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 Canal+ Future Endeavours With MultiChoice Impact StarSat And Lead To More Content Changes On DStv?

During the week, Canal+ made an offer to acquire MultiChoice for R32 billion which got declined after owning a minority of the company. They already own Nigeria's ROK Studios and even SPI International who distribute brands like Filmbox, Timeless Dizi Channel and Gametoon on StarSat.

Since 2020, Canal+ had been acquiring a small stake in the pay-tv company this led to speculation of a possible takeover as they attempted to acquire MultiChoice Africa. With their current stake, they were able to distribute Zee World and M-Net Movies 4 in Francophone Africa.

These channels were curated specifically for MultiChoice consumers and with Canal+ offer over a possible takeover one has to wonder what fate might await linear offering viewed on StarSat and several other pay-tv platforms in Africa.

But if we had to guess Canal+ could look into integrating their assets with MultiChoice seeing as they have a stronger presence in the African market. Filmbox comes with a streaming service perhaps this merger can lead the service to be substituted with Showmax/DStv Stream.

Filmbox and Filmbox Action on Starsat could be phased out for either M-Net Movies 3, M-Net Movies 4 or Movie Room. As mentioned, Canal+ had been seen distributing various DStv curated channels on their platforms so the idea of them doing it on other platforms wouldn't seem far fetched.

Another instance is Filmbox being phased out from StarSat as well as various platforms across Africa if not replacing third party channels like TNT and Studio Universal on DStv. It would only leave brands like FashionBox, DocuBox, Gametoon, Arthouse and Timeless Dizi Channel.

With Canal+ aligning themselves with MultiChoice, it wouldn't seem far fetched a stretch if they tried to get SPI offerings on DStv. For instance Gametoon could come in place of Ginx TV, it is property of Canal+ therefore a sibling to that of M-Net and Mzansi Magic.

Then there's FashionBox and Arthouse, perhaps one of the two could look into replacing Spice TV since it is more of an overflow than a fashion channel. Followed by DocuBox which could as well compliment channels like People's Weather and Curiosity.

Timeless Dizi Channel could get spun off on DStv perhaps morph into an Afrikaans dubbed Turkish channel curated with content from kykNET. Another would be the phasing out of Turkish on kykNET as it has been conflicting with other local programming on the channel.

Canal+ owning brands like Mzansi Magic and Africa Magic could lead to global domination. The Africa Channel is already seen airing content viewed from these brands in international shores perhaps Canal+ could use SPI International's offering as a means to extend its reach.

MultiChoice Rejects Canal+ R30 Billion Offer

MultiChoice has refused Groupe Canal+’s offer to buy out the company at R105 per share.

The DStv operator believes the French media conglomerate’s offer undervalues the company.

Canal+ announced on Thursday that it submitted a non-binding indicative offer to acquire the shares in MultiChoice it does not already own.

The offer valued MultiChoice at over R46 billion, and Canal+ would have to pay R32.5 billion cash for the remaining 64.99% of the company it does not own.

In addition to announcing its rejection of Canal+’s offer, MultiChoice revealed on Monday morning that the French media giant increased its shareholding in MultiChoice to 35.01%.

“After careful consideration, the board has concluded that the proposed offer price of R105 in cash significantly undervalues the Group and its future prospects,” MultiChoice said.

“The Board has reached this conclusion taking into account all relevant considerations.”

These included that MultiChoice recently conducted a valuation exercise, which has valued the company significantly above R105 per share.

“MultiChoice’s valuation excludes any potential synergies which may arise from the envisaged transaction,” it stated.

“In this regard, Canal+ has, following the lengthy discussions between the parties, repeatedly conveyed to the public what it sees as the advantages of the combined entity and, therefore, seemingly takes the view that there are significant synergies. These synergies need to be factored into any fair offer made by Canal+.”

MultiChoice also made some biting remarks about how Canal+ announced its offer to the market.

“The delivery of the Canal+ letter [to the board making the offer] took place after discussions between Canal+ and MultiChoice lasting for well over a year,” MultiChoice said.

“Following the delivery of that letter, Canal+ and its representatives have extensively discussed their proposal in public and with members of the press.”

MultiChoice said that although the board is open to all means of maximising shareholder value, it told Canal+ that its letter does not provide a basis for further engagement at the proposed price.

“In keeping with its duty to act in the best interests of the Company, the Board remains open to engage with any party in respect of any offer which is for a fair price and is subject to appropriate conditions,” MultiChoice said.

“Moreover, it goes without saying that the Board will continue to act in accordance with its duties in the applicable provisions of the Takeover Regulations regarding any formal and binding offer.”

News Shorts: MultiChoice Silently Adds SuperSport La Liga To DStv Access Consumers, Eureka! Cancelled After One Season On Disney Junior And Telenovela Channel Phillipines To Close By The End Of February

SuperSport La Liga on Access

Home of the Spanish La Liga & UEFA Europa League while also showcasing overflow matches from the UEFA Champions League. Several DStv consumers had spotted the channel on their package alongside Zee World, Star Life, and various others.

In an enquiry to MultiChoice, they mention that SuperSport La Liga will be opened until further notice (likely permanent) while all other channels will remain temporarily. Taking to account that NWTV and One Freestate Televisual had closed these channels are probably a distraction.

MultiChoice will be announcing their new annual prices which will come into affect from April. With these recent closures of channels, one has to wonder if MultiChoice has more developments up their sleeves aside from cost adjustments.

Another bites the dust

Eureka! is an American-Irish animated children's television series produced by Brown Bag Films. It premiered on Disney Junior in the United States on June 22, 2022. Set in the Stone Age within the location of Rocky Falls, it followed the eponymous girl Eureka who enjoys going on adventures and building gadgets.

According to Disney TVA News, Eureka! had been quietly cancelled after one season at Disney Junior, many members of the crew moved to Robogobo and non-Disney shows at Brown Bag Films. It would join The Ghost And Molly McGee, Secret Of Sulphur Springs and Bunk'd as shows to have been axed by the network.

Disney is focusing on building out its multicam strategy and that includes prioritising shows that are based on Disney-owned IP, and creating global tentpole programming.

Telenovela Channel Phillipines to go dark

Telenovela Channel served as the first and only telenovela channel in the Phillipines in 2011. Owned by Beginnings at Twenty Plus, Inc. with the partnership of Grupo Televisa would broadcast various Mexican dramas viewed on TLNovelas including Sortilego, La Rosa De Guadalupe and Las Amazonas.

After 12 years, it was reported the channel's website that Telenovela Channel Phillipines will end transmission after 12 years by the end of February which would coincide with the closure of Disney Junior in the Nordic market as further content integrates with Disney Channel.

Channel Termination: One Freestate Televisual And NWTV No Longer Available On DStv

One Freestate Televisual was a community channel based in Bloemfontein embracing the culture of the Free State while NWTV catered for the North West and Southern Africa. Both channels featured a variety of programs ranging from news, reality shows and drama series.

As seen this past week, MultiChoice has opted to discontinue carriage of One Freestate Televisual (channel 264) and NWTV (channel 266) after residing on the platform for less than 3 months. Both channels had shared different statements regarding their removal.

Statement from NWTV

Good day, NWTV viewers and supporters.

It is with sadness that we announce that DStv/Multichoice has opted to switch NWTV off. We thank you for your support, and we're honoured to have served you for this short time.

Basically, producers and other crew members will be left unemployed and MultiChoice doesn't mention what will happen to existing local content viewed on NWTV. If we had to guess, the latter might surface on existing community channels particularly Soweto TV as seen with Faith Cooking.

Statement from One Freestate Televisual

According to One Freestate Televisual, they're currently having a carriage dispute with MultiChoice. They hope to resolve the matter and return to the platform soon but as of right now the channel can only be found on StarSat.

One Freestate Televisual and NWTV closures comes a few days after B4U Movies had left the platform following its troubleshooting issues last year. This would be the third and fourth TV channel to have exited the platform in under a month with Emmanuel TV being the first.

MultiChoice doesn't outline a reason for the sudden closures of NWTV or One Freestate Televisual. Prior to this, MultiChoice had planned to axe two other channels from their platforms, 1Magic and Me. 

Recap To The Week: Vivendi’s Canal+ Group Makes Move To Acquire African Entertainment Giant MultiChoice

Vivendi’s Canal+ Group has made an offer to take full control of African entertainment company The MultiChoice Group, in which it already holds a 31.7% stake.

“The Canal+ Group confirms that it has submitted to the board of directors of MultiChoice a letter containing a non-binding indicative offer with a view to acquiring all of the issued ordinary shares of MultiChoice that it does not yet hold, subject to obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals,” the Paris-based pay-TV giant said in statement on Thursday.

Canal+ said it has offered R105 per ordinary share, which was a 40% premium on their closing price of R75 on January 31.

The group emphasized that neither “the evolution” or “the conditions of a possible transaction” were “certain”, adding that any operation would comply with all laws and regulations related to the South African media sector and companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

It remains to be seen whether the offer will gather steam given that South Africa currently has rules in place limiting foreign ownership of commercial South African broadcasters to 20%, although moves are underway to increase this to 49%.

The move to acquire MultiChoice outright comes a month after parent group Vivendi announced it was studying a project to split its activities into several entities.

“Canal+ is actively preparing its stock market listing following the announcement of the proposed split from its parent company Vivendi,” read Thursday’s Canal+ Group statement.

“This project would allow investors to benefit from the merger of Canal+ and MultiChoice, the ultimate objective of the Canal+ Group being to also obtain a listing in South Africa.”

The Canal+ Group, which started building a position in MultiChoice in 2020, said its aim was to create “a large-scale African media company capable of thriving in an increasingly competitive international market.”

“Canal+ is a long-term investor in MultiChoice and South Africa, and is proud to have been actively involved in the African media sector for 30 years. To accelerate MultiChoice’s development in Africa and beyond, it will need to adopt a strategy that will enable it to increase its size and strengthen its local and global footprint,” said Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada. 

“Our potential offer, if successful, will be an important step in enabling MultiChoice to realize its full potential. Combined with Canal+, MultiChoice would have the resources to gain scale and invest in local African talent and stories, and would have the necessary proprietary technology resources,” he continued.

“We are convinced that a merger of our two groups would enable the new entity to address the structural challenges facing the media sector, to develop authentic and ambitious African content, to support more local production companies, and to expand access to sport for its subscribers while investing in local sport.”

Created in the early 1980s, with backing from South African technology giant Naspers, MultiChoice currently has some 20 million subscribers across Africa.

Channel Termination: B4U Movies No Longer Available On DStv Effective Immediately

B4U Movies is a free-to-air Indian movie channel based in Mumbai available on more than

8 different satellites, in more than 100 countries

including the UK, Europe, Middle East, Canada and Africa. The channel broadcasts a mixture of classic and contemporary films.

The channel was allocated on MultiChoice's DStv Indian package and since last year was made available to AddMovies consumers alongside Sony Max from Cultver Max Entertainment.

During the month, several DStv consumers had recieved notifications that the channel would cease operation from 31 January 2024. Prior to that, B4U Movies remained inactive on the platform with MultiChoice now siting "technical issues" as a result of its cancellation.

They were working hard to resolve the matter but from what we can see they hit a dead end.

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.

End Of The Road For SuperSport And WWE??? As Netflix Banks On RAW, SmackDown, NXT And Premium Live PPVs

In 2022, MultiChoice and WWE were looking to bundle Raw, SmackDown, NXT alongside various PPVs like WrestleMania and SummerSlam on Showmax. But the deal appeared to have fallen flat as this never materialized with the streamer now partially owned by Comcast.

After e.tv halted further distribution of Raw, SmackDown and various other WWE content from their platforms in 2017. SuperSport became the official home to the WWE Network for the past 7 years and all of that is likely to change in the coming future.

As reported moments ago, Netflix had exclusive rights to Raw and various other content from WWE which will start streaming in the U.S., Canada, U.K. and Latin America beginning January 2025. There are plans underway to add more international markets to the lineup.

This puts SuperSport's current linear offering in a precarious position especially the WWE Channel. As Netflix scooped up WWE’s award-winning documentaries, original series and forthcoming projects alongside the premier shows Raw, SmackDown and NXT.

The mere thought of less sporting events on SuperSport wouldn't seem far fetched a stretch. Initially, they weren't going to broadcast AFCON as they were more focused on European football even the rebranded Showmax service will only feature Premier League.

Last year, MultiChoice shuttered Showmax PRO which served as digital counterpart for SuperSport with La Liga, PSL and various other sporting content. Now the streamer will only offer a price plan for Premier League while further sports can be streamed on DStv Stream.

 

As mentioned, Netflix will become the exclusive home to WWE in the U.S., Canada, U.K. and Latin America by January 2025. It's currently unknown whether WWE will be purged on Netflix for consumers across Africa at the same time.

Its also possible that SuperSport could slide in a better deal but from what we've already seen in the past months there's some doubts. Another would be for Raw, SmackDown and NXT to be retained on the platform alongside PPVs with everything else on streaming.

SuperSport is structured for first run programming and not delayed or week old sporting events. With the possible discontinuation of channel 128 alongside various content from WWE, I wouldn't be shocked if MultiChoice were to add SuperSport Action in place.

SuperSport Action serves as an alternative offering to WWE as it broadcasts a range of extreme sports as well as major boxing matches and EFC mixed martial arts programming. They are also home to UFC which alongside WWE are owned by TKO Group Holdings.

Could Content Cuts Lead To The Closure/Merger Of Disney Channel And Disney Junior In Europe And Africa Alongside Disney XD In The United States?

Following Disney+ inception, Disney has been consolidating their content thus leading to closures of several linear channels across the world. To date, most of the company's linear offering reside within Europe, Middle East and Africa as the streamer's trail goes dry.

From what was established, Disney's remaining linear offering will stick around for the foreseeable future. This was partially due to the absence of Disney+ in parts of the above-mentioned regions and another income as these brands help sustain Disney+.

As seen in the last few months, Disney Channel has been running low on content with shows like Bunk'd and The Ghost And Molly McGee axed. The channel has become a graveyard for Disney+ with programming like Cars On The Road and Chip'n Dale: Park Life.

Part of this may have to do with the actor's strike back in 2023 but honestly it wouldn't seem far fetched if more consolidation were underway. There's been a decline in linear consumption and also these affects have been underway across the world.

If anything, Disney XD could as well shut down in the United States with content being integrated between Disney Channel and Disney+. While Disney Junior's remaining linear offering in parts of the world could revert back to a mere programming block on Disney Channel.

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.

Could The River Be Changing Channels On DStv As Champions Debuts On Mzansi Magic?

Mzansi Magic is set to rollout Champions a sports based drama starring Sello Maake ka-Ncube, Tumisho Masha, and Jo-anne Reyneke by early February. It brought various questions from consumers as the show will debut in the timeslot of The River.

As several readers are aware, MultiChoice will be axing both 1Magic and Me prior to Champions debut. For several days, media outlets had been wondering how MultiChoice plans to retain their black premium audience as 1Magic serves as the M-Net's BET channel.

In ongoing conversations with the pay-tv company, it had been mentioned a replacement channel for specifically 1Magic was in development but no word on Me. Leading us to believe that M-Net and MultiChoice could be looking to merge these two channels.

Compact+ has been declining in linear consumption for several years as MultiChoice moves channels like ESPN 2 and Comedy Central to lower tailored bouquets. If anything, it's only a matter of time till MultiChoice opts to discontinue or fold it onto premium.

Although the content for this rumoured channel has yet to be confirmed, we presume M-Net could try to make it a more independent tier from Me as seen with 1Magic at the time. This channel would be the exclusive home to The Real Housewives alongside Beat Shazam and Bel-Air.

If possible from what other outlets presume, they could burn off The River onto this channel making Mzansi Magic the premier destination for local content while brands like Mzansi Wethu serve as the backburner.

Showmax had been producing various content that would often fold under Mzansi Magic. Perhaps, MultiChoice will look at redirecting these shows should a replacement channel be in the works.

Early reception never mentioned a replacement, if anything fans of local dramas on 1Magic would migrate to Mzansi Magic with selected content from Me on Universal TV. But when you look at it doesn't seem far fetched as M-Net also offers content you won't find elsewhere.

Me despite how the channel was perceived is very much necessity to DStv consumers. How else are consumers going to view shows like Summertide or Kitchen Rules SA I mean they could as well transmit on Mzansi Wethu to give the channel purpose to the Compact household.

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.

New Channel Alert: Africa's First Housing Channel Debuts On StarTimes Channel 149, To Launch On DStv By March 2024

During the month, Nigeria’s leading affordable housing advocate, Festus Adebayo had announced the establishment of a first of its kind African home channel, Housing TV Africa. It is set to take on brands like HGTV and The Home Channel with a curated local offering.

According to a press statement, the purpose of establishing Housing TV Africa on StarTimes Channel 149 is basically to bring awareness campaigns down to various homes in Africa.

He further stated that the TV channel was to be extended to DStv before the end of 2023, until it was delayed to March 2024. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa would have marketed the launch on the pay-tv platform had it launched earlier.

Housing TV Africa will have 65% housing related contents, leaving the remaining 35% to contents around educative, political, sports, religion, entertainment, among others. Basically, it will not only be duplicating The Home Channel but Soweto TV as well.

In other developments, MultiChoice will be axing both 1Magic and Me from the DStv platform by early February. They served as M-Net's remaining linear offering to boost an extensive line-up of international content with the latter now folded under existing linear channels and Showmax.

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.

Reminder: Revamped Showmax Streamer Launches This February And Is Cheaper

Ten months after MultiChoice, Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky announced a joint streaming vision for Africa, the new Showmax is here, featuring a refreshed brand and a massive content lineup, all delivered on a powerful new streaming platform.

At the heart of the new offering is the world’s first standalone Premier League plan for mobile, with all 380 games offered live on Showmax Premier League for just R69 a month.

In addition, there are two more Showmax plans available to customers in 44 African countries: Showmax Entertainment on mobile for an unbelievable R39 a month at launch, as well as the Showmax Entertainment plan, where the monthly price falls from R99 to R89 per month.

“There are currently just over 450 million smartphones in the hands of individuals across Africa … and more than 250 million avid football lovers on the continent,” says Marc Jury, CEO of Showmax. “Showmax Premier League is a game-changing product that gives individuals a ticket to the football they love, wherever they are, on the device they always have with them, at a price that’s impossible not to love.”

“Africa is incredibly important to the Premier League and our clubs; 20% of TV audiences on any given matchday come from Africa,” says Richard Masters, Premier League CEO. “We are delighted with this Showmax initiative, which puts the Premier League in your pocket at a new price point so that millions more can enjoy our fantastic competition.”

Core to the success of Showmax’s streaming ambitions in Africa is a new technical platform that is robust and built to scale. With the launch of Showmax, the Peacock streaming platform will be active in more than 70 countries and is continually enhanced by the combined expertise of thousands of engineers. The world-class platform has brought millions of viewers popular events such as Super Bowl LVI, the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 final, the Olympics and WrestleMania 39. On 13 January, Peacock’s exclusive AFC Wild Card Game became the biggest live-streamed event in US history, reaching 27.6 million viewers and a record 16.3 million concurrent devices. In 2023, Comcast won a Technology and Engineering Emmy Award for its sports viewing experiences across Peacock, Sky and Xfinity.

“Peacock’s best-in-class technology platform will deliver a world-class streaming experience to Showmax audiences,” said Patrick Miceli, Executive Vice President & Chief Technology Officer, Direct-to-Consumer & International, NBCUniversal. “The Peacock platform was designed from day one to support both live and on-demand content, including the biggest live sporting events, so we look forward to extending that capability and reliability to the new Showmax.”

Alongside the Premier League, the new Showmax also opens the door to a thrilling entertainment universe spanning a wide range of stars and stories across multiple genres. With no fewer than 21 new Showmax Originals launching in February alone, there will be more than 1 300 hours of Showmax Originals produced in the coming year, representing a significant 150% increase in production output compared to the year before.

Complementing this powerful African content slate is an international offering that will give viewers cause for celebration. As a result of MultiChoice’s partnership with Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky, Showmax is guaranteed an ongoing supply of the world’s most popular titles from the media giant’s renowned brands, including Universal Pictures, Focus Features, NBC, Peacock, DreamWorks Animation and Telemundo. The stellar content lineup includes films like the latest instalment in the hit Fast franchise, Fast X, and Wes Anderson’s comedy-drama Asteroid City; procedural drama series such as NBC’s The Irrational starring Jesse L. Martin; and Peacock original comedy series Killing It, from the creative team behind Brooklyn Nine-Nine, starring Craig Robinson.

Showmax will also continue to draw from the likes of Paramount, including Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning and Halo S2 in February, and HBO, with new seasons of House of the Dragon, The Last of Us, True Detective, and The White Lotus on the way.

Showmax’s content offering is further boosted by its focus on the African market and strengthened by the vast creative and commercial presence already established by MultiChoice. “Nobody understands Africa like we do. Showmax is putting the continent first with a powerful streaming service that will revolutionise streaming in Africa in 2024,” says Calvo Mawela, MultiChoice Group CEO.

With the content and platform providing strong foundations for the new Showmax, ease of access for customers is another key business priority. As the first streaming service in Africa to make mobile downloads possible for offline viewing and the first to launch a mobile-only plan, Showmax has now delivered incredibly competitive new price points, with a growing network of payment options available to customers.

This payment ecosystem is facilitated by Moment, another MultiChoice joint venture partner. Working with more than 200 payment partners such as banks, mobile money providers, retailers and payment schemes, Moment is building the broadest pan-African payments network. In addition, DStv customers will continue to have the option of adding Showmax to their DStv bill each month and benefitting from significant discounts. Showmax will be announcing additional partnerships soon that will offer even more value to customers.

The new Showmax app will become available in app stores from 23 January 2024 onward, as part of a staggered migration process across 44 markets. This is an ongoing process that starts next week and will be completed in February this year. Existing Showmax customers will begin receiving communication with information on how to access the new app this week and by 12 February 2024 the new Showmax will be live in all markets.