MultiChoice Might Be Looking To Close The Two SWITCH'D ON Channels On DStv

Following the impact of the load shedding, MultiChoice curated two catch-up channels for DStv consumers in South Africa and Lesotho. SWITCH'D ON channel 109 would be available to consumers above Compact while channel 110 would cater for Family and Access.

These two channels would offer content viewed on channels offered under Mzansi Magic and kykNET a few hours after it aired. It was met with praise by various DStv consumers but as seen in 2023 it didn't retain their remaining consumers with MultiChoice reporting zero growth.

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

According to News24, they're also working on adding power banks to their decoders this way consumer's entertainment can still be enjoyed even after load shedding. If anything, it's likely that they'll look to phasing out older decoders and replacing them with these modules. 

This potential feature could help retain existing consumers and also assist in growing their consumption base. With more integrating with this offering, MultiChoice will most likely close SWITCH'D ON as less viewers tune in or when these products are on market.

Freeing up SWITCH'D ON will open the door for more channels as some readers are aware that MultiChoice has been battling with transponder constraints. For all we know, they could even revive M-Net Movies pop-up channels as they haven't launched one in 2023.

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

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

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

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

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

There's still no word on Me

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

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

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

Mzansi Magic gets front row seat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Could MultiChoice And M-Net Look Into Scrapping AddMovies On DStv?

In September 2020, M-Net Movies restructured their movie offering further reducing the number of channels from 6 to 4. MultiChoice also added two additional movie channels KIX and fliekNET with one of them serving as a promotion to low tailored consumers known as AddMovies.

AddMovies gave DStv consumers the opportunity to browse some of the cinemas freshest releases on M-Net Movies 1 and 2 alongside browse potential pop-up channels at the fee of R99p/m before dropping to R79p/m.

In recent months, MultiChoice has done a lot of downsizing/content management which included the cancellation of Maisha Magic Movies, HONEY, ROK GH, Tellytrack and Novela Magic. Even their movie offering particularly AddMovies had seen a reduction in airtime.

Aside from a reduced price rate, M-Net Movies hadn't launched any pop-up channel in the current financial year leading some to believe that M-Net had moved away from this offering. I mean their premium movie channels are seen airing films like The Expandables and Jurassic Park.

The previous setup of M-Net Movies had these channels focus on fresher releases but as seen with this new set up. It's almost as if M-Net is trying to keep Premium and AddMovies consumers away from M-Net Movies 3 and 4 similar to what's seen with M-Net and Me.

I presume M-Net will rely more on their existing entertainment offering to supplement the pop-ups and that also includes Afrocinema. But then again these recent developments kind of leads one to wonder what future awaits AddMovies.

Similar to other DStv packages, even AddMovies had seen a reduction of channels first it was fliekNET as the brand reverted back to a pop-up channel with other content integrating with kykNET. Then there was their two Bollywood movie channels with B4U Movies that got axed.

If I had to guess, AddMovies could remain for the foreseeable future as the brand was viewed as a popular addition with an estimated viewership base of 6000-8000. But then again, another possible restructure to the movie offering wouldn't seem far fetched.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recap To Last Month: Could MultiChoice Be Looking To Replace M-Net's Me With Universal TV?

Last month, it was reported that M-Net's Me and 1Magic would exit MultiChoice's DStv by early February. This was after several consumers had recieved a notification from MultiChoice about the closures with the pay-tv company that had since then gone rogue.

The termination would have come a few weeks before MultiChoice officially launched the rebranded Showmax service. It would form as part of a joint venture with Comcast's NBCUniversal which would bring Peacock's best in class technology and content to the streamer.

NBCUniversal also supplies linear channels such as Universal TV, Studio Universal, E! Entertainment, DreamWorks and Telemundo on DStv. As seen last month, MultiChoice wasn't looking to replace Me leaving viewers to wonder what fate awaited shows like Survivor and The Good Doctor.

M-Net is currently exclusive to premium subscribers and Me was the only means of accessing the content. This lead to further speculation that MultiChoice was looking to prioritise on Universal TV basically another streamlined attempt with select content from Me on there.

The idea didn't seem far fetched as NBCUniversal has minority stake in Showmax and another having to do with the rollout of DStv Glass in partnership with MultiChoice.

Unlike 1Magic, MultiChoice in an ongoing conversation was only able to confirm the closure of Me through their SA department. MultiChoice Africa was able to confirm both closures and highlighting that a replacement "specifically for 1Magic" was in development.

There was no guarantee at this point if content from 1Magic or Me would surface on this channel. But considering that the closures affected consumers of Me it was expected that MultiChoice will make this brand accessible to consumers on the Compact and Family bouquet.

As of right now, both channels continue to operate on the DStv platform with Showmax repeats like Adulting and Outlaws dominating 1Magic and Me airing remaining shows in the form of weekday marathons with other primetime shows airing as double bills.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What If The M-Net Series Trademark Were Revived Perhaps In Place Of M-Net 101?

With MultiChoice and M-Net set to axe secondary networks M-Net Essentials (Me) and 1Magic in the coming weeks. It kind of leads one to wonder if the main M-Net channel which had been exclusive to premium consumers since it's inception will get purged.

Unlike Me and 1Magic, M-Net hadn't undergone any rebranding, name change or drastic reshuffling to programming if anything it has seen a decline in audiences. Similar to the United States were brands like HBO and NBC had lost at least 10% of their audience yearly.

M-Net has hit rough patch so much so that neither them or MultiChoice are ever public about the viewing numbers of their programs. When 1Magic debuted, their lowest rated show V-Entertainment had at least 10,000 viewers so M-Net would need to have something around that range.

Not that the channel has become irrelevant, but it's basically how SABC would view SABC 3 - niche. It's still dominant in the field it caters for or at least on linear platforms offering latest seasons to shows alongside films.

But with the downfall of the secondary networks and decline in viewership on M-Net, MultiChoice should consider unifying these brands under one name. I get that Me still had that M-Net trademark but by styling it's more like SABC 3 (S3) making it more alienated.

A brand that comes to mind would be M-Net Series, one of M-Net's most iconic trademarks was basically M-Net Movies but for drama series and reality shows. M-Net has been causing conflict with its premium movie channels airing select content before them.

M-Net Series would help reduce the rift between M-Net and M-Net Movies and if anything could help M-Net lure in viewers. M-Net (better yet M-Net Series 1) could add just add series like RuPaul's Drag Race and Power Book 4 Force in the timeslots allocated to movies.

The other two channels would serve as secondary brands rehashing content viewed on M-Net Series 1 and similar to 1Magic recieve first run programs. The second channel would tailor toward reality and lifestyle and the last would revive the M-Net City/Edge concept.

From my understanding, this concept was used several years back as M-Net Series Showcase, Reality and Zone. Only one out of the three garnered relevance but was partially due to the other two being folded under premium alongside the downsizing of content.

Again, I don't think the M-Net Series concept failed but how MultiChoice executed it was what led to its downfall. If anything, VUZU was more like how one would interpret M-Net Series Reality while Showcase was more like a rival brand to M-Net with content sharing between channels.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An official statement from MultiChoice:

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

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

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

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

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

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

News Shorts: People's Weather Explores More Of The Wildlife With City Beasts, The Good Doctor Ends With 7 Seasons On M-Net And Selena Gomez To Play Linda Ronstadt In New Biopic

City Beasts is coming to People's Weather

Join Adventurist and Wildlife Filmmaker Josh Crickmay on his journey to uncover the wildlife lurking in the streets of Cape Town.  City Beasts is the story of an enthusiastic game ranger (and self-proclaimed intrepid adventurer) on a mission to find proof that humans and animals can coexist in harmony. He shares his experiences of discovering these animals in a fun and educational way, and his enthusiasm for nature is truly inspiring. 

Through tracking, trap cameras, stakeouts, and by following the tales from the locals, he indeed encounters the beasts of the city. 

Through honest and genuine encounters with animals like penguins, sharks, porcupines, genets, and even otters, he proves his theory that not only do people coexist with wildlife in the Mother City, but he also discovers the remarkable impact it has on the locals. Josh sees City Beasts as a way to give back to Mother Nature - as she literally saved his life when he was a lost and suicidal teenager. Josh's curiosity, sheer bravery, and clever sense of humour make him an endearing character, and his passion is undeniably authentic and palpable throughout the series.

Another one bites the dust

The upcoming seventh season of ABC's The Good Doctor will be the final chapter of the medical drama starring and executive produced by Freddie Highmore.

The Good Doctor, from Sony Pictures Television and ABC Signature, is the second long-running ABC drama coming to an end this season, joining Station 19, and the latest series that premiered during the 2017-2018 season to wrap with its upcoming seventh season, along with Station 19 and CBS’

Young Sheldon, S.W.A.T. and SEAL Team.

Selena Gomez stars in a biopic

The pop singer and “Only Murders in the Building” star teased the role Tuesday night by posting a picture of Ronstadt’s 2013 memoir “Simple Dreams” on her Instagram story.

Ronstadt is a country, rock ‘n’ roll and Latin music legend, with her 1970s albums “Heart Like a Wheel” and “Simple Dreams” reaching critical and commercial success and showcasing her versatility across genres. Throughout her career she has won 11 Grammys, and she was honored by both the Recording Academy and the Latin Recording Academy with Lifetime Achievement Awards.

Ronstadt and Gomez are both of Mexican descent. The latter has been nominated twice for a Golden Globe for her performance on Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building,” which she executive produces and stars in alongside Steve Martin and Martin Short. Gomez broke out as an actor on Disney’s “Wizards of Waverly Place” and achieved success as a music artist with hits like “Lose You to Love Me” and “Love You Like a Love Song.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where does that leave further shows from 1Magic?

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

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

Where does that leave further shows from Me?

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

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

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

Could Channel O, Mzansi Music And kykNET NOU Also Exit The DStv Platform?

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

With the decline in linear consumption on the top tier bouquets, this was very much anticipated from various DStv customers. Now, MultiChoice will have to work around the clock to find suitable candidates to fill the gap of both 1Magic and M-Net's Me channel.

With the cancellation of 1Magic and M-Net Essentials, it does lead some viewers (including myself) to wonder what future awaits M-Net's music offering and this includes kykNET NOU, Channel O and Mzansi Music.

Channel O was shuttered across Africa (excluding South Africa) as they were struggling to compete with the likes of MTV Base and Trace Urban. As we embrace the new year, Channel O hasn't been updating its content as much in recent years and the international offering was axed.

kykNET NOU and Mzansi Music are probably in a way better position than Channel O in terms of programming. But Mzansi Magic is basically the VH1 of music something which MultiChoice has been trying to limit while kykNET NOU serves as niche tier.

Unlike Channel O, kykNET NOU could merge with the existing kykNET channels to help give the content more exposure. As for the latter, we feel that M-Net could exit the music space similar to how they exited the kids space as brands like Nickelodeon and Disney Channel edged them out.

Possible Channel Termination: Could 1Magic And M-Net Essentials (ME) Be The Next Channels To Exit The DStv (And GOtv) Platform, Here's Why?

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

During the week, it was reported that MultiChoice will be losing another TV channel, Emmanuel TV. The controversial TV channel founded by T.B Joshua will exiting all pay-tv platforms subsequently by January 17th with further telecasts broadcast through online platforms.

Now there's reports surfacing from a viewer that both 1Magic and Me will be going dark on the DStv platform by the end of January - February 2nd. We are still awaiting confirmation from M-Net but from both channels EPG in the coming weeks it wouldn't seem that far fetched.

1Magic was launched back in 2019 as a replacement to VUZU AMP combining the Mzansi Magic formula would feature curated local productions like The River, Unmarried And The Real Housewives Of Johannesburg alongside international content like Moesha and Grownish.

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

Both channels had their turnoff for 1Magic, there was Moesha, Hits and The Talk which had been bombarding the channel's line-up the only keeping viewers onboard was The River. But the drama only managed to garner even much traction once it was allocated onto Mzansi Magic.

Me suffered from the rippling effects of M-Net City, a brand which M-Net and several viewers held high on a pedestal serving as the more edgier and robust version to both M-Net and 1Magic with The Blacklist, Black Lightning and Power. 

Although Me was able to retain this offering, the channel was still a big turnoff to viewers of M-Net City as opposed to those of VUZU particularly Family consumers who got more programming.

It wasn't mentioned by the viewer if MultiChoice plans to substitute 1Magic and Me with another channel. But if we had to guess, 1Magic's content will probably fold under M-Net's linear offering and Showmax as part of another streamlining attempt.

It would mean that Compact+ might lose of the few valuable channels on the platform. But again, termination hasn't been confirmed as various new content is slated for February on 1Magic unless this affects consumers outside South Africa which is where the news surfaced.

Me will most likely get replaced with another channel unlike 1Magic there's not much alternatives to the offering. Another would be a possible restructure to M-Net's offering where the channel adopts selected shows like Power Book 4: Force while other content fold under Mzansi Magic.

Update: Both channels will be terminated on DStv from February 2nd and we are currently working on an updated version to this report and hope to share it soon. Here is the link: click here

News Shorts: Jellystone Might End With A Season 4 On Cartoon Network And Max, Bob Hearts Abishola Will End On CBS After 5 Seasons And History Channel Across Africa Explores The Many Legacies Left By Past Civilisations

Jellystone has mysteriously been renewed for a season 3 & 4

Jellystone! is an American animated television comedy series developed by C. H. Greenblatt for Max and Cartoon Network. The series is produced by Warner Bros. Animation and features reimagined versions of various characters by Hanna-Barbera.

The series was renewed for a second season by 2022 with a further 40 episodes. It could have gone the same route as Little Ellen and Close Enough but instead Warner Bros. Studios opted to split these 40 episodes into two seasons bringing it to a total of 4 seasons with the latter expected to air by January 2024.

Most crew members who had worked on the show had since then moved to Disney's STUGO while C.H. Greenblatt is developing a new show for Disney Television Animation. Honestly, Jellystone was one of those few shows to get some light of day after a one year hiatus.

Bob and Abishola call it quits

The fifth season of the multi-cam comedy is due to premiere on Feb. 12, with the series finale now set for May 13 on CBS with M-Net also anticipated to air the finale sometime in 2024. The show is described as a love story about Bob, a middle-aged compression sock businessman from Detroit, who unexpectedly fell for his cardiac nurse, Abishola, a Nigerian immigrant, while recovering from a heart attack.

The ending of “Bob Hearts Abishola” marks the potential end of an era at CBS. With the show ending, coupled with the previously announced ending of “Young Sheldon,” Chuck Lorre does not currently have any shows slated to be on the CBS schedule going into next fall. Unless the network picks up a new show from Lorre and his team between now and then, it will be the first time Lorre has not had at least one show on CBS since 2003.

Lorre’s run at CBS has been nothing short of historic. In the past 20 years he has co-created and executive produced shows for the network including long-running hits like “The Big Bang Theory,” “Two and Half Men,” “Mom,” and “Young Sheldon.” He is currently prepping the series “Bookie” for Max.

Ancient civilisations revealed

This December on the HISTORY Channel, DStv 186, discover great empires that’ve shaped the world we know today.

Explore the many legacies left behind by past civilisations, learn more about the iconic rulers of the ancient world and uncover the architectural achievements of extraordinary empires.  

Don't miss these three series this December...

Footprints of Civilisation

Saturdays at 19h25

Starts 2 December

In our technologically advanced modern age, it’s easy to forget the enormous debt we owe the ancient world. The concept of democracy was developed by the Ancient Greeks, everything we know about space began with the Babylonians, and the roots of the binary system that drives today’s computers can be found in Ancient Egypt. The legacies left behind by some of these civilisations, as long as 5000 years ago, have become the foundations of much of what we take for granted today. 

Empire Builders S2

Sundays at 20h15

Starts 24 December

This epic series that brings to life some of the ‘Great Empires’. Each episode visits the most significant sites that have defined their achievements and legacy; 100 historic sites in all, discovering how they were built, for what purpose, and what they reveal about each empire’s rise and fall. Combining CGI and dramatic reconstructions with insights from history experts, Empire Builders reveals the story of extraordinary empires that are still shaping the way we live our lives today. Stories include the Ancient Greeks, the Inca, the Pacific, China, Netherlands and Mexico.

Ancient Empires

Tuesdays at 19h25

Starts 26 December

Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar and Cleopatra. Rulers of Greek, Roman and Egyptian empires. The three most iconic, powerful and brilliant leaders in ancient history. Leaders whose lives and legacies still shape our world today. Their names are well known, but their stories have never been told like this before. To survive and succeed they had to be unique, strategic, ruthless and charming. The story of their epic lives reveals just what it takes to rule over an Ancient Empire.