Insidus

Friday, January 7, 2022

More Mysteries: Travel Channel Has A Canadian Twin, Travel Africa Network Is Not Available In Africa And Discovery World Returned To DStv For At Least 6 Seconds

Ever wanted to see Africa from afar well Travel Africa Network got you covered

Africa recieved its first travel channel in 2019 with the introduction of Travel Africa Network (TAN) which covers 135 million homes in Europe with its extensive tourism lineup in the form of culture, luxury and adventure and many more.

Not long ago, a reader spotted the channel online and was curious to know why an African skewed brand isn't available in the same way a channel like HONEY can be seen in the market.

Similar to The Africa Channel (TAC), the content can be viewed elsewhere. In this case, Nigeria's very own Spice TV from Consolidated Media Associates.

Read the next story to see why this deal benefitted TAN in the long run. It will be shocking if TAN was fortunate to become a channel in Africa.

Travel Channel has competition

3 years after Discovery Inc. turned Travel Channel into a horror show from the main market. More countries start adapting to this format as the brand is running low on travel themed content.

Believe it or not, even Canada's Travel+Escape (T+E) from Blue Ant Media underwent the same procedure during the same period as Travel Channel.

COVID had no involvement as the changes occurred 3 years ago and this disease is a year old. It's possible that this type of content is no longer valuable for our eyeballs.

How long do you suppose it will be till TAN becomes something else?

Discovery Channel and Discovery World are now the same thing...DStv Showcase

Since last year, Discovery World owned by Discovery Inc. had been shelved with remaining shows transmitted to other brands. The lineup consisted mainly of documentaries and other entertainment elements.

The channel was available from 2010 to 2016 on MultiChoice's DStv. They hosted a media briefing unveiling a selection of content coming within the next year including two Discovery+ originals Pushing The Line And The Swim.

Through a promo, MultiChoice paid tribute to Discovery World and you had to find out moments after the showcase that these programs were for Discovery Channel.

Africa has been viewed as the hotspot for Europe's scraps but I doubt this brand will be used for anything outside programming as there's not much content to keep it sustainable.

Look at Discovery Channel's logo doesn't it remind you a bit about Discovery World?

Discovery Channel has a globe on the name while Discovery World included it as an additional accessory so the brands aren't that far apart from one another.

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#WeAreToonz: 2 Improvements eToonz Needs To Make In 2022

eToonz has been regarded as the D+ player in eMedia's portfolio that they've turned it into another Rewind channel for all the kids slate available on e.tv's youth block Craze. Even though 24/7 is out of the question here's ways the channel could improve:

1. Repeats

This is common denominator in most linear channels but the case with eToonz has worsened. Although there has been several adjustment the channel is far from finished.

In this case, we have Pokémon and Power Rangers which have dedicated slots to recycle the same batch of episodes for who knows how long.

In 2019, when production was halted on all of Craze local youth programming. eToonz temporarily adapted to a 7 day type format where the weekend slate wasn't entirely dedicated to weekday programming.

Even though, eMedia has no intention of reviving that concept. They could however give weekends its own repeats it doesn't have to be the entire schedule perhaps.

Weekends could offer a particular program in the form of a double bill and perhaps scrap those dedicated slots to give other shows some much needed space particularly the preschool slate.

2. Variety

Something that has heavily been disregarded on their stable. They offer a selection of cartoons for viewers aged 2-12 but that's the thing it's only cartoons.

e.tv's youth block wasn't only known for Power Rangers but even for programs such as Zaboomafoo, Mister Maker and Are You Afraid Of The Dark?

Through studies, its been revealed that kids watch more animation than live-action and also that the content is viewed mostly by boys.

I'm not expecting the brand to become another Disney Channel overnight only to expand from what's current even if it two slots within a week. At the moment, e.tv's youth block is no different to eToonz.

Perhaps get some factual or reality based content such as MasterChef Junior and Little Big Shots and combine that with the missing slate of series from Nickelodeon.

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Predictions: What To Expect On SABC's Long Awaited Streaming Service?

It's been months since we got an update on SABC's long awaited streaming service. Through financial statements, it was estimated that the platform will be functional by the end of March 2022.

Don't be surprised if it missed the deadline, I could think up a number of reasons why the platform failed to materialize back in 2018 one of them have to do with the Asian streaming platform VIU.

As some were aware last year, eMedia Investments breached their contract with the brand for their content and they can only stop distributing content to them by 2024.

Just by looking at eVOD, you can clearly see that there's several loopholes in this agreement and SABC could have complicated things for themselves in this area maybe their agreement with them is different from eMedia Investments.

The only thing everyone knew about this streaming service was the fact no new content would be invested toward the platform and that it will be similar to BBC's iPlayer. Here's a couple of my own predictions for the brand:

1. Fast Forward: Shortly after eVOD introduced this method several other streaming services followed so wouldn't be shocking if the platform were to include such.

2. Payment method: similar to eVOD I'm expecting a free version with TV licence possibly being required that is if the licence will be around and monthly fees.

3. Sports: Most of them are currently folded under Showmax so a portion of what you're seeing on SABC 1-3 will likely be available to the platform at no additional cost.

4. International programming: SABC had stated that the platform would promote their rich archives which is a lot comparing to eMedia Investments. I'm not putting much faith in this area considering that large stack of programming.

5. News: Showmax does offer news channels primarily Newsroom Afrika and AfricaNews. Although, SABC News might not form part of the service perhaps they could offer livestreaming. For now they could source from SABC 1-3.

6. Live TV channels: TelkomOne currently supplies their linear channels so why should this streaming service think otherwise.

7. New content: It had been stated that they're currently no plans to add new content aside from that. The public broadcaster is bankrupt not saying such option won't happen but with all these streaming services investing locally they might give in eventually.

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Cartoon Network Has A Secret Space Project (Fingers Crossed For Galactic: Kids Next Door) And New Winnie The Pooh Series Rumoured To Be In Development For Disney+

Winnie The Pooh could be heading to streaming services

According to DisnInsider, a project featuring the lovable bear was in early development for Disney+. It will likely be animated since Winnie The Pooh has been more known for animation than live action.

This will be the first TV animated Winnie Pooh Project in 15 years since Playhouse Disney My Friends Tigger And Pooh.

Back in 2015, the Irish animation studio Cartoon Saloon pitched a Winnie The Pooh Reboot to Disney with a full animated pilot in hand, sadly in 2016 the pilot was passed.

Cartoon Network is heading to space

Last year, Cartoon Network was looking for storyboard artists for a untitled space adventure which is said to carry a lot of comedic storytelling and dynamic action. They seem to be concealing details about the show.

The only known facts about the project is that it will be an animated series which will be held in space and carry a lot of action adventure. Judging by the facts it could be new concept or Galactic: Kids Next Door.

Galactic: Kids Next Door would be considered a revival to Codename: Kids Next Door and take place after the original series incorporating a more darker tone. The series fits the description for this secret project.

The creator of the franchise had pitched the idea of a possible spinoff to Cartoon Network and he still looks interested as he recently uploaded a new version of Galactic: KND.

Go to rainbowmonkeys.com and type GALATIC you'll see an unlisted link written "stop the gknd 2021".

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Telemundo Africa Debuts The Much Anticipated Medical Drama Nurses, Major Blows On SABC 3 As The Telenovela Bonanza Comes To An End And Novela Magic Broadcasts A Repeat Of Ajoche

Telemundo becomes a medical center

Several weeks ago, I unveiled a set of programming for the channel and Nurses is the second show to make the list. Can't say I'm entirely surprised as a portion of their lineup can be predictable at times.

María Clara González works as head of nurses in one of the most recognized hospitals in the city: the Santa Rosa. Life would seem to smile at her were it not for the monotony into which her marriage with Román has fallen, with whom she has two children.

The series was produced by RCN Television the same company that brought Law Of The Heart last year and also in charge of the upcoming series set to air on the channel Coffee With A Woman's Fragrance.

The series airs daily at 22:00 CAT from 15 February replacing 100 Days To Fall In Love.

The Soapy FanFest is over for now

Last year, S3 unveiled another design for their brand and invested in more international content. At the time, the SABC had stated that there were uncertain if these new changes will have a positive effect.

So far none of their efforts seemed to be working out. Through 2021 ratings stats you can clearly see that viewers aren't paying much attention to the primetime offering aside from The Estate which is likely a gonner.

S3 also offered two telenovelas Orphan Of The Nation and The Red Room both of which are being seem to be sharing the same casket as the local drama as both slots will soon be occupied by sitcoms.

The Red Room concludes next week Tuesday with Jim Carrey's comedy drama Kidding taking up the space. The series follows follows Jeff Piccirillo, aka beloved children's television presenter Mr. Pickles, appreciated by children and parents alike.

We've got some more African telenovelas coming up

Novela Magic, Africa's first and only telenovela channel featuring content viewed on other M-Net channels in several markets is adding another series to their schedule in the coming weeks, Ajoche.

Produced for Africa Magic by young Nigerian producer Mr. James Omokwe, Ajoche opens up with the Idoma village of Ocholuje and the everyday business of palatial living. When the beloved wife of Ocholuje’s King Odaleko is brutally murdered while pregnant, his grief drives him to wipe out the entire neighboring land of Aboh in a genocidal massacre.

Ajoche features Big Brother alumni Bassey, Tokunbo Idowu (T-Boss) and Lilian Afegbai. Other cast members include industry veterans Hilda Dokubo, Femi Branch, William Benson, Lota Chukwu, and a host of others.

The first season airs daily at 21:00 from 11 January replacing Battleground.

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February 2022 On The Home Channel | New Series Alert: Jesse Tyler Ferguson Debuts On The Home Channel With The 10th Instalment Of Extreme Makeover Home Edition | Returning Shows And More

Finest Homes
NEW LOCAL SEASON 4
South African home design and architecture has truly come into its own; bland imitations have made way for modern masterpieces and character-filled design. The Home Channel, DStv channel 176, brings you a brand new season of Finest Homes, where we explore these creations, talking to the visionaries who are bringing them to life, as well as the people who live in them. Journey with us as we are taken through the spaces, showcasing architecture, interior design and personality. Discover valuable tips and ideas offered up by local experts, and recreate some of these looks in your own home.
14 February 2022 - 15 May 2022
Monday 16:00
Wednesday 20:00 (Priority Slots)
Thu 08:00 Fri 12:00 Sat 15:00 & 22:00 Sun 10:30 & 19:00

Extreme Makeover Home Edition
BRAND NEW SHOW 10
On Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Host Jesse Tyler Ferguson and his highly skilled design team set out to transform the lives of some of America’s most deserving families. From renovations to full builds, the team, along with a sea of local volunteers, will manage to do the impossible and build jaw dropping homes in a matter of five days!
14 February 2022 - 24 April 2022
Monday 20:00
Thursday 16:00 (Priority Slots)
Tue 08:00 Wed 12:00 Sat 08:30 Sun 07:00

George Clarke's Old House New Home
NEW SEASON 5
Britain has some of the most historic houses in the world; from Georgian Architecture to Victorian Art Deco, there are different architectural styles on every street. But the way houses were built years ago just doesn’t work for modern living. On Old House New Home, architect George Clarke gets under the skin of homes with history. In each episode, he’ll visit two homes and help the owners to unlock their full potential, create stylish solutions, and make them fit for 21st century living. Together they’ll make some critical choices on what to chuck and what to cherish, and teach us a thing or two about what modern styles work when you have an old house that you want to turn into a new home.
22 February 2022 - 11 March 2022
Tuesday 20:00
Friday 16:00 (Priority Slots)
Wed 08:00 Thu 12:00

Viewer favourites on re-run include Grow Cook Eat S1, Buying and Selling S6 and Ready Set Reno S2.

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The CW Home To Some Of The International Offering On M-Net Could Be On The Chopping Block As Owners Might Be Calling It Quits

In a surprise reveal, The Wall Street Journal reports WarnerMedia and ViacomCBS Inc. are “exploring a possible sale” for their joint-owned CW network.

According to the report, they are considering options of “a significant participation” or the total ownership of another entity, and WSJ reports Nexstar Media Group Inc. is “among the contenders.” Nexstar’s current portfolio is mainly local affiliated radio and television stations, but they are also partial owners of Food Network and online media such as Zap2it and The Hill.

According to the media, the conversations are "very advanced," but they could still fall apart, pointing out that Nexstar taking a majority share on the network seems to be the "most frequent scenario."

However, The Wall Street Journal points out that “there are other stakeholders” eager to face The CW, but talks with Nexstar seem to be the most advanced. In the previously stated scenario that seems the most likely, ViacomCBS and WarnerMedia would remain as “minority owners and would receive commitments to be the leading providers of network programs.”

Quoting "people familiar with the matter," revealing that internally The CW is not a profitable single streaming entity, but the programming created for it is where the money is for both companies. Several of the shows, like Riverdale, end up on Netflix once they wrap up their seasons, which results in a big paycheck, while others jump to HBO Max.

The CW was preceded on television by two other channels, UPN and The WB, who merged to become what we now know. The success shows on both networks preserved and continued to air on The CW in their early days, including 7th Heaven, Gilmore Girls, One Tree Hill, Smallville and Supernatural from The WB and America's Next Top Model, Veronica Mars, Ever ybody Hates Chris, & UPN Girlfriend, among others.

Perhaps two of the biggest blessings for The CW has a television presence, although they were The Vampire Diaries in 2009 and then Arrow of DC in 2012. The couple's first was co-created by Kevin Williamson of Dawson's Creek (a former hit of The WB) which would continue for eight seasons and more than 170 episodes, in addition to generating the derived series The Originals, which in turn would develop a drift, Legacies. These three combined shows became biggest hits for The CW with more than 320 episodes in total.

Arrow, on the other hand, was huge not only for The CW but also for the DC brand. The series would become the anchor of almost all DC Comics adaptations on television, resulting in the spin-off The Flash and related shows Supergirl, Legends of Tomorrow, Black Lightning, Batwoman and Superman & Lois. As a whole, all of these were even known as "The Arrowverse."

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Bobby Flay Extends His Contract With Food Network, Joe Gatto Exits Impractical Jokers Due To Personal Issues And New Bleach Anime The Thousand-Year Blood War Arc Debuts In October 2022

Food Network continues to be The Guy Fieri and Bobby Flay channel

The 56-year-old celebrity chef has signed an exclusive, new three-year contract with the network, Discovery Inc. confirmed in a statement last year:

"I'm thrilled to extend my relationship with Food Network and Discovery," Flay said in the statement. "Although these talks to renew took a little longer than expected, the important thing is that both sides are happy that we can now build on an already rock-solid foundation. Stay tuned for some incredibly exciting new shows as I promise to take food and cooking to places we've never imagined before."

The Beat Bobby Flay has signed on to stay once his current, three-year contract expires at the end of 2021. In October, it was reported that he would be parting ways with Food Network after 27 years, after both parties could not agree on financial terms.

Though Flay's new paycheck remains undisclosed, he will develop new content for the culinary channel and elsewhere within the Discovery portfolio as part of the deal.

"We are thrilled to continue Bobby Flay's long standing relationship with Food Network. He captivates our audience with his incredible culinary skill, fierce competitive spirit and his trademark ability to share a deep passion for food," Courtney White, President of Food Network and Streaming Food Content for Discovery Inc., said in a statement. "Bobby generously invites viewers into his culinary world, sharing his #WeCook philosophy and inspiring everyone in the kitchen. Continuing this creative relationship with such an extraordinary talent is the perfect way to usher in the holidays."

Flay has been a longtime star on Food Network, making his debut in 1994 and co-hosting his own series, Grillin' & Chillin' , by 1996. Since then, the chef has hosted numerous hit shows — including Boy Meets Grill, Beat Bobby Flay, Throwdown! with Bobby Flay, Brunch @ Bobby's, and Iron Chef America.

Impractical Jokers is losing a member

In December 2021, actor and comedian Joe Gatto announced his departure from truTV's Impractical Jokers currently seen on Comedy Central citing personal issues as the reason for his exit.

Joe Gatto was one of the initial members of the hit camera show Impractical Jokers when it first began in 2011. It managed to span 9 seasons with a 10th one currently underway.

Of course, it hasn't been stated if Joe Gatto will make a cameo in the 10th season but he likely won't form part of the new season. All that is known for now is that Impractical Jokers will continue despite his absence.

After 11 years, we're getting more Bleach

In March 2020, Weekly Shōnen Jump and "Bleach 20th Anniversary Project & Tite Kubo New Project Presentation" livestream announced that the manga's last story arc, "Thousand-Year Blood War", will be given a new anime project.

In November 2021, it was announced that the new project would be an anime television series, Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War. The trailer and visual for the series were revealed last month.

The Thousand-Year Blood War arc is set to debut by October 2022. The series will continue from where the original ended with characters from the former series reprising their roles.

Bleach is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Tite Kubo. It follows the adventures of the hotheaded teenager Ichigo Kurosaki, who inherits his parents' destiny after he obtains the powers of a Soul Reaper.

The franchise continued to perform well commercially despite its cancellation back in 2012, and had over 120 million tankōbon volumes in circulation worldwide as of 2018, making it the eleventh best-selling manga in history.

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