May 2024 On TLC Across Africa | New Series Alert: Take My Tumor | Returning Shows Including 7 Little Johnstons | More

South Africa

7 Little Johnstons S9A

NEW SEASON

In this installment, Jonah becomes the first Johnston kid to turn 21, with Christmas just around the corner. Trent’s and Amber’s efforts to elevate the holiday season are interrupted due to the antics of the adult kids in the house. Things take a turn for the worse when Amber confronts Anna about her plans to move out.

First TX: 20 May

TX Day: Monday

TX Time: 20:00

Last TX: 5 Aug

90 Day Fiance: Love in Paradise S4

NEW SEASON

The show focuses on four lovestruck Americans travelling to Brazil, Colombia, Italy and Malta to share lives with their significant others. Each couple will struggle with getting to know each other while also dealing with the highs and lows inherent in any relationship.

First TX: 15 May

TX Day: Wednesday

TX Time: 20:00

Last TX: 17 July

The Curious Case Of Natalia Grace: Natalia Speaks

NEW TO CHANNEL

A follow-up to the 2023 docuseries that focused on Natalia’s adoptive parents, Kristine and Michael Barnett, and their claim that the child, who’d been diagnosed with the rare dwarfism condition spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita, was actually an adult woman who terrorized their family from 2010 to 2013.

First TX: 7 May

TX Day: Tuesday

TX Time: 22:00

Last TX: 11 June

Africa

Curvy Brides' Boutique S2

NEW SEASON

Straight-talking Jo Cooke and Alison Law are transforming wedding dress shopping for plus- size brides. Jo and Alison are making sure brides from sizes 16 to 40 feel amazing on the inside and look incredible on the outside.

First TX: 29 May

TX Day: Wednesday

TX Time: 22:40

Last TX: 26 June

I Want THAT Wedding S1

BRAND NEW

Newly engaged couples struggling to agree on their wedding budget go to three different weddings but don't know their costs until the end of the experiment. Then they decide on the ideal budget for their own special day.

First TX: 8 May

TX Day: Wednesday

TX Time: 21:50

Last TX: TBC

Take My Tumor

BRAND NEW

People living with extremely large, rare, or sometimes life-threatening tumors seek help from world-renowned surgeons that only tackle the most difficult cases.

First TX: 3 May

TX Day: Friday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 28 June

Paramount Global’s Board Is Preparing To Fire CEO Bob Bakish As Soon As Monday Morning,

The board is expected to lean on company division heads in lieu of a CEO while it negotiates a possible merger with Skydance Media. Paramount Global has set up a special committee to explore the deal. The companies are in exclusive talks to pursue a deal until May 3, though that window could be extended.

Bakish has lost the trust of Paramount Global controlling shareholder Shari Redstone, according to people familiar with her thinking. Redstone wanted to make a move to oust Bakish before Paramount Global’s carriage negotiation with Charter Communications, which is pivotal for setting a value for the company in its merger talks with Skydance, the people said.

A spokesperson for Paramount Global declined to comment.

Paramount and Skydance have been making headway on a final deal, under which Bakish would leave Paramount, reported Thursday. Skydance intends to name its CEO David Ellison to helm Paramount, according to people familiar with the matter.

In private, Bakish has dissented against the merger, claiming that it could dilute common shareholders, according to people familiar with the matter.

Under the deal terms, almost 50% of the merged company would be owned by Skydance and its private equity partners, reported April 5. Common shareholders would own the remainder of the company, which would continue to trade publicly.

Development Alert: KykNet&kie Gets A New Schedule In May With Binnelanders Moving To 17:30 And Moederhart At 20:00 Replacing Skerpioen

Since the first broadcast on 9 April 2013, kykNET&kie has not only shown the cream of kykNET's programs, but also provided new content produced exclusively for kykNET&kie. The award-winning Suidooster, winner of the Safta in 2022 for the best soap opera, and the telenovela Arendsvlei brought real South African stories to viewers, put a host of new talented actors in the spotlight and made for a huge injection into local TV - operation taken care of. Then there are programs like Say your say, KLOP! and the dubbed Turkish telenovelas that keep viewers buzzing.

kykNET&kie's schedule change in May will give viewers the luxury of sitting back and relaxing with excellent entertainment in the evening.

So, put down that remote control and enjoy prime viewing in premium time.

• Binnelanders' twelfth season starts on Tuesday 7 May at 17:30. The series is broadcast from Mondays to Fridays.

• Deep Waters' first season can be seen from Tuesday 7 May at 18:00. In the first week, an episode is also broadcast on Friday 10 May, but after that it is on air from Mondays to Thursdays.

Suidooster is still on the box from Mondays to Fridays at 18:30.

• Arendsvlei remains in the 19:30 time slot from Mondays to Thursdays. The last episode of this boundary-pushing telenovela, which ran for six seasons and 160 episodes, will be broadcast at the end of June. It is directly followed by a new telenovela, Skemergrond, which starts on Monday 1 July at 19:30. Skemergrond takes place in Gemoedsdrif, a small town in the Western Cape, and revolves around the Louw family and their beautiful flower farm.

The Turkish telenovela Skerpioen's last episode will be broadcast on Monday 6 May at 20:00. Moederhart, which currently airs Mondays to Thursdays at 17:30, moves to the 20:00 time slot from 7 May, but is still on air from Mondays to Thursdays. Keep an eye on the news for an announcement about a new Turkish telenovela that starts when Moederhart comes to an end.

Other programs on kykNET&kie that belong on every good watch list include:

• Medical (Tuesdays at 9.30pm)

• KNOCK! (Sundays at 18:00)

• Have Your Say (Sundays at 7pm)

• Super Rugby (Mondays at 9pm)

• Toks & Tjops (Fridays at 20:00)

• eNews (daily at 19:00)

 

Superrugby, Toks & Tjops and eNuus are also broadcast simultaneously on kykNET (DStv channel 144).

Canal+ Increases Stake In MultiChoice To Almost 42%

French media group Canal+ today announced it has acquired additional shares In MultiChoice, the operator of Africa’s biggest pay-TV – DStv.

Following a significant increase in its ownership stake, Canal+ has triggered a mandatory offer to minority shareholders of MultiChoice Group. This action was necessitated after surpassing a predefined threshold established by the JSE.

In accordance with JSE regulations, when an individual or entity acquires at least 35% of a listed company, a mandatory offer must be extended to other shareholders under terms agreed upon with the main exchange.

Canal+ has put forth a mandatory offer to acquire all outstanding shares of MultiChoice Group not already held by the conglomerate. The proposed purchase price stands at R125.00 per share, payable in cash, signaling Canal+’s commitment to further consolidate its position within the media landscape.

Today, Canal+ announced it has increased its shareholding to 41.60% in MultiChoice.

Canal+ has acquired in on/off market transactions, a further 3,374,668 MultiChoice Shares, as follows:

• On Thursday, 18 April 2024, Canal+ acquired 18,633 MultiChoice Shares in on/off market

transactions for an average consideration of ZAR 116.00 per MultiChoice Share

• On Friday, 19 April 2024, Canal+ acquired 101,468 MultiChoice Shares in on/off market transactions for an average consideration of ZAR 115.99 per MultiChoice Share

• On Monday, 22 April 2024, Canal+ acquired 1,618,032 MultiChoice Shares in on/off market

transactions for an average consideration of ZAR 116.42 per MultiChoice Share

• On Tuesday, 23 April 2024, Canal+ acquired 342,678 MultiChoice Shares in on/off market

transactions for an average consideration of ZAR 116.83 per MultiChoice Share

• On Wednesday, 24 April 2024, Canal+ acquired 1,293,857 MultiChoice Shares in on/off market

transactions for an average consideration of ZAR 117.59 per MultiChoice Share

After the aforementioned trades are implemented, Canal+ will hold an aggregate of approximately

41,60% of the MultiChoice Shares in issue.

“Canal+ confirms that these acquisitions have already been disclosed to the Takeover Regulation Panel (TRP) as required under the Companies Act No. 71 of 2008 (Companies Act) and Chapter 5 of the Companies Regulations, 2011 (Takeover Regulations).”

Just weeks after revealing that Imtiaz Patel would remain as chairman to manage a potential deal with Groupe Canal+, MultiChoice Group has now announced Patel’s immediate departure from the position.

This decision arises amidst growing worries about corporate governance within the broadcasting company, currently under a takeover proposal by France’s Canal+.

In an unexpected turn of events, MultiChoice disclosed on April 2nd, after a board meeting ahead of the Easter weekend, that it was retracting an earlier statement regarding Patel’s planned resignation. The board had previously announced that Elias Masilela would assume the chairmanship starting April 1st.

“In view of the recent ruling by the Takeover Regulation Panel that required Canal+ to make an immediate mandatory offer to all MultiChoice shareholders…the MultiChoice board has reached an agreement with Imtiaz Patel to remain on as chair,” the company said at the time.

MultiChoice Has Announced Imtiaz Patel’s Exit As Chairman, Just Weeks After Saying He Would Stay On In The Role

Just weeks after announcing that its chairman, Imtiaz Patel, would stay on to oversee a possible deal with Groupe Canal+, MultiChoice Group on Tuesday announced Patel’s exit from the role with immediate effect.

The move comes amid concerns about corporate governance at the broadcaster, which is the subject of a takeover bid by France’s Canal+.

In a surprise move, MultiChoice said on 2 April — following a board meeting before the Easter weekend — that it had rescinded a previous announcement that Patel would step down, with board member Elias Masilela due to take up the chairmanship from 1 April.

“In view of the recent ruling by the Takeover Regulation Panel that required Canal+ to make an immediate mandatory offer to all MultiChoice shareholders … the MultiChoice board has reached an agreement with Imtiaz Patel to remain on as chair,” the company said at the time.

“The board believes there is significant benefit in continuity at this time, and Mr Patel has agreed to extend his tenure until the conclusion of the Canal+ transaction or such sooner date as may be determined in light of progress on the transaction,” it said then.

Now, just three weeks later, Patel is stepping down – this time apparently for good.

Explaining why Patel is leaving, just three weeks after the board decided he should stay on, MultiChoice told investors that at the time of the announcement on 2 April, discussions were in their final stages on key terms of the proposed transaction with Canal+.

‘Next phase’

“These culminated in MultiChoice and Canal+ entering into a co-operation agreement on 7 April and issuing a firm intention announcement on 8 April, with the material terms of the proposed transaction recorded in these documents,” it said.

“Given these developments, the progress that has been achieved thus far and the fact the independent board has been constituted and will fulfil its obligations under the takeover regulations, the proposed transaction has now shifted to the next phase.

“The board and Mr Patel have therefore agreed that now would be an appropriate time for Mr Masilela, the current deputy chair, to be appointed as chair as planned and for Mr Patel to step down from the board with effect from the date of this announcement.”

Patel will remain as an adviser to the group on a consultancy basis as originally planned, it said. 

Recap To The Decade: Canal+ Afrique Also Offer Pornographic Material With Hustlers TV And Private TV, What Could Await This Lineup Should It Rollout On DStv?

As some readers aware, StarSat once offered a pornographic content on their platforms for consumers in South Africa. This had garnered a lot of media coverage and even led to numerous legal disputes with the channels alienated within the region.

Despite StarTimes playing it safe by having those channel's offering reduced to weeknights and making consumers who opted to bundle the entertainment pay extra. Their attempts had proven to be unsuccessful and led consumers to flee the platform. 

Now Canal+ is seeking to acquire MultiChoice and should these attempts prove favorable. DStv's entertainment would have to be merge/aligned with Canal+'s current offering of course this may prove to be another hurdle.

Similar to StarTimes in select countries, Canal+ offers also offers pornographic material known as MultiMan TV with Hustlers and Private TV. It might form part of MultiChoice's current offering as part of an alignment of content and TV channels.

We're not saying that packages will be axed but seeing as Canal+ already offers English stations those will likely be the first to resurface on DStv. With MultiChoice residing in 22 million households they would give this entertainment further exposure. 

May 2024 On Discovery Channel And HGTV Across Africa | New Series Alert: Crime Gone Viral And Wild And Weird America | Returning Shows Including Down Home Fab | More

Discovery Channel 

Crimes Gone Viral S1

NEW TO CHANNEL

Gripping clips of kidnappings, break-ins, wild car chases, and other crimes rack up millions of views, but the stories behind these crimes are often never told -- until now. This series takes viewers inside the most shocking crimes that went viral.

First TX: 28 May

TX Day: Tuesday

TX Time: 20:55 & 21:25

Last TX: 6 Aug

Wheeler Dealers World Tour

BRAND NEW

After twenty years of iconic makeovers Mike and Elvis are back to take on their most ambitious projects yet and this time, they're going global. From the US, to Australia, Europe and the UK, Mike will track down a selection of vehicles that are iconic to each country, in need of some serious TLC, set up in a local garage and

leave it to Elvis and local mechanics to restore them to their former glory.

First TX: 31 May

TX Day: Friday

TX Time: 20:00

Last TX: 2 Aug

Wild & Weird America S1

BRAND NEW

Watch uproarious real-life moments: backyard mishaps, car chaos, avalanche disasters, stunts, spills and thrills. It's an unforgettable rollercoaster of laughter caught on camera.

First TX: 18 May

TX Day: Saturday

TX Time: 20:55 & 21:25

Last TX: TBC

Border Control Spain S2

NEW SEASON

In Madrid's main airport, Madrid-Barajas, 5,000 security cameras help agents maintain security. Follow state security forces to discover how they monitor Spain's borders.

First TX: 14 May

TX Day: Tuesday

TX Time: 20:00 & 20:30

Last TX: TBC

HGTV

Down Home Fab S2

BRAND NEW

Chelsea and Cole DeBoer navigate the most

challenging chapter of their lives as they create and build a design business and take on client

renovations, all while raising four young children.

First TX: 29 May

TX Day: Wednesday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 17 July

Fixer To Fabulous Italiano

BRAND NEW

In this new limited series we will embark on the

adventure of a lifetime as the Marrs and their family head to Italy to help some family friends renovate a historic home and turn it into the farmhouse they've always dreamed of!

First TX: 16 May

TX Day: Thursday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 20 June

Rock the Block S5

NEW SEASON

Four teams of HGTV superstars return to the block to face-off in the ultimate home renovation competition. With identical starting waterfront homes and budgets, the team's house that appraises the highest at the end wins it all!

First TX: 4 May

TX Day: Sunday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 15 June

Why The Heck Did I Buy This House? S2

NEW SEASON

Designer and renovator Kim Wolfe comes to the

rescue of homeowners feeling major buyer's remorse. This former Survivor winner and mom of three uses her expert skills to reinvent lifeless spaces and make homeowners finally fall in love with their home.

First TX: 22 May

TX Day: Wednesday

TX Time: 22:00

Last TX: 10 July

Apple Looking To Close Deal On FIFA World Cup, Might Block SuperSport And SABC

Soccer's global governing body FIFA is close to an agreement with Apple to give the tech company worldwide television rights for a new, month-long club tournament, the New York Times reported on Monday.

The deal with Apple could be announced as soon as this month and valued at around $1 billion, a quarter of the $4 billion FIFA had first estimated, the report said, citing three people familiar with the matter.

The potential agreement would give the company's streaming business an edge amid competition among streaming services providers to lap up rights for widely watched sporting events in a bid to add subscribers.

If the deal goes through, this would mark the first time that FIFA has agreed to a single worldwide contract, the report said.

Senior executives at FIFA, however, have raised concerns over the possibility of "free-to-air rights", which would make the event only available to subscribers of Apple TV+, according to the report. It is unclear whether the deal includes any such rights.

Sponsors have also been reluctant to commit the $150 million that FIFA is seeking for sponsorship packages, the report said.

The 32-team event will be held next year between June 15 and July 13. Usually, no major events are scheduled during this period in order to allow players to rest in the off-season a year before the World Cup, according to the report.

FIFA has faced criticism from players unions for not consulting them before making announcements about the event, according to the report.

"As a general practice, FIFA does not confirm or deny commercial discussions," a spokesperson for the governing body said in a response. Apple declined to comment.

Trouble for sports in SA

Seeing as Apple is looking to secure this for their platforms being Apple TV+ it's possible that SuperSport and SABC might miss out on the action. Considering that MultiChoice opted to minimize the sports on Showmax its likely that it could be televised. 

Provided that SuperSport licenses the rights from Apple same goes for the SABC as opposed to running through SuperSport. This comes after eMedia Investments had won a broadcasting dispute against MultiChoice in regards to the Rugby World Cup.

Although this news may seem pleasing to some readers, in other countries you have most sporting events from SuperSport viewed on multiple platforms (additional fees) while in South Africa it was under one tile (one fee).

What eMedia Investments Might Have Looked Like Under The Ownership Of Warner Bros. Discovery?

As reported sometime ago, Warner Bros. Discovery was looking to acquire eMedia Investments several years back. Following various legal hurdles of foreign ownership sold their remaining shares as eMedia Investments continues to blossom.

They currently offer Openview, SA's most successful free-to-view DTT platform which is accessible to over 3 million households. It offers over 20 TV channels which offer a range of movies, reality shows, drama series, telenovelas, sports and cartoons.

Most of which probably wouldn't have been under Warner Bros. Discovery's radar leaving consumers the latter on DStv and StarSat.

Warner Bros. Discovery (known as Time Warner) at the time consisted of brands such as HBO, TNT, Cartoon Network and Cartoonito (formerly Boomerang). Before the merger in 2019, their lineup consisted of drama series, movies and cartoons.

There's no way eSeries could have entered the equation if M-Net licensed content from HBO and Warner Bros. Studios. Same goes for the kiddies channel eToonz which might have been supplemented by Cartoon Network all of which are pay-tv brands.

e.tv could have remained as a singular channel with the eMedia Investments trademark phased out. It would have been home to locally produced content while as licensing content from other studios and exploring Warner Bros. Studios archives.

There wouldn't be room for much expansions in terms of local programming e.g. Kuiertyd. 

eNCA would have probably been the only other TV channel with connections to the eMedia trademark. It would have served as the SA adaptation of CNN perhaps infusing its lineup if not co-existing or just have that heavy focus on the local economy. 

#BlockTheMerger: Could Sony And Apollo's Possible Acquisition Of Paramount Global Be A Good Thing For MTV And Nickelodeon?

Not long ago, it was reported that Sony and Apollo would be making a joint bid to acquire Paramount Global. This comes after Paramount Global had rejected Apollo's initial offer as talks are still underway with Skydance over a possible restructure.

Similar to Canal+, Sony faces legal hurdles as foreigners are given restrictions pertaining to ownership of a local company. Apollo Global Management is basically their BBBEE or another case they're way of securing the entertainment company. 

Sources had outlined that Sony was looking to distance themselves from the streaming wars years after closing and selling their linear operations. Apollo was looking to possibly merge Paramount+ with another streamer putting its future in a dark corner.

Not that the content would be phased out in the process but if you're living abroad and getting a portion of this content on Paramount+. Them closing and merging it with another broadcaster further lessen the lineup.

Same goes with the Paramount trademark in general as it could as well be folded under Sony.

As for their linear operations, don't expect much improvement there content wise as consumption and revenue for these channels continue to decline. If anything, don't be surprised if they choose to close/sell a few if not all channels globally.

Apollo had hinted at that when making the initial bid for Paramount with film studios. When you look at it, Nickelodeon and MTV would probably be more like CW reliant on third party content and archived material from Paramount while first run content are shipped to other platforms. 

This is an endeavor we envision could await local consumers in the United States while other countries go through a similar fate as Disney's FOX and Disney XD channels.

The Canal+/MultiChoice Effect: Sony Reportedly In Talks To Join Bid With Apollo To Acquire Paramount Global

Even as Paramount Global continues to hold exclusive talks with David Ellison’s Skydance and Gerry Cardinale’s Redbird Capital, another potential buyer group is considering its own moves.

It has been confirmed that executives at Sony Corp., including Sony Pictures chief Tony Vinciquerra, have been in touch with Apollo Global Management about making a joint bid for the entertainment company.

Apollo had previously made a $26 billion offer for Paramount, inclusive of equity and debt, though it was reportedly dismissed. But partnering with Sony would likely eliminate any cash or financing concerns.

The New York Times first reported the Sony talks, adding that no offer has been made, given that the exclusive negotiating window is still in place. The Times reported that one structure under consideration would see Sony and Apollo effectively take Paramount private, with Sony owning a majority of the company, with Apollo operating as a minority owner..

The actual structure of the deal is not clear, though the Paramount film and TV studios would likely fit in nicely with Sony’s own studios. It would raise questions about both Paramount+, given Sony’s decision to avoid entering the streaming wars, as well as Paramount’s linear TV assets, including CBS. There are federal regulations restricting foreign ownership of U.S. broadcast stations, and as a Japanese company Sony could face scrutiny under such rules.

Meanwhile, the talks between Skydance and Paramount continue, with a source saying that the Ellison-led company has articulated a plan to deliver operating efficiencies, and to leverage the executive teams at both Skydance and Redbird (including former NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell), to help turn Paramount around. Paramount would remain a public company under the Skydance deal.

Some investors have complained about the decision not to pursue the Apollo deal, given the all-cash offer.

Shares in Paramount rose in after-hours trading, after reports about the talks were published.

May 2024 On Discovery Family And Investigation Discovery Across Africa | New Series Alert: Michigan's Hell House And Bail Jumpers | Returning Shows Including Salvage Hunters | More

Discovery Family 

Salvage Hunters S6

NEW TO CHANNEL

Drew Pritchard makes money from bits of

buildings others don't want. Whether it's a historic chimney from a medieval manor or a glass conservatory dome from a Victorian folly, he spends life on the road searching for architectural treasures.

First TX: 6 May

TX Day: Mon - Fri

TX Time: 15:10

Last TX: 17 May

Investigation Discovery

Playboy Murders S2

New Season

These stories investigate murders that intersect with Playboy, exposing the pitfalls of fame for those appearing on their pages and forcing

audiences to question everything they thought they knew about one of America’s most recognizable publications.

First TX: 10 May

TX Day: Friday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 14 June

Bail Jumpers S1

Brand New

Across Bail Jumpers embeds with America’s most personable bounty hunters as they engage in unexpected and unforgettable conversations with their captives on the drive back to jail. Once the fugitive is secured in the back seat, it’s no-holds-barred dialogue that runs from petty squabbles and beefs with significant others, to rap sheets and stories of life on the lam.

First TX: 15 May

TX Day: Wednesday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 19 June

Dead Files S10

New Season

Physical medium Amy Allan and retired homicide detective Steve DiSchiavi combine their unique skills to solve unexplained paranormal phenomena in haunted locations across America.

First TX: 18 May

TX Day: Saturday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: TBC

Michigan Hell House

*New to Channel*

It's the most terrifying story you've never heard: In 1974, the Pomeraning family was tortured by "humanly impossible" poltergeist activity. Using newly uncovered recordings, Steve Shippy and Cindy Kaza try to identify the evil that rocked a small town.

First TX: 11 May

TX Day: Saturday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 11 May

May 2024 On Food Network Across Africa| New Series Alert: Best Bite In Town And Wildcard Kitchen| Returning Shows Including The Pioneer Woman | More

Best Bite in Town S1

BRAND NEW

As Mayor of Flavortown, Guy Fieri entrusts Noah

Cappe to take two Food Network chefs to towns he hasn't tackled yet. They each present their favorite dish from popular local restaurants to a panel of expert judges who will crown the best bite in town.

First TX: 21 May

TX Day: Tuesday

TX Time: 17:00

Last TX: 9 July

Wildcard Kitchen S1

NEW SHOW

After midnight, Eric Adjepong invites top chefs to

bring $5,000 of their own money and play his culinary card game.

First TX: 18 May

TX Day: Saturday

TX Time: 21:45

Last TX: 6 July

In the Kitchen With Abner and Amanda S1 & S2

BRAND NEW

Abner and Amanda Ramirez have fun in the kitchen while whipping up their favorite recipes. As parents to three kids and professional musicians, they embrace the madness of cooking in the kitchen while juggling family life and creative endeavors.

First TX: 12 May

TX Day: Sunday

TX Time: 16:00

Last TX: 16 June

24 in 24: Last Chef Standing S1

BRAND NEW

Chefs often describe their jobs as being 24/7, and now Michael Symon and Esther Choi put that to the test as 24 chefs face 24 challenges in 24 non-stop hours. The chefs take on eight shifts, each testing a different skill, for a chance to win $50,000.

First TX: 29 May

TX Day: Wednesday

TX Time: 17:00

Last TX: 17 July

The Pioneer Woman S35

NEW SEASON

Ree Drummond shares down-home recipes from her family ranch. She cooks for every occasion, from last minute family suppers to elegant celebrations.

First TX: 9 May

TX Day: Thursday

TX Time: 18:00

*TX Time from 6 June: 17:00

Last TX: 20 June

Diners, Drive-Ins, And Dives S38

NEW SEASON

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

First TX: 7 May

TX Day: Tuesday

TX Time: 17:00

*TX Time from 4 June: 16:05

Last TX: 25 June

Channel Closure: Comedy Central Family Will Stop Airing In Hungary On July 6th

Comedy Central Family is a general entertainment brand operated by Paramount Global and also a sister network to Comedy Central. It focused on humorous and family oriented shows such as See Dad Run, Mike & Molly, Young Sheldon and The Middle.

According to Hungarian website Media1, Comedy Central Family is set to end its run in Hungary from July 6th. This news comes after the channel had ceased operation in Poland and Dutch territories years prior making it the last feed to offer such brand. 

It is believed to be part of a strategic approach within Paramount Global as the closure was described as something beyond the pay-tv service's control. With further content from Comedy Central Family set to be integrated with Comedy Central. 

Consumption is said to have contributed to the decision to terminate Comedy Central Family similar to the likes of M-Net's Me and 1Magic on DStv. 

Earlier in the year, VH1 was shuttered in the remaining parts of Europe as the latter integrates with MTV and NickMusic. This was followed by a possible rebrand of the TeenNick channels to Nickelodeon Teen and an alignment of some MTV Base African feeds.

Sibongile & The Dlaminis Surpasses 2 Million Live Viewership

Mzansi Wethu telenovela Sibongile & The Dlaminis has recorded viewership numbers of over 2.6 million, making it the most watched show on Mzansi Wethu.

The past month has seen an impressive average viewership of over 2 million, with the highest being  2,688,338 live viewers.

“This is a cause for celebration and a clear indication of the love and appreciation that our viewers have for Sibongile & The Dlaminis,” says Nomsa Philiso, CEO of General Entertainment. “What makes this telenovela so special is the combination of good scripting, casting and overall production, which makes it a pleasure to watch. Thank you very much to our Middle and Mass scripted team for this one and we hope that with Season 2 coming soon, we will see more growth in viewership numbers because there is still more to this story.”

Sibongile & The Dlaminis tells the story of Sibongile Mbambo (played by Luyanda Zwane), a young woman from the rural village of Ixopo in KwaZulu-Natal who becomes a domestic worker in the lavish mansion of the wealthy Dlamini family. Her journey to fulfilling her dreams of happiness, love, and success is met with challenges which include having to lie to her father, losing out on love, and missing the opportunity to rise above expectations that people have of her.

Other star cast members who make this a must-watch include Vuyo Biyela (Kwenzo), Siyabonga Shibe (Njengaye Dlamini) Ayanda Borotho (Phetheni Dlamini), and Slindile Nodangala (Deliwe Mbambo)

Sibongile & The Dlaminis has been renewed for season 2 and you can continue watching it on Monday-Wednesday at 18:30 on Mzansi Wethu DStv Channel 163 and you can also watch it on DStv Stream, anywhere. 

Development Alert: Canal+ Acquires Additional Shares In MultiChoice

French broadcaster Groupe Canal+ has disclosed that it has bought even more shares in South Africa’s MultiChoice Group in recent days, taking its shareholding closer to the 50% mark.

In a regulatory filing with the JSE on Thursday, Canal+ disclosed that it bought millions more of the JSE-listed MultiChoice’s shares between 12 and 17 April. It acquired 3.65 million shares in that period, and has said it could buy more in the open market as it pursues its plan to acquire control of the parent company of DStv, Showmax and SuperSport.

According to the filing, Canal+ acquired the following shares in recent days:

• Friday, 12 April 2024: About 1.82 million shares in on/off-market transactions for an average consideration of R117.50/share;

• Monday, 15 April 2024: Some 810 000 shares in on/off-market transactions for an average consideration of R115.99/share;

• Tuesday, 16 April 2024: About 1.01 million shares in on/off-market transactions for an average consideration of R115.95/share; and

• Wednesday, 17 April 2024: Some 5 100 shares in on/off-market transactions for an average consideration of R116/share.

Following these share purchases, Canal+ holds 40.83% of the MultiChoice shares in issue.

“Save as may be prohibited under the Companies Act and the takeover regulations, Canal+ may acquire further MultiChoice shares after the date of this announcement while the offer [to MultiChoice shareholders] remains open…,” the French company said.

News of the additional share purchases comes 10 days after the two companies informed investors that they had agreed to work together on a mandatory offer that Canal+ must make to the MultiChoice shareholders. This was after Canal+ triggered a mandatory offer under South African rules by acquiring more than 35% of MultiChoice’s equity earlier this year.

Canal+ plans to offer MultiChoice shareholders R125/share in cash in exchange for their shares

The “cooperation agreement” will see the two broadcasting giants using “reasonable endeavours to cooperate in relation to the offer, including in relation to the fulfilment of the offer conditions and the publication of a combined offer circular”.

Canal+ is offering MultiChoice shareholders R125/share in cash in exchange for their shares.

If the deal hasn’t been consummated by 8 April 2025 – including securing the necessary regulatory approvals, which could still prove to be the biggest stumbling block to a transaction – then it could be terminated. This “long-stop date” can, however, be extended, with the concurrence of South Africa’s Takeover Regulation Panel, a financial regulator that is overseeing the mandatory offer.

Delisting

If the deal goes ahead, MultiChoice could be delisted from the JSE. If Canal+’s offer is accepted by shareholders with at least 90% of eligible MultiChoice shares, then the French firm has reserved the right to delist MultiChoice from the JSE. At the same time, though, Canal+ has said there is an opportunity, potentially, for South African investors to participate in its own proposed listing in Europe.

CNN Is Planning To Move Away From Linear TV And Put Its News Content On Streaming Platforms

CNN’s new boss said the network faces an “existential crisis” because of cord cutting — and that he plans to eventually pivot away from cable TV toward a subscription-based streaming model similar to YouTube and TikTok.

“There are plenty of things we have to fix at CNN,” Mark Thompson, the former New York Times and BBC executive who was hired by Warner Bros. Discovery to dig CNN out of its third-place slump in the cable news race, told Financial Times.

He also hinted that more cost-cutting measures are in the offing, saying that there are “likely to be significant opportunities for de-duplication of parallel organizations and structures and activities.”

“I think we can and should be looking for ways of doing what we do both better, but also doing it less expensively,” Thompson said.

The ex-BBC director general has a tall task — turning around CNN that has struggled to keep up in the ratings with Fox News and MSNBC.

Thompson said he was looking at distributing CNN content through smartphones and other devices in a shift to mostly digital — mimicking his tenure as head of The New York Times Company.

“The idea that there might be digital subscription is a serious possibility,” Thompson told FT when asked about his plans for CNN.

While no final decision has been made, “I think it’s quite likely that we’ll end up there,” he said.

Thompson did not specify what form the digital subscription service would take, though he ruled out it would be similar to CNN’s ill-fated CNN+ — the streaming news venture that was shut down less than a month after it launched.

CNN+, the brainchild of former CNN boss Jeff Zucker, was axed as part of a cost-cutting measure just weeks after the news channel was inherited by the newly merged entity Warner Bros. Discovery.

Thompson was hired last year to replace Zucker’s successor, Chris Licht, whose disastrous 13-month tenure as head of the network ended after an unflattering magazine profile portrayed him as thin-skinned and envious of his predecessor’s popularity.

Warner Bros. Discovery has $44 billion in debt that it needs to reduce — leading to speculation that CEO David Zaslav may look to sell CNN.

Thompson pushed back on the idea that he was abandoning TV altogether.

“Do we want to get more competitive in cable TV and by strengthening our schedules? Yes, we do,” he said.

“But the rate at which people have been and probably will continue to cut the cord and not look at cable TV at all is a far, far greater strategic threat than the finer points of competition between individual cable channels.”

During his eight-year tenure as president and CEO of the New York Times Company, Thompson expedited the publication’s transition to a digital, subscription-based news outlet that has been the main driver of revenue since.

Thompson, who left The New York Times Company in 2020, is credited with helping the Times attract millions of digital subscribers worldwide.

The lone bright spot for CNN is its website, which draws some 160 million unique users each month.

Thompson said that one possibility is to have CNN users register so that the network can then sell information about its audience to advertisers.

“We need an entirely new digital strategy,” he told FT.

“I don’t think any broadcaster has cracked the code on how to be yourself in terms of digital products.”

Credits: New York Post

News Shorts: Superbuns To Make Its Linear Debut On Universal Kids, Mpumalanga TV Goes Live On 1KZN TV With Sannah Mchunu And Umbrella Men: Escape From Robben Island To Stream On eVOD From April 25

Peacock original debuts on Universal Kids

Universal Kids which serves as the American counterpart of DreamWorks Channel and Sky is operated by NBCUniversal. Since it's launch, the channel has seen a decline in consumption and several content changes with its current lineup preschool tailored.

As seen in an programme guide, the Canadian based animated series Superbuns is slated to rollout on the channel from 28 April.

Based on the children's book of the same name, it follows a little bunny whose superpower is kindness does what she can to brighten everyone’s day. The series was made available to stream on Peacock sometime in 2023.

Mpumalanga gets a 1 hour block on 1KZN

Based in KwaZulu Natal, 1KZN TV is a proudly Zulu community television channel that produces its local content. Its aim is greater social inclusion of genders, castes, and ethnicities while encouraging greater education and improved health.

During the week, the channel debuted a 2 hour block with actress Sannah Mchunu gracing the red carpet. Although not much details had been shared about the content to be allocated on Mpumalanga TV beforehand to garner some exposure. 

It will air daily on 1KZN from 5pm to 6pm with repeats on weekends.

Umbrella Men is back for new adventures on eVOD 

After pulling off the ultimate heist in the original "The Umbrella Men," Jerome, Morty, Mila, Keisha, and Auntie Val thought they could finally enjoy the good life. But their celebrations are cut short when the villainous Tariek enters the scene with sinister plans.

Before they know it, Jerome and Morty find themselves locked up in the infamous Robben Island Prison, while Keisha, Mila, and Auntie Val are left to hatch an audacious plan to bust them out. However, their troubles are just beginning as Tariek's ambitions grow more diabolical by the minute, threatening world domination!

In this action-packed, music-filled sequel, our favorite crew of accidental criminals must band together once more, using all their wits and talents to take down Tariek, clear their names, and finally make it back home to the Bo Kaap as free men.

'The Umbrella Men: Escape from Robben Island' is officially hitting eVOD on April 25th.

May 2024 On TNT Across Africa | Original Movie: Little Bone Lodge | End Of Days Stunt With Channel Premiere Independence Day | AEW Weekends | More

Premieres in bold

Surviving the Unknown

Stunt

Embark on a gripping journey through the uncharted territories of the human spirit with TNT's Saturday evening movie special, "Surviving the Unknown." Witness ordinary people facing 

extraordinary challenges, testing their courage and resilience in heart-pounding tales of survival against all odds.

Saturday, 4 May

18:00 Speed (1994)

20:00 Con Air (1997)

Saturday, 11 May

16:40 Titanic (1997)

20:00 Kong: Skull Island (2015)

Saturday, 18 May

18:10 Taken 3 (2014)

20:00 Face / Off (1997)

Saturday, 25 May

18:15 The Running Man (1987)

20:00 Apex (2021)

End of Days

Stunt

The ultimate, "End of Days" special airs on TNT every Sunday evening in May. Immerse yourself in dystopian futures and post-apocalyptic landscapes, witnessing humanity's indomitable spirit against extinction.

Sunday, 5 May

17:50 Pacific Rim (2013)

20:00 Independence Day (1996)

Sunday, 12 May

18:00 War of the Worlds (2005)

20:00 A Quiet Place (2018)

Sunday, 19 May

17:55 Star Trek (2009)

20:00 Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)

Sunday, 26 May

17:55 Terminator Genesys (2015)

20:00 Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

Everyday Heroes

Stunt

Celebrate International Workers' Day with TNT's "Everyday Heroes" special marathon on 1 May. Witness the awe-inspiring tales of resilience and courage as individuals rise above challenges to

become beacons of hope.

Wednesday, 1 May

14:00 Air Force One (1997)

16:00 True Lies (1994)

18:30 Collateral (2004)

20:30 Saving Private Ryan (1998)

23:15 Die Hard (1988)

Little Bone Lodge

TNT Original Movie

TNT’s exclusive premiere of "Little Bone Lodge" weaves expert storytelling with compelling performances. Amidst a raging storm, two fugitive brothers find shelter in an eerie farmhouse, unveiling sinister secrets.

Prepare for breathtaking visuals and relentless suspense, promising an unforgettable cinematic journey till the final credits.

Synopsis: Set during a vicious storm, two criminal brothers on the run seek refuge in a desolate farmhouse. Taking the resident family captive, they find the house holds dark secrets of its own.

Thursday, 23 May

20:30 Little Bone Lodge (2023)

AEW

#WrestlingWeekendsonTNT

In May, TNT debuts fresh episodes every Saturday and Sunday morning at around 10 am, complemented by weekly reruns on Wednesday afternoons and Friday late nights.

AEW RAMPAGE

Ep. 17 - Saturday 4th at 10:00

Ep. 18 - Saturday 11th at 10:00

Ep. 19 - Saturday 18th at 10:00

Ep. 20 - Saturday 25th at 10:00

AEW COLLISION

S4. Ep. 15 - Saturday 4th at 10:50

S4. Ep. 16 - Saturday 18th at 10:50

S4. Ep. 17 - Saturday 25th at 10:50

AEW DYNAMITE

Ep. 18 Sunday 5th at 10:00

Ep. 19 - Sunday 12th at 10:00

Ep. 20 - Sunday 19th at 10:00

Ep. 21 - Sunday 26th at 13:45

May 2024 On Travel Channel And Real Time Across Africa | New Series Alert: Alaskan Killer: Big Foot | Returning Shows Including The Aquarium And The Kitchen | More

Travel Channel 

Alaskan Killer: Big Foot S1

Brand New

Seventy years ago, a murderous Bigfoot like creature sent residents fleeing from Portlock, Alaska. Now, an expedition returns to the abandoned fishing village to reclaim the land and its resources from the terrifying beast locals call Nantinaq. The team's 40-day sojourn in the icy 

Alaskan wilderness tests their mettle, their 

faith and their ability to survive.

First TX: 2 May

TX Day: Thursday

TX Time: 22:10

Last TX: 6 June

Eli Roth presents: The Legion of Exorcists

Brand New

Evil is on the rise, inching us ever closer to

the end of days. Standing on the frontlines

of this spiritual war is the Legion of Exorcists, who use their faith to keep the devil's minions at bay. These are the true stories of their battle to save humanity's soul, one exorcism at a time.

First TX: 12 May

TX Day: Sunday

TX Time: 21:10

Last TX: 30 June

Real Time 

The Aquarium S2

New To Channel 

Viewers are taken behind the scenes of Atlanta's

Georgia Aquarium. The show follows the stories of an escape-artist moray eel, a giant sea turtle named Tank who needs to learn healthier eating habits, and the adventures of baby fantail rays Bacon and Tomato, as they adjust to life in the massive Ocean Voyager exhibit. Viewers also catch up with baby sea otter Gibson, as he learns to become a more independent pup.

First TX: 21 May

TX Day: Weekdays

TX Time: 10:30

Last TX: 31 May

The Kitchen S6

New To Channel 

Spend a fun and food-filled morning in The Kitchen with hosts Sunny Anderson, Katie Lee, Jeff Mauro, Marcela Valladolid and Geoffrey Zakarian. These five talented food experts will bring fun conversation and delicious recipes into your kitchen every week. From simple supper ideas to the latest food trends, to the "Cookbook Club," we'll cover all things fun in food. Pull up a stool at the counter and join us in The Kitchen. Everybody knows every great party ends up in The Kitchen!

First TX: 2 May

TX Day: Weekdays

TX Time: 13:45

Last TX: 20 May

Chopped S21

New To Channel 

Competitors race to turn mystery ingredients into

extraordinary three-course meals. This competition is all about skill, speed and ingenuity and only one chef will impress the judges enough to survive the chopping block.

First TX: 14 May

TX Day: Weekdays

TX Time: 11:15

Last TX: 30 May