More Details Regarding The Possible Expansion Of SuperSport Play On DStv

During the month, it was reported that MultiChoice might be looking to add SuperSport Play to its DStv decoders. For sometime, MultiChoice limited the channel's reach to its Free-To-View subscribers on the soon to be revamped DStv Stream app.

We assume due to Canal+'s takeover in 2025, they're basically cleaning house and assessing some of the poor decisions made by MultiChoice. In this case, it could as well be the availability of SuperSport Play.

SuperSport Play is basically a mashup of SuperSport Grandstand and Variety 4 as it sources mainly highlights and local content from SuperSport's premium sports channels. It tends to air replays to certain sporting events.

Unlike Variety 4, SuperSport Play doesn't have any live or first run content which made it the ideal channel for DStv Stream's Easyview customers.

Not long ago, MultiChoice had begun work on another SuperSport channel for DStv consumers. Initially, they used the feed for one of the Variety channels but overtime it had been replaced with a separate feed not accessible on their website.

For any future additions, usually there's some programme guide but for this one it's not the case.

From what I could gather, Reel Africa and World Of Freesports are on the lineup alongside highlights to NASCAR and International Cricket. It should be noted that none of these are seen on SuperSport Play's programme guide during that time.

But what led us to believe that it could have something to do with the channel mainly had to deal with the lineup. 

As mentioned, SuperSport Play very much like Variety 4 revolves on highlights and local content which is the case for this channel. We can only assume that maybe a linear version is starting to take shape as it's now spotted on Lyngsat.

SuperSport Play also took some of its content from SuperSport Blitz and Schools and maybe this version would have that content omitted. Seeing as Blitz and Schools are already available on Easyview.

But again this channel is in its early stages and more could be added overtime and who knows it could be a pop-up. I have doubts cause no pop-up would be airing Reel Africa as MultiChoice has its Variety channels for that.

Canal+ Aiming To Launch Showmax Replacement App Under DStv Stream In MultiChoice Markets

Canal+ unveiled its financial year results ending 31 December 2025 and gave some indicators on what awaits MultiChoice after completing it's acquisition last year. 

As reported earlier in the month, Showmax will be shutting down its operations after 11 years. The news doesn't come as a surprise and it was long speculated after MultiChoice shortened the window for shows exclusively for Showmax through DStv. 

Now the French giant plans to use to the existing footprint of DStv Stream to expand its streaming endeavours in MultiChoice territories. This service has already been active in 25 African countries and will likely go live by the end of 2026.

“As you know, this was a severely loss-making activity on which we saw no recovery, no matter what was done,” the CEO said.

Saada explained that Canal+ quickly came to an agreement with Comcast to shut down Showmax as soon as possible, but said he couldn’t share details on the negotiations.

During their financial year presentation, Canal+ confirmed that Comcast was on board with the decision to end it's joint venture for Showmax. Of course, they didn't want to divulge on the details except promising enhancements to DStv Stream.

Saada explained that Canal+ quickly came to an agreement with Comcast to shut down Showmax as soon as possible, but said he couldn’t share details on the negotiations.

They also plan to migrate existing Showmax customers to DStv Stream and have shows like Die Kantoor and Youngins accessible to viewers.

What is currently unknown is when this service will be released but it's likely slated for 2026 considering that Showmax will be discontinued in the "near future" according to their release.

Of course another challenge would be the pricing because consumers were billed R45 to R99 monthly for Showmax while Premium subscribers got it at no additional charge. Under DStv Stream, the price range for affected content is over R400 per month.

Canal+ Might Overhaul The Current DStv Structure And Take A Dig At SuperSport

As it is understood, MultiChoice has lost almost 3 million DStv subscribers in the last two years and this is the reason Canal+ is backing out from further price increases. The focus has shifted on returning the company back to its 2023 projections.

Post the takeover, MultiChoice reportedly had 23.5 million 90 day active subscribers and this dropped further by 11% to 18.5 million. In South Africa, the DStv Premium base (including Compact+) saw a drop of 96,000 subscribers.

Since last year, MultiChoice had been exploring the possibility of unbundling SuperSport from the current DStv offering to make the costs flexible. This isn't the first time such experiment occurred and it's not known why they hadn't pursued it earlier on.

In France, Canal+ already offers the Canal+ Sport bouquet which includes sports from rival brands like DAZN and Eurosport. There's even a base package with select sports like UEFA Champions League, Formula 1 and Moto GP.

It is currently priced at €34.99 (R671, 89).

Of course, it's Canal+ Afrique's operations uses the same model as DStv which is why there's a lot of skepticism about a SuperSport only package. Canal+ CEO had dismissed the idea stating that "everyone who has tried this has failed". 

If such exists, it's going to be almost as pricey as your current DStv Premium bouquet. It's less likely they're going to make it cheaper as the current DStv structure helps subsidies the costs.

This new structure MultiChoice has been testing out for DStv will only benefit the non sports fanatics on lower tiered packages.

DStv Premium has been in decline for 10 years so it's a safe bet that MultiChoice will gradually use this offering to phase out that market. The plan for this offering was to have 3 sports package one for football with other sports on another package.

There's plenty of Premium subscribers that don't watch football and MultiChoice would give them the option to exclude it from their offering. They'll be times where you don't feel like watching SuperSport and MultiChoice would make that possible too.

In the end, you as a Premium client can continue catching shows like Landman and Doc on M-Net while watching One Piece on Netflix. You can do all this for under R700 and still have R300 to yourself.

DStv Stream Expected To Merge Into Showmax Replacement App

Canal+ is planning to launch its own streaming service in MultiChoice markets as consumers bid farewell to Showmax. Further content from the service will now be redirected to M-Net, Mzansi Magic and KykNET.

Canal+'s streaming service which might fold under DStv Stream, viewers get to watch live TV and content on demand. They plan is to also utilise other apps such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video with VIU likely to form part of this duo.

This was a feature MultiChoice made exclusive to Explora Ultra and since Canal+ takeover in late 2025, the company is cleaning house. They already scrapped M-Net's contract with HBO as well as that of SuperSport for the Winter Olympics.

In October 2025, Canal+ leadership indicated plans to merge DStv Stream, Showmax, and the Canal+ app into a single "super app" to combine content and reduce costs. As seen already, Showmax with all that Comcast filter is going out the window.

As mentioned, Canal+ will likely use the existing footprint of DStv Stream to expand its streaming ambitions as opposed to starting from scratch. It fits well with the company's structure on having the same content viewed across multiple platforms.

Of course, the problem part of retaining the DStv structure would be costs as Showmax would give you the freshest content for under R99 while on DStv you need at R500. Unless Canal+ has a backup plan consumers might not be persuaded by this.

But then again, MultiChoice was in discussion about possibly unbundling it's DStv offering with SuperSport serving as an add-on or standalone package. This would take the strain off paying R1000 for the full package.

Canal+ had deployed similar mechanisms in France where consumers would pay for select content and with the MultiChoice deal these endeavours are expected to accelerate.

Did Canal+ Blow It With The HBO Deal On DStv?

Not long ago, it was reported that DStv and Showmax subscribers will be losing out on The White Lotus and House Of Dragons as Canal+ is slashing costs at MultiChoice. As a result, all this content is now going to be curated for streaming.

This means DStv customers would wait for the latter to rollout on HBO Max which might be available in South Africa within the year. It is likely to be added onto the Explora Ultra alongside Netflix and Disney+.

A lot was riding on getting this deal on the table, it wasn't only the future of The Sopranos on M-Net at stake but that of Cartoon Network. MultiChoice was open to replacing but the reality is there's no real alternative to any of Warner's cable networks.

Cartoon Network alone is responsible for 49% of kids viewing on DStv while Cartoonito is the top rated kids channel on the family package. A replacement will most definitely not be able to recoup the figures by those brands.

Same goes for TLC, TNT and CNN as they're ranked #1 in their respective fields on DStv. Several scenarios do however come into play for the fall of HBO and Warner Bros. on M-Net.

Firstly, Canal+ deemed those as non viable but their road on DStv is not up yet just how it will distributed going forward. If Netflix bid for Warner Bros. succeeds that's where it's likely to end up another as mentioned would be HBO Max.

Another has to deal with the decline of DStv, M-Net losing out on HBO will definitely lead some to end their subscription. But it wouldn't be as impactful or massive as the loss of 12 TV channels alongside the 4 closed by Paramount.

DStv Premium has been a sinking ship post the pandemic and even before Canal+'s acquisition of MultiChoice. M-Net can't fight the streaming wars it does however have the edge over Universal TV and Comedy Central in its primetime offering.

But a majority of people nowadays would rather watch these shows on Netflix then pay R1000 to get them on DStv. It's not M-Net's fault but rather one of the various setbacks to linear TV.

Is The 24 Hour WWE Channel Going Dark On DStv?

During the month, it was reported that WWE would be streaming on Netflix in April for viewers across Africa, Germany, Switzerland and Austria. This comes ahead of WrestleMania 42 which is scheduled to broadcast on April 18.

The question on some people's minds right now is about the fate of WWE on SuperSport. As it was understood, MultiChoice had an existing agreement which was scheduled or so we thought to expire in 2027 with the latter consolidated under Netflix.

But after Netflix sent notice to viewers, we reached out to them (even WWE) for further confirmation on the matter and this was their response.

 

Starting on 1 April 2026, WWE content will be exclusively available on Netflix.

SuperSport was asked several times about WWE's move to Netflix and whether this would lead to the removal of its content on SuperSport as well as the cancellation of the 24 hour channel and Jambo WWE.

First response: There's no confirmation at this stage 

Last response: No, it is not leaving 

During the year, MultiChoice widened the reach of the 24 hour WWE channel to its DStv Access consumers alongside Trace Gospel and Trace Ngoma. Canal+ Afrique currently distributes the WWE channel to consumers in French markets.

Canal+ Axes MultiChoice Streamer Showmax

Canal+, busy with aggressive cost-cutting since it recently acquired Africa’s MultiChoice pay-TV group, is shuttering its loss-making and money-guzzling video streaming service Showmax that MultiChoice ran in partnership with NBCUniversal.

Variety has reliably learnt that Showmax will definitely be shuttered “soon” although a specific date isn’t yet available given a few remaining legal implications Canal+ and MultiChoice are sorting out.

Canal+ and MultiChoice confirmed the end of Showmax to Variety, saying there will be a “discontinuation of the Showmax service, following a comprehensive review of its streaming activities.”

MultiChoice launched Showmax across Africa 11 years ago in August 2015 to compete with the advent of streamers like Netflix, Apple TV, Amazon’s Prime Video, Disney+ and others which all became available on the continent and started biting into MultiChoice’s legacy pay-TV subscriber base.

Two years ago, in February 2024, MultiChoice, in partnership with Comcast’s NBCUniversal, relaunched Showmax, utilizing the technology behind the Peacock streaming service.

Millions of dollars were poured into the retooling of Showmax’s IT-platform and on content spending to boost the pan-African streamer in its fight against Netflix but it ultimately proved fruitless.

MultiChoice and NBCUniversal roughly poured a combined $309 million in equity funding into Showmax to primarily fuel content creation, but nothing came of the aggressive growth and subscriber uptake targets MultiChoice executives had promised investors before it relaunched.

Looking to shave a combined 400 million euro by 2030 in cost-cutting, including content cuts from the combined Canal+ group, the underperforming and money-guzzling Showmax is the latest victim of Canal+’s rightsizing at MultiChoice.

NBCUniversal has a 30% stake in Showmax as a joint venture. In its last annual results before the Canal+ takeover, MultiChoice revealed that Showmax’s trading losses had worsened by 88% while revenue significantly declined.

According to the company, “The decision to axe Showmax was made by the Showmax board and reflects the continued focus of MultiChoice, a Canal+ company, on financial discipline and investment optimization, in an increasingly competitive and capital-intensive global streaming environment.”

Since Canal+, as part of its agreement to take over MultiChoice, isn’t allowed to get rid of any staff for a period of three years, MultiChoice won’t let any Showmax staff go but will reassign them to other positions within the broader company.

“The decision to discontinue Showmax services will not involve any retrenchments. The group will be engaging and supporting employees through various transition options,” it told Variety.

MultiChoice has already started to quietly rebrand Showmax Originals as Africa Magic, M-Net, kykNET and Mzansi Magic Originals, with original series that will transition to these various DStv linear TV channels on MultiChoice pay-TV platform.

Showmax’s closure comes two years after Amazon MGM Studios shocked Nigeria and South Africa’s creative community in January 2024 when it abruptly announced that it would immediately stop commissioning any new local original content in Africa, and also killed already-existing development deals with a dozen production companies.

In January, during an investors’ call, Maxime Saada, Canal+ CEO, said that Showmax was “not a commercial success” and that its failure as a streaming service was “quite obvious.”

Saada also said that a decision about Showmax’s future would be made soon and that a reduction in the Showmax budget, which has been a huge financial drain on MultiChoice, would contribute significantly to Canal+’s overall cost-cutting goals.

Canal+ says it will “continue to invest in premium content for MultiChoice subscribers, technological innovation and strategic partnerships to consolidate its leadership in the African entertainment market.”

“Further details regarding our expanded content offering and platform upgrades will be shared in due course. We want to reassure our Showmax subscribers that they are our priority as we evolve our services to deliver a superior streaming experience.”

In June, Canal+ and Netflix announced a strategic distribution agreement for Francophone Africa with a new partnership through which Canal+ became the first operator to bundle Netflix subscriptions into its traditional pay-TV offering across 24 Sub-Saharan African countries.

Insiders told Variety that instead of wasting further money through trying to compete with Showmax as a struggling stand-alone streamer, Canal+ is likely to expand its partnership and roll out this Netflix-bundling into the rest of Africa.

An award-winning South African director-producer who has made several series and films for MultiChoice under the Showmax banner, told Variety the end of Showmax is a sad day for South African filmmakers since it closes yet another avenue to showcase work and earn a living in an industry undergoing tumultuous change.

“Showmax was one of the only platforms available to us that was willing to back stories that were bold and authentic in a market that has traditionally always played things safe,” the filmmaker said.

“From ‘Koek’ to ‘Adulting,’ ‘Spinners’ to ‘Catch Me a Killer,’ ‘Khaki Fever’ to ‘Youngins,’ ‘Wyfie’ to ‘Dam,’ these are films and series which would never be created by rival platforms or broadcasters. Losing Showmax is a huge blow to the local industry and audiences, with Canal+ giving us very little to hope that they will fill that gap with anything of value.”

“If 2026 is the Year of the Horse, it feels like this one is getting sent to the factory to be turned into glue and cheap pies.”

Canal+ is scheduled to report its next set of financial results on March 11. This will be the first full-year combined results since the group took effective control of MultiChoice in September 2025.

MultiChoice Might Be Widening The Reach Of SuperSport Play Channel To More DStv Customers

SuperSport Play is regarded as freemium sports channel, by free we mean available to consumers without an monthly DStv subscription. All you need to do is create a free account on DStv Stream to access the channel.

The suffix "-mium" is basically premium as it offers a mixture of sports from football (e.g. Betway Premiership, some Premier League matches), rugby (Super Rugby, Six Nations, NRL), cricket (1-Day Cup, ICC events), golf (PGA, LPGA, LIV, Sunshine Tour), 

To some degree, you could say it's a mashup of SuperSport Blitz (news coverage and highlights), Grandstand (overflows or simulcast airings) and Variety 4 (school events and local content).

SuperSport Play is available to DStv Free-To-View customers as well as Premium and Easyview customers through the DStv Stream app. Similar to SuperSport Schools, it looks like MultiChoice might be widening it reach for consumers.

We can only assume under Canal+, this was probably another way to enhance consumer's experience. Under the Naspers regime, MultiChoice was very hesitant in making some of its live matches available on a package like DStv Access.

Now consumers on Access not only get to watch La Liga matches live but also RAW and SmackDown on the 24 hour WWE channel.

Besides that, there was also chatter last year about possibly launching a standalone SuperSport package. Although we're not holding our breath on that best guess is them partnering up with Netflix to give consumers access to SuperSport.

MultiChoice Will Be Adding Base Pulse As A Replacement To MTV Base On DStv

Not long ago, it was reported that MultiChoice was testing out another music channel which had since been using the same frequency as MTV Base. This came after MTV Base and Paramount's 3 other channels had exited the platform earlier in the year. 

MTV Base served as one of the longest running channels within Paramount's stable offering a variety of African music. It was ranked the #1 music channel in West Africa which led to the rollout of MTV Base West - a localised feed.

After it's closure, a DStv viewer had started to notice a test card for MTV Base leading fueling speculation of a revival. 

Now word has spread on across social media that MultiChoice will be adding Base Pulse as a replacement to MTV Base. From what we can see this almost looks like a rebrand notice how both channels use Base and have the same presenters.

It's likely that when Paramount decided to close MTV Base and it's operations in Africa. Another brand swooped in and opted to takeover it's operations leading to the removal of the MTV name with Base taking center stage.

Base Pulse is being positioned as a next-generation hub blending music, storytelling, youth trends, and culture (with vibes like "drip" and "umswenko" as part of the lifestyle). The official tagline: "Rooted in youth. Powered by Africa’s pulse. Amplified beyond the screen."

It will not only take up MTV Base's channel number but also be available on the same package being DStv Access on channel 322.

Is MTV Base Making A Comeback To DStv?

Last month, MTV Base and BET went dark on DStv after Paramount decided to shutter it's operations in Africa. Other channels to exit the platform include CBS Reality and CBS Justice in which the company operate alongside AMC Networks International.

These closures were part of a corporate restructure at Paramount following it's acquisition by Skydance Media who are currently in pursuit of Cartoon Network's parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery.

Paramount had stated that the decision to oust MTV Base and various of its music channels around the world was part of streamlining efforts. They wanted to put more emphasis on reinventing MTV even if that meant making it rival with Spotify.

Now it appears as if Paramount took a U-turn on the matter as DStv consumers have now spotted what appears to be MTV Base. Some of the signature shows are on the lineup like Bangers Only, Big Base Beats and 5@Five.

Then again this could as well be a placeholder for another TV channel but it seems very unlikely as most placeholders don't have this much content already prepped up. Besides MTV Base was the top rated music channel across West Africa.

If it is making a comeback, several questions would come to mind as MTV Base had presenters and other talent. Is this part of the revival or is this version almost like Mzansi Music or Trace Urban where songs are randomised.

Canal+ Confirms That Major Changes Are Coming Soon For Showmax, No Word On DStv Stream

Since Canal+'s acquisition of MultiChoice in late 2025, the French broadcaster has been slashing costs aiming for R7.5 billion in 2030. Most of these cuts will be coming out of M-Net, SuperSport, Showmax and DStv. 

David Mignot who served as the CEO for the merged group has admitted that it is a commercial failure. Despite MultiChoice attempts at revamping the service, trading losses for Showmax almost doubled in the last two years to R4.9 billion.

Talks were underway with Comcast in regards to the future of Showmax with the company that confirmed major changes are rolling out soon. From the looks of things, it appears as if they plan to either replace or close Showmax.

In an interview, Canal+ had stated that the company “can’t continue” operating the streaming platform as it is today. They're also exploring launching the self titled OTT service to the market but delays have occured due to Showmax.

Although the company has remained hush on what those changes for Showmax could as well be for consumers. One of which occured last month when The Gilded Age and Peacemaker exited the streamer as MultiChoice opted to scrap its HBO deal.

They had mentioned that further reductions are coming to Showmax and you can only assume this would have to do originals like Die Kantoor, Youngins and Outlaws.

It's possible that Canal+ decided to no longer produce original content for the platform and are letting these shows run its course. Let's remember, Canal+ has delayed contractual agreement for local content on M-Net's channels.

Prior to the delays, Canal+ had been widening the windows for these shows between Showmax and DStv. Post the takeover, DStv consumers had to wait several months for these shows and under Canal+ it only takes a couple of days.

Then there's the Premier League package which I can assume is also going away with further efforts being redirected to whatever comes of DStv Stream.

One thing that hasn't quite as yet been addressed by Canal+ is how DStv Stream would come into affect once it's streaming service enters the market. This yet to be launched service is just DStv Stream with additional enhancements.

For all we know, Canal+ could close DStv Stream and redirect viewers to its own streaming service and the same outcome could await Showmax.

Again maybe it's not all over for Showmax and Comcast opts to unburden MultiChoice of its duties. But the reality is this won't save "Showmax Originals" and Comcast could opt for a licensing agreement which is mainly for archived content.

Channel Closure: TV Mozambique Internacional Will Stop Airing On DStv And GOtv From 24 February 2026

Last month, TLNovelas was axed from the DStv platform as part of Canal+'s cost cutting measures at MultiChoice. This had also led SuperSport to miss out on Philly's Games and Winter Olympics with local content being further reduced at M-Net.

With the month not even up yet, it appears MultiChoice will be claiming another victim on DStv and this time it's TV Mozambique Internacional. 

TV Mozambique, is the international channel of Mozambique's national TV broadcaster, Televisão de Moçambique (TVM), broadcasting for 24 hours per day. It showcased local programming featuring Mozambican culture, tourism and sports.

At the time, Marta Odallah, TVM Internacional director, says "The addition of TVM Internacional on DStv is in line with our objective to spread the social, political, cultural and sporting reality of Mozambique across our borders".

"This collaboration is a giant leap for both TVM and MultiChoice, and indeed a step in the right direction of broadcasting inclusivity for all Mozambicans".

After 7 years, the channel will now be going dark on DStv from 24 February and it appears as if the closure is being swept under the rug. Unlike TLNovelas, MultiChoice hadn't notice to DStv subscribers about TV Mozambique Internacional.

This is not only the second channel to go dark during the year but like TLNovelas catered to Portuguese speaking countries. With TVM Mozambique gone, Kwenda and Maningue Magic would basically be the only other alternatives.

The problem part is that these brands are based in Angola and Mozambique while TVM Mozambique Internacional broadened it's reach to other parts of Africa.

Canal+ Reportedly Delaying Production Of Local Content On KykNET And Mzansi Magic

As some people may recall, Canal+ took control of MultiChoice by late 2025 and are planning to save up at R7.5 billion in costs by 2030. This prompted them not to acquire the Winter Olympics on SuperSport and abandon HBO on M-Net.

Despite what anyone thinks about Canal+, let's face it MultiChoice has been losing subscribers and the French are just doing the heavy lifting. Several insiders had stated that consumers should expect more cuts during the course of the year.

But then most consumers are kind of curious as to whether they'll be a price increase and if not why they should continue to pay more for even less now.

We're already halfway into February and now there's reports that production on local content has been paused/delayed. This is because Canal+ is slashing costs at MultiChoice with efforts being redirected from Johannesburg to Paris.

According to reports, numerous contracts for local series and soap operas are unsigned by Canal+. This would explain why there has yet to be word whether iThonga is getting renewed as the first season concludes this month on Mzansi Magic.

There's fears that Canal+ will prioritize on foreign series as seen with the recently added show on KykNET, The Landman. This part shouldn't come as a shocker because the owners are based in France and majority of content is dubbed there.

MultiChoice has been leaning toward this path post the takeover as seen with Zee Zonke and Star Khanya. Even international brands like Cartoon Network and Cartoonito are also starting to dub animated shows to Zulu.

This delay has also led some to believe that Canal+ will further reduce primetime in favour of archived material such as Isibaya on Mzansi Magic.

MultiChoice Zambia Adds Government Based News Channel Zanis TV To DStv

ZANIS TV has officially been onboarded onto the DStv platform following a landmark signing ceremony held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana represented the Zambian Government at the historic event, describing the partnership between Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) and MultiChoice Group as a major breakthrough for the country’s media industry.

Kawana said the development will significantly expand the reach of ZANIS TV, enabling more Zambians both at home and in the diaspora to access information on government programmes and national development initiatives.

“This partnership is a game-changer for our media industry. By expanding our reach, we are ensuring that every Zambian at home and abroad has a front-row seat to the developmental projects and policies of the New Dawn Administration,” Kawana said.

He noted that the move will enhance the visibility of Zambia’s developmental agenda and strengthen the dissemination of credible, timely and factual information.

However, Kawana said government has taken note of concerns raised by members of the public regarding DStv services. 

During the ceremony, he urged MultiChoice to address issues surrounding high subscription fees, reduce repetitive content and maintain ZNBC TV as a Free-To-Air channel.

“We have heard the concerns of our people and we have conveyed them directly to MultiChoice. It is important that as we expand access, we also ensure affordability and quality content for viewers,” he said.

Kawana also challenged the ZANIS team to uphold high standards of professionalism and integrity as the channel transitions onto a broader continental and global platform.

"To the ZANIS team, the world is now watching. Let us continue telling the Zambian story with professionalism and integrity,” he said.

The onboarding of ZANIS TV onto DStv is expected to boost the channel’s visibility across Africa and beyond, positioning it as a key platform for showcasing Zambia’s development trajectory and national discourse.

Love Nature Expanding To More Canal+ Markets, Still No Word On MultiChoice's DStv?

Love Nature is a factual channel operated by Blue Ant Media with content focused on environmental appreciation and conservation. Based in Toronto, it features a range of wildlife and nature documentaries.

Following it's inception on Canal+ Polska, the French broadcaster is looking to expand Love Nature to all its French territories in France, Europe and Africa.

Programming set to be included at launch include Big Cat Country, Malawi Wildlife Rescue, Wildlife Icons Seasons 1 and 2 all of which are filmed in Africa. It seems kind of odd that a channel featuring this much local content is not as yet on DStv.

We've shot up a couple of theories as to why this may be the case as seen with the WBD deal. MultiChoice's contracts was aligned with that of Canal+'s operations in Europe so talks are likely still underway as the deal was said to unlock synergies.

There's no reason to think otherwise as Canal+ had promised that the buyout would include increased content for DStv consumers particularly local. Since last year, MultiChoice had stated they were in position to allocate more content and channels.

If I had guess where Love Nature would be placed probably in People's Planet former space which was channel 180. 

Is Canal+ Looking To Sell Showmax?

Last month, Canal+ held a media briefing discussing various details about MultiChoice after completing it's acquisition of the company in late 2025. It was revealed that Showmax was losing a lot of money and are exploring options for the brand.

Canal+ is also looking at possibly launching its self titled streaming service in MultiChoice markets which would bundle Netflix and Apple TV.

The problem part as outlined would be Showmax and during that briefing it was revealed that Canal+ would be reducing its investment toward the streamer. They've even held various talks with Comcast about the future of the brand.

One of which could include a possible sale of the brand to Comcast's NBCUniversal after acquiring a 30% stake. Another could be Canal+ acquiring the remaining stake and phasing it out for its self titled streaming service although it may seem unlikely.

In the event, NBCUniversal does look to acquire the remaining 70% which seems possible as Canal+ talked about selling none-core assets. It's likely that a licensing agreement between them and MultiChoice would be put in place for local content. 

Canal+ plans to sell MultiChoice content even to the likes of Netflix which they deem a partner. Under the Nasper era, 

What to me would be unknown is whether Showmax as a brand would continue to operate in Africa under that trademark or fold under Peacock as seen in the US and select international markets.

There's literally nothing stopping NBCUniversal from retaining the Showmax trademark as Canal+ has already begun the due diligence. Several original shows like Youngins and Die Kantoor their windows between DStv has been shortened.

Another is the international deals, Canal+ got out of renewal talks with Warner Bros. Discovery which saw consumers lose out on HBO content. If I had to guess, the next victim to all of these cuts within Showmax will be that Premier League subscription.

Canal+ could redirect this efforts back to DStv Stream.

If NBCUniversal is looking to acquire Showmax, HBO may not be the only thing to get reduced even content from Sony, Paramount and AMC will see radical declines. As NBCUniversal can use this buyout to expand its own catalogue instead.

How Canal+ Might Rollout A Sports Only Package On DStv?

Canal+ managed to complete it's acquisition of MultiChoice by late 2025 and since then had been undergoing some restructure. This includes scaling back on services such as Showmax and renewal of WBD channels in Europe and Africa.

Prior to the takeover, MultiChoice was exploring possibly offering sports on a separate package with another package offering local entertainment, movies and news.

It should be noted that this isn't the first time they explored such an offering and they've been very skeptical about separating SuperSport. This is because it wasn't deemed as viable as seen with Showmax PRO another had to do with the pricing.

In MultiChoice's first test run, consumers would have been given the option to pay a monthly rate of R300 for Mzansi Magic, Discovery Channel and Cartoon Network. This excluded the AddMovies offering which comprised of M-Net Movies 1 & 2.

SuperSport's offering on this package was divided between two the first would consist of PSL, La Liga and Premier League while the other featured Tennis, Rugby and Cricket. Both of which were also priced at R300 and those opting to pay both got a discount.

As seen with AddMovies where consumers aren't paying for this as a standalone the same is likely to await the sport's offering but under Canal+'s influence they could find some workaround.

A majority of Netflix subscribers are less likely to subscribe to the sports offering if MultiChoice were to tell them they needed to pay for the general entertainment package. This is what MultiChoice wanted to burden onto these clients in its drafts.

Under Canal+, these clients may be given the option to include SuperSport in their Netflix subscription. For those using Showmax, Canal+ could give these clients a discounted rate by bundling this service with SuperSport.

Netflix and Showmax are basically the OTT counterparts to this general entertainment package from DStv so the idea of them bundling SuperSport onto these services wouldn't seem far fetched.

Canal+ Looking To Launch It's Own Streaming Service In Place Of Showmax

Canal+ SA is considering deploying its streaming app, which includes deals with Apple TV and Warner Bros Discovery’s HBO Max, to clients of South African pay-TV operator MultiChoice Group, which the French firm bought last year.

“All of the content is embedded on the Canal+ app, and as a user, you do not have to go on another app,” chief financial officer Amandine Ferre said in an interview on Thursday.

Canal+ gained control of MultiChoice — part owner of streaming service Showmax with Comcast — late last year in a deal that valued the African platform at about $3 billion.

The Johannesburg-based firm’s operations are mainly in the south and east of the continent, as well as Nigeria and Ghana, while the French company already has a presence throughout francophone western Africa.

It hasn’t taken a final decision on what to do with Showmax — MultiChoice’s streaming offering — or on the roll-out of the Canal+ app to countries where MultiChoice operates, Ferre said.

Canal+ shares surged as much as 15% in London on Thursday and are at a record.

The combined entertainment platform will likely deliver more than €400 million in earnings before interest, tax and amortisation, and about €300 million in free cash flow cost savings by 2030, it said in a statement Thursday.

Canal+ is working to start growing MultiChoice’s subscriber numbers after the company lost almost 3 million customers over the past two financial years.

It has already renegotiated a contract for set-top boxes and has provided cheaper units since November, she said.

“We are really working on the entry ticket and the best packages, and making sure we have the best price,” said Ferre.

The combined entity has returned National Basketball Association content to the SuperSport offering after an eight-year break, and also added French Ligue 1 football matches to its platform.

MultiChoice was created by Cape Town-based Naspers.

In 2019, the company was spun off from Naspers and in 2024, Canal+ made a takeover approach. Its premium service is priced at about $60 a month.

From Discovery Channel To CNN: Could MultiChoice Have Broadened The Reach Of More Channels On DStv?

During the week, it was confirmed by MultiChoice that DStv Access subscribers would be gaining 3 additional 3 channels. This would consist of 2 music channels Trace Ngoma and Trace Gospel alongside wrestling promotion WWE.

This news came right after several DStv subscribers had spotted this channels on the company's website now listed under Access. It appears that MultiChoice may have broadened the reach of more channels.

As it should be noted, MultiChoice was running an Upsize promotion for various DStv consumers which is scheduled to end by 31 January 2026. Since then, a majority of Warner Bros. Discovery's channels are now listed under particular packages.

And it goes follows:

Discovery Channel - DStv Premium to Compact 

Discovery Family - DStv Family to DStv Access

HGTV - DStv Family to DStv Access

Food Network - DStv Family to DStv Access 

ID - DStv Compact to DStv Access

Travel Channel - DStv Family to DStv Access

Cartoonito - DStv Family to DStv Access

CNN - DStv Compact to DStv Access

Canal+ made a last minute deal with Warner Bros. Discovery for these channels which led to HBO and Warner Bros. content to get exempted from M-Net. Now it appears that the value of the higher end packages are being diluted.

According to a rep at Warner Bros. Discovery and MultiChoice, these channels are part of the Upsize promotion which runs from November 2025 to 31 January 2026. Of course, it still doesn't answer why these channels are listed on these packages.

Showmax Has Been Deemed As Unsuccessful, Canal+ Looking To Wind Down On Investments

Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada says MultiChoice’s streaming platform, Showmax, was not a commercial success and that the company will cut further investments into the service.

Speaking during Canal+’s presentation on cost-cutting targets following its acquisition of MultiChoice, Saada was asked about his company’s plans for Showmax.

“Showmax is not a commercial success. It’s quite obvious. There were a lot of dedicated investments on the marketing side, on the content side, on the technology side,” the CEO said.

“We are in a position to reduce those investments. They are included in the synergies. I won’t say how much, but it is significant.”

However, he explained that their strategy was all about growth. So, when making these decisions, Canal+ will be very careful to avoid losing potentially valuable subscribers.

“Although we are very quick at assessing the investments that we believe are required and those that are not. We are also very cautious not to negatively impact the top line,” Saada said.

“Otherwise, it would be like a bandaid we could rip off, but we are not going to do that. There was so much investment there that we had a lot of room to improve the situation.”

Groupe Canal+ gained control of the MultiChoice Group in September 2025, following a lengthy mandatory buyout process. The final phase of the transaction commenced on 13 October 2025.

MultiChoice first launched its Showmax streaming platform in 2015. However, it received significant upgrades and relaunched as Showmax 2.0 in February 2024.

The DStv-owner had high hopes for the revamped platform, pinning its entire future on it and telling investors that it expected to generate $1 billion (R15.7 billion) in net revenue in five years.

The first indications of MultiChoice’s plans for Showmax surfaced in March 2023, when it announced a deal that would give its streaming service access to the technology behind NBCUniversal’s Peacock.

The deal’s terms stipulated that MultiChoice would sell a 30% stake in Showmax to NBCUniversal and Sky.

Showmax 2.0

MultiChoice invested in marketing, technology, and new content for Showmax’s relaunch. MultiChoice announced three subscription plans for Showmax alongside its relaunch.

These are Showmax Entertainment, Showmax Entertainment Mobile, and Showmax Premier League. The latter is a mobile-only subscription providing access to all 380 English Premier League matches.

Showmax Entertainment offers content like series, movies, and kids’ shows. It is also available in a mobile-only format for a lower monthly fee.

Showmax’s relaunch included an expanded local catalogue, including 21 Showmax Originals from four African countries. It promised that 1,300 hours of new Showmax Originals would be released in 2024.

The company’s strategy aimed to leverage the African streaming market entering an anticipated boom phase, and position Showmax to become the continent’s leading video streaming service.

It highlighted that Africa is home to more than 450 million smartphone users and 250 million football lovers, which MultiChoice saw as a significant untapped market.

“It is critical that we make our move now before others reorganise themselves and make a play for Africa, which is seen as the last remaining growth market,” MultiChoice Group CEO Calvo Mawela said.

A year after Showmax’s relaunch, MultiChoice said it was seeing significant growth in its subscriber base, with the number of paying customers increasing 50% year-on-year by September 2024.

“It was a landmark year for Showmax, which grew its paying subscriber base, excluding discontinued services, by 50% year-on-year,” it said.

In its results for the period, the broadcaster said it expected the growth to accelerate as its strategic initiatives start to bear fruit.

“Showmax streamer was named Best Television/Streaming Network at The National Film and TV Awards South Africa and Entertainment App of the Year at the Stuff App Awards,” it added.

While the streaming platform recorded further year-on-year growth in the 2025 financial year, it hasn’t been the success that MultiChoice had envisioned.

The streamer recorded 44% year-on-year growth and said the number of Showmax Originals offered on the platform had increased to 89.

The revenue it generated during the financial year was approximately R750 million, and MultiChoice said its revenue growth was impacted by discontinued products, like Showmax Pro, ahead of the relaunch.

MultiChoice initially projected that Showmax would make trading losses, which would begin decreasing by the 2025 financial year. However, the opposite happened.

MultiChoice’s latest annual results showed that Showmax’s trading loss had worsened by 88% from R2.6 billion to R4.9 billion. At the same time, revenue also significantly declined.

“The increased trading losses reflect the start-up nature of the business, with a step-change in content costs and increased platform costs,” MultiChoice said.

“Its results were also impacted by discontinuation of the Showmax Pro and diaspora packages in 2H FY24, prior to re-launch.”

The Group also recognised a R1.5 billion net loss from Showmax in its bottom line for its last financial year. Considering it owns 70% of the platform indicates that its overall net loss was R2.15 billion.