News Shorts: Play Room Acquires Broadcasting Rights To Rockabye Island, Zee World Launches Its First 30 Minute Slots With Sister Wives And Force Of Attraction And Via Launches A New Show Gesels In June

Play Room travels to the UK in Rockabye Island

Each day, Sean and Roisin hop on board their school-boat with their school friends and head off to a magical preschool, where they meet their teacher, Mister O’Dear, who just happens to be a deer!

Through imagination, adventure and teamwork, the children learn about their world and how it works, all with the support of their many animal friends on the fantastical and enchanting Rocka-Bye Island!

The series airs daily at 09:00 from 27 May.

Zee World also pulling a Star Life 

After Star Life opted to make all their primetime shows ran half an hour it appears Zee World is also dwelling in the 30 minute offering with Sister Wives and Force Of Attraction. These shows air daily at 21:00 and 21:30 despite the rest of Africa receiving it as 1 hour.

If anything, is it possible Zee World is looking to follow Star Life and make all their programs half hour. Honestly, there are shows on there which deserve that treatment like Radha Mohan and Twist Of Fate considering how often you'd hear those words "new season".

This isn't the first time Zee World had made rather odd changes aside from separate feeds. There was a case where films were viewed on one feed but excluded from the other so I guess this will be the new norm with the channel.

June and July on Via

Gesels

Season 1

22 June – 14 September 2024

Saturdays 18:00

46 minutes x 13 episodes

Genre: Talk show

Gesels is an energetic lifestyle talk show where advice and inspiration are shared to address different facets of our lives. Creating space for ourselves, for others, and for community is apparently the secret to happiness. Viewers will get the sense that they are privy to the coolest conversations where they leave with fresh insights and a list of new things to try.

Hier sit die manne

Season 5

6 July – 28 September 2024

Saturdays 17:00

46 minutes x 13 episodes

Genre: Talk show / Magazine show

A male-interest talk show hosted by Frank Rautenbach. In each episode Frank interviews a guest who is relevant to the market. Additional inserts will focus on popular male interests such as cars, fishing, hunting, investing, travel, rugby, and more.

Die Babbelbende

Season 2

21 July 2024 – 19 January 2025

Sundays 07:30

23 minutes x 25 episodes

Genre: Kids' entertainment

In this children's entertainment series, we answer all the questions curious kiddies may have. Paloeka, Palawa and their bestie, Bibi, hang out in their tree house while their friends Ben visits all kinds of interesting places. For children ages 4 through 10.

May 2024 On Via | New Series Alert: Klanke Van My Hart | Returning Shows Including Klankbank And Sterkbek | More

My plek of joune?

Season 11

2 May – 25 July 2024

Thursdays 17:30

23 minutes x 13 episodes

Genre: Home and garden

Two people who live under the same roof and are caught in a style dispute over a room in their home, are given the opportunity to broker peace at last. A coin toss determines which one of them will have the chance to makeover the problematic room (in the space of one day) with the help of interior decorator Isabel Barends and handyman Melt van der Spuy.

Klankbank

Season 4

3 May – 26 July 2024

Fridays 20:00

23 minutes x 13 episodes

Genre: Music / Game show

In each episode of this game show, three contestants go head-to-head to test their knowledge of popular music. How much money can they collectively bank for the ultimate winner to take home in the end? Hosted by Arno Greeff.

Klanke van my hart

Season 1

3 May – 26 July 2024

Fridays 20:30

46 minutes x 13 episodes

Genre: Music / Docuseries

Klanke van my hart is a show that connects people through music, featuring the new voices in our vibrant Afrikaans music scene – from indie rock to hip-hop, from sokkie to jazz, from rieldans to rap, ghoema to gospel, this music show has got you covered. In each episode, three artist from vastly genres come together to share their love for their artform and to make some music.

Slim vang sy baas

Season 10

10 May – 2 August 2024

Fridays 17:00

46 minutes x 13 episodes

Genre: Game show

In each episode of this fun-filled game show, two teams go head-to-head and battle it out through a series of rounds that will put their general knowledge to the ultimate test. Hosted by Beer Adriaanse.

Kom ons braai: celebs

Season 3

11 May – 3 August 2024

Saturdays 20:00

46 minutes x 13 episodes

Genre: Food / Competition

Two households braai against one another for points and prizes. Each household has a chance to throw a braai party at their own home and the duos score one another efforts in terms of braai technique, taste and entertainment. But they won’t be scoring each other alone: They are joined by two local celebrities who also score their braai efforts.

Huisgenoot: Ware Lewensdramas

Season 13

13 May – 5 August 2024

Mondays 20:30

46 minutes x 13 episodes

Genre: True crime / Docuseries

VIA and Huisgenoot magazine’s popular true-crime series returns. Each week focuses on the story behind the high-profile stories that shock South Africans and grabbed headlines – from brutal murders to nefarious scams.

Sterkbek

Season 2

14 May – 6 August 2024

Tuesdays 20:00

23 minutes x 13 episodes

Genre: Food / Talk show

In each episode, Nic Mac – AKA The Godly Giemba – invites a local celebrity to join him in tasting the hottest, spiciest food in the Western Cape. They visit a cheap and cheerful eatery where they taste a few increasingly spicy dishes that have been lathered in hot sauce. With each dish, the questions for the celeb get more personal and prying. Will they be able to take the heat?

Tietie en Nanna

Season 1

16 May – 8 August 2024

Thursdays 17:00

23 minutes x 13 episodes

Genre: Cooking show

In each episode of this cooking show, the sisters Tietie and Nanna will cook two dishes in their own kitchen. They will either just cook what inspires them on that day or for a special guest or family member. Woven through the cook will be stories of their lives, loves and hardships. Come share in their love of halaal cooking.

News Shorts: Moonbug To Create New Animated Series Based On VeeFriends Franchise And America's Backyard Gold Debuts On Discovery Channel In April Alongside New Season Of Hier Sit Die Manne

Moonbug & VaynerWatt to co-create animated series

The companies have struck a strategic partnership deal and will work together to create a 2D-animated series for kids aged 6-11 called VeeFriends, which is based on Vaynerchuk’s existing kids franchise of the same name. It will launch on YouTube in September, with Candle Media-owned Moonbug and VaynerWatt both attached.

The series will be set in the VeeFriends universe, which features a collection of larger-than-life VeeFriends characters such as Gratitude Gorilla, Quick Quail and Clever Crocodile who will compete in the VeeDome, the “ultimate over-the-top challenge arena, to battle out the biggest issues facing tweendom today.” Every character who goes into the VeeDome comes out “a little stronger and a lot more self-aware.”

Dave Turin is coming to Discovery 

Embark on an unprecedented journey with master miner Dave Turin as he unlocks the secrets to $3 trillion worth of undiscovered gold in the brand-new series, America’s Backyard Gold, premiering on Discovery Channel on Monday, 1 April @ 20:55 CAT.

In the midst of recent storms and floods unearthing fresh deposits across the United States, the age-old pursuit of gold hunting has never been more opportune, intensifying the race to strike it rich. Renowned prospector Dave Turin guides viewers from the rugged Dakotas to sun-drenched Georgia plains and majestic Montana peaks to California's sun-kissed shores in a quest for hidden family legacies and life-changing fortunes. In America’s Backyard Gold, modern miners discover the treasure lies not in heavy equipment or costly investments but in knowing where and how to look.

Produced by Raw TV for Discovery Channel, the series captivates with its gripping narrative, stunning landscapes, and the promise of untold riches.

Hier Sit Die Manne returns with a season 4

A male-interest talk show hosted by Frank Rautenbach. In each episode Frank interviews a guest who is relevant to the market. Additional inserts will focus on popular male interests such as cars, fishing, hunting, investing, travel, rugby, and more.

Frank Rautenbach is a South African director, actor, author, and producer who has worked widely in both film and television. He has appeared in several popular South African films and TV shows, such as The Bang Bang Club and Faith like Potatoes.

The series will air every Saturday at 17:30 from 6 April.

January 2024 On Via | Returning Shows Including Hier Sit Die Manne Season 3 And Skep Nog For A Season 2

Hier sit die manne 

Season 3​

6 January – 30 March 2024​

Saturdays 17:30​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Talk show / Magazine show​

In each episode our host, Frank Rautenbach, will interview a guest who relevant to the market. Additional inserts will focus on popular male interests such as cars, fishing, hunting, investing, travel, and rugby.​

About Frank​: Frank Rautenbach is a South African director, actor, author, and producer who has worked widely in both film and television. He has appeared in a number of popular South African films and TV shows, such as The Bang Bang Club and Faith like Potatoes.​

Skep nog 

Season 2​

10 January – 3 April 2024​

Wednesdays 17:30​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Cooking​

In each episode of this cooking show, a food blogger/editor/writer joins our host in the kitchen. They cook a dish from the food blogger/editor/writer's repertoire and, then, our host must make a dish using the leftover ingredients. Each episode ends with a quick demonstration of how you can use the leftover packaging in an arts-and-crafts project. Hosted by René de Wit.​

About René​: Although she works in the tech sector by day, René de Wit's true love is food. The seven years she spent living in Colorado among Mexican and El Salvadoran communities radically altered her palate and culinary brain and, now back in SA, she wants to share her love of food with everyone she meets. René was discovered by VIA through a talent search. 

Trou, trek of toer: 

Season 2​

10 January – 3 April 2024​

Wednesdays 20:00​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Reality​

Sponsor: Flight centre​

In each episode, a couple must pick between spending their savings on either a magical wedding, a down payment on their dream property or splurge it all on an unforgettable trip. Hosted by real-life couple Bianca le Grange and David Johnson.​

About Bianca​: Bianca le Grange is a singer, actress, presenter and classically trained violist and pianist who has starred in various well-known musical theater productions.​

About David​: An accomplished actor who has shared the big screen with various international stars. Locally David is best known for his role as Dwayne in 7de Laan.

Outopsie 

Season 3​

11 January – 4 April 2024​

Thursdays 20:00​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: True crime​

In each episode, the forensic pathologist Hestelle van Staden explores the case where forensic pathology played an important role. Each episode opens with Hestelle taking viewers through the details of the forensic report and – from there – taking us deeper into the case.

What To Expect On Via In October 2023?

My plek of joune

Season 9​

12 October 2023 – 25 January 2024 Thursdays 17:30​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Home makeover​

Sponsor: Decofurn, Ryobi, Tjhoko paint

Two people who live under the same roof and are caught in a style dispute over a room in their home, are given the opportunity to broker peace at last. A coin toss determines which one of them will have the chance to makeover the problematic room (in the space of one day) with the help of interior decorator Isabel Barends and handyman Melt van der Spuy.

Uit die slaapkamer 

Season 4​

18 October 2023 – 31 January 2024 Wednesdays 21:00​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Talk show​

Sponsor: Luvland​

The sexologist Doctor Elna Rudolph became a fan favourite of VIA viewers after a series of appearances on Minki van der Westhuizen’s talk show Minki. And now Doctor Elna has her own talk show in which she (with the help of an opinionated panel) answers and addresses everything you’ve ever wanted to know about sex but were too afraid to ask.

Slimkoppe met Netwerk24

Season 1​

23 October 2023 – 5 February 2024 Mondays 21:00​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Game show​

Sponsor: Afrikaans.com​

In each episode of this fun game show, a panel of hilarious trivia lovers duke it out through three rounds of general knowledge head-scratchers. Hosted by Susan Booyens. In partnership with Netwerk24.

Sterkbek

Season 1​

24 October 2023 – 6 February 2024​

Tuesdays 20:00​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Food / Talk show​

Sponsor: Gelusil​

In each episode, Nic Mac – AKA The Godly Giemba – invites a local celebrity to join him in tasting the hottest, spiciest food in the Western Cape. They visit a cheap and cheerful eatery where they taste a few increasingly spicy dishes that have been lathered in hot sauce. With each dish, the questions for the celeb get more personal and prying. Will they be able to take the heat?

Konings van kitskos

Season 10​

26 October 2023 – 8 February 2024​

Thursdays 17:00​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Food​

VIA’s popular food show is back! Besties Alvin Bruinders and Gerhard Steyn hit the road to sample the very best fast food South Africa has to offer.​

​About Alvin​

Alvin Bruinders is an entertainer known for his work in various fields, including acting, comedy, MCing, radio presenting, and singing. He is best known for his role in the sitcom Vetkoek Paleis.​

About Gerhard​

Gerhard Steyn is a popular Afrikaans singer, guitarist, and songwriter.

Waar’s my trourok

Season 1​

27 October 2023 – 9 February 2024​

Fridays 17:00​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Style​

Sponsor: Blanco Bridal​

In each episode, two brides-to-be and her loved ones pop into our studio to try on a range of wedding dresses before picking the one she’ll wear on her big day. Hosted my Mila Guy.

Kom ons braai

Season 17​

28 October 2023  - 10 Ferbuary 2024 Saturdays 20:00​

46 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Food / Competition​

Three couples braai against one another for points and prizes. Each couple has a chance to throw a braai party at their own home and the duos score one another efforts in terms of braai technique, taste and entertainment.

Huisgenoot Ware Lewensdramas 

Season 11​

30 October 2023 – 12 February 2024​

Mondays 20:00​

46 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: True crime / Docuseries​

VIA and Huisgenoot magazine’s popular true-crime series returns. Each week focuses on the story behind the high-profile stories that shock South Africans and grabbed headlines – from brutal murders to nefarious scams.

What To Expect On Via In October 2023?

Myne vir joune 

Season 9​

12 October 2023 – 25 January 2024 Thursdays 17:30​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Home makeover​

Two people who live under the same roof and are caught in a style dispute over a room in their home, are given the opportunity to broker peace at last. A coin toss determines which one of them will have the chance to makeover the problematic room (in the space of one day) with the help of interior decorator Isabel Barends and handyman Melt van der Spuy.​

Uit die slaapkamer 

Season 4​

18 October 2023 – 31 January 2024 Wednesdays 21:00​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Talk show​

The sexologist Doctor Elna Rudolph became a fan favourite of VIA viewers after a series of appearances on Minki van der Westhuizen’s talk show Minki. And now Doctor Elna has her own talk show in which she (with the help of an opinionated panel) answers and addresses everything you’ve ever wanted to know about sex but were too afraid to ask.​

Slimkoppe met Netwerk24 

Season 1​

23 October 2023 – 5 February 2024 Mondays 21:00​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Game show​

In each episode of this fun game show, a panel of hilarious trivia lovers duke it out through three rounds of general knowledge head-scratchers. Hosted by Susan Booyens. In partnership with Netwerk24.​

Sterkbek 

Season 1​

24 October 2023 – 6 February 2024 Tuesdays 20:00​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Food / Talk show​

In each episode, Nic Mac – AKA The Godly Giemba – invites a local celebrity to join him in tasting the hottest, spiciest food in the Western Cape. They visit a cheap and cheerful eatery where they taste a few increasingly spicy dishes that have been lathered in hot sauce. With each dish, the questions for the celeb get more personal and prying. Will they be able to take the heat?​

​Konings van kitskos 

Season 10​

26 October 2023 – 8 February 2024 Thursdays 17:00​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Food​

VIA’s popular food show is back! Besties Alvin Bruinders and Gerhard Steyn hit the road to sample the very best fast food South Africa has to offer.​

About Alvin​:

Alvin Bruinders is an entertainer known for his work in various fields, including acting, comedy, MCing, radio presenting, and singing. He is best known for his role in the sitcom Vetkoek Paleis.​

About Gerhard​:

Gerhard Steyn is a popular Afrikaans singer, guitarist, and songwriter.​

Waar’s my trourok?

Season 1​

27 October 2023 – 9 February 2024​

Fridays 17:00​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Style​

In each episode, two brides-to-be and her loved ones pop into our studio to try on a range of wedding dresses before picking the one she’ll wear on her big day.​

About Mienke​

Mienke Ehlers is an actress, stylist, presenter, and influencer. She is known to her fans for her tongue-in-cheek, one-minute monologues on Instagram and TikTok.​

Instagram following: 11.7K​

TikTok following: 25.8K​

Kom ons braai

Season 17​

28 October 2023  - 10 Ferbuary 2024 Saturdays 20:00​

46 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Food / Competition​

Three couples braai against one another for points and prizes. Each couple has a chance to throw a braai party at their own home and the duos score one another efforts in terms of braai technique, taste and entertainment.​

Huisgenoot: Ware lewensdramas 

Season 11​

30 October 2023 – 12 February 2024​

Mondays 20:00​

46 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: True crime / Docuseries​

VIA and Huisgenoot magazine’s popular true-crime series returns. Each week focuses on the story behind the high-profile stories that shock South Africans and grabbed headlines – from brutal murders to nefarious scams.​

What To Expect On Via In September 2023?

September Highlights VIA

Hier sit die manne 

Season 2​

20 September – 13 December 2023​

Wednesdays 17:30​

23 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Talk show / Magazine show​

A male-interest talk show hosted by a noteworthy former Springbok. In each episode our host, Frank Rautenbach, will interview a guest who relevant to the market. Additional inserts will focus on popular male interests such as cars, fishing, hunting, investing, travel, and rugby.

Hier sit die manne 

Season 2​

20 September – 22 November 2023​

Wednesdays 20:00​

46 minutes x 10 episodes​

Genre: Reality​

The search is on for the number-one trouvrou (the ideal wife) in South Africa! In this provocative reality show a group of eight women from across the country will check into a luxury farmhouse where they will compete to be crowned the trouvrou of the year and to answer the question: Which area in South Africa produces the best marriage material? Our panel of three, opinionated judges will determine the leader board and the eventual winner.​

Slim vang sy baas 

Season 8​

22 September 2023 – 12 January 2024​

Fridays 17:30​

46 minutes x 13 episodes​

Genre: Game show​

In each episode of this fun-filled game show, two teams go head-to-head and battle it out through a series of rounds that will put their general knowledge to the ultimate test. Hosted by Beer Adriaanse.

Recap To Last Year: The Racing Partnership And The Via Duplicate Channel Likely Scrapped On DStv As Seen With BBC UKTV On Openview

Last year, MultiChoice and BBC Studios unveiled the general entertainment channel, BBC UKTV. It features drama series and game shows from BBC Brit alongside lifestyle and factual content from BBC Lifestyle and BBC Earth and kiddies entertainment from CBeebies.

Before it's rollout on the pay-tv platform, plans were underway for the channel to make its free-to-air debut on eMedia Investments' Openview platform. For unknown reasons, those plans fell through as the red brand and BBC Studios remain silent on the channel.

During that year, MultiChoice had conducted tests on additional channel to Media24's Via which has seen a boost in popularity following its induction back in 2015. The channel similar to the already mentioned BBC UKTV would supply existing content to more DStv customers.

Another channel which was also in development was a possible rival to 4Racing TV's Racing240, The Racing Partnership. It is described as the exclusive betting shop to which all of the owners Arena Racing's content is delivered to bookmakers.

Although no official name was given to this duplicate channel, the channel's 24 hour lineup was available to browse at the time while The Racing Partnership only had this test card pictured above.

What To Expect On Via In April 2023?

Ram vir ‘n Rus
Season 2
12 April 2023 // Wednesdays 20:00
46 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Reality / Dating
The reality-based dating show Ram vir ‘n Rus was a hit for VIA and had viewers talking about four South African men’s attempts at finding love with Russian women. After a long hiatus, the second season is set to return to VIA – with a few new tweaks guaranteed to keep viewers entertained.

Vrydagaand-musiek  (working title)*
Season 1
14 April 2023 // Fridays 20:00
46 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Music
A fun-filled TV show focused on Afrikaans music. Expect everything from game to tunes and, of course, plenty of laughs. Perfect family viewing for a Friday night.

Uit die slaapkamer*
Season 3
19 April 2023 // Wednesdays 21:00
23 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Talk show
The sexologist Doctor Elna Rudolph became a fan favourite of VIA viewers after a series of appearances on Minki van der Westhuizen’s talk show Minki. And now Doctor Elna has her own talk show in which she (with the help of an opinionated panel) answers and addresses everything you’ve ever wanted to know about sex but were too afraid to ask.

Huisgenoot: Ware Lewensdramas
Season 9
24 April 2023 // Mondays 20:00
46 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: True crime / Docuseries
VIA and Huisgenoot magazine’s popular true-crime series returns. Each week focuses on the story behind the high-profile stories that shock South Africans and grabbed headlines – from brutal murders to nefarious scams.

Kookpunt
Season 3
25 April 2023 // Tuesdays 20:00
46 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Cooking competition
A fast-paced cooking competition in which chefs and cooks duke it out for an enviable prize package. In each episode, three contestants go head-to-head to serve up restaurant-quality dishes using mostly unusual and unexpected ingredients. Expect some blood, a fair amount of sweat, and a whole lot of tears. With Yolani Abrahams and Chris Erasmus.

Konings van kitskos
Season 8
27 April 2023 // Thursdays 17:00
23 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Food
VIA’s popular food show is back! Besties Alvin Bruinders and Gerhard Steyn hit the road to sample the very best fast food South Africa has to offer.

Kom ons braai
Season 16
29 April 2023 // Saturdays 20:00
46 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Food / Competition
Three couples braai against one another for points and prizes. Each couple has a chance to throw a braai party at their own home and the duos score one another efforts in terms of braai technique, taste and entertainment.

What To Expect On Via In March 2023?

Laat die potte prunt: Kampioene
Season 2
4 March 2023 // Saturdays 20:00
46 minutes x 8 episodes
Genre: Food / Competition
In this spin-off season of VIA’s super-popular Laat die potte prut, winning teams from past seasons return to duke it out against one another and show us who are the true potjiekos champions of SA.

Die Valke
Season 1
16 March 2023 // Thursdays 20:00
46 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: True crime
A gripping new true-crime series about the Hawks' most intriguing and shocking cases. With exclusive access to the Hawks themselves and their archives, viewers will be given an insider's view into the unit's toughest and most notorious cases.

Doodgewone Jo
Season 7
22 March 2023 // Wednesdays 17:30
23 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Talk
In this talk show, popular singer Jo Black will meet up with famous friends to discuss interesting topics and activities ranging from sports, hunting, cross-fit, quad-biking, classic cars and technology while reflecting his personal values to try and redefine what it means to be a man in a modern context.

DStv Flex:
- Virtual Reality offers a new opportunity for African filmmakers
- Big Cat Sunday this February on National Geographic Wild
- CBS Reality acquired rights to Killer's Caught On Camera

Continuing shows:

Die groot afskud
Season 1
24 January 2023 // Tuesdays 20:00
46 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Reality / Weight-loss
A new, emotionally honest reality show which follows a group of overweight individuals as they embark on a dramatic weight-loss show. We witness all the physical and emotional highs and lows as they go through this life-changing experience.

Martelize se stamtafel
Season 2
27 January 2023 // Fridays17:00
23 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Food / Cookery
The much-loved RSG presenter Martelize Brink invites famous soap stars into her kitchen for a day of cooking and conversation. With the help of a genealogical researcher, they delve deep into the celeb guest's roots and then cook a dish that hails from the same country as their ancestors.

DStv:
- CBS Reality is the only brand to retain its identity in the UK from Paramount and AMC International
- Warner Bros. Discovery hinting at a possible rebrand to Boomerang as more preschool content fills the lineup
- MultiChoice shares crytpic message about eMedia's 4 channels
- BBC to close linear channels and move to an internet only digital future

MultiChoice Might Have Scrapped Another New Channel On The DStv Platform

In March, MultiChoice announced plans to terminate eMedia's 4 channels on which they were reluctant on retaining its status on the DStv platform for another 6 months but the pay-tv idol already sourced the necessary alternatives which were somewhat bizarre.

Firstly, they just took an existing batch of channels and made them accessible to more consumers as if the higher ups weren't watching those channels and put most of their efforts on channels 101-106 worse is when they left a single channel to fill the void of eMedia's channels.

They also added DreamWorks which has been viewed as a replacement as opposed to a new offering considering the similarities with eToonz shocking was how expensive it got considering how the cheaper offering was ahead. Joining the channel is Movie Room which is somewhat niche from eMovies.

As several consumers had noticed eExtra was the only channel fortunate enough to not get replaced and this was before the announcement of kykNET's Turkish offering on kykNET & Kie that a new Afrikaans lifestyle channel would be making way soon to the DStv platform.

In May which was the same period of eMedia's demise, they had begun tests on this channel and from the looks of it this HD channel had a lot of already viewed content from Media 24's Via which led to believe that maybe this channel was curated for Access customers.

I mean Via hasn't been on DStv for that long I mean they launched around 2013/4 which is almost 10 years but a portion of content can be viewed on the main channel and plus this wouldn't be the first channel to serve as a catch-up.

MultiChoice has a long list of catch-up channels such as Mzansi Wethu, kykNET Lekker, Moja 9.9. and Novela Magic so the idea of Via getting similar treatment doesn't seem far fetched considering how most of these are local channels.

Of course the question that's been bottling up my mind is why the channel hadn't launched as intended. MultiChoice already launched further channels like Hilaal TV, INX Prime and the already mentioned Movie Room but not this Via duplicate.

Could it have something to do with those transponder constraints as they don't have a lot of space for more channels so they often need to remove one to launch another or do they feel that the amount of viewers on Access particularly those watching kykNET Lekker just can't cover it.

Honestly I can see them launch this channel if they aren't planning to make Via accessible to Access consumers as seen Media24's other channel HONEY which is said to be not getting that much attention by audiences which is why it was added to more consumers.

What To Expect On Via In November 2022?

Kom ons braai: Familie en Vriende
Season 18
12 November 2022 // Saturdays 20:00
46 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Food / Competition
Three couples braai against one another for points and prizes. Each couple has a chance to throw a braai party at their own home and the duos score one another efforts in terms of braai technique, taste and entertainment.

Slim vang sy baas
11 November 2022 // Fridays 17:30
46 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Game show
In each episode of this fun-filled game show, two teams go head-to-head and battle it out through a series of rounds that will put their general knowledge to the ultimate test. Hosted by Beer Adriaanse.

Wys my 'n huis
Season 1
13 October 2022 // Thursdays 17:00
23 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Home and garden
In each episode, we follow a couple, an individual or a family on their search to find the perfect home to buy or rent. A real-estate agent will show them three homes: Two that tick all the boxes on their wish list and one wildcard property that doesn’t meet any of their requirements but might just be exactly what they were looking for.

ALREADY ON AIR BUT STILL NB!
Houvrou of trouvrou?
Season 1
28 September 2022 // Thursdays 20:00
46 minutes x 10 episodes
Genre: Reality
The search is on for the number-one trouvrou (the ideal wife) in South Africa! In this provocative, new reality show a group of eight women from across the country will check into a luxury farmhouse where they will compete to be crowned the trouvrou of the year and to answer the question: Which area in South Africa produces the best marriage material? Our panel of three, opinionated judges will determine the leader board and the eventual winner.

JAN
Season 4
16 October 2022 // Sundays 20:30
46 minutes x 10 episodes
Genre: Food / Docuseries
Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, South Africa’s first Michelin-star chef, has dazzled viewers with his culinary adventures through some of the most beautiful places in the world – from Apricale in Italy to the Kalahari in South Africa. In the fourth season, he delves deeper into South Africa's culinary traditions (and gives us a sneak peek into his latest secret project).

Huisgenoot Ware Lewensdrama’s: Vlees en bloed
Season 1
10 October 2022 // Mondays 20:00
46 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: True crime
A gripping new true-crime series that focusses on the most shocking cases of familicide in South Africa.

Kookpunt
Season 2
11 October 2022 // Tuesdays 20:00
46 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Food / Competition
In each episode of this fast-paced cooking competition, three chefs go head-to-head over three intense rounds to win an enviable cash prize. In round one, must choose between two dishes they wish to recreate. The winner of round two gets to choose the ingredient that they and their competitors cook with in round two. After round two, one chef is sent home and the final two chefs must cook with the surprise ingredients hiding under our cloche. At the end of the episode, one chef takes home a cash prize.

Uit die slaapkamer
Season 2
5 October 2022 // Wednesdays 21:00
23 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Talk
The sexologist Doctor Elna Rudolph became a fan favourite of VIA viewers after a series of appearances on Minki van der Westhuizen’s talk show Minki. And now Doctor Elna has her own talk show in which she (with the help of an opinionated panel) answers and addresses everything you’ve ever wanted to know about sex but were too afraid to ask.

Minki
Season 13
10 October 2022 // Mondays 17:30
46 minutes x 13 episodes
Genre: Talk
In this talk show, the much-loved Minki van der Westhuizen invites people who inspire and interest her to join her on her couch to chat about life, love and everything else.

DStv Updates: fliekNET To Become A Pop-Up Channel From July 15th, eExtra's Kuiertyd To Be Replaced By KykNET And Rumoured Developments For The New Afrikaans Channel By Media24

fliekNET South Africa's only Afrikaans movie channel is set to be the 10th channel that exits from the DStv platform in 2022 joining other brands like Tellytrack, Lifetime, ITV Networks, Russia Today and e.tv's 5 channels (including eAfrica).

fliekNET began as a pop-up channel in 2014 as part of the holiday and grew popularity for its selection of movies that it joined other popular franchises like Big Brother and Idols to return on a yearly basis.

Amidst the pandemic, MultiChoice launched a permanent version of the channel which some found repetitive as the pay-tv company struggled to incorporate as much variety to the schedule opted to make it a pop-up channel from July 15th.

 

kykNET will be rolling out a Saturday night block kind of like the one seen on eMedia's eExtra channel but instead of licensing a batch of movies it will be similar to M-Net's Sunday Night Movies where you get the latest movies with more original productions coming in 2023.

They could have tried adding some of the content to M-Net Movies but oh well.

kykNET & Kie which serves as a sister and duplicate channel to kykNET will be rolling out two Turkish dramas in July competing with eMedia's existing offering with In Die Ysterhand Se Greep going head to head with Droomvelore on e.tv with Kind Van Die Noodlot with Dokter Ali and Fenix for those with Openview excluding Fridays.

 

All the more reason to believe kykNET is replacing eExtra but not on Easyview with Access having to wait at least a year or so to view these shows on kykNET Lekker likely as 4 days a week series.

Onto new channels, despite MultiChoice using an existing brand as an alternative to eExtra. They will be rolling out another Afrikaans channel on top of returning the pop-up channel Woordfees to more consumers in July.

The new channel is nothing is like eExtra except for the target group as the channel features reality and lifestyle kind of like eReality but local which in turn happens to be Media24's Via duplicate likely for Access customers as seen with kykNET Lekker.

 

MultiChoice had tested the channel later in April onto May with further information about the channel nowhere in site with the lab rat either being delayed or terminated but delayed is more believable.

The 140 section is crowded with Afrikaans channels perhaps part of the reason fliekNET is being phased out is to make space for this channel and 149 would make a suitable channel number as it makes the main Via channel superior.

Considering how most of this happened amidst eMedia's demise on the DStv platform, you could say that the Via duplicate in a way is there to make up for the loss of eExtra.

Roundups #60: George Of The Jungle Coming Soon To DreamWorks Africa, Season Finale Alert For Star Life Plus New Series Unspoken Bonds And Musiekpaniek Returns For The Seventh Season On VIA

Watch out for that tree

This animated series spreads its wings or in jungle terms branch mighty fast, from SABC 3 to eToonz which are locals to well renowned brand like DreamWorks home to award-winning content. The King Of The Jungle holds a huge responsibility on his hands.

Inspired by the story of Tarzan, George Of The Jungle follows the adventures of the jungle dweller and his friends Ape and Magnolia, female companion Ursula and pet bird and elephant Tookie and Chep.

 

Until further notice: eToonz is expected to cease transmission on the DStv platform by the end of June as MultiChoice couldn't reach an agreement with eMedia that took them to court regarding the channel alongside eMovies, eMovies Extra and eExtra.

Star Life launching another remake

During the week, it was reported that My Desire a spinoff to This Is Love is coming to Star Life within the next month but from sources statements it looks like that won't be only new series joining the lineup.

Apparently the Hindi adaptation of Star Jalsha's Sanjher Baati titled Unspoken Bonds (Aapki Nazron Ne Samjha) starring Vijayendra Kumeria, Richa Rathore and Narayani Shastri is set to replace A New Life from June 13th.

Here's a short description about the show:

 

 

The story begins with Darsh Rawal receiving an award for his photographic skills at an event in Paris. Despite being deprived of his eyesight, Darsh possesses amazing photography skills. He can sense and visualize the complete world through his mind, and never lets his disability bring him down. But soon, his mother Rajvi becomes concerned about his marriage. Elsewhere in Dwarka, Nandini Rawal prepares for her sister Bansuri's marriage but is caught in a storm near the sea harbor. Darsh risks his life and saves Nandini.

Musiekpaniek gets another season

Musiekpaniek is a fun-filled game show in which a local musician and their superfans join our presenter in studio to test their music trivia. Hosted by Carla Mackenzie.

Season 7 is expected to air from 20:00 from 1st July.

 

In other developments, MultiChoice delayed the launch of the rumoured VIA duplicate while eMedia will be rolling out the second season of Die Kontrak which serves as a competitor to Musiekpaniek.

DStv Updates: New Channels Ranging From Pop-Ups To Permanent, Terminations And Other Rumours

MultiChoice has lost several channels over the years with more closures expected in the near future. The pay-tv company has been exploring other means of entertainment by strengthening the bond with third parties and increasing local investment.

They've also experienced a decline in consumers particularly on top tier packages. Point being made even if there's a growth in the lower masses the costs won't be able to cover the premium entertainment on M-Net and SuperSport.

Evidently, I can see them lose consumers in that smaller area which kind of brings the new channels into the mix.

As some have noticed, there hasn't been much international on DStv as most of their suppliers like Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount, NBCUniversal and Disney+ are saving them for their streaming service which they plan to introduce in the market.

 

 

MultiChoice is trying to build their programming slate with local content and sports. They're trying to be niche Disney+ is family and Discovery+ is factual so their only options are the reasons anyone would stay onboard at this point which brings us to the new channels.

Pop-Up Channels:

1. Woordfees
Unlike Afrocinema, the theatrical pop-up repeats the same content for the third time but to more DStv customers. The brand is expected to host some live event later in the year with the pop-up possibly fortunate to get the content in 2023.

2. Afrocinema
The channel gained massive success for its local movies when it was introduced last year in Africa Day so the brand is expected to make a return with a new movie titled Dark September.

Terminations:

1. Lifetime
As seen in other parts of Europe, Lifetime will cease transmission on DStv across Africa leaving A+E Networks to operate History for the time being. The channel closes by the end of May which coincides with the possible fate of the e.tv channels.

 

2. Discovery Family (rumour)
Its counterpart in France closed down earlier in the year as part of a decision made by the newly formed Warner Bros. Discovery and although not much reasons were shared with the sudden closure the feed on DStv has been on autopilot.

3. Boomerang (rumour)
Cartoonito launched as a programming block on the channel with plans to get content under this new branding and Cartoon Network shifting their focus to families and girls there's not much purpose for Boomerang.

4. eMedia channels - eExtra, eMovies, eMovies Extra and eToonz (pending)
eMedia Investments and MultiChoice are currently battling out the potential outcome for these channels which were scheduled to close in March only for it to be extended through June.

New Channels:

1. Upcoming movie channel
Interpreted as a replacement to eMovies, MultiChoice plans to add another movie channel later in the year not only to South Africans but the rest of Africa. The channel is speculated to be a mashup of the two eMovies kind of like how DreamWorks became eToonz+.

 

2. Untitled Via duplicate
The norm for most local channels or at least the ones on top tier brands. The channel will exist to rehash programs seen on the main channel and will likely be exclusive to Access customers as the content is currently available on the main channel.

3. Existing channels (partially rumoured)
MultiChoice was set to add KIX as a replacement to eMovies on Access as they prep another movie channel with PBS Kids added to Easyview as a suitor for eToonz all of which are pending due to the e.tv channels. On another rumoured note, Access customers are said to get the African lifestyle channel, HONEY.

 

 

4. tvN (rumour)
The #1 Korean entertainment channel offering drama series and reality shows ran as a pop-up on DStv. After its closure, its social platforms remain active as they seek a platform to continue their operations.

5. SABC Education
Launched in 2020, the channel was created amidst a pandemic and negotiations were underway for the past two years to package it on DStv. The reason for the long wait may have to do with the other 2 channels.

6. Two untitled SABC channels
The channels were said to replace the 4 e.tv channels currently seen on DStv. Not much details were mentioned about the two but SABC did register 3 channels 2 of which might be the same ones eMedia Investments and the SABC failed to launch on Openview in 2021.

Could The Via Duplicate Channel From Media24 Be A Replacement To eExtra On DStv?

MultiChoice was scheduled to remove e.tv's 4 additional channels currently seen on the DStv platform earlier this month with their fate hanging on a cliff for another 2 months as MultiChoice sources more channels.

Recently, MultiChoice registered an untitled Afrikaans channel which was revealed to be an extra Via channel likely for their Access customers as all the content hits the restart button on the supposed station.

Although MultiChoice won't say anything, the idea of them pawning this brand should they remove eExtra by the end of May doesn't seem far fetched at this point.

 

Why this channel might replace eExtra?

In March, MultiChoice put up a termination notice redirecting viewers to several other channels currently seen on their platforms and eExtra's alternatives were Mzansi Wethu and kykNET - local channels.

Further replacements were announced but none of them were for eExtra.

 

kykNET and Via are kind of niche compared to eExtra as they're distributing actual local content and not dubbed soapies. At this point, most of the focus is directed at the content and not the language.

eExtra is a telenovela channel and this upcoming channel is more or less another eReality but for local programming.

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

New Channel Alert (Rumoured): Media24 To Launch Second Afrikaans Channel On DStv

Media24 is Africa's largest publisher, printer, and distributor of magazines and related products, as well its largest newspaper publisher. In charge of online publications like News24 and newspapers like Daily Sun and City Press.

Media24 partnership with MultiChoice first began in 2015 with the launch of VIA an Afrikaans lifestyle channel and it wasn't long till the concept would expand to the rest of Africa with the launch of HONEY.

 

Now Media24 became not only Africa's largest publishing company but entertainment brand for its selection of original programmes – from food shows to true-life dramas and nail-biting reality shows.

After nearly a decade, MultiChoice awarded VIA with a second TV channel. Just like Moja 9.9., the brand will repeat content consumers on the family package would have come across on VIA such as Huisgenoot, Minki, Koskuns Met Lientjie Wilhelmela and Musiekpaniek.

Details on the rollout haven't been confirmed if I had to guess it will either rollout by the end of the month or sometime in May. Just like Moja 9.9., it will likely be made available to Access customers on channel 151 as VIA to fliekNET/Woordfees occupy 147-150.

 

This news comes after eMedia Investments also rolls out an Afrikaans channel to the Openview platform, ePlesier home to Turkish dramas seen on eMedia's linear and OTT platforms.

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

SNEAK PEEK: Some Of The Content Coming To MultiChoice Showcase Including Reality, Lifestyle, Movies, Series And Kid Shows

Showmax/M-Net:

Crime And Justice - Detectives Makena and Silas from Kenya's Directorate of Criminal Investigations investigate different crimes, some dealing with social or political impact.

Glasshouse (movie) - confined to their glasshouse, a family survives The Shred, a toxin that erases memory. Until the sisters are seduced by a Stranger who shatters their peace and stirs a past best left buried.

Gossip Girl - eight years after the original website went dark, a new generation of New York private school teenagers are introduced to the social surveillance of Gossip Girl.

Palm Springs (movie) - stuck in a time loop, two wedding guests develop a budding romance while living the same day over and over again.

Succession S1 - S3 - the Logan family is known for controlling the biggest media and entertainment company in the world. However, their world changes when their father steps down from the company.

Ghana Jollof - is the first Showmax Original comedy series in West Africa and is shot in Lagos and Accra.

Via:

Sjefhuis - take eight young, ambitious chefs hungry for their big break and set them up in a villa where they will duke it out to land an apprenticeship with the master chef Bertus Basson — and just let the cameras roll around the clock.

HONEY:

Pastors’ Wives
Season 2
TX: Thursday 13 January 2022 – 7 April 2022
WAT 21:00 | CAT 22:00 | EAT 23:00 
13 Episodes  
PG13  
60 minutes  
Genre: Reality
Pastors are often in the spotlight, but in this show, we meet the charismatic women holding it all together in their religious households. We follow them and get to see how unconventionally they live their lives. We also get to witness the dramatic situations they may find themselves in when the pastors’ wives clash.

Kids Kitchen Relay
Season 1  
TX: Monday 10 January 2022 – 4 April 2022
WAT 15:30 | CAT 16:30 | EAT 18:30 
13 Episodes  
PG13  
30 minutes  
Genre: Reality
Two teams of three kids each, go head-to-head in a relay cooking competition. The teams are given a theme and must cook one dish as a team in three rounds without any communication between team members. They must overcome various challenges, ingredients and cooking requirements to be crowned as the winner and walk away with a prize. Hlonela Mrwetyana and Thato Rampedi host the show, with Chef Zanele Van Zyl as the judge.

Cartoon Network:

Big Blue - sibling adventurers Lettie and Lemo lead a quirky submarine crew to unravel the mysterious secrets of an underwater universe. Along with a magical fairy stowaway named Bacon Berry they must explore and protect their vast ocean-covered planet.

Coach Me If You Can - Daniel Sissou has a secret: his soccer ball is none other than the world's greatest soccer player Erico Platana, transformed by a mad sorcerer. In order to change back, Erico has to deflate his ego and help Daniel become a champ.

You can find me on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

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