How FilmBox Africa, FilmBox Family And FilmBox Action Could Surface On MultiChoice's DStv?

For those who aren't familiar with Canal+ offering within Africa, FilmBox Family and FilmBox Action form part of this lineup alongside FilmBox Africa. Part of which can already be viewed on On Digital Media and StarTimes' StarSat through a separate agreement. 

FilmBox Africa is a basic tier film channel dedicated to a wide audience of movie fans. It offers more than 300 premiere titles every year, and features the best directors’ films, television series and miniseries, as well as high-budget television productions.

FilmBox Action is an adrenaline pumping channel which offers a range of premium movies and series. It is home to the leading stars of action cinema including Bruce Willis, Jean- Claude Van Damme, Steven Seagal, Jet Li and Jackie Chan.

Lastly FilmBox Family offers fun for the whole family with content appealing to both children and adult viewers which include family movies, comedies, fantasy, adventure and more. All the content from the channel is rated G for the general audiences. 

If you take into account the current structure for these channels getting these brands onboard wouldn't be a simple walk in the park. This could lead to some restructuring with the existing DStv offering or in particular brands like M-Net Movies.

Seeing as Canal+ would own MultiChoice basically M-Net Movies would therefore be the English counterpart to the current Canal+ Cinema in the region. This offering comprises of two channels while M-Net Movies consists of 4 channels.

M-Net is basically streamlining its portfolio and recently this lead to the closures of Me and 1Magic. Taking those matters to account would it seem that far fetched if similar endeavors were to await M-Net Movies with Movie Room and TNT this lineup is already bloated.

M-Net is going similar endeavors as SABC 3 where it's viewership has experienced immense losses. This is due to the likes of streamers like Netflix and Disney+ so if whatever happened to Audience in America awaited M-Net there wouldn't be an M-Net Movies. 

A restructure to the current M-Net Movies wouldn't be shocking to say the least. Maybe the offering will merge into one channel seeing as Movie Room exists both of which reside in SA maybe without black owned channel this offering would have doubled. 

It's even possible that this offering would cease to exist to its entirety as seen with Me and 1Magic as the latter integrates with M-Net.

SPI International’s FunBox and FightBox Joins Fubo’s Molotov

Canal+ company, SPI International, has expanded its partnership with the French OTT service Molotov, owned by streaming platform Fubo. 

SPI International has introduced Fast&FunBox and FightBox, to Molotov’s lineup which will be available in Molotov’s extended basic package.

SPI International builds on its partnership Molotov, with it currently offering the gaming channel Gametoon on the service.

Fast&FunBox delivers programming of action/adveenture sports including car racing, motocross, snowboarding, and skateboarding. While, FightBox is dedicated to combat sports, offering a selection of exclusive content, live events and weekly programming across mixed martial arts, boxing, wrestling, karate, kickboxing, taekwondo among other disciplines.

“We’re excited to further strengthen our relationship with Molotov by introducing Fast&FunBox and FightBox to French audiences. These offerings, alongside Gametoon, cater to MMA, extreme sports, and esports enthusiasts, in harmony with Fubo’s mission to deliver dynamic sports entertainment to audiences worldwide. With SPI International’s channels on Molotov, viewers can enjoy a diverse range of sports content including appointment to view live fights and breathtaking adrenaline sports,” said Georgina Twiss, MD Western Europe and Africa at SPI International.

“Our parent company, Fubo, has built a successful business in multiple countries following the sports entertainment model, and we plan to expand Molotov’s offering in the same way”, said Grégory Samak, MD at Molotov. “As a player in MMA, extreme sports and esports – all growing sports in France – SPI international is an obvious partner for Molotov as we go deeper into sport.”

Important Notice: SPI International's Kino Polska Is Getting A New Logo On June 3rd

Kino Polska will feature a completely new visual setting, more modern and adapted to current trends. According to the broadcaster, its introduction is intended to both encourage new viewers to discover the rich world of Polish cinematography, as well as to more strongly emphasize the film character of the channel, which is inscribed in its DNA. 

With the introduction of a new channel design, we want to intrigue both our existing viewers and attract the attention of new ones. We are passionate about Polish cinema, so we want to encourage everyone to choose Kino Polska - both younger and older, representatives of different generations. The station plays an important role in building the identity of different generations and connecting them, educating younger viewers about their roots and history, and reminding older viewers of their youth. In this way, we build the value and impact of the Kino Polska brand, whose mission is important for subsequent generations - says Patrycja Gałązka, Chief Marketing & Digital Officer at SPI International. 

As part of the new setting, Kino Polska has gained a new color palette that responds to the trend of popularity of vintage style. Another element of the changed design is the new Kino Polska logo, in which the channel name has been retained, gaining a refreshed font and a different form of notation. Next to the name, there is also a new signet ring depicting a frame. 

The new logo of Kino Polska additionally emphasizes the film character of the channel and reminds that by reproducing the frame with our hands, each of us can look at the world through the prism of the creator looking for the right shot - informs the broadcaster. 

Along with the refreshed look of the channel, its sound design will also change, which has been adapted to the more modern visuals of the channel, but at the same time refers to the existing musical theme, keeping viewers feeling that it is a well-known channel that accompanies them on their film journeys. 

The new musical setting is universal, suits various moods as well as film genres, it is light and positive. It was composed by musician and composer Szymon Wysocki - adds the broadcaster. 

New programming offer of Kino Polska The Kino Polska channel will gain both a new setting and programming offer. The station is changing for viewers, offering a completely new version of Kino Polska, wanting to reach a younger audience, the broadcaster informs. Starting from June 9, every Sunday of the month, viewers will be able to watch a special film series "Cinema of Generations", dedicated to different generations. The station will take viewers on a film journey through decades of Polish cinema, from the 1980s to the present day. The film proposals include: "Dogs", "Kill me cop", "Sztos", "Fuks", "Controlled conversations" and "No one will sleep in the forest tonight".

Source: Satkurier

Development Alert: SPI International Expands With Digital Virgo in Key Regions (Including South Africa), FilmBox And Other Branded Channels Exit Turkey

SPI International, a CANAL+ company, has launched three dynamic channels — FilmBox Action, FilmBox Family, and FilmBox Middle East — in key regions, including South Africa, Ghana, Botswana, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Morocco, and Tunisia in partnership with Digital Virgo.

The FilmBox lineup will be accessible as part of the basic tier on platforms such as PLAYVOD, Veedz.TV, Unlimited Streaming, Moov TV, and MTTV.

“We’re thrilled to introduce FilmBox channels on Digital Virgo platforms in South Africa, Ghana, Botswana, and with Arabic subtitles in the Middle East. This expansion reflects our commitment to providing diverse, high-quality content that resonates with audiences globally. We believe these channels will further enhance the entertainment experience for viewers in these regions,” commented Georgina Twiss, MD Western Europe and Africa at SPI International.

“Digital Virgo remains committed to enhancing its value proposition to Telecom Operators through the provision of TV and VOD platforms that are ever richer in functionality and content. The renewed partnership with SPI International is part of this overall strategy,” added Vincent Taradel, CMO at Digital Virgo.

SPI International departs Turkey

During the week, SPI International had phased out its linear offering in Turkey as parent company Canal+ exits the market. With various channels under such as FilmBox (now Filmscreen), DocuBox (now Docuscreen) and FightBox (now Fightscreen) owned by Cosmoblue.

Most details pertaining to the content and graphics from each brand remain the same. We presume they could work closely with SPI International in terms of content allocation or they're slowly phasing that out.

FilmBox Vs. M-Net Movies: Who Is Likely To Survive Canal+ Acquisition Of MultiChoice?

During the year, Canal+ expressed interest in acquiring pay-tv giant MultiChoice after gaining small stakes in the company and working closely on several shows. They're currently in talks with Patrice MotsepeIs in an attempt to increase their bid in MultiChoice. 

If Canal+ had succeeded in their first attempt at acquiring MultiChoice they'd have to grow through legal procedures who could have prevented this from moving forward. Now that talks of an SA player enters the equation they're likely to succeed. 

Canal seeks to merge their assets with MultiChoice making their portfolio accessible to over 50 million subscribers in Africa. Since talks of a possible takeover has taken place there's been various questions as to how this may affect the current offering. 

Canal+ owns various properties in Europe and one of which SPI International has garnered an international presence. This consists of various FilmBox entertainment channels alongside Gametoon, FashionBox, FightBox and DocuBox. 

As some readers are aware, these channels particularly FilmBox are already viewable in Africa and were basically a rival offering to M-Net Movies. Should the acquisition move forward these brands are likely to get merged if not restructured.

It's not only the content that bares various similarities but also the formatting of these brands. M-Net Movies 2 is basically FilmBox Action while M-Net Movies 3 and 4 have FilmBox Africa, FilmBox Family and FilmBox Stars.

Ideally, M-Net Movies could fold under the FilmBox trademark considering its presence in Europe but there's also chances that they may have a future. M-Net Movies 3 & 4 alongside various DStv channels are seen on Canal+ platforms in Africa.

If M-Net Movies wasn't that much of a priority they could have opted for FilmBox. It's likely that FilmBox could be phased out in favor of M-Net Movies but questions amount to whether Starsat and various other platforms would/are willing to include them.

MultiChoice is StarTimes biggest rival as it offers a diverse lineup of local content and premium sports. Of course, the mere thought of M-Net Movies possibly being added to these consumers would lure exiting DStv consumers to StarTimes for its affordable rates.

In Nederlands, Film1's offering compensate for FilmBox films movie channels with the main channel being what's left of the trademark.

From Turkish Galore On Timeless Dizi Channel To Blockbuster Movies On FilmBox: Could Any Of These Channels Rollout On DStv Perhaps?

During the month, it was reported that Canal+ had increased its offer to takeover DStv by 19% with a sum of R35,9 billion. This comes after their initial offering of R32 billion was rejected with the Takeover Regulation Panel (TRP) ordering them to propose a new deal.

As some readers are aware,  Canal+ owns various properties outside of Africa part of which are licensed to broadcasters such as StarTimes. Should the acquisition of the DStv parent company move forward these assets could be unified.

Properties owned by Canal+ include the Norwegian based brand, SPI International. Home to the leading entertainment brand for Turkish stories Timeless Dizi Channel ( TDC) alongside FilmBox, FilmBox Action, FashionBox, FightBox, DocuBox and Gametoon. 

There's a lot of conflict in this section as MultiChoice comes with a similar offering. For Turkish fans there's KykNET and for international series and sport fans there's M-Net and SuperSport Action so this would only leaves brands like DocuBox, Gametoon and FashionBox vacated. 

With M-Net serving as a frontrunner behind FilmBox as it houses original productions while as licensing fresher content. It's likely that brands like FilmBox will integrate with other M-Net channels if not close I mean the idea wouldn't seem far fetched. 

With Canal+ small stake in MultiChoice, they were able to distribute channels like Zee World and SuperSport La Liga on their local platforms in Rwanda and Cameroon. Although FilmBox has the reach in other countries it goes unnoticed in Africa. 

That doesn't mean that these channels can't rollout on DStv but with Canal+ assets they could explore other means. With M-Net's Me out of the coop, FilmBox Africa could take up its position and for Ginx eSports TV and People's Weather there's Gametoon and DocuBox. 

With WWE likely being purged to streaming once it's contract with SuperSport ends has FightBox. In short, a majority of Canal+ assets that they acquired in recent years had resurfaced on their platforms with minor variations so MultiChoice wouldn't be any different. 

Development Alert: FilmBox Family Added Onto The StarTimes App, Might Launch Elsewhere

During the week, TNT went dark on StarSat and StarTimes platforms across Africa due to a change in broadcasting rights or at least that's what's been stated by them as Warner Bros. Discovery had launched an investigation with an update expected in the coming week.

Prior to the cancellation, StarSat promised consumers that they would look into replacing TNT with another movie channel. Although not much details is known about the possible new channel FilmBox Family had been slotted on the StarTimes app.

FilmBox Family is a general entertainment channel catered for children and family featuring films ranging from fantasy, adventure, animation, drama and comedy. It is operated by SPI International that also package FilmBox, FilmBox Action and Timeless Dizi Channel on the platform.

Although not much had been stated by either StarTimes or SPI International about the addition of FilmBox Family, would it seem far fetched if the channel were to be made available elsewhere at some point perhaps as a replacement to TNT.

The downside aside from the exclusion of All Elite Wrestling or sports in general, it caters to another level of consumers (as mentioned children and family) and if you take that to account this would be a downgrade in quality for consumers of TNT and particularly StarSat.

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New Channel Alert: FilmBox Action And Kartoon Channel Coming Soon To StarSat With Qwest TV On DStv

For several years, StarTimes has been losing a bouquet of premium international channels ranging from The Smithsonian Channel, Love Nature, DreamWorks, Real Time and Investigation Discovery with the much needed alternatives almost nowhere in site.

Now the pay-tv platform seems to be picking up the cracks as they unveiled two new channels for their consumers: FilmBox Action and Kartoon Channel.

FilmBox Action is a general entertainment channel basically SPI International's version of M-Net Movies 2 and KIX with a limited amount of series. Some of the stars include Steven Seagal, Jason Statham, Bruce Willis, Al Pacino and many others from U.S. and global.

StarSat:
- The Smithsonian Channel closing down in the UK
- Delayed SABC channel launch on StarSat explained
- Russia Today to launch South African hub
- StarSat trying to be DStv friendly

Kartoon Channel is an kids entertainment channel and not to be mistaken for Cartoon Network. It is owned by Genius Brands International with its core audience being 2-12 years with content like Angry Birds, Stan Lee's Superhero Kindergarten and Rainbow Light Brigade.

FilmBox Action is allocated on channel 140 on the Smart bouquet while Kartoon Channel on 307 and on the Basic package on channel 358. There's no confirmation on whether this includes the South African feed but it might as well launch.

As outlined, StarSat across Africa lost a bouquet of channels and FilmBox Action in a way helps the lossen the pain left by FOX which was scrapped by The Walt Disney Company internationally while Kartoon Channel might as well be a replacement for DreamWorks.

DStv:
- MultiChoice might lose yet another two channels
- Could Russia Today be removed from the DStv platform?
- Qwest TV coming soon to Showmax
- eMedia's 4 channels to go dark on the DStv platform

In other developments, MultiChoice will be allocating their first channel later in the month titled Qwest TV which has been in development for several months owned by multi award winning artist Quincy Jones is Jazz infused channel.

It was unveiled alongside Moonbug Kids at the DStv Showcase, according to sources it was meant to launch last year but for some reason that never happened so it's gearing up for an early 2023 to replace MTV Hits in South Africa and serve as an additional channel everywhere else. Qwest TV is said to be accompanied alongside another channel sources won't share.

Disclosure: Kartoon Channel was also rumoured to launch on another platform alongside DStv.

New Channel Alert (Rumour): FilmBox Africa, FilmBox Family And FilmBox Action Coming Soon To StarSat + New Prices For Each Package

StarSat has lost over 20 channels during the past years ranging from from FOX, Discovery Family, Investigation Discovery, The Smithsonian Channel, Fine Living, SA Music, Soul Music, DreamWorks and St Eyethu. Since then, several channels have made way to the platform.

You have channels like Russia Today, Zee Bollymovies, C12 TV and Fashion TV while some may come off as useless to most consumers none of these brands can fill up the void of the above mentioned channels.

 

MultiChoice, a rival to the pay-tv platform had undergone the same procedure with customers expressing their dissatisfaction for almost a month I mean they've got new channels in place with 6 more coming in the near future but just like StarSat they too have got negative feedback.

While MultiChoice let the cat out of the bag with some upcoming channels with StarTimes you could hardly get them to crack as they're usually discreet about these things but thanks to the StarTimes app we got to view potential new channels.

FilmBox Africa, FilmBox Action and FilmBox Family hail from SPI International the company in charge of the top entertainment channel Timeless Dizi Channel. These channels are said to be on a trial phase.

 

FilmBox Africa - A premium entertainment channel carrying series as well as adrenaline-pumping movies from Bruce Willis, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Steven Seagal, Jet Li, Jackie Chan and many others. Suitable candidate to FOX.

FilmBox Action - targets action lovers with the likes of Cinema legends Steven Seagal, Al Pacino, Bruce Willis, Jet Li, Jackie Chan, Jason Statham and many others. Another suitable candidate to FOX.

FilmBox Family - Popular movies for the entire family appealing to both children and adults: great adventures, comedies, fantasy movies, popular series and entertainment programs. An added bonus.

 

On top of the possible new channels here are the prices consumers will pay from July:

- StarSat Special Package will now be R120 previously R109.
- StarSat Super Package will now be R230 previously R209.
- StarSat Max Package will now be R330 previously R299.

Canal+ Completes Its Acquisition Of SPI International

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Vivendi-owned pay-TV operator Canal+ Group has completed the acquisition of international channel provider SPI International, following the approvals of all competent authorities in all European jurisdictions concerned for its acquisition of 70% control of the outfit.

A statement released by the parties said that “SPI International, a global media company who has a significant presence in Europe with extensive experience in content distribution and worldwide broadcasting, will bring to Canal+ Group great opportunities to strengthen pay-TV offers in all European markets and develop new ranges of services for the benefit of customers worldwide”.

 

 

It added: “Canal+ Group is pleased that SPI International will continue their worldwide expansion while developing their operations in a way that benefits the entire group”.

Also read: 
- Heart Of The City currently airing on International Timeless Dizi Channels
- Cesur Ve. Guzel (Die Vreemdeling) currently airing on international Timeless Dizi Channels
- Could Moonbug Kids replace Disney Junior on DStv and Baby TV on StarSat?
- tvN pushing to become a permanent linear channel in Africa
- Could Nicktoons be discontinued in Africa and likely the rest of the world?
- Multichoice won't be adding anymore community channels

SPI operates 42 TV channels across six continents. Its brands include FilmBox, Film1, Kino Polska and Turkish drama offering Dizi. Founders Loni Farhi and Berk Uziyel will continue to steer the company, with the current management team and operational structure remaining intact, the companies said.

Canal+ announced in September that it had struck a deal to take a 70% stake in SPI international. SPI International founder Loni Farhi and CEO Berk Uziyel will continue to manage the business.

 

“The acquisition of SPI International is a is part of the strategy we have been implementing for several years Canal+ currently has 22 million subscribers in over 40 countries, including 15 in Europe. We have set ourselves the goal of reaching a minimum of 30m subscribers by 2025, and SPI International will certainly be a key asset in achieving this ambition,” said Canal+ Group Chief Maxime Saada when the deal was initially announced.

Also read:
- Disney rumoured to be closing down Disney XD and Disney Junior
- Paramount reportedly closing MTV Base and MTV Classic in the UK
- Could G4 launch on DStv perhaps to replace a channel like Ginx Esports TV?
- Why VH1 Classic was terminated on DStv?
- Could Timeless Dizi Channel and possibly tvN replace eExtra on DStv?
- Cartoonito coming soon to Boomerang
- Lifetime could be on the chopping block on DStv

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Potential Candidates For The eMovies Channels: From SPI International's FilmBox To Shorts TV, Could These Channels Replace eMovies On DStv?

MultiChoice is planning to introduce a second movie channel later in the year to replace eMovies and eMovies Extra in South Africa and serve as an additional accessory alongside DreamWorks Channel in the rest of Africa. Of course, details of the supposed channel remains unknown.

Last year, it was reported that MultiChoice was looking into adding movie channel at first it was speculated to be for the rest of Africa as South Africa had a large bulk of movie channels until recently as indicated above.

We did a list of potential candidates for Disney XD and surprise surprise one of the channels on the list ended up the space so let's do one for the movie channels.

Also read: 
- PBS Kids will be made available to DStv Easyview customers
- EU turns off transmission for RT across Africa
- SABC Encore being used for sports
- Could G4 launch on DStv perhaps to replace a channel like Ginx Esports TV?
- Why VH1 Classic was terminated on DStv?
- SABC will launch more channels alongside streaming service
- Could Moonbug Kids replace Disney Junior on DStv and Baby TV on StarSat?
- tvN pushing to become a permanent linear channel in Africa
- Could Nicktoons be discontinued in Africa and likely the rest of the world?
- Multichoice won't be adding anymore community channels

Since the restructuring of M-Net Movies it was evident at this point that MultiChoice is trying to diversify the lineup e.g. Maisha Magic Movies and KIX. If they can't kill the existing repeats on the current movie channels they can limit the toxins from spreading.

Here's a list of potential candidates that MIGHT fill up the spot of the eMovies channels:

1. FilmBox
Owned by the makers of the most popular entertainment channel in their division, Timeless Dizi Channel. FilmBox is modernized AMC featuring a selection of international movies and series ranging from comedy, romance, action and drama basically a mashup of the two eMovies channels.

2. Positiv
Owned by Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), the channel features a variety of Christian themed family oriented films from small to big Hollywood studios.

3. ShortsTV
Managed by Shorts International in partnership with AMC International, ShortsTV is a dedicated network for short films whether you want Oscar nominated films or low budget ShortsTV is the place for you. It was pop-up channel on the DStv app.

Other candidates would be an Indian movie channel and another Chinese or African movie channel.

These are just one of the few channels the pay-tv platform will close or lose as more channels are expected to suffer the same fate as the 4 e.tv channels and Tellytrack such as The Walt Disney Company's set of channels as they're moving away from cable or at least not with ESPN.

Also read:
- eExtra, eMovies, eMovies Extra and eToonz will stop airing on DStv
- What to expect on the upcoming DreamWorks Channel?
- KIX will be made available to DStv Family and Access customers
- Press release of DreamWorks Channel on DStv
- Could Timeless Dizi Channel and possibly tvN replace eExtra on DStv?
- YouTube bans Russia Today from generating revenue
- Could ESPN close alongside National Geographic and Disney Channel?
- New movie channel launching later in the year on DStv
- Lifetime could be on the chopping block on DStv
- SABC Encore and SABC Children channel might be in development

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Canal+ Acquired Majority Stake In SPI International And Also Increased Their Stake In MultiChoice

CANAL+ ACQUIRES MAJORITY STAKE IN SPI INTERNATIONAL

Canal+ will acquire a 70 per cent majority stake in SPI International while keeping the current management team and operational structure in place.

SPI International, a global media company operating 42 TV channels and multiple digital products across six continents, and a major player in content distribution and broadcasting worldwide, is now joining forces with Canal+ Group.

Canal+ Group is a global pay-TV operator and major player in free-to-air television in France. Canal+ has a wide international footprint with a presence in 40 countries in Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Asia.

In a joint statement, Loni Farhi & Berk Uziyel, said: “It is very exciting news and the start of a new era for SPI International. Canal+ and SPI share a common vision for continuous growth and a strong international presence. We have been strategic partners for years, where we have built a great tradition of collaborations and achieving mutual goals. Now we will have the chance to join forces under one roof. SPI will further accelerate its growth with Canal+ while leveraging natural synergies. SPI International has an amazingly talented team that has produced incredible growth in the last decade. Now, with this great team and with much enthusiasm, we are delighted to become part of the Canal+ family. Our joined forces will strengthen the existing entertainment products and expand the distribution of our compelling content to far larger audiences.”

For Maxime Saada, CEO of CANAL+ Group, added:
“The acquisition of SPI International is part of the strategy we have been implementing for several years. Canal+ currently has 22 million subscribers in over 40 countries, including 15 in Europe. We have set ourselves the goal of reaching a minimum of 30 million subscribers by 2025, and SPI INTERNATIONAL will certainly be a key asset in achieving this ambition.”

Jacques du Puy, CEO of Canal+ International said:
“We are very pleased to welcome SPI to our group.
This acquisition marks a new strategic step for the development of our European contents. It will be a great opportunity to develop new synergies and businesses for our activities, especially in the Polish market and in the Central and Eastern European countries where Canal+ operates through M7 brands.”

The completion of the transaction is subject to the approval of the relevant regulatory authorities in the territories concerned (including in particular the authorities responsible for antitrust and merger control).

MultiChoice now 15% owned by Canal+

French broadcaster Canal+ Group has increased its stake in MultiChoice from 12% to over 15%, Reuters reports.

Vivendi-owned Canal+ significantly raised its holding in Africa’s largest pay-TV last year, causing speculation that it could be looking to take over MultiChoice.

MultiChoice reportedly said it was keeping an open mind about its relationship with the company.

“The group’s policy is not to comment on its individual shareholders nor on its interactions with them,” MultiChoice said in an earlier statement.

“The company remains committed to acting in the best interests of all shareholders and to create sustainable long-term shareholder value.”

Groupe Canal+ SA is a French film and TV studio and distributor which owns the Canal+ French TV channels.

These channels span movies, sports, series, and news and have produced popular films such as The Straight Story, Mulholland Dr, and Inland Empire. Groupe Canal+ has been expanding into Africa, including the acquisition of Nigerian production company ROK Studios.

Vivendi previously tried to acquire MultiChoice Africa, but the multi-million-dollar offer was rejected.

The company is now stocking up on MultiChoice shares, which industry players speculate may indicate that Canal+ is planning to acquire MultiChoice.

MultiChoice is Africa’s leading entertainment company and operates four platforms – DStv, GOtv, Showmax, and DStv Now.

It has approximately 14 million subscribers across 50 countries, with a particularly dominant position in South Africa.

MultiChoice serves Canal+ SA’s African ambitions perfectly and explains why it is investing in the company.

MultiChoice said that it had filed the required notice with the Takeover Regulation Panel in South Africa.

The Takeover Regulation Panel, which reports to the Minister of Trade and Industry, oversees the country’s takeover regulations.

Its mandate is to regulate mergers and acquisitions and protect minority shareholders by ensuring that such shareholders will have access to important information during transactions.

Read Also:
- Dizi launched its own streaming service for Turkish dramas
- Disney Channel and Disney+ greenlit several African programs
- WarnerMedia renaming TNT into Warner TV
- Disney closing down 100 international channels in 2021
- Paramount+ or Showmax might distribute content from NBCUniversal's streaming service Peacock
- Could Warner Bros. Discovery roll out a new streaming service across Europe?
- Is a new kids brand on the way through Warner Bros. Discovery?
- Disney+ launches in South Africa next year
- Upcoming shows for Disney Channel and Disney Junior

SPI International Launches A Digital Version Of Their Top Performing Turkish Channel, Dizi

Global media company SPI International unveils their new digital streaming service, Dizi, which will offer a selection of critically-acclaimed Turkish series as well as the best series, telenovelas and soap operas from all over the world depending on the demands of the local markets. Dubbed the Home Of Good Stories, Dizi combines the lean-back and lean-forward viewing experiences with a linear channel offer and a large selection of on-demand content.
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“The launch of the Dizi streaming service signifies the evolution of the Dizi brand into a fully integrated service that combines linear and on-demand content propositions to bring the best series from Turkey and beyond to all available screens around the globe,” comments Berk Uziyel, CEO at SPI International. “As a part of SPI’s macro strategy, we offer good movies spanning all genres under one roof via FilmBox’s "Home of Good Movies". Now with our Dizi brand, we introduce the "Home of Good Stories", where in addition to some of the most sought-after Turkish series, viewers can expect to see top-quality series with powerful storylines from around the world in the future,” adds Uziyel.
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The service’s global debut will take place this week at a NEM Dubrovnik event. In reference to the new product, SPI's Chief Marketing Officer Haymi Behar says: “The Dizi app builds on the success of the Timeless Dizi Channel and features around 400 hours of content from an inventory of critically-acclaimed series such as Black Money Love, Kurt Seyit & Shura and Insider with new episodes added monthly. The app will feature English, Polish and Spanish localized interfaces and 13 language options and more will be added in time. The Dizi service will both enable viewers to tune into the linear channel and watch episodes on-demand through their preferred devices at their leisure.”

Subscribers can access the service at www.dizi.com via web, download the mobile app that’s compatible with iOS and Android operating systems or stream their favorite content through the Smart TV app that’s available for Apple TV and soon-to-come for Android TV, Samsung and LG Smart TV devices. Dizi service also aims to integrate with many platforms and partner operators worldwide to provide their subscribers a seamless entertainment experience and the option to discover new series on demand.

For those who were upset with MultiChoice for terminating the channel and those who want to view the content in English. Good news the above fits your tastes.

Read Also:
- BVN stops airing on DStv
- Will Adult Swim return to DStv?
- Is Star Life rebranding into Utsav?
- FOX will no longer be available in Africa
- Could G4 replace Ginx Esports TV on DStv?
- Could Nicktoons be the next channel to get booted on DStv?
- Star India channels rebranding into Utsav?
- Disney+ launching in South Africa
- Peacock and Paramount+ merge into one hub
- Discovery and WarnerMedia could launch a joint streaming service
- tvN working on becoming permanent in Africa

Could MultiChoice Be Prepping Up A Rival To Timeless Dizi Channel On StarTimes?

Aktüel Televisyonu (Actual Television often stylised as aTV) is a Turkey's most popular entertainment channel which is owned by Kaylon Group. Besides Turkey, the channel is viewable in some parts of Europe.

aTV is home to shows viewers may be familiar with through Timeless Dizi Channel such as Black Money Love (Kara Para Ask), The Red Scarf (Al Yazmalım), Karadayi, The End (Son) and Ezel.

Last year, MultiChoice rolled out three telenovela channels out of those channels only 1 didn't have any original content in this case Timeless Dizi Channel.

So maybe viewership had nothing to do with its demise but originality the second last channel in Dizi's position being Glow TV was told that they weren't performing well and MultiChoice refused to provide any stats.

Thereafter Star Life comes in with original content part of which have been viewable on Glow TV.

Perhaps the reason for MultiChoice not wanting such channels is due to streaming since most of their partners are depriving them from certain content for their own platforms and most that don't dwell on originality are likely to become obsolete as more people opt to streaming.

MultiChoice's streaming service Showmax has deals put in place for Telemundo and Zee TV for their content even went after tvN which is regarded as a pop-up channel.

With that in mind, it's possible that most of the third party channels available on DStv will likely have an agreement with Showmax put in place to distribute their content on the platform to fill the avoid Disney+, Discovery+ and Paramount+ will put on Showmax.

Read Also:
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- TNT might be rebranding next year
- BET gets a makeover
- Will Cartoonito be the future of Boomerang in the UK and EMEA?
- Is Discovery Family going off air on DStv possibly for Discovery Science?
- Could Warner Bros. Discovery form a new kids brand?
- Australia launched BBC Kids, could it perhaps expand in more countries?

Update On The 3 Pop-Up Channels On DStv

MultiChoice currently has 3 pop-up channels operating on the platform with the 4th which is on StarTimes being disqualified earlier in the year. These remaining channels could be permanent additions at the same time it could be the end.

ZooMoo is calling it quits on DStv as the channel is scheduled to close by the end of June after its 3 month extension. MultiChoice has sent a channel termination notice onto viewer's screens. If they reconsider its best to place it on a much cheaper package so that it can gain more awareness.

tvN is the now the second pop-up channel to recieve an extension on DStv unlike ZooMoo it's staying for only a month. They've unveiled a bunch of shows coming to the channel the one I'd look out for next month is Memorist, Tomorrow With You, Mr. Queen and The Sixth Sense.

TLNovelas is currently the longest pop-up channel on DStv launching in September of last year with its demise scheduled for August. There's a bunch of titles to look forward to on the channel including Secrets At The Hotel and Single Dad's Club. To be honest I wouldn't be surprised if they kept it. There hasn't been a lot of new channels this year.

Dizi is safely tucked on StarTimes after its dramatic removal from DStv. The feed currently seen on StarTimes somehow got the DStv feed meaning all shows are repeats until the end of August or September giving MultiChoice enough time to pick it up. (Note that I updated the info on the link about Dizi's termination on DStv)

Read Also:

- TNT might get another rebrand

- BBC Kids launches in Australia, will Africa get it?

- Is Discovery Science launching on DStv?

- FOX on Starsat and DStv might be rebranding to Star sooner than expected
- Dizi might return to DStv (updated 18 July)
- Is Boomerang officially dead in Africa?
- Discovery and WarnerMedia set to merge  meaning Cartoon Network and TLC join forces
- BBC and ITV launching a streaming service in South Africa
- Will Paramount+ cancel several linear channels like Comedy Central and MTV?
- Utsav branding takes affect on Star Life and StarPlus

Updated (19/06): Will Timeless Dizi Channel Return To MultiChoice's DStv?

Timeless Dizi Channel made its debut on StarTimes (Starsat) in May 2020 and ran until the end of August at least that's what they made the media believe till while MultiChoice launched a pop-up feed of the channel later that year.

During that time, the channel managed to gain much traction with the likes of Karadayi, Black Money Love, Wings Of Love and Red Scarf.

Despite the outcome none of that managed to change it's fate on DStv while others recieved extensions it got culled exactly on its expiration date being March 31st.

What's strange about this development is that the Dizi Channel on StarTimes was kind of discontinued as well or at the Turkish feed.

MultiChoice had the English feed airing repeats from StarTimes Turkish feed so what could have happened was that they wanted to make it a permanent channel but the problem was that they weren't carrying the main feed which led to its dramatic removal even though they're being hush-hush there's signs.

Last year, MultiChoice unveiled another channel TLNovelas which can also be found on StarTimes. What's strange about this is both platforms carry the exact same channel with the exact same shows at the exact same time meaning viewers on DStv missed out on programs so why couldn't they do the same with Dizi.

It couldn't be the language as MultiChoice had no problem rolling out tvN with English subtitles so maybe the problem here was the service provider being StarTimes.

SPI International could have signed an exclusive agreement with StarTimes last year for Dizi and it was annulled before it's termination on DStv which could explain why the channel pointed the finger to them when asked why couldn't they keep it.

Perhaps them RESTARTING the channel on StarTimes was their way of saying they're tired of ordering the same meal in three different restaurants when they can order at one restaurant so MultiChoice was probably doing everyone a favour.

Maybe, they didn't want to bore viewers with repeats that are currently airing on StarTimes. By August or September, the channel would already start airing fresh content so it wouldn't be shocking if Dizi suddenly reappeared on DStv around that period.

In MultiChoice financial statements for the end of March. Dizi is currently listed alongside TLNovelas and tvN it might imply that MAYBE it isn't the end for Dizi on DStv.

Read Also:
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- 80 projects in development on Disney+, some might have aired already
- WarnerMedia is working on more content for kids
- Update on the 4 pop-up channels on DStv
- 44 projects in development on Paramount+
- R.I.P. FOX, long live Star, will other markets follow?
- Utsav branding takes affect on Vijay TV, will StarPlus and Star Life follow in Africa
- Will Paramount+ lead to the shutdown of several linear channels?
- Soon viewers will need a decoder or smart TV to continue watching SABC 1-3 and e.tv as well as recieve additional channels

ZooMoo Has Been Extended On DStv + Other Controversies Regarding The Current Pop-Up Channels

Back in August 2020, MultiChoice previewed 4 pop-up channels + 1 full-time channel which were TLNovelas (Mexican telenovelas, September), TDC (Turkish telenovelas, November), tvN (K-dramas, November) and ZooMoo (preschoolers, November) + KIX (Action movie channel, October).

All were suppose to launch within that year but for some reason tvN didn't make the deadline. They only popped up a year later through a Facebook post without any explanation from them or MultiChoice on why they didn't fill the end of their bargain.

Maybe MultiChoice wanted to put more focus towards TDC since they were gonna launch together. They couldn't do December since less people will be glued to their screens, January everyone is up in arms, February was occupied leaving March open.

tvN is the first channel that doesn't offer a ton of dubbed programming for English viewers. Will we ever know why this one is unscathed while others are put out of their misery.

TLNovelas has the longest promotional period amongst all of them. Ever since it's launch there's been technical difficulties (in South Africa) for which DStv is seemingly taking a while to resolve and this will just leave the channel without potential consumers.

ZooMoo which was suppose to end in March 2021 alongside TDC has been extended until June which is the same time tvN promotional run ends. It's obvious MultiChoice doesn't monitor performances entirely through viewership.

Timeless Dizi Channel (TDC) makes a ton of last minute changes which doesn't reflect their schedule. They went from using an outdated schedule to airing marathons without notice. Imagine, recording an episode only to realise this issue exists. This channel is set to close by the end of March.

In the end, ZooMoo is the only channel that hasn't stirred up problems for viewers.

Read Also:
- Why SuperSport has two WWE channels?
- EVA and EVA+ gets the boot on DStv
- Predictions for Telemundo
- New kids programming coming to Cartoon Network
- BayTV acknowledges the name change after a year of silence

Here's What To Expect On DStv New Turkish Entertainment Channel, TDC

Timeless Drama Channel (TDC) is scheduled to launch 1st November as a pop-up channel on DStv channel 123 if it does alright there won't be a need to throw it away and according to sources it will be made available on DStv Family in South Africa and likely Compact in the rest of Africa. The availability is likely to change in the end the channel's launch date won't change.

TDC is currently available on StarTimes and for a short time on Starsat. The channel will be available in Turkish with English subtitles provided. If you were able to watch Turkish shows in Afrikaans on e.tv you're bound to watch this channel.

The following shows listed are currently available on TDC through StarTimes and will surface on DStv at launch:

RED SCARF
Beautiful Asiye, a rebel spirit in a small town, meets the mischevious and handsome İlyas, when he has an accident at the motocross tracks. Their love-at-first-sight grows fast in just a few days – but brings along its own problems.

KARADAYI
Istanbul, 1970s. The Kara family is highly respected in the working class area where they live and Mahir’s father Nazif is looked upon as ‘Karadayi’– the benign godfather of the area, who people turn to for advice and help in time of need. Unfortunately, the family’s life turns upside down because of a wrongful accusation that results in the imprisonment of Nazif Kara for a murder he didn’t commit.

MOMS AND MOTHERS
Set in 1970s Turkey, Moms and Mothers tells the story of two young women whose lives become unexpectedly intertwined. Kader lives in a small village in Anatolia and longs for nothing more than a happy life with Mustafa, but following a tragic accident, she is left alone in Istanbul. Zeliha is a smart, educated woman whose passionate relationship with the activist Murat leaves her in danger and ultimately widowed and pregnant. 9 months on, the two women’s paths cross…

WINGS OF LOVE
Alper Eren is a famous cook and has his own restaurant, he is married with Berna and they have a daughter, Çiçek. They want to separate because they are always fighting and Berna secretly has an affair with Alper’s best friend, Onur.

KURT SEYIT & SHURA
Kurt Seyit & Shura is about the adventures of two people in love who broke away from their magnificent lives in Russia and were dragged to Istanbul.
The journey of Kurt Seyit, a lieutenant from Crimea, and Shura, the beautiful daughter of a noble Russian family, from the days of magnificence to the Carpathian front line, from the riots to revolution, from Alushta to occupied Istanbul, to Pera in the 1920’s, is in a sense the journey of their love.

OTHER PROGRAMMING THAT HAS OR WILL LIKELY FOLLOW ON THE CHANNEL

BLACK MONEY LOVE (aired on FOX Life and eExtra)
Ömer is a police officer who wants to unveil the truth about the possible murder of his fiancée, who committed suicide. He signs a deal with the state: He will find the stolen diamonds and in return, will learn the identity of his fiancée's murderer. Elif finds out that her late father was actually a money-laundering mobster. Now, she has to maintain her family and pay for the 2 billion dollar debt for diamonds. Besides, her sister is in the hands of villains.

20 MINUTES
20 Minutes tells the story of the mild-mannered history teacher Ali, who is thrown into a world of action and intrigue when his beloved wife Melek is arrested for the attempted murder of a young man – Kerim. Ali must abandon his books and find inner strength and courage that he did not know he had, in order to free his wife and reclaim his family life.

DARK LOVE
Kemal is a young man who lives in a working-class neighbourhood in Istanbul. His father Hüseyin is a barber, and his mother Fehime a housewife. He has two siblings: an older brother Tarik, who is jealous of Kemal; and a younger sister Zeynep. Nihan is a rich young woman. She has a twin brother Ozan and lives with her parents Vildan and Önder. Emir Kozcuoglu is an arrogant businessman who holds a great love for Nihan.
Önder's business is slowly coming to an end. Vildan, unable to give up her rich life, wants Nihan to marry Emir to save the family business, but Nihan refuses as she dislikes Emir's arrogance and protectiveness of her. Nihan and Kemal first meet on a bus. A month later, Kemal saves Nihan's life, and their friendship starts and slowly turns into love.

THE END
Aylin is a woman who has everything. She is deeply in love with her husband, Selim, a doting mother to their handsome son Ömer. She drops Selim off at the airport one morning and everything changes. His plane crashes.
There are no survivors. After days of overwhelming grief, comes a glimmer of hope: The airline realizes his name was not on the passenger list. Wherever he is, he is not dead – he never boarded the plane
The End. Would you go all the way to find the truth?

THE 8TH DAY
Bahar is a clever and cheerful college student. She has grown in wealth and lived a happy life... Until one day when everything turns upside down. Her mother Şehnaz, who was a software engineer at the Lotus company, is killed. Bahar steps aways from her safe life, into a dark world. People who killed her mother are after Bahar now. She tries to survive her enemies while working to solve the mystery behind her mother’s death.

FIVE BROTHERS
Could any two men be alike? No. Neither are these five brothers; not at all in fact. There is one thing that binds these five unique characters and it is their unshakable family bond.
That is until one day, when Sait, the older brother who is the father figure of the five, decides it is time to focus on his own life. Though his wishes are for a responsible, adult life, he soon finds himself in even more chaos, locked in a love triangle. With his concerns lying elsewhere, his brothers too start developing their own independence - with mixed results!

These are the list of movies that aired on the channel as advertised in their brochure:
- Yildizar Da Kayar
- Umudun Kiyisinda
- Sürgün Inek
- SÜPÜRRR!
- Senarist
- OT
- Ogrenci Isleri
- N'apcaz Sindi
- Meleknerin Mucizesi
- MC Dandik
- Golge
- Gerí Döndü
- Celceken Bir Ciin
- Figuran
- Bìzìm Küçük Günahlarmiz
- Bezm I Ezel
- Beni De Götür

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