The Walt Disney Company Investing More Than 500 Series For Regional Content For Disney+, This Includes More Regional European Animation and Anime For The Animation Catalog

Disney has previously revealed it has 500 shows in the pipeline outside of the U.S., but on Wednesday, the company broke down for the first time how those planned local-language programs are being dispersed throughout global regions.

According to Christine M. McCarthy, senior executive vice president and chief financial officer, 140 of those shows are in the works in the Asia/Pacific region, including Southeast Asia; 150 are in markets in Europe, West Asia and Africa; 100 are set up in India, and another 200 are being developed for Latin America audiences.

 

 

Elsewhere on the call, CEO Bob Chapek was pressed by analysts on another international topic: Disney’s lack of traction in recent months with getting its movies approved for release in China. Noting that the latest MCU release — “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” — reached nearly $500 million worldwide in its opening weekend without a berth in China, the world’s most populous country, Chapek said the box office split in China is not as generous for distributors as it is in other overseas markets.

 

‘It doesn’t really preclude our success, given the relatively lower take rate that we get in the box office in China compared to the rest of the world,” Chapek said.

Ahead of Disney’s quarterly earnings call on Wednesday, the company reported Disney+ gained 7.9 million customers in the first three months of 2022 to reach 137.7 million subscribers total. That new figure is up 33% year over year. The stat beat analysts expectations, as Wall Street had forecast Disney+ would net 5.2 million new subscribers for the quarter that ended on March 31, per FactSet.

Disney+ is currently available in 64 countries across North America, Europe, Asia/Pacific and Latin America. Disney+ Hotstar is offered by Disney in India.

 

Disney’s trio of streaming services reached 205.6 million globally (a quarterly net increase of 9.2 million, driven by Disney+). As of the end of the quarter, that included 45.6 million for Hulu (up 10% year over year) and 22.3 million for ESPN+ (up 62% year over year). Disney+ subs in the U.S./Canada region netted 1.5 million in the March 2022 quarter, to 44.4 million.

Also during the call, McCarthy said, while Disney had previously expected fiscal ’22 content spending to be as much as $33 billion, it now projects about $32 billion because of a “slightly slower cadence of spending than anticipated” during the first half of 2022.

Disney Will Cease Broadcast Of Disney XD, Nat Geo Wild, Nat Geo Kids, FX Movies And Star Life In Latin America With Disney Junior In Brazil

With the arrival of Disney+, the mouse company was highly motivated in the last couple of years to exterminate its existing pay television channels around the world in order to benefit its subscription streaming platform.

With the announcement given in mid-2021 by the CEO of the company Bob Chapek in which 100 international casualties were promised, it was a matter of time for this mass murder to affect Latin America and it seems that Disney will finally play its cards in the region.

Initially, the company did not make major changes in the television field than to change the name of the Fox channels, replacing it with the Star brand for legal reasons, drastically modify the content broadcast on its main children's channels (to enhance the one that is already on demand on Disney+), and reducing the signals available in the territory (the so-called 'feeds'), in addition to a notable lack of interest in their maintenance and promotion.

These last three events were enough evidence to begin to think that Disney was already planning the worst for many of these channels that suffered these dreaded consequences, especially since, certainly, they became useless signals by having taken a good portion of their programming for to make it exclusive to Disney+, and what was left on broadcast was already distributed on said platform.

It should also be remembered that, in August 2021, Disney launched the Star+ service, in an attempt to earn more money with two different platforms, significantly affecting the channels of a more mature audience, such as the Star Channel itself, than during Its advertising strategy promised to maintain the same programming as always, but only half a year later it aggressively reduced the daily broadcasts of The Simpsons, its star series, among other changes that made the star's service not to the liking of consumers.

This also hurt Star Premium channels (i.e.,  Star Hits, Star Series, Star Action, Star Comedy, Star Fun, Star Cinema, and Star Classics ), whose programming became repetitive and not at all innovative as for a premium television package., a market quite obsolete today but that HBO manages to keep current with premieres and original productions, which ended up digging Star Premium's own grave after so many years on the air.

And that is how it can be confirmed that the company will also end Disney XD, Nat Geo Wild, Nat Geo Kids, FX Movies and Star Life in Latin America and Disney Junior in Brazil at the moment. All these channels, whose course could already be foreseen for months, will be discontinued as of March 31 2022, thus adding to the aforementioned signals belonging to the Star Premium group, which will say goodbye at the end of this month : January 31st.

In the case of Disney XD, its end in Latin America was something that viewers were rumored for 2 years, after the announcement of the channel ceasing its broadcasts in India to be replaced by a Marvel-themed signal (the famous ' Marvel HQ ' , which in any case was already discontinued on December 1 with almost 2 years on the air), added to several international versions of the channel that said goodbye during this time without having any kind of substitute.

This information initially came from a letter from Disney sent to a cable operator last Wednesday, December 22, but which came to light on the morning of this Monday, January 10, in a portal post, remaining as a rumor until hours later. it was finally confirmed and it is already a true fact. All the channels already officially named have their days numbered.

You can also find me through the other platforms by pressing this link in brackets (Lnk.Bio).

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- List of series launching this year on Disney+
- National Geographic Kids launching later in the year across Africa
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- Kartoon Channel and Moonbug Kids reach new heights, could DStv or StarSat perhaps get it?

National Geographic Reportedly Closing Down In The UK And Possibly The Rest Of The World

After 24 years, National Geographic and possibly National Geographic Wild end their run in the UK as The Walt Disney Company moves further content to their streaming service Disney+ as direct-to-consumer business is the company's top priority.

According to a source from Digital Spy, there's currently discussion between Sky and Virgin with The Walt Disney Company over switching to a new feed. As of right now, National Geographic is expected to migrate onto Disney+ next month.

Still no confirmation if this includes National Geographic Wild but it seems very likely.

Last year, it was reported National Geographic production hub in the UK had been aligned with Disney EMEA. This only increased suspicion for the brand's possible demise for viewers in that region.

Aside from that, their linear offering in the main market has seen a decline in households with all brands losing between 7-10 million consumers as Disney+ viewership skyrocketed.

Internationally, The Walt Disney Company has closed down several FOX and Disney Channels in phases and the UK will supposedly be the first to close National Geographic.

In EMEA, the channel(s) will likely close down by the end of 2023 or sometime in 2024. Something to mention about this market is that they usually target the A before the EME.

Disney XD closed down in Africa by September 2020 and the rest of Europe followed by the end of 2020. FOX closed down a year after the channel with other parts of Europe packing the channel for now.

It's likely that Disney Channel and National Geographic will close down in Africa before the rest of Europe. Disney+ is launching in South Africa later in the year and rollout in more markets overtime and 2024 gives them plenty of time to expand their reach.

You can also find me through the other platforms by pressing this link in brackets (Lnk.Bio).

Read Also:
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- Boomerang reportedly closing down across Europe, Middle East and Africa
- Disney+ greenlit several African animation
- January on TNT, Cartoon Network and Boomerang
- January on Disney Channel and Disney Junior
- Upcoming programming for Cartoonito in Europe, Middle East and Africa
- January on Da Vinci Kids
- January on Nickelodeon, Nicktoons and Nick Jr

International Educational And Entertainment Programme National Geographic Kids Coming To Africa In 2022

Geographic Kids Africa, which focuses on developing local content surrounding the environment, conservation, and associated topics important to children and their communities. The project aims to inspire and promote behaviour change in its audiences. To protect the world in which they live through engendering a deeper understanding of the natural environment.

The undertaking includes a 26-part television series to be shot primarily in East Africa but with additional filming in West and Southern Africa. The series will be produced by The Walt Disney Company, in association with Kenya-based WildlifeDirect. WildlifeDirect will collaborate on research and creative approaches. National Geographic Kids Africa will air across the continent on National Geographic Wild. It will extend into engaging digital platforms that further explore biodiversity, wildlife and the natural world, and the threats and challenges experienced.

Extending the reach of the National Geographic Kids Africa initiative further, a community outreach project will be launched by implementation partner WildlifeDirect across East Africa, aiming to encourage learners from 200 schools to make a lasting impact on the conservation of species-rich landscapes. By investing in knowledge and skills, through tools such as conservation hubs, educational resources, bespoke educator training and more, the outreach program aims to develop a passionate community of young explorers with the fascination and desire to protect their continent and their world.

National Geographic Kids Africa will be produced entirely in Africa by African storytellers. The stories, leadership and expertise of African conservationists and communities will be prominently featured.

The US Department of State, US Embassies, and local partners in Africa will enhance this initiative through multiple academic, cultural, and professional exchanges. The Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs’ people-to-people exchange programs will support professional development and skills sharing across sectors, including conservation, the creative industries, tourism and sustainable practices. Exchange programs create lasting connections and harness attention on conservation and the importance of protecting the natural world. The Department’s Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs will continue to lead diplomatic efforts to expand and strengthen policy and programs to conserve and protect nature.

Christine Service, General Manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa, adds:

“For over 133 years, the core mission of National Geographic has been to ignite the explorer in everyone through thought-provoking, fact-based storytelling from scientists, explorers, photographers and filmmakers. This initiative will bring children from across the continent into the conversation and, in doing so, energize the next generation of environmental advocates through this innovative and engaging programme.”

Says Dr Paula Kahumbu, CEO of WildlifeDirect:

“We are deeply humbled and proud to be working with some of the world’s greatest institutions, the US Department of State, USAID, Disney and National Geographic, to transform conservation outcomes in Africa by inspiring people in Africa and around the world through the authentic voices of Africa's young heroes. This series is a first in so many ways, not least the unique partnership but also because of outreach efforts which will deliver a positive impact on nature across the region.”

In addition to amplifying local voices around conservation, the National Geographic Kids Africa initiative supports vital policy goals in addressing the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. US climate and conservation diplomacy aspires to realize economic growth, energy security, and a healthy planet. The loss of nature and her gifts affect all people, and bold action to tackle these twin crises is more urgent than ever.
By engaging the next generation, National Geographic Kids Africa is a critical part of this effort. The series will tell the story of forward-thinking climate and conservation action in inspiring ways. It will highlight the work of African children across the continent and encourage others in Africa to make a difference in their way.

Says Matthew Lussenhop, Acting Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, US Department of State:

“A key element of our charge is to address the environmental, social, political, and economic challenges we all face. We look forward to enhancing this important initiative with people-to-people exchanges to inspire and connect the next generation of conservationists, filmmakers and leaders in Africa who will create lasting change to protect their natural environment. This partnership represents an innovative way forward to address some of the most pressing issues of our time.”

USAID’s conservation programming plays a critical role in ensuring the world’s most vulnerable people can secure their health and well-being while managing and conserving their natural wealth. Through partnerships with governments, communities, and the private sector in 60 countries, USAID works to protect biological systems and improve the lives of people who depend on them. These conservation activities also reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase carbon storage. USAID’s nature-based solutions are building people’s resilience, priority ecosystems, and economies to climate change.

Says Karl Fickenscher, Acting Assistant Administrator of the Bureau for Development, Democracy, and Innovation (DDI), USAID:

“National Geographic Kids Africa embodies USAID's new vision for global development that combines working together with our US State Department colleagues, our private sector partner, The Walt Disney Company, and our local Kenyan partner WildlifeDirect. We could not be prouder to stand alongside them, and perhaps most importantly, alongside the students, young environmentalists, and kids from communities across Africa, who will work to protect and conserve the world around them— today and in the future.”

The goal is partnering with African filmmakers to tell African stories around conservation and environmental themes to reach African and global audiences. In addition, National Geographic Kids Africa will further advance The Walt Disney Company’s longstanding commitment to environmental stewardship, which goes back to its founding more than 90 years ago. Walt Disney himself said that: “conservation isn’t just the business of a few people. It’s a matter that concerns all of us.” National Geographic Kids Africa is another way The Walt Disney Company focuses on helping to protect the planet.
Currently, in pre-production, the National Geographic Kids Africa programme is set for a mid-to-late 2022 rollout across Africa.

You can find me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

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- Universal Kids launches in Korea, could South Africa follow?
- African Animation Network launching an experimental animation block
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Could National Geographic Be On The Chopping Block Following The UK Alignment To Disney EMEA Production Hub?

The Nat Geo UK-based commissioning and production team has been restructured and now feeds into Disney’s EMEA production hub, reporting to Liam Keelan.

The move is understood to have taken place several weeks ago, with the Nat Geo London-based team now focusing on international productions, regional European and local market productions. The team is also working closely with London-based Sean Doyle, Disney’s Director of Original Production, Unscripted General Entertainment for Europe and Africa, it is understood.

The Nat Geo team, which comprises the likes of Commissioning Editors Carolyn Payne and Simon Raikes, Associate Producer, Development and Production Alexander Lawson and Production and Development Coordinator Daisy Bryant, now reports into Keelan, Disney’s Vice President Original Content, Europe and Africa, whose main focus is Disney+. Keelan, a former BBC Studios scripted exec and BBC commissioner who joined 18 months ago, reports into Diego Londono, EMEA EVP, Media Networks and Content.

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Disney, which owns Nat Geo, is looking to prioritize two-year-old streamer Disney+ and, alongside adult-skewing vertical Star, the Nat Geo vertical sits on the platform, consisting of high-end shows such as Limitless With Chris Hemsworth.

The Nat Geo UK team previously reported straight to Nat Geo US and commissions a number of international and US shows per year including the likes of Buried Secrets Of The Bible, Drain the Oceans and Mars: One Day on the Red Planet.

Given Disney’s desire to drive international subs to Disney+, one UK indie sector source familiar with the team said integrating the two “makes perfect sense.”
Another countered that Nat Geo UK has lost a degree of autonomy that came with pitching ideas straight to the US.

“This feels like a return to an older model where there are more regional commissions and to fund them well they need to get buy-in from other regions,” added the second source.

Disney+ has so far commissioned 21 international series, of which 16 are scripted and five non-scripted, most recently unveiling Spanish drama original Balenciaga (working title) at Disney+ Day, as the team targets 60 by 2024.

Non-scripted offerings include David Beckham competition Save Our Squad.

Keelan has spent the last couple of years building up his team and it now features two ex-Channel 4 commissioners, Sean Doyle and Lee Mason, who oversee non-scripted and scripted respectively, while Johanna Devereaux is also Director, Scripted Content, EMEA.

You can find me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
 
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Disney Africa Showcase: Here's What You Can Expect On FOX, Disney, ESPN And National Geographic

FOX:
- War Of The Worlds season 2 premieres 24 May
- Marvel's Helstorm premieres 12 July at 8:45pm
Daimon and Ana Helstrom are the son and daughter of a mysterious and powerful serial killer; the siblings have a complicated dynamic as they track down the terrorizing worst of humanity.
- Further seasons of The Resident and Grey's Anatomy

National Geographic (June):
- Storm Rising (new series)
- The Grand African Green Up, Friday 4 at 6pm
The Grand African Green Up tells the story of people across Africa that are restoring their landscapes, from the dry forests of Senegal to the green hills of Kenya.
- Lawless Island season 3, Monday 14 at 7pm
- Impact With Gal Gadot, Sunday 27 at 9pm
National Geographic Presents: IMPACT with Gal Gadot is a short-form documentary series that follows the powerful stories of six women who are making an extraordinary impact on their communities around the world.
- Genius: Aretha, Wednesday 30 at 9pm
Aretha Louise Franklin's relationship with her preacher father C.L. Franklin from a young girl through to adulthood, her marriage to her agent/husband Ted White, as well as her introduction to music producer Jerry Wexler are portrayed.

National Geographic (July):
- Airport Security: Rome season 8, Thursday 15 at 7pm
- Bob Ballard: An Explorer's Life, Wednesday 14 at 7pm

National Geographic Wild (June):
- Kangaroo King, Sky Safari and Wild Australia, Sundays at 6pm
- New season of Alaska Animal Rescue

National Geographic Wild (July)
- New season of The Incredible Dr. Pol
- 9th annual SharkFest
- America's Funniest Home Videos: Animal Edition (new series)

ESPN (June):
- NBA playoffs live
- MLB: Red Sox, Dodgers, Yankees, Mets.
- Australia's National Rugby League (NRL):
3: Dragons/Broncos 11:50
12: Rabbitohs/Knights 9:30
18: Panthers/Roosters 11:55
20: Titans/Sea Eagles 8:05

ESPN (July):
- NBA Finals
- NHL playoffs for new Stanley cup winners
- MLS Atlanta United, LAFC, D.C. United, LA Galaxy to feature in games.
- Australia's National Rugby League

Disney Channel:
- My Magic Is Me premieres 25 May (press release below)
- Movies for June: Kim Possible, Avalon High, Tangled: Before Ever After and Bad Hair Day
- A new live-action movie called SPIN is coming to Disney Channel.
- A new live-action series called Secrets Of The Sulphur Springs is coming to Disney Channel.
- A new Miraculous World Shanghai once-off TV special is coming followed by the fourth season of Miraculous on Disney Channel.

Disney Junior:
- Disney Junior reaches 7 million viewers in South Africa (including 20% of TV kids)
- New season 4 episodes of PJ Masks from 7 to 11 June and 14 to 18 June at 9am
- New episodes of Vampirina from 14 to 18 June at 12:30pm
- New episodes of T.O.T.S from 21 to 25 June at 1pm
- New episodes of The Rocketeer is coming in July followed by Bluey season 2 and Muppet Babies season 3 in August then season 3 of Puppy Dog Pals in October.
- New animated series Chicken Squad airs in September 2021.

Additional info:
- A host of special 9/11 programmes is coming in September, including 9/11: One Day in America.

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DISNEY CHANNEL PREMIERES LOCAL SHORT-FORM CONTENT SERIES

“MY MAGIC IS ME”, THIS AFRICA DAY

Brought to screens in collaboration with FNB, the live-action and animation short series celebrate the diverse and unique stories of young viewers

The Walt Disney Company Africa today announced the premiere of My Magic is Me, a new locally-produced series of live-action and animated short-form content that celebrates every-day kids. Premiering on Africa Day, Tuesday 25 May, the content will play across Disney Channel (DStv, Channel 303) and other channels in the Disney portfolio, as well as on Disney Africa’s social media and digital platforms.

In each of the one-minute live-action short films, viewers will be introduced to one of a group of twelve children from diverse backgrounds, who have been cast as the leads in their own personal story. Each will share what it is that makes them uniquely and extraordinarily them – their interests, their talents, their aspirations, their language, culture, internal and external traits, all creating their own distinctive brand of authentic magic. In addition to these live-action shorts, each child’s story will be further brought to life through a moving original locally-produced animation short that will play across Disney’s social and digital platforms, giving young viewers an opportunity to see their world’s commemorated in true Disney-inspired fashion.

Each episode is themed according to one of Carl Jung’s 12 Brand Archetypes, including the warrior child to the caregiver, creator and mentor. The story begins with each child entering the Disney Story Pod – a magical Afro-futuristic themed space, complete with their own personal touches and decorations, a baobab tree and more. Once settled, each child depicts themselves through artistic drawing at the table of creation as they share their personal story.

Inspired by Disney Channel’s core values of entertaining, informing and inspiring children across the globe, My Magic is Me also aims to strengthen the narrative of self-acceptance and celebration of diversity.

“At Disney we know that stories shape how we see ourselves and everyone around us. We also know that stories are better when the storytellers represent the vast experiences of the people who will hear or see them,” says Evert van der Veer, Vice President, Media Networks, The Walt Disney Company Africa. “My Magic is Me is inspired by this ethos and is an opportunity for young viewers to see themselves proudly depicted on screen, and celebrated in a unique way that pays tribute to the diverse backgrounds, perspectives and individuality that make all of them magic.”

My Magic is Me was filmed under the guidance of educational psychologist and play therapist Chery Radley van Staden and is produced in collaboration with Brainbow Conscious Creatives, an African women-owned brand storytelling agency that specialises in creating Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) narrative work. Understanding that, in the foundational phase of development, children’s personalities and identities are greatly shaped by their environment and their interaction with family and those around them, the creative teams strove to ensure that not only would children see themselves represented, but also show them that they are valued and accepted as they are.

First National Bank (FNB) has collaborated with The Walt Disney Company Africa to bring My Magic is Me to audiences, as the official sponsor of the short-form content series.

Bonga Sebesho, Head of Sponsorship at FNB says, “FNB is proud to team up with The Walt Disney Company Africa on this fantastic initiative. Our long-term collaboration with Disney, starting with live events, was informed by FNB’s positioning as a family bank and this initiative speaks to children, the heart of families. FNB is firmly committed to the spirit of diversity and encouraging children, in all communities, to be the best they can be.”

My Magic is Me kicks off from Africa Day, Tuesday 25 May on Disney Channel (DStv, Channel 303) and other channels in the Disney portfolio, as well as on Disney Africa’s social media and digital platforms*.

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February 2021 On National Geographic Wild Africa | Big Cat Month | Continuation

Big Cat Month is a month-long, annual programming event on National Geographic Wild. The stunt is designed to appeal to blue chip / natural history viewers looking to see the majesty and power of these animals and learn something new. In addition, it allows National Geographic to highlight the work the National Geographic Society is doing to protect big cats and their habitats through the Big Cats Initiative with Derek and Beverly Joubert.

Jade Eyed Leopard
Sunday 7 February at 18:00

Her name is “Toto,” Swahili for small, with the most striking, bright, aquamarine eyes.  She was born under a safari camp tent in the Maasai Mara in Kenya. JADE EYED LEOPARD, narrated by Emmy-nominated and Oscar-winning actor Jeremy Irons (“Watchmen”), reveals the first three years of Toto’s life as she learns the fundamental skills of survival and makes her passage to adulthood. World-renowned filmmakers, National Geographic Explorers and big cat conservationists Dereck and Beverly Joubert uncover Toto’s tale with stunning perspective — shot in pristine 4K and seldom-before-seen thermal night vision views.

Leopard & Hyena: Strange Alliance
Sunday 7 February at 18:45

When Toni, a young male hyena is expelled from his clan, he forms an unexpected hunting partnership with Mahri, a female leopard. But predator enemies are waiting to drive a wedge between them. After an explosive attack from wild dogs, Toni must decide between returning to Mahri or joining a clan of his own.

Diary of a Teen Leopard
Sunday 7 February at 19:30

Pemba is a Mamma’s Boy! At two-years old, he should be independent, but he’s still living at home! Like most teenagers, he’s impatient and headstrong, which makes him bad at stalking and hunting, so Mom provides all their meals. But when Mom is injured Pemba is forced to grow up fast in order to survive! Can he sever those apron strings and face his fears to launch into adulthood?  

A Leopard’s Legacy
Sunday 7 February at 20:25

A confident and powerful leopardess named Olimba, rules over an exceptionally large area along Zambia’s Luangwa river. She is a formidable hunter, a courageous ruler, and a devoted mother. She’s just given birth to two tiny cubs, and as she faces the challenging task of motherhood, it’s a constant battle to hunt successfully, to defend her prime territory, and to protect her cubs against her enemies. During their first few months, the cubs go from strength to strength, as Olimba introduces them to the world of a carnivore. But whenever she goes out hunting, she leaves them vulnerable. One day, Olimba discovers a nomadic male leopard near her cubs, and without hesitation, she attacks him. He makes a lucky escape, but when Olimba returns to the den, one of her cubs is gone. As she comes to terms with her loss, Olimba forges on as a devoted mother, and passes on all her knowledge to her blue-eyed boy, named Makumbi. When he’s a year old and succeeds in hunting his own prey, Olimba parts ways with her son. But their final hostile encounter leaves the youngster vulnerable, with a dreadful eye injury. His resilience and fighting spirit see him through, and despite his blind eye, he turns into a strong-willed hunter.

Frozen Kingdom of the Snow Leopard
Monday 8 February at 6:50 & 10:05
Shot over three years in China's Qhinghai Mountains and with never-before-seen footage, The Frozen Kingdom of the Snow Leopard tells the story of a devout female snow leopard who settles into an unfamiliar valley to give birth and raise her two cubs despite incredible odds.

Cecil: The Legacy of a King
Sunday 14 February at 18:00

This incredible special follows the life and legacy of one of the world's most famous lions - Cecil. The ultimate big cat king, Cecil was a warrior, a father and a loyal brother. But his untimely death at the hands of an illegal hunt - spelled the end of his extraordinary reign; evoking feelings of fury and sadness to all who heard his tale across the globe. This special will look at the life of the lion behind the headlines, it will look at his pride before and after his death as well as how he came to be Africa's ultimate king of the beasts.
 
Seregenti Speed Queen
Sunday 21 February at 18:00

Nzuri is the Speed Queen of the Serengeti - but being fast isn’t enough. She’s constantly bullied by hyenas on the grassland and hunted by lions in the marsh. When two of her cubs are killed, the family is exiled to the transition forest. There, she learns to adapt her hunting methods and adds strategy to speed in order to outwit her enemies and steer her remaining cubs successfully to adulthood.
 
Tiger Queen of Taru 
Sunday 28 February at 18:00
Filmed over six years, the story of Maya the tigress plays out in a tiger reserve in Tadoba, Central India. Here, Bengal tigers chase wild dogs, fight sloth bears and feud among themselves over bloodlines and territory in never-before seen footage. Maya writes her own rules when it comes to raising a litter, yet motherhood doesn’t come easy. One thing is clear, Maya will do whatever it takes to secure her bloodline within the Kingdom of Taru. 

SNAKES IN THE CITY S7
Mondays at 18:00 from 25 January 

Episode 2 (1 February at 18:00): A hitchhiking forest cobra at a wedding keeps Simon and Siouxsie guessing and an emergency black mamba callout turns into a canine rescue mission.

Episode 3: (8 February at 18:00): Simon and Siouxsie try to secure a black mamba escape artist, wrangle an irate python, and catch a cat killer.

Episode 4: (15 February at 18:00): Simon has his hands full with a lightning fast mamba and an unidentified snake terrorizes a school, before Siouxsie handles the deadliest of the lot.

Episode 5: (2 February at 18:00): Synopsis TBC

The channel is available on DStv, Starsat and StarTimes.

February 2021 On National Geographic Africa | New Seasons

EUROPE FROM ABOVE S2
Wednesdays at 21:00 from 10 February

This series of spectacular aerial journeys reveal the world's most remarkable nations as they've never been seen before.  From the Acropolis in Greece to the construction of the world's longest bridge in Turkey, and Finland's giant ice breaking ships. This all access aerial documentary lays bare the traditions, innovations and breakthroughs that continue to shape these modern nations today.

AIR CRASH INVESTIGATION: SPECIAL REPORT S4
Thursdays at 20:00 from 11 February

In this special season of Air Crash Investigation, every episode examines multiple aviation disasters that prove to have similarities including engines that separated from their aircrafts mid-flight, mismatched pilot pairings that led to deadly crashes, and improvised landings with tragic consequences.

FOOD FACTORY S3
Tuesdays at 20:00 from 23 February

Behind each bag of chips, can of beer, bar of chocolate, and loaf of bread is a mega-industrial production line that brings each product to the masses. Food Factory is a mesmerising behind-the-scenes peek into the weird and wonderful processes that produce everyone's favourite foods.

From fresh ingredients to finished products, Food Factory reveals in awe-inspiring detail just how mass-produced favourites are really made. Put on a hard hat and get ready to meet the food!

Channel is available on DStv, Starsat and StarTimes.

January 2021 On National Geographic Wild Africa

SAVAGE KINGDOM S4
Sundays at 18:00, from 3 January (starts with a double bill)

In the epic fourth season of Emmy-nominated SAVAGE KINGDOM, narrated by Charles Dance (“Game of Thrones”), comes the eagerly awaited real-life drama from the heart of Mombo, Northern Botswana, where peace never lasts long, and power comes with a price. Since the tumultuous aftermath of the previous season, the Kingdom’s kings and queens return to purge the land of hyena rule and regain their rightful control.

The worst drought in decades has devastated the area, making it the perfect breeding ground for a warzone. The tables are turning; dominance is shifting; and every player in this feline “Game of Thrones” must fight not only to survive but to defend his or her rightful place in an ever-changing, cutthroat kingdom. As more lions, leopards and African wild dogs enter this bloody battlefield to fight for their share of the power, only the strongest and most audacious can be victorious. War is the heartbeat of the SAVAGE KINGDOM. The story of life is written in blood; power is everything; and there can be only one ruler … right?

SNAKES IN THE CITY S7
Mondays at 18:00 from 25 January 

Episode 1: Catching a black mamba at midnight is only part of Simon and Siouxsie's latest challenge. They also bring 25 baby rock pythons into the world.

Read Also:
- Will Star Replace The FOX Branding Internationally?
- New episodes of The Walking Dead return in March on FOX
- January on Disney Channel
- January on Disney Junior
- More countries shut down Disney XD

August 2020 On National Geographic Wild Africa | Predator Bloodline | South America's Weirdest

EQUATOR‘S WILD SECRETS (6 x 60‘)
Sundays at 18:00

Life along the equator is spectacularly diverse. More than half of the world's species live here. Equators Wild Secrets is a 6 part series about the Equator's wildest and most diverse ecosystems - the Amazon, the Andes, the Galapagos Islands, Borneo and Sumatra, Africa, and the Coral Sea. This series features a cornucopia of exotic animals in habitats ranging from steamy rainforests and great grasslands to snowy mountains and great reefs.

PREDATOR BLOODLINE (5 x 60‘)
Mondays at 18:00, from 3 August
Bloodlines... It is through this mechanism that individuals inherit the unique code for survival.
The fight for survival is universal. The fight for legacy sets these six extraordinary characters and their families apart. With our camera lens having captured these animals‘ lives daily for three years, the series allows viewers to witness personalities that defy expectation, to see determination without equal, and to watch these characters navigate the extreme tribulations of life in the wild where bloodlines are everything and they strive at all costs to conquer the ultimate prize: survival for themselves and their kin.

SOUTH AMERICA’S WEIRDEST (3 x 60‘)
Wednesdays at 18:00 from 12 August

South America's Weirdest dives into the depths of the South American wild to investigate the cast of misfits, the oddities, the weird, the eccentric and the truly bizarre. The landscape here is truly one of a kind. So, the animals have evolved accordingly. In the South American wild, strange problems gave rise to even stranger solutions.

Highlights For FOX Channels In Africa At Upfront 2017

Upcoming programming on National Geographic (DStv 181/StarSat 220) include:

Year Million (starting October 2017)
A new docu-drama series exploring what it might be like to be human, one million years into the future. Futurists, scientists and science fiction writers guide viewers through the latest advances in technology, ideas and innovation that will likely power the evolution of mankind. Year Million paints a picture of future humanity through the eyes of a futuristic American family that includes a daughter that's an android.

Long Road Home (starting November 2017)
Based on the 2004 in-country experiences of the army's 1st Calvary Division from Fort Hood, Texas, this tells the story of the soldiers who were ambushed in a Baghdad attack that became known as "Black Sunday". The series cuts between the action on the ground in Iraq and on the homefront back in Texas where families wait for news.

Dian Fossey: Secrets in the Mist (premieres December 2017)
A miniseries with Sigourney Weaver as narrator about Dian Fossey who did mountain gorilla research in Rwanda for 18 years. The series will explore Dian Fossey's word, her death and her murder investigation.

Jane (premieres 2018)
National Geographic has found never-before-seen material in its archives of Jane Goodall and will reveal a candid and little-known-side to Dr Jane Goodall in new footage.

One Strange Rock (premieres 2018)
This new documentary will take viewers inside the planet Earth.

MARS II (premieres 2018)
The new 6-episode second season of MARS currently being filmed in Budapest, will continue to tell the story further after life has been discovered on the Red Planet. The docuseries merges the science fiction drama story on Mars, with real-life scientists and visionaries describing how mankind could use science to live there.

The Story of Us II (premieres 2018)
God The American President Morgan Freeman will once again narrate the second season of this documentary series in which he meets people from different cultures whose lives are shaped through different experiences. This time the hour long episodes will explore "fundamental forces" - like love, power, war and peace, rebellion and freedom.

Genius II (premieres 2018)
The second season of this fictionalised drama series will revolve around the Spanish painter Pablo Picasso, played by Antonio Banderas.

Upcoming programming on Nat Geo WILD (DStv 182/StarSat 221) include:

Snakes in the City (September 2017)
A documentary-style reality TV series revolving around the daily life of the extreme snake bounty hunter Simon Keys living in Durban.

Savage Kingdom II: Uprising (premieres December 2017)
A second season of this "Game of Thrones" like big cat nature series filmed in the Kalahari.

Big Cat month (December 2017)
Several big cat documentaries will be broadcast on Nat Geo WILD during the month of December.

Upcoming programming on FOX (DStv 125/StarSat 131) include:

Empire IV (starts 28 September 2017 21:00, Express from the US)
The 4th season of the drama series Empire with Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard will start in South Africa very soon after episodes run in America for the 2017 fall season. The new season will follow Luscious as he deals with his near-death experience from the season 3 finale.

The Mick II (3 October 2017)
The second season of this comedy series will start on 3 October on FOX about the brash-and-trash Mickey (Kaitlin Olson) who must suddenly look after her niece and nephews.

Star II (premieres January 2018)
The second season of this drama series will only start in January 2018 and it won't be an Express from the US title. It's a problem for South African and African viewers, since the new 4th season of Empire and the second season of Star will have cross-over storylines and episodes. The result is that South African viewers won't be able to properly follow the "disjointed" starting-cross-over-concluding storylines. FOX Africa says it wants to show and complete Empire until its mid-season break, and will then start with Star.

Atlanta II (premieres 2018)
The second season of this drama series will start in 2018 on FOX following two cousins in Atlanta's rap music scene. In January 2018 FOX will also have the second season of the rebooted The X-Files .

FOX also has two more season of its drama anthology series American Crime Story. Versace: American Crime Story will be rolled out first, followed by the season dealing with the impact of Hurricane Katrina. FOX will continue to show seasons and
episodes of American drama and comedy series like Castle, The Simpsons, Grey's Anatomy, Criminal Minds and Bones.

Legion II (premieres 2018)
The second season of this Marvel universe TV series will start in 2018. It follows David Haller who has super mental powers.

Upcoming programming on FOX Life (DStv 126 /StarSat 133) include:

Vintage Z (premieres October 2017)
This new local South African reality series revolves around edgy designer Oscar and his business manager Mandy who run Vintage Zionist in downtown Johannesburg. As an upcoming South African fashion label inspired by leather, the two have their hands full with various challenges.

Reality slot
FOX Life now has a dedicated reality show timeslot from Mondays to Fridays at 19:10, showing first-run international, non-scripted shows.

Turkish telenovelas
In a very interesting development for South African television, FOX Africa has decided to add Turkish telenovelas, dubbed into English, to FOX Life, starting 2 October. Heartbeat will be FOX Life's first Turkish TV delight, stripped on weekdays from Monday 2 October in the 18:25 timeslot, followed by Lodestar.