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).

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What's Coming To Disney+ In 2022 Ahead Of The Launch In South Africa?

Disney+ is scheduled to launch in South Africa by June 2022. It's been speculated that the brand will roll out in phases across Africa as seen and experienced with most other streaming services like BritBox.

As viewers wait here's a list of content coming later in the new year:

Ms. Marvel
Kamala Khan, a fan of the Avengers, particularly Carol Danvers / Captain Marvel, struggles to fit in until she gains her own powers.

Andor
Set five years before the events of Rogue One (2016), the series follows rebel spy Cassian Andor during the formative years of the Rebellion.

Secret Invasion
A sect of shapeshifting aliens, the Skrulls, have infiltrated all aspects of life on Earth.

Willow
Based on the film, princess assembles a party to join her on her quest to rescue her twin brother.

Obi-Wan Kenobi
The series begins with Obi-Wan Kenobi watching over Luke Skywalker on Tatooine, ten years after the events of Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005), and takes the character on a "rollicking adventure".

Moon Knight
Marc Spector, who suffers from dissociative identity disorder, is drawn into a deadly war of gods with his multiple identities.

She-Hulk
Feige described the series as a "half-hour legal comedy" that would be faithful to John Byrne's take on She-Hulk in Marvel Comics.

Limitless With Chris Hemsworth
Chris Hemsworth dangle over a massive chasm, dive into freezing waves, and generally push his body to extremes.

America The Beautiful
Explore the stunning spaces that define America's beauty.

Returning shows:

The Mandalorian
Loki
The Mysterious Benedict Society
High School Musical: The Musical: The Series
Big Shot
The Mighty Duck: Game Changers
Star Wars: The Bad Batch
Monsters At Work
What If...?

List of animated series: click here

Movies:

The Ice Age Adventures Of Buck Land
centering around Buck going on an adventure in the Dinosaur World with Crash and Eddie.

Sneakerella
After falling in love with Kira King, the daughter of basketball star and sneaker tycoon Darius King, an aspirant Queens sneaker designer gains the confidence to pursue his dream of becoming a professional sneaker designer with the help of his best friend, Sami, and his Fairy Godfather.

Better Nate Than Never
Nate Foster, an unpopular 13-year-old from Pittsburgh, has a goal of one day becoming a Broadway musical star. When Nate is repeatedly overlooked, and never cast in the lead roles he deserves, he and his best friend Libby, sneak away to pursue their life's dreams in the Big Apple. A random encounter with his estranged aunt Heidi, turns their adventure upside-down. Only together can they make their dreams come true.

Cheaper By The Dozen
Based on the 1950 film, The two protagonists live with their blended family and manage a family business in New Jersey.

Chip 'n Dale: Rescue Rangers
Years after the Rescue Rangers TV series has ended, Chip and Dale must re-team to save a friend from video piracy.

Pinocchio
Remake of the 1940 film of the same name.

Disenchanted
Fifteen years after her happily ever after, Giselle, Robert, and Morgan move to a new house in the suburb of Monroeville. The community is overseen by Malvina Monroe, who has nefarious intentions for the family. When problems arise, Giselle wishes that their lives were the perfect fairytale. The spell backfires, with Giselle rushing to save her family and her homeland of the Kingdom of Andalasia before the clock strikes midnight.

Hocus Pocus 2
Twenty-nine years after the events of Hocus Pocus (1993), three high-school students must work together to stop the Sanderson sisters who have returned to present-day Salem.

Aladdin: Live From The West End
A special performance of Aladdin was filmed on 2019 after the show had already officially closed.

Diary Of A Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules
Based on the novel Rodrick Rules.

Crater
After his father's death, a boy raised on a lunar mining colony goes on a journey exploring a mysterious crater with his four best friends before he is permanently relocated to another planet.

Hollywood Stargirl
Sequel to the 2020 film Stargirl.

Three Men And A Baby
Reboot of the 1987 comedy film of the same name.

Rise
The true story events follow three Nigerian-Greek brothers, who are raised out of anonymity and thrust into the fame of professional basketball.

Night At The Museum: Kahmunrah Rises Again
The plot centers on Larry's son, Nick, who is hesitant to follow on his father's footsteps as nightwatchman.

Other titles include Peter Pan & Wendy, Untitled Turning Red and Lightyear documentary and The Guardians Of The Galaxy Holiday Special.

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

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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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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.

'The Outlaws' Producer Big Talk Lands UKTV Alien Drama From 'Ghosts' Stars Laurence Rickard and Ben Willbond
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

January 2021 On National Geographic Channel Africa

TRAFFICKED WITH MARIANA VAN ZELLER
Thursdays at 21:00 from 21 January

Award-winning journalist Mariana van Zeller explores the inner workings of the global underworld's most dangerous black markets. In each episode, she journeys inside a different black market - from drugs to guns to tiger parts - to meet the players, learn the business, and unearth the geo-political circumstances and context that create the world's multitrillion-dollar shadow economy.

NARCO WARS
Mondays at 21:00 from 25 January

The Latin American Narco Wars are spiralling out of control. Despite the $1 trillion spent on enforcement and the 2.5 million death toll, more illegal drugs are being produced, trafficked and consumed than ever before.
Featuring interviews and action filmed with key players on both sides of the law, this 10 part series will examine the drug wars - both past and present - to explain why.

INSIDE NORTH KOREA – THE CRIMINAL STATE
Thursday 19 January at 21:00

North Korea, a James Bond villain in the form of a brutal dictatorship self-isolated from the global community as they pick its pockets. Criminal actions skirt sanctions to keep the cash strapped nation afloat.

INSIDE NORTH KOREA – THE CYBER STATE
Thursday 26 January at 21:00

North Korea can now attack without landing a soldier on the ground, and with impunity. From Sony to WannaCry, the North embraces cyber-crime for profit and disruption with a 6000 strong army of cyber criminals worldwide who pick its pockets.

CHANGE MAKERS STUNT
The National Geographic Channel kicks off the new year with a programming stunt showcasing womxn who have brought tremendous change in the world. On Sundays at 21:00 watch women who brave the wild to raise awareness on conservation to those who broke preconceived notions by exploring and furthering the knowledge we have of our planet.

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 Africa | Gordon Ramsay Uncharted 2 | Barksins | America's National Parks Updates | More

GORDON RAMSAY UNCHARTED 2
Wednesdays at 21:00 from 26 August (ends 2 October)

Gordon Ramsay dives, fishes, forages and leaps out of helicopters on another all-action adventure in the pursuit of food. From the big game filled wild of South Africa; and caiman infested jungles of Guyana, to pristine Tasmania, his culinary journey takes in Louisiana's Cajun swamps, Norway's icy fjords, the spice packed mountains of South India and the epic Indonesian Island of Sumatra.

BARKSKINS
Thursdays at 21:00 from 13 August (ends 3 September) Double billed, 2 episodes per week.  

Based on the New York Times bestselling novel by Pulitzer Prize winner Annie Proulx, BARKSKINS follows a disparate group of outcasts and dreamers battling to escape their pasts while navigating the brutal frontier hardships, competing interests and tangled loyalties at the crossroads of civilization: the New World.

AMERICA’S NATIONAL PARKS UPDATES
Mondays at 19:00 from 13 August (ends 28 September)

Get to know the Grand Canyons most notable critters, including a new scene featuring one of the Canyons feistiest residents: the Gila monster.

CONTINUING SHOWS

GATHERING STORM
Mondays at 21:00 from 15 July (ends 19 August)  

A major global series forming a unique view on the planet's fiercest storms, through the experience of people who work at sea inside the major hurricane zones of the world. Through extensive access agreements, hundreds of cameras are embedded on boats, ships and oil platforms. So, as the storm approaches and the clock ticks down we are with the men who witness weather at its wildest, from all angles. All face different challenges, with different cargoes, deadlines and routes. At stake is the job, their cargo, their equipment... and their lives. We tell their greatest stories; the triumphs of engineering, ingenuity and sheer bravery that go along with working in storms at sea. Through their eyes we witness the rise of the storm.  And we experience what it takes to get their job done in the face of nature's wildest weather. To explain what lies behind the unpredictability and danger unfolding on the ocean's surface, these first-hand stories combine with scientific insight, analysis and satellite mapping.

MADE IN A DAY
Tuesdays at 19:00 (double bills) from 29 July (ends 1 September)

The last decade has seen a revolution in manufacturing.  A just-in-time economy means the products we love are being made on a massive scale in record time. Lightning fast logistics mean global trade and distribution happens faster now than ever before. This is the story of how some of today's biggest brands, from Tesla Cars to Gibson Guitars, from Tabasco Sauce to Space Rockets, are made in America.

BANGED UP ABROAD S13
Mondays at 21:00, from 13 July (ends 14 September)

The most tense and dramatic series on TV is back with ten stories of drugs, deception, and dramatic downfalls.

WORLD WAR II HELL UNDER THE SEA
Tuesdays at 21:00, from 14 July (ends 18 August)

World War 2: Hell Under the Sea is an event-based series charting the stealth game of subsea warfare from contact to attack of the greatest submarine patrols of World War II. From the rise of the Wolfpack to the drive for victory in the Pacific, meet the masterminds who brought together the strategy, technology and tactics to make every sailor's worst nightmare to come to life.

SPECIALS

India from Above – Wednesday 19 August at 20:00
Lost Voices of World War II – Tuesday 25 August at 21:00

Starsat/StarTimes Silently Return The Disney Channels After Commercial Issues But Fail To Answer The Mystery Question

Disney has quietly returned it yanked FOX channels as well as the two rebranded ESPN channels to the Chinese-run StarSat pay-TV operator after an absence of four and a half months following a commercial disagreement and contract dispute.

The Walt Disney Company removed its entire FOX Networks Group channels set - FOX, FOX Life, FOX Portuguese, National Geographic, Nat Geo WILD, National Geographic Portuguese, Baby TV, Voyage, National Geographic French, and Nat Geo WILD French – from the Chinese-run StarTimes StarSat with the channels that abruptly went dark without warning in October 2019.

StarSat bizarrely claimed that it decided to remove specifically the FOX channels (although not FOX News) because of alleged "5G cellphone signal testing interference" affecting just these channels. The Walt Disney Company however said that it decided to remove its channels from StarTimes/StarSat since it became fed-up with ongoing commercial issues at the pay-TV operator and decided to pull all of its FOX-supplied channels after negotiations had failed.

In addition, the FOX Sports and FOX Sports 2 channels that were rebranded to ESPN and ESPN following the Disney takeover of 21st Century Fox, failed to materialise as promised in mid-September on StarSat which caused huge embarrassment to both Disney and StarSat.

The FOX channel set quietly flickered back on StarSat on Thursday with no announcement from Evert van der Veer, the vice-president, media networks of The Walt Disney Company Africa or Christine Service, senior vice president of The Walt Disney Company Africa.

Jared Stokes, senior communications manager at The Walt Disney Company Africa said in response to a media enquiry on Thursday from that the company won't issue a press release but that "We can confirm that our channels are currently being provided and are available on StarTimes/StarSat" and referred media enquiries to StarSat.

Disney was asked why the FOX channels and ESPN were returned to StarSat but didn't want to answer the specific questions. In a mobile message sent to just subscribers on Thursday, StarSat said: "Dear Customer, all FOX channels are back on StarSat now". StarSat on Thursday said it would respond with answers posed in a media enquiry but hasn't by the time of publication of this report on Friday morning.

The question remains on what will happen to the supposed replacement channels at the time these Disney Channels went dark Starsat did mention trying to sourcing out alternatives so far you only have Smithsonian and Love Nature that were once replacements for National Geographic. Now, some should wonder if they even sourced out those former replacement channels.

Not only that but Starsat lost Smile of a Child, Trace Africa, Kiss, POP and Animaux so how many of these could eventually be replaced and due to all these Disney Channels will Starsat be able to handle the costs or will they cut back on even more channels and replace some with low standard channels.

Another possible thing is that they could hike the fees like MultiChoice had done this year on some if not all packages and possibly add some more channels to give customers more to indulge and reason to keep subscribing.

National Geographic Kids Plans For Disney+

National Geographic is going to be one of the main core brands of Disney+ and it’s “Nat Geo Kids” division is set to take advantage of its new audience. And with “Nat Geo Kids” getting its own “section” within the Children’s profile section, we can expect to see more new shows from the brand, which also makes a wide range of products including books and magazines.

Disney want the team at “Nat Geo Kids” to develop new content for Disney+, though there isn’t a set number of hours or content quota to fill.

“Nat Geo Kids” is looking to create long-form TV series that are aimed at kids aged from six to 12. This new content can be animated, live action, game shows, and competition series.

“The programming we’re looking for is going to be brainy, fun, fact-filled, inspiring and will really amplify and grow Nat Geo’s mission. It’s an opportunity for us to continue to ramp up across a number of our pillars like animals in nature, exploration and adventure, science and innovation, world culture—all grounded in the fact-based world we live in.” Said Geoff Daniels.

He also confirmed the second season of Weird But True will launch on Disney+ in November. The series consists of 13 x 30 minute episodes, which sees Charlie and Kirby explore the fun, strange and surprising ways the world works.

Other series in development include a Explorer Academy, which is based on the “Nat Geo Kids” Publishing book series of the same name. No details such as a launch date, episode length or run time, were confirmed.

“Explorer Academy is inspired by the work our explorers do, and all the new technologies coming online [that allow kids] to create a meaningful impact on the planet, rooted in conservation they can do. I think it really encapsulates the spirit of adventure and exploration that National Geographic stands for. We’re going to continue to mine that line.”

The new shows from “Nat Geo Kids” are going to be slightly different from the usual National Geographic content as they are looking at pitches and scripts for a variety of projects such as pure fantasy, science fiction and comedy series.

“Right now, Nat Geo Kids reaches 260 million kids globally. I think we’re looking at where those opportunities are, [so we can] continue to roll out Nat Geo Kids and the content we’re building around the world. We are looking to ramp that up over the long haul.”

National Geographic looks set to take advantage of its new opportunity and with full support from its new owners, Disney, it does look like we will have lots of exciting content to look forward to.

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.