MultiChoice Is Ready To Launch More Channels Amidst It's Offset With Warner Bros. Discovery

MultiChoice has sent notice to various informing them that Warner Bros. Discovery's slate of channels would be exiting DStv by the of December. This comes after Paramount announced plans to shutter CBS Justice, CBS Reality, BET and MTV Base on the platform. 

Canal+, MultiChoice's new owners appears to have a different strategy when negotiating carriage deals. Previous carriage deals were often extended quietly and it lead to fee hikes it appears that Canal+ wants to minimise costs amidst MultiChoice's financial woes.

One could say MultiChoice's reasoning for issuing a termination notice through email is their way of pressuring Warner Bros. Discovery. They're amidst a potential buyout or split by Netflix, Comcast and Paramount.

MultiChoice's previous owners wouldn't have done the runaround with Warner Bros. Discovery as opposed to Canal+. They are open to replacing these channels (or at least some of them) but the reality is there really is no alternatives.

For consumers hoping that MultiChoice would replace them with something that can go on par with TLC or Cartoon Network this may never be the case. Linear television had been in rapid decline in the US and its led some companies to scale back on original content.

With Canal+ also having pay-tv operations held in Europe, France and Asia it's likely replacement would be sought there.

Canal+ Distribution which serves as both production and distribution company offers diverse content and channels from markets in which it's pay-tv services reside. This can range from France24 in which eMedia Investments distribute in a separate agreement alongside FilmBox channels.

In the event these channels were to go dark, I'd imagine they'd look through that outlet for this "fresh content" they've promised to introduce to subscribers.

Canal+ Distribution's catalogue ranges from news through AfricaNews and France24, music through Trace Urban and Trace Gospel and cartoons with Duck TV and ZooMoo. Following its acquisition of MultiChoice, it's portfolio would also include M-Net and Mzansi Magic.

Is The Cat Really Out Of The Bag For MultiChoice And Warner Bros. Discovery??? As The Channels Remain On Canal+ Afrique In A Separate Agreement

MultiChoice has sent notice to various informing them that Warner Bros. Discovery's slate of channels would be exiting DStv by the of December. This comes after Paramount announced plans to shutter CBS Justice, CBS Reality, BET and MTV Base on the platform. 

Warner Bros. Discovery currently has the largest linear portfolio with MultiChoice being 12 channels as opposed to Disney and Paramount who offer 5 to 6 channels. These includes brands Discovery Channel, TLC, HGTV, Cartoon Network and CNN.

There's a strong possibility that Canal+ following its takeover of MultiChoice will likely to reduce the offering. As it understood, MultiChoice is bleeding subscribers or in general losing money and Canal+ is trying to put out these flames.

MultiChoice's previous owners were more likely to retain these 12 channels compared to the French broadcaster. When they mentioned potentially replacing these channels it could imply doing away with Bobby Flay and Fixer Home Fabulous.

MultiChoice's French African equivalent Canal+ Afrique distribute Warner Bros. Discovery's cable networks in a separate agreement. Large number of premium channels are excluded from their offering including TLC, HGTV and Food Network.

Through M7 Group, it's European equivalent offers HBO, Discovery Historia, Discovery Life, Cartoon Network and Cartoonito through Canal+ Polska. Channels to be excluded can also range from Discovery Channel and Investigation Discovery.

In the event that both parties come to an agreement it's likely that Discovery Channel, TLC, Cartoon Network and CNN will continue on the platform. But to save up on costs, Canal+ may look to remove channels which are deemed non viable or repetitive.

Check our previous story: this could as well range from HGTV, Food Network or Real Time. Another could as well be that Discovery Family, Food Network, HGTV and Travel Channel get the axe while Real Time is all that's left of the flock.

MultiChoice may notify consumers of channel terminations but this isn't their first rodeo as a similar situation occured with Lifetime, History and C+I before the company opted to remove only C+I. Even Bloomberg had its feed cut off before getting reinstated.

DStv Without Discovery Family And Possibly Real Time??? It Wouldn't Seem Far Fetched A Stretch

As some consumers have heard, MultiChoice might be removing 12 additional channels following the news of CBS Justice, CBS Reality, BET and MTV Base's purge from DStv. It should be noted that MultiChoice is still negotiating with Warner Bros. Discovery over these 12 so nothing is final.

My esteemed guess is that MultiChoice will likely look to reduce the number of channels targeting premium brands like HGTV and even redundant ones like Discovery Family. 

Due to the rise in streaming, various companies such as Disney and Paramount have been scaling back on their international operations. As mentioned, the upcoming axing of MTV Base and BET which would the likes of FOX and Disney XD.

Warner Bros. Discovery has the largest linear portfolio with MultiChoice compared to Disney which had only 6 with Paramount that will be reduced to just 5 channels. Amongst the offering are crown jewels Discovery Channel, TLC, CNN and Cartoon Network.

Over the years, some of these cable networks have seen a rise in reruns or in this case TLC which had its airtime split for shows on Food Network, HGTV and Investigation Discovery.

MultiChoice had already been distributing content from these channels through Real Time which had me wondering why Warner Bros. Discovery would diminish the value of TLC. Even Investigation Discovery and Discovery Channel had gone through a similar ordeal.

Food Network and HGTV are the only brands that haven't been affected.

A few years ago, Warner Bros. Discovery opted to discontinue distribution of Discovery Science and Discovery Turbo across Europe. Very similar to Discovery Family and Real Time no marketing was done for any new content from these brands.

It would only seem logical if plans were underway to do away with these channels especially amidst Warner Bros. Discovery's potential acquisition by either Comcast, Netflix and Paramount.

With the main networks struggling to scavenge new content it makes Discovery Family and Real Time the weakest links.

Canal+ following its acquisition of MultiChoice has been trying to put out the fire as the company has seen a loss in subscribers and a drop in revenue. This had led Canal+ to shed certain operational expenses at the company by 20%.

In this carriage deal MultiChoice and Warner Bros. Discovery are embroiled in there's a strong chance that both parties will settle this with lesser channels.

Discovery Family very much like TLC and Real Time have been airing older programming it's not only Discovery Channel's yesteryear stock but also My Cats From Hell. The same show would eventually resurface on Real Time making it a stronger candidate to get the axe.

Real Time could as well be repositioned to include shows from Discovery Channel as seen with Animal Planet, Food Network, HGTV and Investigation Discovery. Perhaps take up a higher position within DStv instead of 155 it sits alongside TLC on 136.

Amidst this whole dispute, Warner Bros. Discovery had unveiled several upcoming titles for Discovery Family that could as well migrate to Real Time in the event Discovery Family would be removed.

Channels That Are Likely Safe Or Canned Within MultiChoice's Channel Negotiation Agreement With Warner Bros. Discovery

MultiChoice is set to lose 4 channels by the end of December which include BET, MTV Base, CBS Reality and CBS Justice. There's a chance that more channels could join the list as it's embroiled in a carriage dispute with Warner Bros. Discovery.

Warner Bros. Discovery operates 12 channels on the DStv platform which is the most for any provider in contract with MultiChoice. This includes Cartoon Network, Cartoonito, TNT, CNN, Discovery Channel, TLC, Discovery Family, Real Time, HGTV, Travel Channel, Investigation Discovery and Food Network.

Unless a new agreement is put in place, DStv consumers would start the year with 16 less channels. Here's the thing, MultiChoice likely through its the parent company Canal+ is open to replacing them.

As mentioned, this isn't the first time MultiChoice had been involved in such matters but it is under Canal+. If they're bullish on the matter, then expect for consumers to lose access to Teen Titans GO! and Guy's Grocery Games.

From the looks of things, it appears as if Warner Bros. Discovery is open to retaining these channels or at least a few of them as they mention wanting to reach an agreement that benefits both parties.

Below is channels I believe safe, mild, at risk or likely to get the axe

Discovery Channel - Safe

Discovery Channel is a male oriented factual entertainment brand offering educational and wildlife content alongside other content. These include shows like Dirty Jobs, Gold Rush, Deadliest Catch and Mythbusters.

TLC - Safe

TLC is a female tailored brand offering content ranging from medical, lifestyle to reality basically rivalling with NBCUniversal's Bravo. It includes shows like 90 Day Fiance, Sister Wives, Dr. Pimple Popper and My 600LB Life.

Cartoon Network - Safe

Cartoon Network is a children's channel offering animation ranging from comedy, adventure and action for children's aged 6-12. It is home to shows like Adventure Time, The Powerpuff Girls, Craig Of The Creek and Teen Titans GO!.

CNN International - Safe

CNN International is a 24 hour channel offering news related programming and aimed at overseas territories similar to BBC News and Aljazeera. They offer news coverage in the world of sports, technology, science and politics.

Investigation Discovery - Mild

Investigation Discovery is a factual based channel offering content that ranges from paranormal, crime and investigative journalism. It includes shows like Death By Fame, Evil Lives Here and Murder Under Friday Night Lights.

Cartoonito - Mild

Cartoonito is a preschool channel offering content for viewers aged 2-5 years with a mixture of comedy and education. These include shows like Cocomelon, Thomas And Friends: All Engines Go!, Mr. Bean and Batwheels.

TNT - At Risk

TNT is a male oriented and family inclusive movie channel offering films ranging from action, adventure, sci-fi and horror. Since it's inception, TNT has been ranked as the #1 movie channel within the market and aside from films offers content from wrestling promotion, All Elite Wrestling. 

Real Time - At Risk 

Real Time is a lifestyle oriented brand offering shows ranging from home and decor, foodies, wildlife and investigation. It offers programming from Animal Planet, Investigation Discovery, Food Network and HGTV.

HGTV - At Risk

HGTV as the name implies is a home and gardening channel offering reality programming related to home improvement and real estate. It includes shows like Ugliest House In America, My Lottery Dream Home and Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge.

Discovery Family - Axe

Discovery Family is viewed as family based channel offering content ranging from wildlife, science, technology and automobiles. Most of its programming comes from Discovery Channel and Animal Planet.

Travel Channel - Axe

Travel Channel is regarded a tourist destination for travel and leisure with its own themed content and part of the time it dwells on the supernatural. This includes shows like House Hunters International, Building Alaska and Destination Bigfoot.

Food Network - Axe

Food Network is a cable network that offers programming about food and cooking. It features shows like Holiday Baking Championship, Guy's Grocery Games, Beat Bobby Flay and Chopped.

Development Alert: Trace Africa's Pan African Offering Is Being Axed On DStv For More Mzansi Vibes With Trace Ngoma

Trace, in partnership with Canal+ and MultiChoice, will rebrand Trace Africa as Trace Ngoma, with the channel scheduled to launch on 18 December 2025 at 3pm CAT on DStv Channel 326. This follows news that Paramount will be axing MTV Base by the end of December which curated local hits.

The rebrand of Trace Africa to Trace Ngoma positions the channel as a platform focused on South African music and culture, with programming centred on locally rooted genres such as amapiano, Afro-pop, maskandi, hip hop, gqom, lekompo and urban gospel. The change is intended to align the channel more closely with South African audiences and the country’s evolving music landscape.

The name ‘Ngoma’, which is associated with the concepts of drumbeat, celebration, unity and heritage, is used to reflect a renewed focus on local languages, traditions and artistic expression.

“Our customers want to see themselves reflected on screen – their music, their languages, their culture,” MultiChoice CEO Willington Ngwepe said. “Trace Ngoma brings that to life in a powerful way. This rebrand aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver meaningful local entertainment that celebrates who we are as South Africans.”

Trace co-founder and chief executive Olivier Laouchez said the channel will serve as a space for cultural expression and representation.

“Trace Ngoma is where music meets identity. It amplifies the rhythms and stories that define South African culture and gives young people a space to connect and feel seen,” he said.

The channel will feature a range of locally curated programmes, including Amapiano Plz, Maskandi Vibes, Ke Hip Hop Dawg!, Lekompo Fela and Top 10 Afro-pop.

In addition, the line-up will include live performances, DJ sets, documentary-style storytelling and faith-based formats such as Gospel Kickstarter. The programming is expected to highlight both established artists and emerging talent, alongside grassroots cultural movements.

Could MultiChoice Risk Losing More DStv Channels Ahead Of Paramount Africa's Exit In The Market?

As reported, MultiChoice is set to lose four channels by the end of 2025 including CBS Reality, CBS Justice, BET and MTV Base. This forms part of a corporate restructure at Paramount that will see the closure of several international channels.

In an email sent to various DStv consumers not long ago, MultiChoice has now warned it's subscribers that they could be losing an additional 12 channels by the end of 2025. For sometime, they've been embroiled in a carriage dispute with Warner Bros. Discovery and no agreement is in place.

This means Cartoon Network, Cartoonito, CNN, TNT, Discovery Channel, TLC, Discovery Family, Real Time, Investigation Discovery, Food Network, HGTV and Travel Channel could be going dark on DStv and GOtv by 1st January 2026.

MultiChoice has been involved in multiple carriage disputes in the past there was one with A+E Global Media for History, Lifetime and C+I. Followed by eMedia Investments who provide eToonz, eExtra, eMovies and eMovies Extra which dragged on for 2 and half years.

It's currently unclear what led to this but from what I understand Warner Bros. Discovery will be closing off Cartoon Network in New Zealand and possibly Italy. It had been alleged that Warner Bros. Discovery wants more money and MultiChoice refused.

Again nothing is confirmed here but its also been alleged MultiChoice which is now owned by Canal+ wants to pay less for these channels. A few months ago, they decided to reduce payments to various suppliers and contractors by 20%.

But if you had to look at past disputes particularly the one with A+E Global Media there's a strong chance that CBS Justice, CBS Reality, BET and MTV Base won't be the only ones leaving DStv.

"our priority is to provide you with the best entertainment experience at the best possible pricing"

While it's too soon to speculate, MultiChoice does mention wanting to provide the best entertainment experience at the best possible pricing. To me this seems like an indicator that the company could be looking to shed costs or minimise rates.

If there are channels expected to leave DStv soon which I believe might be the case I'd imagine niche brands like Travel Channel would be axed. Followed by TNT as MultiChoice already boasts a diverse lineup of films through M-Net Movies, Movie Room and KIX.

Through an enquiry, MultiChoice had said to DStv subscribers that it is ready to replace Warner Bros. Discovery's TV channels with alternatives. But it's unlikely that all channels would be replaced some like TNT already come with those alternatives.

Cartoon Network, TNT Africa And 12 More Channels Could Be Exiting DStv As MultiChoice And Warner Bros. Discovery Enter A Carriage Dispute

DStv parent MultiChoice Group on Monday sent a warning to its subscribers: that 12 Warner Bros Discovery-owned channels could be removed from all DStv bouquets in the coming weeks should the two parties fail to reach a new distribution agreement.

In a letter, which was sent as an on-screen pop up and e-mail to DStv customers, MultiChoice said it will continue to strive to give customers an “exceptional entertainment package”, whether a new deal is struck or not.

“The distribution agreement between MultiChoice and Warner Bros Discovery is scheduled to end on 31 December 2025. While discussions between the parties continue, no agreement has been reached at this stage. If this remains unchanged, a number of Warner Bros Discovery channels may no longer be available on DStv from 1 January 2026,” MultiChoice said in a letter to subscribers on Monday.

The 12 channels that could be affected are:

• Discovery Channel

• CNN International

• TLC

• Discovery Family

• Real Time

• TNT Africa

• Food Network

• HGTV

• Investigation Discovery

• Cartoon Network

• Cartoonito

• Travel Channel

MultiChoice hinted at a possible refreshed channel line-up in 2026: it said it is “preparing to further strengthen and enrich its line-up with new content, channels and services” in the new year.

The changes will affect all DStv customers across Africa; customers of sister company Showmax will not be affected should the Warner Bros content be removed from DStv.

Subscriber losses

The news comes as MultiChoice parent company, French pay-TV giant Groupe Canal+, stated its commitment to stemming the subscriber decline at MultiChoice. In a presentation to investors, Canal+ revealed that a 1.2 million year-over-year loss in subscribers to the year-ended 31 March had accelerated to 1.4 million year on year by end-June. Canal+ said it will leverage cost optimisation to reset the cost base across its African operations while taking advantage of groupwide technology “synergies” to drive costs down even further.

“What matters most is ensuring that your viewing experience remains rich, diverse and enjoyable. You will continue to enjoy an exceptional entertainment experience across your package, supported by strong alternative channels across every genre,” MultiChoice told customers about the Warner Bros Discovery talks.  

Could CBS Reality Be Shutting Down Around The World Alongside True Crime UK???

Some consumers were likely keeping tabs on this but CBS Reality's carriage had been in decline over the years. In the UK, this offering was folded under True Crime which very much like CBS Reality has been airing a lot of Judge Judy same goes for the feeds to have closed.

MultiChoice and DStv consumers have been the latest victims in this corporate restructure of Paramount with CBS Reality and CBS Justice expected to close by 31 December 2025.

This was stated by them when addressing the press

“Following a strategic review, CBS AMC Networks EMEA Channels Partnership – the owner of CBS Reality and CBS Justice – has decided to close both channels,” MultiChoice said.

Does this mean remaining feeds for the channels are expected to close???

At the time of reporting, the only markets that would continue to offer CBS Reality would be the UK (through True Crime), Romania and the Middle East. If you had to look at the channel's reach excluding the UK, it's a lot smaller and such aren't prioritised.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Channel Closure: CBS Reality And CBS Justice Will Stop Airing On DStv From 31 December 2025

Due to a corporate restructure at Paramount, DStv consumers will be bidding farewell to both BET and MTV Base as the channels are set to close by 31 December 2025. Joining the duo will be CBS Reality and CBS Justice in which the company operate alongside AMC Networks International.

This will follow a slate of channels by both companies which are set to shutter by the end of 2025. This includes CBS Reality in Poland, BET in France, Nickelodeon's channels in New Zealand and MTV's music channels across the whole of Europe.

CBS Reality was added onto MultiChoice's DStv by November 2001 as Zone Reality offering reality based content and documentaries. It was known for shows like Cheaters, Judge Judy, Dogs Behaving Very Badly, Border Patrol: Beyond Borders and Hardcore Pawn.

It's closure means DStv consumers won't be seeing the final season of Judge Judy as CBS Reality was currently broadcasting it's 21st season. 

MultiChoice added CBS Justice as a replacement to Hearst's Crime + Investigation by November 2019. Serving as a spin-off to CBS Reality, it offered shows like Murder Made Me Famous, World's Most Evil Killers and Donal MacIntyre's Murder Files.

As reported, MultiChoice will be adding four pop-up channels for the festive holidays: DStv 30, AFCON, fliekNET and The Holiday Channel. They are also running an Upsize promotion on various DStv packages which will just serve as distractions.

Canal+ is currently integrating it's African operations with that of MultiChoice following its acquisition of the company. This has led to the further additions of Sunu Yeuf (Senegalese), Pulaagu (Pulaar/Fulfulde), Mandeka (Mandinka and related Manding languages) and Maboke (Lingala).

New Channel Alert: Sunu Yeuf, Pulaagu, Mandeka And Maboke Coming Soon To DStv

During the month, it was reported that MultiChoice would be adding Rwandan based channel Zacu TV to the DStv platform. This forms part of Canal+'s integration plans with MultiChoice following its acquisition of the company a few months ago.

DStv consumers will soon have access to more African based programming with the additions of Sunu Yeuf, Pulaagu, Mandeka And Maboke. Currently seen on Canal+ Afrique, the channels will be made available to DStv consumers in select markets by 9 December.

Sunu Yeuf is operated by Senegalese production company Marodi TV, one of the major players in the creation of series in Africa. These include Pod & Marichou, Maitresse D'un Homme Marié (Mistress Of A Married Man) and Karma.

Pulaagu is a general entertainment channel offering series in Pulaar/Fulfulde, highlighting the customs and traditions of the Fulbe with cult, recent, and unpublished series like Hakkee Rewbe, Thierno Abou and Jamano (Cultural Epic).

Mandeka is a general entertainment channel that focuses on 100% African content, specifically films and series in the Bambara and Malinke languages. It offers a variety of programs, including dramas like Polygamie and N' Khele. 

Maboke is a general entertainment channel which broadcasts solely in Lingala which is widely spoken in Congo. The programming focuses on local productions such as Chez Coco, Bilombe Ya Basi, and Tribunal Ya Bolingo.

DStv Getting Four New Pop-Up Channels For The Festive Season

• DStv has confirmed the four pop-up channels that will be available from now, throughout the festive season.

• Each of the channels will be available until specific dates in January next year.

• DStv is also adding a dedicated channel for AFCON 2025.

With schools set to close soon, and children spending more time at home for the festive season, DStv has confirmed that four pop-up channels will be made available to subscribers to enjoy more content over the coming weeks and into the New Year.

The channels are also part of the company’s 30th birthday celebrations.

“DStv subscribers have welcomed us into their homes for 30 years, and 2025 has been our year of giving back,” noted Willington Ngwepe, CEO of MultiChoice, in a release with Hypertext. 

“From 10 November, the DStv Upsize campaign has given DStv Family and Access subscribers automatic access to all DStv Compact channels, and all DStv Compact and Compact Plus subscribers access to every DStv Premium channel. Now, as families reunite over the festive season, DStv is coming to the party – and since we never arrive empty-handed, we’re bringing a feast of four pop-up channels that celebrate thewatch-together spirit,” he added.

As for the new pop-up channels, they are as follows:

• The Holiday Channel (Channel 198) – until 3rd January 2026,

• DStv 30 (Channel 197) – from 1st December 2025 to 21st January 2026),

• FliekNET (Channel 149) – from 12th December 2025 to 11th January 2026,

• SuperSport AFCON 2025 (Channels 202 and 222) – from 18th December 2025 to 19th January 2026.

As far as content is concerned, the Holiday Channel is fairly self explanatory, but DStv 30 is focused on nostalgia. In particular, it will showcase some of the best original television that DStv created over the past three decades.

“DStv 30 is nostalgia in overload mode as Scot Scott jumps back in his helicopter for Fortuinsoekers Season 2 on Mondays and Tuesdays at 6PM. Catch the early-early days of Our Perfect Wedding on Saturdays at 6PM, oil empire drama series Jacob’s Cross on Wednesdays at 8PM, M-Net’s filmed-on-location game lodge telenovela The Wild on Thursday nights at 8PM, Carte Blanche’s most impactful episodes on Sunday nights at 7PM, and much more,” the broadcaster highlighted.

As for fliekNET, it will be serving up the best Silwerskerm shorts from the last two editions, DStv pointed out. “This includes Noise & Neighbours (on Tuesday, 16 December at 8:05PM), which recently won Best International Short Film at the Chelsea Film Festival in New York,” it continued.

Lastly, for the 35th Total Energies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), taking place in Morocco, two dedicated channels – SS AFCON 2025 Channel 202 and SS AFCON 2025 Channel 222.

Insult To Injury. MultiChoice Might Be Reviving Me As A Pop-Up Channel On DStv

Last year, MultiChoice and M-Net decided to do away with Me and 1Magic as part of its streamlining endeavours with further content folded under Showmax. From the looks of things, it appears as if MultiChoice is now pushing to have Universal TV and Bravo to pick up the cracks.

Bravo and Universal TV are owned by NBCUniversal who have a 30% stake in Showmax so the idea of MultiChoice using these brands as replacements doesn't seem far fetched. Canal+ Afrique whose parent company took control of MultiChoice had been distributing them in place of the channels.

For a limited time, MultiChoice had given its Premium and Compact+ consumers an open window to Showmax through 1Max. This is what the company had put in place of 1Magic while those viewing Me got nothing.

Fast forward to 2025, it looks like MultiChoice may be looking to revive Me in a not-so-distant future most likely like how 1Max was set up for 1Magic.

MultiChoice had been experimenting on the channel but this carnation of the brand looks nothing like Me or it's previous forms being M-Net City, M-Net Series Zone and The Series Channel.

Me would boast a variety of international series and films while this version only exists to promote local content from M-Net's stable being Tonight With Trevor Noah, Gomora and The Wedding Bashers. It's kind of like what they did with M-Net Binge and not long ago with 1Max and 1Magic.

M-Net Binge was a catch-up channel for M-Net's programming then was shuttered and revived as an HBO pop-up channel. 1Magic which infused with South African flavour was folded under a Pan-African tailored brand like 1Max.

At least for these incarnates some fragments of the content was retained unlike Me in this regard whose offering is just limited to local content or repeats. Gomora had already been viewed on Mzansi Magic with Vallei Van Sullei on KykNet & Kie why is it being used to hype up a pop-up channel.

The only rash explanation would be the Mzansi Magic 16 pop-up channel the company had launched a few months ago. For the festive holidays, they revived it but now as "The Me Channel" but with KykNet's lineup of content.

Interesting to note, M-Net City which served as Me's previous incarnations was initially suppose to launch as an entertainment channel for South African programming. Before M-Net scrapped plans to launch the channel only for the trademark to be revived as a placemat for M-Net Series Zone.

7 Years Ago, Discovery's Real Time Was Launched In Place Of Animal Planet And To Combat TLC On MultiChoice's DStv

Real Time is described as a female based lifestyle channel initially offering content from TLC, Animal Planet and Investigation Discovery. Overtime, TLC was gradually phased out from the lineup in favour of Food Network and HGTV.

MultiChoice added Real Time as a replacement to Animal Planet but the problem with its inclusion was that it was being tailored for Easyview package. Basically, they were older seasons to shows including those of Animal Planet it was even worse on the TLC side.

TLC was regarded as the wedding channel and Real Time was what TLC looked like without those shows which included Little People - Big World, Toddlers & Tiaras and Sister Wives. As mentioned, Real Time no longer airs on from TLC it likely had to do with its inclusion.

TLC is available to most DStv subscribers it didn't make much sense to launch a channel to offer their shows half of the time especially since TLC would still rerun shows like Kitchen Boss.

Honestly speaking, I kind of question why Real Time even existed I get some subscribers don't have Investigation Discovery, HGTV or Food Network. But then the latter now takes a chunk of TLC's airtime making Real Time look more competitive than complementary.

On a DStv standpoint, consumers can just downgrade from Compact to Easyview seeing as shows like Guy's Grocery Games and Pool Kings are now on Real Time. Hollywood Demons isn't as prehistoric as most of the shows yet it aired on Real Time.

With its parent company undergoing a split or possible sale, I'd imagine some restructuring or due diligence could be underway. Real Time barely markets any of their content and if you're someone who doesn't have access to the main networks for the shows its challenging.

Real Time could as well have aired the first three seasons of Disappeared and you were waiting and had given up on a fourth season. Then it suddenly airs after a few months or a year but you weren't tuning in because no marketing had been done for you to have known.

This has been going on for sometime and imagine in a couple of years Warner Bros. Discovery or whatever is left of it will probably just close Real Time. As mentioned, TLC has split part of its airtime for Discovery's other cable networks making Real Time redundant.

At the same time, it's likely that we could see more consolidation within the industry perhaps with Discovery Family since it's been leaning heavily on Discovery Channel.

New Channel Alert: MultiChoice Rwanda And Zacu Entertainment Bring Kinyarwanda Content To More DStv Customers

Following the expansion of Africa Magic Hausa, Africa Magic Igbo, Maisha Magic East and Maisha Magic Plus to Canal+ Afrique. MultiChoice will be adding Canal+ Afrique's Zacu TV to the DStv platform.

This comes after MultiChoice had been acquired by Canal+ with a full integration underway within the next 12-18 months. 

Zacu Entertainment (also known as ZACU TV) stands as a trailblazing content production and distribution powerhouse, strategically headquarted in Rwanda. Established in 2017 and subsequently acquired by the distringuished CANAL+ Group in 2022, Zacu has gained an exemplary reputation for entrancing audiences with an impressive array of critically acclaimed TV series, which includes Seburikoko, City Maid, Indoto, Ejo Si Kera, The Bishop’s Family, and Ishusho ya Papa. 

It has contributed over 1000 episodes to the esteemed National Television networdk RBA, cementing our role as a significant contributor to the industry. With a diverse library spanning 800 hours of captivating local short and feature films that encompasass rich tapestry of genres, from compelling drama to heartwarming romance and side-splitting comedy. 

MultiChoice is currently running an upsize promotion for various DStv consumers until the end of December. Those paying DStv Access will be automatically be upgraded to DStv Compact while those on the mentioned package upgrade to DStv Premium.

eToonz Has Been Licensing Content From Former DStv Channel

MultiChoice had lost a total of 11 TV channels in the previous financial year namely Emmanuel TV, M-Net's Me and 1Magic and B4U Movies. Amidst this, the company was part of a takeover procedure by Canal+ which had concluded not long ago.

PBS Kids is an educational brand operated by Public Broadcasting System which offered content for viewers aged 4 to 9. The channel formed part of the various cuts at MultiChoice with shows suddenly appearing on eToonz.

eToonz is only licensed to consumers in South Africa and operated by eMedia Investments. Following PBS Kids' closure, various shows from the brand to have now been seen in the region include WordWorld, Let's Go Luna and Pinkalicious & Peterrific.

PBS Kids was accessible to the same as eToonz being DStv Easyview so consumers aren't necessarily missing out on much. Unlike those residing outside of the region who would need to access the latter on Showmax or on YouTube.

But the reality is that eToonz is not PBS Kids as they offer lesser content from the brand. The same can be said about Universal TV and Bravo after MultiChoice opted to axe 1Magic and Me consumers on those packages can't see shows like America's Got Talent or Yellowstone.

Companies like MultiChoice believe that by merging channels or not replacing removed ones would ensure an enhanced viewing experience. When consumers would have to pay the same amount for even less and opt to find alternatives alongside cancelling their subscription.

Could Nicktoons And Nick Jr. (Ethiopia) Also Be At Risk Of Exiting DStv?

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

Many insiders do warn that the cuts go beyond channel terminations but content as well. A while ago, MTV had cancelled their longest running shows Ridiculousness and Catfish: The TV Show followed by Beyond Bragga and Black Gold on BET.

For Nicktoons, Nick In Your Language has offered various shows in local languages including Paw Patrol, SpongeBob Squarepants and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. They also offer a musical program NickMusic which had been produced in the same production house as MTV Base.

From 2026, there's a very high possibility that alongside MTV Base and BET that these local projects on Nicktoons will be axed. 

Paramount sent a memo in July 2025 warning staff that local projects would be axed and their offices shut down. In Portugal, various channels from the company including Nickelodeon are expected to close by December 2025.

MultiChoice has seen a drop in subscriptions for their pay-tv service and following its buyout by Canal+. I'd imagine they're going to make cuts to their platform especially in markets like Ethiopia.

Canal+ had shut down its services in the region following its rollout in 2021 as they reported weak growth. MultiChoice is losing subscribers especially in Kenya and Nigeria which serve as major markets for DStv and Ethiopia is most definitely not exempt from these cuts.

MultiChoice had launched an Amharic version to Nick Jr. which very much like Nick In Your Language but as a standalone channel dubs various preschool shows. With Paramount shuttering it's offices in Africa there's no way Nick Jr. can operate independently.

Aside from BET and MTV Base, it's likely that Nick Jr. would be shutting down its localised feed in Ethiopia leaving the Pan-African feed intact. Nicktoons continues to be carried in some European markets so it's likely the one in Africa will just aligned to those markets as seen with Nickelodeon.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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