The Showmax Closure Is Just An Illustration Of What's Wrong With The Industry

During the year, MultiChoice decided to shut down its struggling Showmax streaming service after ramping up billions in loses. This comes two years after the company revamped the streamer alongside Comcast's NBCUniversal and Sky Group.

For years, MultiChoice has been trying to make Showmax "the Netflix for Africa" by ramping up local content for the streamer which includes Blood Psalms, The Girl From St. Agnes and Red Ink.

By partnering up with NBCUniversal, Showmax was able to compete with Stranger Things, Squid Games and Bojack Horseman on Netflix. This was due to the funnel of content coming from Universal Pictures, DreamWorks Animation and Telemundo.

Now most of that is set to be consolidated under DStv Stream and overtime on the Canal+ app.

To put it in simple terms, the closure of Showmax doesn't mean that Canal+ will double down on local spending to make up for the loss of Showmax. It's what you had with your M-Net Edge and M-Net alongside Disney XD and Disney Channel.

Although Canal+ can't retrench anyone that was contracted with Showmax, they're less likely to recruit more talent. The plan would be to let whatever makes up Showmax run its course until there's no use for it anymore.

The problem here isn't that Showmax is shutting down but the fact is the number of outlets local suppliers and talent would turn to is being reduced.

Amazon Prime Video served as another Showmax rival commissioning first run shows in the African market. Now these investments have gone to Europe and the US, although there's still local content it's mostly finished and not from scratch.

Netflix is probably in much better position compared to Amazon Prime Video as there's still some local investment. But the problem here is that it's mainly unscripted/reality TV and the streamer has adapted to a quality over quantity approach in Africa.

There's been calls for SABC and eMedia Investments to save the day but even they can't replicate or recover those hours used by Netflix, Amazon Prime Video or Showmax.

SABC has been going through financial constraints for years and last month their cash balance plummeted to 85% leaving them with 59 million. The National Treasury denied them a bailout of R4.9 billion to help in covering these expenses.

eMedia Investments managed to increase its profits by 18% but they did that through cost optimisation or in simple terms spending less. 

To sum it up, Amazon has stopped funding new productions while Netflix is being picky and the only brand that was pulling out the big guns (Showmax) is shutting down. SABC doesn't have any money while eMedia Investments is playing it safe.

The streaming climate in the whole of Africa is going through drought.

Even if the government were to impose new laws over ownership fact is Showmax ain't coming back and the damage had already been done. 

The government had proposed putting up local quotas on a streamer like Netflix and they could as well take a page from Amazon Prime Video. While others like Disney could follow NBCUniversal and form alliances to avoid compliance.

Canal+ Has Begun Developing Its Showmax Replacement Service In MultiChoice Markets

MultiChoice had closed down the Showmax streaming service as part of Canal+'s cost cutting endeavours at the company. After accumulating multiple losses, Canal+ had consolidated the rest of its content under DStv Stream.

Canal+ as anticipated will be phasing out it's DStv Stream and GOtv Stream services for its own streaming app. This is because a DStv consumer had spotted various regional domains although the logo is the only thing spotted for now.

They are aiming to get this Canal+ service up and running as soon as possible from what I heard. They are looking to get Netflix and a couple of services likely from the Explora Ultra such as Amazon Prime Video, YouTube and Disney+.

MultiChoice had also provided a website for M-Net, DStv and GOtv, and I can only guess those will be getting phased out soon. As a user of the Canal+ service, they do have a section for the packages and content in question.

With a Canal+ buyout, I doubt MultiChoice will have that many websites under their wing soon my guess is that they only the corporate one and that of Irdeto and SuperSport.

Not long ago, MultiChoice had also begun tests on Sporty TV for its consumers across Africa. Kind of curious on whether this had anything to do with the rollout of the Canal+ app I mean MultiChoice had also offered YouTube through its Explora Ultra.

Some people don't even realise this thing about Canal+ but they serve as aggregators bundling services from rival broadcasters as seen in France with Bein Sport, DAZN and Apple TV.

Paramount May Look To Axe (Paramount+ With) Showtime Once Warner Bros. Discovery Deal Closes

Paramount which houses brands such as CBS, Showtime and MTV is looking to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery that offers HBO, TLC and TNT. They are looking to get approval for this deal within the third quarter of the year.

While this merger isn't expected to monopolize the media landscape with Paramount's current market share. There is concerns from various outlets about the future of some of these assets from both companies or in this case, Showtime.

Showtime is a premium entertainment channel that offers original drama series and films. For those who aren't familiar with the brand would know it for shows like Billions, Dexter: Resurrection, Ray Donovan, Shameless and City On A Hill.

Since 2023, the remainder of Showtime's offering had been consolidated under the entity, Paramount+ With Showtime. With the Showtime trademark retained for Paramount's cable networks.

With the Warner Bros. Discovery tie-up underway, Paramount could look to retire (Paramount+ With) Showtime and consolidated it's remaining endeavours under HBO and CBS. This merger is intended to make them competitive in the long term.

Compared to HBO, Showtime and CBS, the brand that lacks in scale and familiarity in this scenario would be Showtime. Sure it has a couple of good shows but HBO and CBS had built franchises and you don't see their operations winding down.

Besides, a majority of HBO and CBS programming get licensed to various international broadcasters if not take up a large chunk of these broadcaster's schedule. In this scenario, Showtime would be left with the bits or serve as a plot filler.

Canal+ Might Look To Rollout Viu In K+ Territories

K+ was a defunct pay-TV service in Vietnam, known primarily for holding exclusive broadcast rights to the English Premier League and other major sports properties. It formed part of a joint venture between VTV (Vietnam Television) and Canal+.

Its shutdown marked the end of a 16-year era where K+ was the "undisputed king" of sports broadcasting in the country. But due to various economic factors like piracy, cord cutting and streaming K+ ceased operations in Vietnam.

Canal+ had since been banking on Viu in which they operate alongside PCCW Media Limited. Its a streaming service based in Hong Kong that accumulated 66.4 million subscribers of which 12.2 million serve as paying subscribers.

Canal+ has been using Viu to distribute K+ content across 16 markets in Asia, Africa, Oceania and the Middle East including Australia, Bahrain, Egypt, Hong Kong, Singapore, New Zealand, Malaysia, Myanmar, Oman, Philippines, and Saudi Arabia.

Prior to K+ closure in Vietnam, Canal+ had also shuttered its pay-tv operations in Ethiopia and the buyout of MultiChoice gave them re-entry in the region. The closure of K+ in Vietnam is likely telling a similar tale to its failed Ethiopian business.

Canal+ has a 36.8% stake in Viu with the option of increasing it to 51% giving them majority control. It could be that they're awaiting to buy up the the number of shares before expanding as there's not much they can do with the current stake.

‘Yokoso Scooby-Doo!’ Anime Series Lands At Tubi In The US While Debuting On Cartoon Network Internationally

Zoinks! “Scooby-Doo” is going anime. Tubi has acquired the new animated series “Yokoso Scooby-Doo!” — which means “Welcome Scooby-Doo” — which focuses on Scooby-Doo and Shaggy, and stars “Scooby-Doo!” voice regulars Frank Welker (“Scoob!”) and Matthew Lillard (“Scream”) as the two main roles.

“Yokoso Scooby-Doo!” is the first original anime “Scooby-Doo!” series, and is produced by Warner Bros. Animation. Tubi has exclusive rights to the series in North America, while Cartoon Network will run it internationally.

“Scooby-Doo is one of the most beloved franchises in entertainment, and ‘Yokoso Scooby-Doo!’ lets us reinvent it in a way fans haven’t seen before,” said Tubi chief content officer Adam Lewinson in a statement. “By bringing Scooby and Shaggy into a bold anime world set in Japan, we’re connecting with global fandoms and delivering the kind of fun, chaotic mystery that travels across generations. As we grow our animation slate, this is exactly our brand of fan-first storytelling—familiar, surprising, and unmistakably Tubi.”

Here’s the logline: “While visiting Japan on the ultimate foodie adventure, Scooby-Doo and Shaggy unwittingly unleash hundreds of mythical monsters that are causing trouble across the country. With the help of Scooby’s uncle, Daisuke-Doo, along with new friends, a magical girl Yume and gadget whiz Takumi, the group embarks on an all-new mystery filled with monster chasing and fun chaos.”

Welker has been the voice of Scooby-Doo for more than two decades, and has been part of the “Scooby-Doo” franchise from the beginning, as the voice of Fred Jones when “Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!” premiered in 1969. Lillard played Shaggy in the live-action Scooby-Doo films and has since voiced the character in multiple animated series. 

This is the first anime “Scooby-Doo!” but not the first adventure in Japan for the characters. The 2009 direct-to-video film “Scooby-Doo! and the Samurai Sword” took place in the country.

“Welcome to Mystery Inc., Tubi!” said Warner Bros. Animation, Cartoon Network Studios, Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe president Sam Register said in a statement. “We’re excited to partner on this next chapter as we push the Scooby-Doo franchise forward with its first-ever original anime series. Alongside the amazing artists at OLM, we’ll unmask a new batch of mysteries, signature hijinks, and – of course – plenty of Scooby Snacks, all brought to life through the dynamic artistry of anime.”

This reps the second announcement of the day about a project from one of the Warner Bros. Discovery animation studios that is heading to the competition instead of Cartoon Network/HBO Max. Disney+ and Hulu announced the June 29 U.S. premiere date of the new animated series “Adventure Time: Side Quests,” produced by Cartoon Network Studios. 

“Yokoso Scooby-Doo!” will be directed by Itsuro Kawasaki, while Francisco Paredes is co-producer. OLM in Japan will provide production services, while Warner Bros. Animation is producer.

Canal+ Might Look To Strengthen The Bond Between VIU And MultiChoice

With over 45 million monthly active users and 15 million subscribers, Viu ranks amongst the top 3 SVOD/AVOD players in Southeast Asia in terms of revenues. It is operated by VIU International Ltd., a joint venture between PCCW and Canal+.

VIU serves as one of few broadcasters in the streaming regime to curate local content. Aside from licensing shows like Uzalo and Skeem Saam from the SABC, they've also been dubbing various international shows to Zulu and Afrikaans.

They've been creating a lot of buzz for their Zulu dubbed kdramas with shows like Iqhawe Labafundi (High School: Return of a Gangster) and Intengo Yothando (Pear Perfect).

Alongside Canal+'s crown jewel MultiChoice, they've been bulking up on Afrikaans dubbed shows with Landman, Die Stokman and Eerste Liefde Laaste.

As Canal+ continues to build up it's stake in VIU and make further enhancements to MultiChoice. One of the likely outcomes awaiting the two is a potential partnership.

Showmax is going dark soon and this gives VIU ample room to license some of its content. Although, Canal+ plans to launch a dedicated app don't be surprised if VIU alongside DStv Stream were to bulked up on this app.

Same goes for the content, Canal+ Afrique benefitted from the MultiChoice tie-up as they got access to M-Net's local archives and SuperSport. MultiChoice had exclusive agreements with certain suppliers which extended to include them.

Canal+'s stake in VIU is sitting at 37,2% and when they do get it to 51% or before that. Don't be surprised if we got to see these dubbed shows from VIU on (a) separate DStv channel(s) if not Mzansi Magic and KykNET.

MultiChoice had been bulking up on the dubbed stuff with the launch of Landman on KykNET. Prior to this was the rollout of Star Khanya with the future rollout of Zee Dunia in East Africa.

According to some insiders, MultiChoice has more dubbed content they're planning to rollout on DStv and since last year they've been talks about allocating new channels. I honestly wouldn't be surprised if VIU's scraps were one of them.

MultiChoice did away with the English feed of TLNovelas and interesting how the remaining dubbed channels all have to appeal to the local consumer. You have Telemundo (English), Zee World (Sesotho and Swahili) and Star Khanya (Zulu).

Dragon Striker, Brand New Series Coming Soon To Disney Channel Across Italy, Spain And Africa

Set in the world of Asteria, Dragon Striker centers on a high-stakes magical sport called Gorotama—a five-a-side, soccer-like game enhanced with fantastical powers. The story follows Key, a 12-year-old farm boy who dreams of playing Gorotama at the elite school Kal Asterock, despite lacking magical abilities. That changes when he discovers a hidden connection to his late mother, a legendary champion known as the Dragon Striker.

Key’s journey introduces him to Ssyelle, a gifted player who can slow time and becomes a core part of the newly reformed team known as the Knights. Other teammates include Milo (who controls jelly), Oddward (who can duplicate himself), and the mysterious Ameline (who drains tamas). Standing in their way are rival squads like the Bards, Roses, Shadows, and the fearsome Dragons, led by Key’s new rival, Ragno.

The series, created and produced by Sylvain Dos Santos, will be directed by Charles Lefebvre from screenplays by writer Paul McKeown. Cyber Group Studios and La Chouette Compagnie produce for Disney EMEA.

Charles Lefebvre, the show's co-creator who also co-founded Chouette after working at its parent La Chouette Co., had worked on anime such as “My Hero Academia” and “One Piece”.

Originally set for a release in 2024, a preview of the new series was made available at the 2025 Annecy Animation Festival in France. The 22 20-minute episodes, will now on Disney Channel feeds across Spain, Italy and Africa from June 10th, and will also be streaming on Disney+.

Op 'n Afgrond, Brand New Series Launches On eVOD

eVOD, a South African based streaming service operated by eMedia Investments will be rolling out a new Afrikaans dubbed Turkish drama called Op 'n Afgrond. Known in Turkey as Siyah Kalp, it will be streaming on eVOD from Wednesday 13 May.

It starred Ece Uslu as Sumru Devresli, Aras Aydın as Nuh Çakırca, Hafsanur Sancaktutan as Melek Çakırca, Burak Tozkoparan as Cihan Şansalan, Leyla Tanlar as Sevilay Günser and Burak Sergen as Samet Şansalan.

Synopsis for Op 'n Afgrond 

The story kicks off with the arrival of twins, Nuh and Melek, in Cappadocia. They are seeking the mother who abandoned them years ago—Sumru.

Sumru has built a new, wealthy life as the matriarch of the Şansalan family, keeping her first children a complete secret from her husband and her current life.

When Nuh and Melek find her, they aren't just looking for a reunion; they are fueled by the pain of abandonment. Their presence threatens to dismantle the "perfect" facade Sumru has carefully constructed.

As the twins infiltrate the Şansalan world, they become entangled with Sumru's other children and business associates. This creates a web of forbidden romances and high-stakes rivalries, particularly involving characters like Cihan and Sevilay.

DStv Stream Debuts Beaulah: Queens Van Die Kaap Season 2

The queens are back — and according to the cast of Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap, the drama, shade and glamour are bigger than ever.

The SAFTA-nominated reality series returns for a second season on DStv Stream from 12 May 2026, once again taking viewers behind the scenes of Cape Town’s vibrant drag world.

Produced by Pop24, the team behind shows including The Mommy Club, Tollie & Manila and Bae Beyond Borders, the series follows seven drag performers as they navigate friendships, rivalries, performances and personal struggles.

Season Two Promises More Drama and New Alliances

Season one of Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap left audiences with fractured friendships, simmering tensions and plenty of unforgettable moments. Now, season two picks up right where the drama left off.

According to the show’s producers, “the beef and shade are still very much alive,” with viewers set to see shifting loyalties and surprising new dynamics among the Cape Town queens.

The cast includes multi-pageant winner Emogan Moore, Miss Sovereign Western Cape winner Ina Propriette, Miss Cape Town Pride winner Kat Gilardi, television personality Madison Scarr, Miss Gay Western Cape winner Maxine Wild, rival house mothers BB Vahlour and Madison Scarr, and SA’s Got Talent runner-up Manila Von Teez.

BB Vahlour Reflects on Representation and Growth

BB Vahlour, one of the show’s three trans women cast members, said returning for a second season carries both meaning and responsibility.

“Returning for a second season feels like an opportunity to deepen the work we started and to grow alongside the audience and the ‘characters’ we are on the show,” she said.

“It is both an honour and a responsibility to keep the story authentic and true to ourselves, while also showing where our drag is in our lives now, what and who we represent and the importance of uniting all drag queens.”

Expect Bigger Looks, Bigger Personalities and Bigger Fights

Fabian van Schalkwyk, better known as Emogan Moore, teased an explosive new season packed with fashion, friendships and drama.

“There is so much to look forward to this season, with many new and unexpected friendships forming… and way more lashes, wigs, garments, and drama,” he shared.

For veteran queen Kat Gilardi, viewers should prepare for some shocking revelations.

“Of course there are [new dynamics], major ones. You will see how some people reveal who they really are, but it should not come as a shock. They are simply showing you who they have been all along,” she said.

Drag Visibility Matters

Several cast members also reflected on the importance of the series for LGBTQ+ representation, particularly for trans women.

Maxine Wild, who has been doing drag for 13 years, said the show provides a powerful platform for visibility and affirmation.

“Beaulah has been, and continues to be, an incredible platform for us to showcase who we are,” she explained.

“As a trans woman, its importance lies in allowing people who feel the same way about their gender and their journey to see that there are others out there living their truth unapologetically in society.”

Madison Scarr added that she is excited for viewers to witness more of her personal journey.

“I’m excited for the audience to see the evolution in my trans journey and the personal challenges I’ve overcome, as well as the fun, playful moments I’ve had with growing my drag,” she said.

A Show That Changed Lives

For Manila Von Teez, the impact of Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap has been life changing.

“I am a completely different human being, this show has changed me in so many ways and offered me opportunities I could never could dream about,” he said.

Ina Propriette echoed the excitement around drag once again taking centre stage.

“Returning for a second season means drag gets another moment in the culture at the forefront,” he said.

“It’s been a dry spell and I’m just extremely excited to have my artform be a beacon for our community because we seriously missed and needed this.”

Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap Season Two will be available to binge-watch on DStv Stream from Tuesday, 12 May 2026.

Netflix Unveils First Looks At 'Charlie Vs. The Chocolate Factory' Film, Upcoming Anime Slate Including 'The One Piece', And Jason Reitman & Gil Kenan For 'Ghostbusters' Series

What’s New:

• Exclusive sneak peeks for Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory and THE ONE PIECE as part of the Next on Netflix Animation Showcase

• Anime Studio Focus featuring exclusive sneak peeks at THE ONE PIECE, Sparks of Tomorrow, THE RIBBON HERO, as well as anime-inspired series inspired by Japanese anime like Blue Eye Samurai’s season 2 (logline revealed) and Bass X Machina

• Concept Art for Brad Bird’s Ray Gunn; Aardman’s Peter Lord moderating the conversation with Brad Bird

• New Still & Release Date for Ricky Gervais’ Alley Cats

• Release Year for Ghostbusters Series; Jason Reitman & Gil Kenan attending

• A KPop Demon Hunters outdoor sing-along screening

Netflix returns to the Annecy International Animation Film Festival with a genre-spanning line-up of films and series featuring visionary filmmakers, as well as up-and-coming talent. This follows an unprecedented year for Netflix Animation, with the triumphant KPop Demon Hunters taking home a history-making two Oscars1, 13 Annie Awards wins including three for Love, Death + Robots, and Ultraman: Rising nabbing the Children and Family Emmys for Outstanding Animated Special and Sound Mixing & Sound Editing for an Animated Program.

A full rundown of Netflix’s Annecy activity includes: 

Steps Work-in-Progress session at Salle Pierre Lamy on Tuesday, 23 June with directors Alyce Tzue and John Ripa, art director Dan Casey, and head of character animation Jason Figliozzi, who will share their creative insights on the re-imagining of the classic Cinderella tale, told from the perspective of one of the so-called “evil” step-sisters. 

Also on Tuesday, Netflix will host a dedicated Anime Studio Focus titled “Netflix Anime: Bold Stories, Boundless Worlds” at la Salle de la Volière. As the home for anime with more than 150 million Netflix members around the world choosing to watch it, this session is set to be a must-see showcase of the very best of anime for every taste and mood, whether you’re a hard-core fan, casual viewer or a beginner to the medium. Buckle up for an in-depth look at the upcoming slate led by THE ONE PIECE, Sparks of Tomorrow, THE RIBBON HERO; as well as anime-inspired series Blue Eye Samurai’s season 2 and Bass X Machina.

Next on Netflix Animation: from Ghostbusters to Brad Bird’s Ray Gunn returns to Théâtre Bonlieu on Wednesday, 24 June. Executive producers Jason Reitman, Gil Kenan, and showrunners/Executive Producers Ben Hibon and Elliott Kalan will unveil a world exclusive preview of next year’s Ghostbusters series produced in partnership with Sony Pictures Animation. And visionary director Brad Bird will take to the stage and provide a very personal insight into his animated feature Ray Gunn, his 30+ year in the making passion project produced at Skydance Animation; this conversation will be moderated by stop-motion legend, Peter Lord, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Aardman who are also celebrating their 50th anniversary this year. Additionally, the session will feature glimpses at THE ONE PIECE series and the Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory animated film.

A masterclass with multi-award-winning comedy genius Ricky Gervais at Théâtre Bonlieu follows on Thursday, 25 June. Ricky serves as creator and director on his upcoming adult comedy series Alley Cats and will participate in a moderated conversation. Audiences will also get an early look at two episodes ahead of its debut on Netflix on Friday, 7 August.

THE RIBBON HERO will have its world premiere as part of the festival’s Annecy Presents programming.

To celebrate the first anniversary since KPop Demon Hunters became a global and cultural phenomenon, there will be an outdoor sing-along screening on Wednesday, 24 June by Lake Annecy. 

And finally, Sparks of Tomorrow (Episode 1), Long Story Short (Episode - “Shira Can’t Cook”) and Love, Death + Robots (Episode - “How Zeke Got Religion”) will compete in Annecy’s Official TV Films Competition. 

1 The first non-Disney/Pixar animated film ever to win more than one, and Netflix’s second animated film to win the Oscar in 4 years.

Film:

CHARLIE VS. THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY

Release date: 2027

Synopsis: Willy Wonka (Waititi) has spent the years since the Golden Ticket contest behind bars (not the chocolate kind) for the crime of turning a child into a blueberry. Having served his time, Wonka returns to his factory determined to add a little sweetness to a bitter world. But one thing stands in his way: teenager Charlie Paley (Connor) and his friends. Facing eviction, this next generation of “rotten” kids plot to break into the factory, nab a priceless Wonka Bar, and save their homes. But like many before them who enter the fantastical world of the factory, these kids are in for a bit more than they can chew...

Directors: Jared Stern & Elaine Bogan

Producers: Aron Warner, Timothy Yoo

Executive Producer: Taika Waititi

Cast: Kit Connor and Taika Waititi

Animation Studio: Sony Pictures Imageworks

Asset: First Look Image

RAY GUNN

Release date: 2026

Logline: In Metropia, a gigantic city in an alternate future as seen from 1939, private eye Raymond Gunn is drawn into a case involving aliens, murder and a multimedia star named Venus Nova.  

Director: Brad Bird

Producers: John Lasseter, David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, and Lisa Beroud

Cast: Sam Rockwell, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Waits

Animation Studio: Skydance Animation

Images: First Look Images; Concept Art

STEPS

Release date: 2026

Synopsis: Think you know Cinderella's “evil” stepsisters? Think again! When misunderstood Lilith (Ali Wong) is blamed for hijacking the Royal Ball with a stolen magic wand, she accidentally turns her sister Margot (Stephanie Hsu) into a frog and leaves the kingdom in the hands of a prince-obsessed mean girl. Now Lilith must team up with Cinderella (Amanda Seyfried) (and a surprisingly dreamy troll) to save the kingdom, repair the fractured fairytale, and prove that even so-called villains deserve a shot at happily-ever-after.

Directors: Alyce Tzue & John Ripa 

Produced by: Amy Poehler, Jane Hartwell, Kim Lessing. Poehler and Lessing producing for Paper Kite Productions.

Cast: Ali Wong, Amanda Seyfried, Stephanie Hsu

Animation Studio: Netflix Animation Studios

Images: Images

THE RIBBON HERO

Release date: August, 2026

Director: Yuki Igarashi

Inspired By: “Princess Knight” by Osamu Tezuka

Original Character Design: Kei Mochizuki

Character Design Cooperation: Mai Yoneyama

Animation Character Design: Issei Arakaki

Art Director: Cedric Herole

Production Company: Twin Engine

Animation Studio: Outline

LOGLINE: Yuki Igarashi, regarded as one of the industry’s most versatile animators, directs the film. He first drew wide attention for the sophisticated animation he handled alone as key animator on the ending sequence of Jujutsu Kaisen Season 1. His directorial debut, Star Wars: Visions - Lop & Ochō, received high praise in Japan and abroad for its delicate storytelling and dynamic action scenes. THE RIBBON HERO marks Igarashi’s first time directing a feature-length film.

Bringing together a team of highly skilled creators, the film depicts the story of a lone hero who chooses to defy a harsh destiny, set in a delicately crafted world and brought to life through polished action.

Images: Teaser Art

Series:

ALLEY CATS

Release date: August 7, 2026

Synopsis: Alley Cats is a sitcom created by and starring the multi award-winning Ricky Gervais. The adult animation follows the trials and tribulations of a group of feral British cats from all walks of society, who seek companionship while ruminating on everyday life. From the funny to the absurd, the series is packed with Gervais’ signature style of heart and social commentary that audiences have come to expect.

Creator and Director: Ricky Gervais

Co-director: Elliot Dear

Executive Producers: Ricky Gervais, Steven Hamilton Shaw

Production Designer:Tang Heng

Cast: Ricky Gervais, Tom Basden, Andrew Brooke, David Earl, Kerry Godliman, Jo Hartley, Diane Morgan, and also featuring Natalie Cassidy and Tony Way

Animation Studio: Blink Industries

Asset: New Image 

BASS X MACHINA 

Release date: Coming Soon

Synopsis: In a lawless Steampunk West overrun by brutal outlaws, machines, and supernatural terrors, a father is forced to become judge, jury, and executioner—knowing that every act of justice meant to protect his family may ultimately cost him the very people he’s fighting to save.

Executive Producers: Brian Tyree Henry, LeSean Thomas, Jennifer Wiley-Moxley, Chad Handley

Animation Studio: Studio Mir

Images: Images

BLUE EYE SAMURAI - Season 2

Release date: Coming Soon

Logline: In season 2, Mizu’s bloody quest continues in London, where she faces new friends, old foes, and her own demons. In Japan, Akemi and Taigen navigate Edo Castle under a dangerous new Shogun, while Ringo searches for new purpose.

Created by: Amber Noizumi and Michael Green

Executive Producers: Amber Noizumi and Michael Green

Animation Studio: Blue Spirit

Images: Images

Untitled GHOSTBUSTERS Series

Release date: 2027

Logline: Hailing from Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation, the high end animated series based on the beloved Ghostbusters IP will debut exclusively on Netflix in 2027.

Executive Producers: Ben Hibon, Elliott Kalan, Jason Reitman, Gil Kenan, and Amie Karp  

SPARKS OF TOMORROW

Release date: July 5 2026

Synopsis: In an alternate version of the early 20th century where technological progress evolved along a different path shaped by steam power, Kyoto is blanketed in constant smoke. A boy, hardened by the loss of his brother, grows distrustful after their shared dream of an “Age of Electricity” is cut short. A deeply devout girl hides her dreams and regrets for her deceased mother deep within her heart. When the two cross paths, they set about exploring the secrets of the 20th Century Electrical Catalog, a glimpse into the future they long for. Together, they must confront their pasts and carve a path toward the future they once believed in.

Director: Minoru Ota

Animation Studio: Kyoto Animation 

Images: Key Art

THE ONE PIECE 

Release date: February 2027

Original manga by: Eiichiro Oda (Weekly Shonen Jump, Shueisha)

Synopsis: Produced by WIT Studio, THE ONE PIECE is a brand new anime adaptation starting from the very beginning of the original manga’s East Blue saga. Separate from the TV anime series that has charged full speed ahead over the course of more than 25 years, this series taps into the expressive potential of modern technology to offer a familiar yet fresh take on the adventures of Luffy. 

Director: Masashi Koizuka

Assistant Director: Hideaki Abe

Series Composition: Taku Kishimoto

Character Design & Chief Animation Directors: Kyoji Asano, Takatoshi Honda

Creature Design & Image Boards: Yasuhiro Kajino

Prop Design: Eri Taguchi

Action Animators: Ken Imaizumi, Shuhei Fukuda

Art Director: Tomonori Kuroda

Animation Producer: Ryoma Kawamura

Animation Studio: WIT STUDIO

Images: Concept Art

Recap: May The 4th Be With You As Disney Unveils Themes Events And Programming

- Mando Mondays announced at Comic Con Africa Cape Town In Celebration of Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu Hitting Cinemas Nationwide on 22 May 

- May The 4th is a beloved commemoration of the Star Wars saga

- Galactic Programming Across Disney Channels and Disney+

- An Array of Star Wars Product from LEGO® to Figurines and Plush Available

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, 4 May 2026; In celebration of International Star Wars Day, Disney Africa today has announced Mando Mondays – a fan-driven celebration of the upcoming action-adventure must-see cinematic event from Lucasfilm, Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu.

In the film, the evil Empire has fallen, and Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they have enlisted the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his young apprentice Grogu. Directed by Jon Favreau, Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu also stars Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White.

Ahead of the film’s release from 22 May 2026, and as announced at a fan-filled Star Wars face off at Comic Con Cape Town this past weekend, Disney Africa is calling on South African fans to get in on the celebrations by visiting the Star Wars and Disney Studios Africa Facebook and Instagram pages to keep up to date on news and competitions to be announced throughout May. More competitions featuring the latest Star Wars products will be in hand through influencer unboxings and reveals, and there’s a galaxy to discover each Monday exclusively on Takealot, with a live shopping experience today only on Takealot.com. 

Burger King® is bringing the Force to flame-grilling with the launch of a limited-time menu inspired by Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu. Rolling out from 27 April in South Africa the new menu combines bold flavours, immersive packaging and exclusive collectibles to create a truly galactic experience for fans of all ages.  

This Is The Way… To Binge It All On Disney+

Lucasfilm’s acclaimed and celebrated series Maul: Shadow Lord premiere’s its last two episodes on 4 May and adds to the enthralling story of the iconic Maul, a former Sith, who is plotting to rebuild the Shadow Collective crime syndicate to aid in his relentless pursuit of revenge.

As the home of Star Wars, Disney+ has a galaxy of stories awaiting including the complete Star Wars Saga, original series from Ahsoka and Andor, to incredible animated offerings like The Clone Wars and The Bad Batch, to documentaries and specials and much, much more for every Star Wars fan to celebrate on May the 4th and beyond.

Discover Special Programming

Disney Channel (DStv Channel 303) viewers are in for a treat as two LEGO® Star Wars series premiere on the channel. From 4-7 May at 16:30 (CAT), LEGO® Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy sees the entire Star Wars Galaxy getting completely mixed up when an ordinary nerf-herder, Sig Greebling, unearths a powerful artifact from a hidden Jedi Temple. Then from 11-14 May at 16:30 (CAT) LEGO® Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy Pieces of the Past sees Sig, Jedi Bob, Yesi, Servo and the villainous Dev return and must face off against a new enemy – the powerful and mysterious Solitus. Our heroes will make unlikely alliances as they traverse new and dangerous parts of the hilariously mixed-up galaxy in an effort to stop the growing threat Solitus poses to all they hold dear.

The Most Wanted product in the Universe

Retailers nationwide will stock the latest and greatest collectibles, accessories and toys for the whole family from the exclusive Star Wars: Most Wanted celebration.

Highlights include the LEGO® BB-8 Astromech Droid Building Toy, lightsabers for any Padawan or Jedi and an array of Star Wars plush toys. In anticipation for the release of Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, fans can collect a number of fun products from Hasbro including the interactive animatronic figure Star Wars: Adventure Buddy Grogu, Star Wars: Huggin Grogu Figure with motion-activated hugging arms and sound effects as well as the Star Wars: Snacking Grogu featuring expressive movements, sound effects and interactive feeding play. LEGO® will also offer the Star Wars: Grogu™ (Mandalorian Apprentice) building set, a must-add for any collector.

May the 4th Be With You

Say “May the 4th Be With You” out loud and you’ll hear the pun that Star Wars fans worldwide have turned into a rallying cry to proclaim their love of the saga.

Today - 4 May - is the day to say “May the Force be with you” to all and celebrate the beloved Star Wars story that binds our galaxy together. From dressing up as their favourite characters, reliving the classic film moments by holding Star Wars movie marathons, holding Star Wars-themed parties (complete with blue milk and Death Star Popcorn Balls, Wookie Cookies and more) – the only limit is a fans imagination that stretches a galaxy (far, far away)! Discover more: https://www.starwars.com/star-wars-day.

PAC-MAN Launches New Animated Shorts, Live Events & Collabs For ‘PAC-MAY’

Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. is powering up this month to celebrate PAC-MAN’s birthday with PAC-MAY. Using the theme “Connect the Dots,” the month-long celebration promises exciting announcements and activations commemorating one of video games’ most iconic characters, who debuted in 1980. The “Connect the Dots” theme aims to bridge the past and present as well as usher in the future of PAC-MAN through the lens of storytelling.

Leading up to PAC-MAN Day, May 22 marks the debut of PAC-MAN: Snack Breaks, a new 2D-animated short series in partnership with New York-based studio Cartuna that is sure to delight multi-generational audiences and long-time fans alike. The birthday celebration extends to live events including The Paley Museum PAC-MAN CHOMPIONSHIP Tournament along with other fan events in New York City and Los Angeles. Coming up, Bandai Namco and Halfbrick Studios will serve up a treat for gamers with the Fruit Ninja x PAC-MAN crossover.

PAC-MAY kicked off with the first teaser trailer of the PAC-MAN: Snack Breaks animated shorts. Bandai Namco Entertainment, in partnership with animation studio Cartuna, produced the animated series, which follows PAC-MAN as he leaves PAC-Village for the fast-paced, neon sprawl of NEW PAC-CITY, where everyday life bursts into high-speed, snack-fueled adventures. With Team Ghost always on his tail, PAC-MAN’s boundless optimism is the ultimate power-up. By combining action, high-energy comedy and inventive worldbuilding, the new series honors the franchise’s iconic history while launching PAC-MAN into a bold new chapter of adventures in NEW PAC-CITY and beyond.

Directed by Noah Pardo (Lost in McDonaldland, Powerline Live! A Goofy Movie 360° Concert Experience) with lead producers Adam Belfer, James Belfer, Monica Mazel, Garrett Beltis and Ben Bishop, the series features a bold, retro-inspired visual identity and fast-paced comedic storytelling tailored to digital audiences. The principal cast features Mike Cefalo as PAC-MAN and Inky, Mike Bodie (Quokka’s Wild Life, Angry Birds on the Run) as Blinky, Rebecca Wang (Beyblade X, Solo Leveling) as Pinky and Lukas Arnold as Clyde.

PAC-MAN: Snack Breaks will launch on the official PAC-MAN YouTube Channel on May 22 with new episodes debuting each month.

Continuing PAC-MAN’s month-long celebration, Bandai Namco will be hosting various events across the U.S. for fans of all ages to participate. In New York City, a birthday event coinciding with the “45 Years of PAC-MAN” exhibition at The Paley Museum will be held on May 16 with a PAC-MAN: Snack Breaks panel and special screenings of the premiere episode before its official debut. The event will also include classic games to play, PAC-MAN meet & greets, iconic artifacts to view, crafts for kids and giveaways. The Paley Museum will also let fans of all ages compete in the PAC-MAN CHOMPIONSHIP tournament, where players will compete for the highest score in the classic PAC-MAN arcade game with the highest score taking home the grand prize and the title of “PAC-MAN NYC Chompion 2026.” More live events will be announced in the coming weeks.

PAC-MAN promotions will also take place for gamers of all ages, serving up Ghost-Chomping action in a special collaboration with Fruit Ninja starting May 6 where players can participate in four PAC-MAN-themed in-game events to unlock blades, dojos and special rewards. Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. also has a gift for all PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC players: a new free costume following on from the Holiday Costume. To celebrate PAC-MAN’s birthday, this free costume will be added to Nova’s Costume Shop. Put it on and set off on a grand adventure through Pac-Land.

‘Casper’ Live-Action Series In Works At Disney+

In a very competitive situation involving a five-way bidding war, Disney+ has landed a new series take on Casper the Friendly Ghost.

The live-action project comes from Rob Letterman and Hilary Winston, executive producers of another Disney+ supernatural series, Goosebumps; Steven Spielberg, who executive produced the 1995 Universal movie Casper starring Christina Ricci; and UCP, a division of Universal Studio Group.

There are no details yet about the new Casper, described as a modern update on the classic ghost story, which is in the early stages of development. It is believed to have a dark edge to it the way Wednesday tackles the Addams Family lore.

Letterman and Winston are writing, with Letterman set to direct. The duo are executive producing with Spielberg.

Casper originated as an affable translucent ghost featured in a string of animated movies by Famous Studios released between 1945 and 1959. That’s when the character was acquired by Harvey Comics, which had published Casper comics since 1952. Since then, Casper has headlined a slew of comic books, five animated TV series as well as Universal Pictures’ 1995 live-action feature Casper, produced by Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment and The Harvey Entertainment Co. 

In 2001, Harvey Entertainment was acquired by Classic Media. In 2012, Classic Media was bought by DreamWorks Animation, which in turn was acquired by Universal Pictures parent NBCUniversal in 2016, explaining why the potential Disney+ series is a co-production between DreamWorks Animation TV and UCP.

Like was the case in the 1995 Casper movie, which starred Ricci, Bill Pullman as well as Malachi Pearson as the voice of the title character, the new live-action series is expected to feature CGI effects.

If Casper, which has a premium development deal, goes to series, it will be Universal Studio Group’s first on Disney+. I hear that was a consideration when choosing the winner in the bidding war as having shows on all major streamers has been a goal for the studio. USG’s Universal TV has several series on Netflix, including A Man on the Inside, The Four Seasons as well as new medical drama Lovesick starring Claire Danes, which just landed there with a straight-to-series order, also in a competitive situation.

On Prime Video, the studio has We Were Liars, at Apple TV the upcoming Cape Fear and at HBO Max Hacks and The Gilded Age. At Hulu, UCP recently produced Murdaugh: Death in the Family, and Universal TV just sold for development bodyguard drama Close Protection.

In 2022, UCP set up for development at sibling streamer Peacock a different Casper live-action series, written/executive produced by The Ghost Bride head writer Kai Yu Wu, which ultimately did not go forward.

This is a rare Disney+ series project based on famous IP that is not from within the Disney ecosystem or derived from books. If Casper goes to series, the character will co-exist on the platform alongside famous Disney ghost characters, including The Nightmare Before Christmas‘ dog Zero.

Letterman developed the 2023 Goosebumps, based on the book series by R. L. Stine, with Nicholas Stoller. Letterman, who had directed the 1995 Goosebumps feature, was an executive producer/director and Winston an executive producer/showrunner on the series, which ran on Disney+ and Hulu for two seasons. Letterman’s feature credits include Monsters vs. Aliens and Pokémon: Detective Pikachu, which he co-wrote and directed. He is repped by UTA, Untitled Entertainment, and attorney Eric Sherman.

Winston serves as an executive producer and co-showrunner on the current second season of Fox’s comedy series Going Dutch. Her writing-producing credits also include Krapopolis, Community, Happy Endings, My Name is Earl and well as CBS’ Bad Teacher, which she developed. Her feature writing credits include The Lego Ninjago Movie and The Bad Guys. Winston is repped by UTA, Rise Management and Yorn Levine Barnes.

How eVOD And SABC+ Manage To Survive The Streaming Wars?

Showmax shuttered its doors in Africa as MultiChoice was losing a lot of money by keeping it on the air. The streaming service that served as a joint venture with Comcast's NBCUniversal and Sky was hoping to become Africa's version of Netflix.

The problem part with these endeavours is that Africa isn't seen as a booming economy for streaming. This is due to low broadband in some markets as well as high data costs.

While consumers can trust that eMedia Investments and SABC will continue funding the local economy through its eVOD and SABC+ streaming service. Fact of the matter is because of these challenges seen in Africa they need to diversify.

Subscriptions and advertising alone can't help sustain its operations while it may work for Netflix and Amazon Prime Video as they're bigger brands. SABC+, eVOD and even Showmax had to subject themselves to these obstacles in Africa.

eMedia Investments and SABC still have to rely on their cable networks to re-coperate the costs. In some instances, they have to find a partner that is willing to help them build their content slate.

Amazon Prime Video was at one point a Showmax competitor commissioning content in Africa now they just license finished content. While Netflix continues funding the local economy these endeavours had been reduced.

MultiChoice, SABC and eMedia Investments continue to be the lifeline for these endeavours in South Africa. If one of them were to go six feet under, it's less likely that Netflix will just step up and fill up the gap left by DStv.

If you look at DStv, they have Mzansi Magic, Moja Love, Via, KykNET, SABC News and WildEarth. Netflix is not going to produce content to that scale if MultiChoice were to shut down especially if it's not going to make them money.

Canal+ To Shutter Showmax Streaming Service By The End Of April As Content Moves To DStv Stream

Showmax has today confirmed key dates marking the end of the streaming service that has operated across 44 markets in Sub-Saharan Africa for the past 11 years.

In an email sent to subscribers on Wednesday evening, the platform outlined a phased wind-down of its current service, with 31 March 2026 set as the final day for subscription renewals and voucher redemptions. From 1 April 2026, new subscriptions and renewals will no longer be available.

Existing subscribers will continue watching content until their subscription expires, or until the end of April 2026, whichever comes first.

This new update provides the clearest consumer-facing timeline yet, following the announcement roughly two weeks ago that Canal+ would shut down Showmax, citing “unacceptable” losses at the African streamer as it sought cost-saving measures.

That announcement sent shockwaves across the industry, from Nairobi to Lagos to Johannesburg, with filmmakers and actors raising concerns over the loss of a key African platform that had, for over a decade, commissioned and amplified local storytelling at scale.

At the same time, the announcement was also met with uncertainty, particularly due to the absence of a clear shutdown timeline or transition plan for subscribers.

Even now, some subscribers have already begun expressing frustration over the short transition window. “It’s really annoying how little time is left,” one subscriber and regular Showmax viewer said in a WhatsApp message.

Showmax Originals will now move to DStv Stream, positioning it as MultiChoice’s central hub for streaming offering, at least for now.

“Showmax is starting a new chapter, and your favourite shows are getting a shiny new home on DStv Stream,” the company said in the email.

But the language used in the communication also suggests that there is more to come. In stating that the content will join “a bigger world of entertainment, all in one place,” MultiChoice hints at a broader consolidation strategy — one that could see Canal+ and MultiChoice’s currently fragmented digital products folded into a more unified streaming ecosystem. There have been reports that Canal+ is exploring a single “super app”, one to rule them all, though this remains unconfirmed at this stage.

In the meantime, it remains unclear whether Showmax users will be migrated to DStv Stream, and what that process would look like in terms of pricing, packaging and access, especially given the current price disparity between the two services.

Maanligsprokie, Brand New Turkish Drama Streaming On eVOD From 13 April

eVOD, a South African based streaming service offering a variety of locally produced and international content has announced the addition of Maanligsprokie. With the Turkish drama set to stream on the platform from Monday 13 April.

Known in Turkey as Bir Gece Masali, it starred Burak Deniz as Mahir Yilmaz, Su Burcu Yazgi Coskun as Canfeza Kilimci, Gurkan Uygun as Kursat Kilimci, Mesut Akusta as Rasit Kara, Ozlem Turkad as Sureyya Yilmaz, Eren Vurdem as Selim Allame and Irem Altug as Sevde Yilmaz.

The series concluded on ATV with 35 episodes each with a 2 hour duration. It received recognition at the Current Knowledge Awards, winning "Best Television Series of the Year," while the leads won "Jury Special Best Series Couple".

Synopsis for Maanligsprokie 

Mahir is a successful police commissioner. After his father’s death, he follows his father’s footsteps and succeeds as a successful police commissioner to find the culprits who killed his father.

Twenty years later, Mahir returns to the city where his father was murdered. He is determined to exact revenge on the person who is responsible for his father’s death.

Kursat Kilimci is a wealthy businessman who killed Mahir’s father years ago. Behind the identity of a businessman, he does illegal things. He does anything to protect his status and maintain his power.

The lives of Mahir and Kursat Kilimci intersect twenty years later.

The moment Mahir sets foot in the city, he is enchanted by a beautiful girl, whom he meets mystically. He gives the name of Sehrazade to this girl as he is unable to learn her true name. Mahir falls in love with this girl at first sight even though he does not know anything about her.

The girl with whom Mahir falls in love is Canfeza. She is the daughter of Kursat Kilimci.

Canfeza is a young girl who was born on the same day when Mahir’s father was murdered. On that day, Canfeza’s mother also passed away while giving birth. Since then, Canfeza has been bearing the guilt of her father on her shoulders.

Canfeza has a dream where she sees the star and crescent in her hands with blood. Her grandmother states that the star and crescent represent her destiny and the blood represents his father’s guilt. She believes that she will get married to a man who has a star and crescent. However, she needs to get rid of his father’s guilt which is intertwined with her destiny.

DStv Stream Becomes The New Home To Showmax Originals

At a glance:

• Showmax Originals move to DStv Stream, bringing streaming, live TV and sport together in one app

• DStv Compact, Compact Plus and Premium customers already have access to thousands of hours of Showmax Originals on DStv Stream 

• Showmax subscribers to get trial access to DStv Stream Compact until end May

• Stay active on Stream and continue at $6 per month for 12 months – up to 75% off standard pricing

DStv has announced that eligible Showmax subscribers will receive trial access to DStv Stream Compact for a limited period, as part of the move to a single streaming home on DStv Stream.

This move brings Showmax Originals together with live TV, sport and a broader range of entertainment in one app. After the trial period, qualifying customers can continue on DStv Stream Compact at a special price of $6 per month for 12 months, provided the subscription remains active throughout and payments are up to date.

The offer gives Showmax customers access to a significantly expanded content experience, including international series and movies, kids’ content and live sport via SuperSport, available on mobile devices and smart TVs. DStv Stream also includes features such as Watch From Start, offline downloads and data management tools.

The business priority is to ensure customers continue to have a home for the stories they love. By bringing thousands of hours of Showmax Originals and a deeper on-demand library into DStv Stream, we are creating a more holistic experience where live sport, news, the best international content and award-winning local drama live together.

DStv Compact, Compact Plus and Premium customers will benefit from access to Showmax content on DStv Stream at no additional cost.

How the trial access works

Eligible Showmax subscribers will receive trial access to DStv Stream Compact until the end of May. The offer and details on how to take up the offer will be communicated directly via the email address linked to their Showmax account.

After the trial period, customers can continue on DStv Stream Compact at $6 per month for 12 months, provided payments remain up to date.

The offer applies to qualifying customers, including Showmax subscribers who do not have an active DStv subscription and who subscribe directly to Showmax. It excludes existing DStv customers who already receive Showmax content as part of their package or who add Showmax to their DStv bill.

• Eligibility is confirmed via email sent to the Showmax account address

• Includes all Showmax plans, including Showmax Premier League

• Eligible customers receive free access until end May, then pay $6 per month for 12 months – a saving of up to 75% compared to standard DStv • Compact Stream pricing – as long as payments remain up to date.

• Standard pricing for DStv Stream Compact is from $32 per month.

Showmax subscriptions will not migrate automatically. Customers who wish to continue watching will need to follow the simple sign-up process for DStv Stream shared via email, and create a new profile, all of which takes less than five minutes.

Customers who choose not to move to DStv Stream may request a refund for any unused portion of their Showmax subscription, subject to standard terms and conditions. Autopayments to Showmax will stop automatically once the service is discontinued.

The Showmax platform will be discontinued on 30 April 2026, with Showmax Originals continuing on DStv Stream.

What to watch on DStv Stream

Alongside thousands of hours of Showmax Originals, look out for the highly anticipated true-crime series, The People vs VBS, which is available to binge on DStv Stream from 1 April, as well as the finale of Die Kantoor, the Afrikaans adaptation of the global sensation mockumentary, The Office, coming 14 April. Law, Love and Betrayal will continue weekly episodes of the thrilling legal drama, and football lovers can livestream the epic Soweto Derby, on a big screen, on 26 April on DStv Stream.

MultiChoice Might Be Looking To Revive The 1Max Channel As Showmax Cutoff Date Draws Near

After Canal+'s MultiChoice decided to shutter the struggling Showmax streaming service in the African market by the end of April. It looks like 1Max could be making a comeback to DStv likely as a pop-up channel.

Canal+ is in the process of deploying its own streaming service in MultiChoice territories as Showmax gets consolidated under DStv Stream. The plan is to have a dedicated section for the former streamer and make it accessible to Compact.

A test card for 1Max had been spotted through DStv Stream and in an enquiry to MultiChoice only responded to say "more content will be added on".

If anyone has to guess, MultiChoice is probably planning to revive 1Max to promote this dedicated section on DStv Stream. It might also serve as some tribute channel seeing as Showmax will be going dark soon.

MultiChoice had begun moving remaining Showmax Originals to Mzansi Magic, KykNET and Africa Magic. It's likely that the relaunched 1Max will lean toward Showmax's older library of content.

By the time Canal+ deploys it's streaming app, don't be surprised if 1Max disappeared again and this section on DStv Stream. Then again, Canal+ could morph this into a TV channel for its streaming app when it goes live later in the year.

Canal+ And PPF Considering Viaplay Takeover After Building Up Stake At Pay-TV Company

Canal+ and PPF are considering a joint move that would bring Viaplay into private ownership, according to a Bloomberg report.

The move would mark the next stage in the Nordic streaming group’s post-recapitalisation reshaping. The two companies already hold roughly 29.3% each of Viaplay following the Swedish broadcaster’s 2024 rescue recapitalisation, meaning they already control close to 60% of the company between them.  

Neither Canal+, PPF nor Viaplay has commented publicly on the report. Viaplay has spent the past two years rebuilding after its near-collapse, with Canal+ and PPF emerging as cornerstone shareholders through the SEK 4 billion (€0.36 billion) recapitalisation completed in early 2024.  

Any deal would come against a backdrop of a sharp recovery in Viaplay’s market value from distressed levels, even if the stock remains far below where it traded before the crisis. 

Viaplay’s footprint today centres on the Nordics, the Netherlands and Poland, while the company has been focusing on profitability and simplification. It withdrew from a number of territories, including the UK, where it sold the former Premier Sports business back to its original owners.

Its latest full-year results, published on 19 February, also reflected the acquisition of the remaining shares in Allente, underlining that the group is still in active portfolio and ownership transition.  

Canal+ To Shutter Showmax Streaming Service By The End Of April As Content Moves To DStv Stream

Showmax has today confirmed key dates marking the end of the streaming service that has operated across 44 markets in Sub-Saharan Africa for the past 11 years.

In an email sent to subscribers on Wednesday evening, the platform outlined a phased wind-down of its current service, with 31 March 2026 set as the final day for subscription renewals and voucher redemptions. From 1 April 2026, new subscriptions and renewals will no longer be available.

Existing subscribers will continue watching content until their subscription expires, or until the end of April 2026, whichever comes first.

This new update provides the clearest consumer-facing timeline yet, following the announcement roughly two weeks ago that Canal+ would shut down Showmax, citing “unacceptable” losses at the African streamer as it sought cost-saving measures.

That announcement sent shockwaves across the industry, from Nairobi to Lagos to Johannesburg, with filmmakers and actors raising concerns over the loss of a key African platform that had, for over a decade, commissioned and amplified local storytelling at scale.

At the same time, the announcement was also met with uncertainty, particularly due to the absence of a clear shutdown timeline or transition plan for subscribers.

Even now, some subscribers have already begun expressing frustration over the short transition window. “It’s really annoying how little time is left,” one subscriber and regular Showmax viewer said in a WhatsApp message.

Showmax Originals will now move to DStv Stream, positioning it as MultiChoice’s central hub for streaming offering, at least for now.

“Showmax is starting a new chapter, and your favourite shows are getting a shiny new home on DStv Stream,” the company said in the email.

But the language used in the communication also suggests that there is more to come. In stating that the content will join “a bigger world of entertainment, all in one place,” MultiChoice hints at a broader consolidation strategy — one that could see Canal+ and MultiChoice’s currently fragmented digital products folded into a more unified streaming ecosystem. There have been reports that Canal+ is exploring a single “super app”, one to rule them all, though this remains unconfirmed at this stage.

In the meantime, it remains unclear whether Showmax users will be migrated to DStv Stream, and what that process would look like in terms of pricing, packaging and access, especially given the current price disparity between the two services. 

The company says further details on how subscribers can continue “enjoying Showmax Originals and more” on DStv Stream will be shared soon.

For now, it’s confirmed without a doubt that Showmax is entering its final weeks.