously handled the South African release of We Live in Time, but this agreement formalises a significantly expanded, long-term framework.

The announcement follows STUDIOCANAL's recent reveal of The Road Home, directed by Academy Award-winner Bill Condon and starring Cynthia Erivo, which begins shooting in South Africa in late June. The film explores the friendship between Hugh Masekela and Paul Simon set against the backdrop of apartheid-era South Africa.

STUDIOCANAL CEO Anna Marsh described South Africa as "one of the world's most vibrant and influential creative markets," adding that the partnership would create opportunities for South African stories to reach global audiences. SAG CEO Debbie McCrum said the deal represented "a significant and exciting milestone" for her company, emphasising its commitment to delivering films to cinema audiences across the territory.

The deal forms part of the broader expansion strategy of CANAL+ and STUDIOCANAL across the African continent.

Movie Room On DStv In Production Of First Original Feature Film

Currently in production, the film boasts a distinguished ensemble cast led by Lindani Nkosi, Linda Sokhulu, Rorisang Mohapi, Vuyo Biyela, Mbalenhle Mavimbela, Slindile Nodangala, and 2026 Safta Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Magic Hlatshwayo.

Thuli’s Doek is a resonant South African film that explores themes of polygamy, legacy, blended family dynamics, fertility, faith, identity, dignity, and belonging. At its emotional core is one woman’s deeply personal struggle to preserve her voice, her dignity, and her place within her family.

“The launch of Thuli’s Doek represents an important step in Movie Room’s long-term vision to champion world-class African storytelling,” said Thokozani Nkosi, Executive Chairman of The Rooms Network.

“The overwhelming audience response to our vernacular-dubbed Hollywood blockbuster films has reaffirmed the demand for content that reflects the languages, cultures, and lived experiences of African audiences. Through Thuli’s Doek, we are deepening our investment in original local storytelling while contributing meaningfully to the growth of South Africa’s creative economy.”

The film is produced by Eclipse Television Productions.

Further details regarding Thuli’s Doek, including additional creative talent, release plans, and premiere dates, will be announced in due course.

Canal+ Announces JSE Listing, Unveils More Details

French media conglomerate and the MultiChoice Group’s new owner, Groupe Canal+, announced that its shares will begin trading on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange on 3 June 2026.

“The JSE has granted approval to Canal+ for a secondary listing, by way of introduction using the fast-track listing process, of all its issued ordinary shares,” Canal+ stated.

Canal+ said it has 991,959,494 ordinary shares in issue with a nominal value of €0.25 (R4.84) each. They will launch on the JSE’s main board under the abbreviated name “CANALPLUS”, share code “CNP”.

“The Financial Surveillance Department of the South African Reserve Bank has approved the fast-track secondary inward listing of CANAL+ on the JSE, which will be classified as ‘domestic’.”

This comes five months after MultiChoice delisted from the stock exchange on 10 December 2025. It had been on the JSE for 6 years and 9 months, and was delisted following its acquisition by Canal+.

Canal+ stated that it will be the first French company to trade its shares on the South African stock exchange.

The French media giant confirmed that it would pursue a secondary listing on the JSE in October 2025. Groupe Canal+ is already listed on the London Stock Exchange.

The secondary listing was part of the undertakings Canal+ made to the Competition Commission when it sought approval to acquire MultiChoice.

The London Stock Exchange, where Canal+’s primary listing will remain, offers a “Secondary Listing” section that is self-regulated. It is designed for firms that wish to add a foreign listing.

Canal+ said a secondary listing on the JSE will preserve South African investor access and market liquidity.

The company had committed to a nine-month timeframe for its secondary listing, aiming to have its shares trading on the JSE before September 2026.

The DStv owner was originally owned by Naspers, but the MultiChoice Group was spun out into a separate listing in February 2019, with an opening share price of R95 per share.

Naspers said the unbundling aimed to unlock value for shareholders, while simultaneously creating an empowered, top-40 JSE-listed African entertainment company.

“Listing and unbundling MultiChoice Group is intended to create a leading entertainment business listed on the JSE that is profitable and cash generative,” former MultiChoice chairman Imtiaz Patel said.

“We offer an unmatched selection of local and original content, as well as a world-class sports offering.”

DStv Stream Debuts Beaulah: Queens Van Die Kaap Season 2

The queens are back — and according to the cast of Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap, the drama, shade and glamour are bigger than ever.

The SAFTA-nominated reality series returns for a second season on DStv Stream from 12 May 2026, once again taking viewers behind the scenes of Cape Town’s vibrant drag world.

Produced by Pop24, the team behind shows including The Mommy Club, Tollie & Manila and Bae Beyond Borders, the series follows seven drag performers as they navigate friendships, rivalries, performances and personal struggles.

Season Two Promises More Drama and New Alliances

Season one of Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap left audiences with fractured friendships, simmering tensions and plenty of unforgettable moments. Now, season two picks up right where the drama left off.

According to the show’s producers, “the beef and shade are still very much alive,” with viewers set to see shifting loyalties and surprising new dynamics among the Cape Town queens.

The cast includes multi-pageant winner Emogan Moore, Miss Sovereign Western Cape winner Ina Propriette, Miss Cape Town Pride winner Kat Gilardi, television personality Madison Scarr, Miss Gay Western Cape winner Maxine Wild, rival house mothers BB Vahlour and Madison Scarr, and SA’s Got Talent runner-up Manila Von Teez.

BB Vahlour Reflects on Representation and Growth

BB Vahlour, one of the show’s three trans women cast members, said returning for a second season carries both meaning and responsibility.

“Returning for a second season feels like an opportunity to deepen the work we started and to grow alongside the audience and the ‘characters’ we are on the show,” she said.

“It is both an honour and a responsibility to keep the story authentic and true to ourselves, while also showing where our drag is in our lives now, what and who we represent and the importance of uniting all drag queens.”

Expect Bigger Looks, Bigger Personalities and Bigger Fights

Fabian van Schalkwyk, better known as Emogan Moore, teased an explosive new season packed with fashion, friendships and drama.

“There is so much to look forward to this season, with many new and unexpected friendships forming… and way more lashes, wigs, garments, and drama,” he shared.

For veteran queen Kat Gilardi, viewers should prepare for some shocking revelations.

“Of course there are [new dynamics], major ones. You will see how some people reveal who they really are, but it should not come as a shock. They are simply showing you who they have been all along,” she said.

Drag Visibility Matters

Several cast members also reflected on the importance of the series for LGBTQ+ representation, particularly for trans women.

Maxine Wild, who has been doing drag for 13 years, said the show provides a powerful platform for visibility and affirmation.

“Beaulah has been, and continues to be, an incredible platform for us to showcase who we are,” she explained.

“As a trans woman, its importance lies in allowing people who feel the same way about their gender and their journey to see that there are others out there living their truth unapologetically in society.”

Madison Scarr added that she is excited for viewers to witness more of her personal journey.

“I’m excited for the audience to see the evolution in my trans journey and the personal challenges I’ve overcome, as well as the fun, playful moments I’ve had with growing my drag,” she said.

A Show That Changed Lives

For Manila Von Teez, the impact of Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap has been life changing.

“I am a completely different human being, this show has changed me in so many ways and offered me opportunities I could never could dream about,” he said.

Ina Propriette echoed the excitement around drag once again taking centre stage.

“Returning for a second season means drag gets another moment in the culture at the forefront,” he said.

“It’s been a dry spell and I’m just extremely excited to have my artform be a beacon for our community because we seriously missed and needed this.”

Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap Season Two will be available to binge-watch on DStv Stream from Tuesday, 12 May 2026.

What Happened To M-Net Movies Pop-Up Channels On DStv?

M-Net Movies pop-up channels was once a staple on DStv for franchises such as Spider-Man, Harry Potter, Fast & Furious and Star Wars. It served as one of those high profile events for DStv Premium and AddMovies subscribers.

Pop-up channels was once a concept that not only MultiChoice but various pay-tv companies around the world had offered at one point. In some cases, this meant giving viewers a glimpse behind the action with documentaries and interviews.

Instead of launching separate channels, M-Net would rather consolidate this offering on existing channels. One example is the Fan Favourites Festival where DStv viewers can pick what broadcasts on the screen.

This reduces the technical cost of running a dedicated extra channel while still offering that "binge-fest" experience. 

MultiChoice had also shifted their priorities for such events to DStv Stream and Catch-Up. Instead of waiting on a movie to broadcast on a pop-up channel, you can now find these movies under a particular tile or folder through these services.

Now under French hands, Canal+ is looking to simplify packages and rationalize on brands. There's no telling what's to become of DStv Premium and AddMovies as MultiChoice had lost millions of its top paying clients since 2016.

We can only imagine that Canal+ will probably look to merge some packages and bring down the prices for others while closing a couple of channels.

For MultiChoice, they have about 10 movie channels and this doesn't include Mzansi Bioskop, CineMagic, Zee Cinema and Africa Magic Epic. There's no telling if under Canal+ they'd continue having this many movie channels as they're in cost cutting mode.

Recap: May The 4th Be With You As Disney Unveils Themes Events And Programming

- Mando Mondays announced at Comic Con Africa Cape Town In Celebration of Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu Hitting Cinemas Nationwide on 22 May 

- May The 4th is a beloved commemoration of the Star Wars saga

- Galactic Programming Across Disney Channels and Disney+

- An Array of Star Wars Product from LEGO® to Figurines and Plush Available

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, 4 May 2026; In celebration of International Star Wars Day, Disney Africa today has announced Mando Mondays – a fan-driven celebration of the upcoming action-adventure must-see cinematic event from Lucasfilm, Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu.

In the film, the evil Empire has fallen, and Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they have enlisted the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his young apprentice Grogu. Directed by Jon Favreau, Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu also stars Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White.

Ahead of the film’s release from 22 May 2026, and as announced at a fan-filled Star Wars face off at Comic Con Cape Town this past weekend, Disney Africa is calling on South African fans to get in on the celebrations by visiting the Star Wars and Disney Studios Africa Facebook and Instagram pages to keep up to date on news and competitions to be announced throughout May. More competitions featuring the latest Star Wars products will be in hand through influencer unboxings and reveals, and there’s a galaxy to discover each Monday exclusively on Takealot, with a live shopping experience today only on Takealot.com. 

Burger King® is bringing the Force to flame-grilling with the launch of a limited-time menu inspired by Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu. Rolling out from 27 April in South Africa the new menu combines bold flavours, immersive packaging and exclusive collectibles to create a truly galactic experience for fans of all ages.  

This Is The Way… To Binge It All On Disney+

Lucasfilm’s acclaimed and celebrated series Maul: Shadow Lord premiere’s its last two episodes on 4 May and adds to the enthralling story of the iconic Maul, a former Sith, who is plotting to rebuild the Shadow Collective crime syndicate to aid in his relentless pursuit of revenge.

As the home of Star Wars, Disney+ has a galaxy of stories awaiting including the complete Star Wars Saga, original series from Ahsoka and Andor, to incredible animated offerings like The Clone Wars and The Bad Batch, to documentaries and specials and much, much more for every Star Wars fan to celebrate on May the 4th and beyond.

Discover Special Programming

Disney Channel (DStv Channel 303) viewers are in for a treat as two LEGO® Star Wars series premiere on the channel. From 4-7 May at 16:30 (CAT), LEGO® Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy sees the entire Star Wars Galaxy getting completely mixed up when an ordinary nerf-herder, Sig Greebling, unearths a powerful artifact from a hidden Jedi Temple. Then from 11-14 May at 16:30 (CAT) LEGO® Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy Pieces of the Past sees Sig, Jedi Bob, Yesi, Servo and the villainous Dev return and must face off against a new enemy – the powerful and mysterious Solitus. Our heroes will make unlikely alliances as they traverse new and dangerous parts of the hilariously mixed-up galaxy in an effort to stop the growing threat Solitus poses to all they hold dear.

The Most Wanted product in the Universe

Retailers nationwide will stock the latest and greatest collectibles, accessories and toys for the whole family from the exclusive Star Wars: Most Wanted celebration.

Highlights include the LEGO® BB-8 Astromech Droid Building Toy, lightsabers for any Padawan or Jedi and an array of Star Wars plush toys. In anticipation for the release of Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, fans can collect a number of fun products from Hasbro including the interactive animatronic figure Star Wars: Adventure Buddy Grogu, Star Wars: Huggin Grogu Figure with motion-activated hugging arms and sound effects as well as the Star Wars: Snacking Grogu featuring expressive movements, sound effects and interactive feeding play. LEGO® will also offer the Star Wars: Grogu™ (Mandalorian Apprentice) building set, a must-add for any collector.

May the 4th Be With You

Say “May the 4th Be With You” out loud and you’ll hear the pun that Star Wars fans worldwide have turned into a rallying cry to proclaim their love of the saga.

Today - 4 May - is the day to say “May the Force be with you” to all and celebrate the beloved Star Wars story that binds our galaxy together. From dressing up as their favourite characters, reliving the classic film moments by holding Star Wars movie marathons, holding Star Wars-themed parties (complete with blue milk and Death Star Popcorn Balls, Wookie Cookies and more) – the only limit is a fans imagination that stretches a galaxy (far, far away)! Discover more: https://www.starwars.com/star-wars-day.