When WWE Will Start Streaming Exclusively On Netflix And Exit SuperSport, DStv And GOtv Across Africa?

Last month, it was reported US streaming giant Netflix that it had acquired the broadcasting rights for WWE shows and specials in the US, Canada, Latin America and other international markets. With growing fears looming around DStv, MultiChoice had issued a statement.

"WWE events, including RAW, Smackdown, NXT, Wrestlemania, SummerSlam and Royal Rumble will continue being available on SuperSport".  "As Africa's premium sports broadcaster, we're pleased to continue entertaining our viewers with the best in international wrestling".

In November 2022, MultiChoice and the WWE announced a major broadcast partnership and said in a statement that it will see Showmax becoming the new home of WWE Network in Africa. Only the streaming portion never to pass as seen with the linear offering on DStv.

Beginning in January 2025, Netflix will be the exclusive new home of Raw in the U.S., Canada, U.K. and Latin America, with more territories to be confirmed soon and others added overtime. Raw will be exiting linear television since it's inception 31 years ago.

Although Netflix won't get access to WWE's extensive line-up of shows when it streams in selected territories by 2025 due to an existing agreement with MultiChoice. They may be able to snatch the rights from the pay-tv company once it expires in 2027.

This means Netflix can only become the official home of the WWE Network in Africa two years after it launched elsewhere meaning by late 2027 or early 2028. Raw, SmackDown and various other content from WWE would have exited linear television after 26/7 years in Africa.

Recap To Last Month: Disney Junior Trademark To Be Shortened To DJr

Last month, it was revealed through United States Patent And Trademark Office (USPTO) that Disney had filed a new trademark for Disney Junior known simply as DJr. This would be brand's first official rebrand following its inception back in 2011 in place of Playhouse Disney.

For several years, companies had been simplifying their logos and now they look to expand this to a younger demographic. For starters, there's CBeebies and PBS Kids whose current logos had been aligned to match of existing brands operated by BBC Studios and PBS.

Disney Junior's first logo is currently being used across several platforms with some minor modifications in other countries. Now this one seems bland and lifeless but this is only what's currently seen on paper and may not be the future of the whole brand.

If anything the font and styling used on Junior (Jr) implies that they could some playful aspects. Now with Disney Junior (soon to be DJr) is getting a complete makeover one has to wonder whether some of these aspects could spread to their other channels.

I mean the idea wouldn't seem far fetched, Disney Channel could simply be the "D" while Disney XD is DXD. But then again, the current logo for Disney XD had been simplified from the start while Disney Channel has more of that in Europe than the main market so it's either way.

Interesting to note, DreamWorks Channel and the block DreamWorks Junior have the same initials as Disney Channel and Disney Junior - DC/D and DJR.

Below is an ident to the upcoming rebrand:

Recap To Last Year: Could The Crunchyroll Streaming Service Expand Its 24 Hour Service To DStv And StarSat Or Fold Under Openview's Ultraview?

Crunchyroll is an anime based streaming platform operated as part of a joint venture between Sony Pictures Television and Aniplex. Founded in 1994 as FUNimation, it is known for anime, films and TV series including Dragonball, My Hero Academia and Attack On Titan. 

Last year, Crunchyroll through one of their partners Sony Pictures Television expanded the streamer outside of its comfort zone with a 24 hour channel in Latin America. As some readers are aware, Crunchyroll is looking to duplicate this in key markets.

Although, they haven't specified which region would get access to the 24 hour service. It's likely that they're going to look into regions where they have no local presence whatsoever and others that do have some streaming presence but still recieve plenty of linear consumption.

The introduction of Crunchyroll Channel would come 13 years after Animax had exited Africa for also defunct brand Sony Max on DStv and other parts of the world. Since then, it has only been SABC 2, Toonami and Cartoon Network to ramp up a similar offering in Africa but not full-time.

The only problem pertaining to them is that the latter doesn't offer the full line-up of content. Take for instance Cartoon Network, it's current demographic only caters to shows like Pokémon followed by Toonami and SABC 2 whose slate has been repetitive in the last year.

As for Crunchyroll, I believe they're just looking to expand out of streaming and reach new audiences. It would prove to be very beneficial especially in regions which the brand lacks any type of local presence.

Similar to Disney+ and Britbox, even Crunchyroll has no presence in some of Europe and Africa. In some of these areas, there was an alternative offering Animax which too was managed by Sony battled a tough economic climate and struggled to sustain themselves in the regions.

If Crunchyroll were to debut in Africa it would help free up the responsibility from Cartoon Network and SABC 2 as they can prioritise on their other content. It would also serve as a replacement to the defunct Animax brand in Africa that is if DStv opts to carry the channel.

Other platforms in the market that could as well acquire Crunchyroll Channel include Openview Ultra, StarTimes, Azam TV, Canal+ and Zuku TV.

Recap To Last Month: Could Ngwato Nkosi Group Ramp Up Its Own 1Magic/Me Channel On DStv?

Last month, it was reported that M-Net's Me and 1Magic would be removed from the DStv platform by early February. This was after MultiChoice sent notifications to various subscribers and since then the trail has gone quiet as these channels continue to stay onboard.

Me has been filtering it's schedule with marathons of Home Economics and NCIS: Los Angeles while airing newer shows like Tulsa King in double bill form. 1Magic on the other hand had converted into a a Showmax repeats channel for Adulting and Outlaws.

There's been a lot of questions from various media outlets on what fate awaits these channels especially after the rebrand of Showmax. The terminations of both channels coincide with this new venture that NBCUniversal would be having some involvement.

Some theories that came to mind would be the integration of Me and 1Magic's programs to Mzansi Magic and NBCUniversal's slate of channels like Universal TV and E! Entertainment. There was also word from MultiChoice Africa that a replacement for 1Magic is in development.

Not much is known as to how similar this reported channel would be to 1Magic and if MultiChoice was even looking to retain any content from the affected brands. Initially, they were more open to just isolating these consumers with the existing line-up of channels.

But after word of a replacement, it kind of led me to think what if this supposed channel came from an existing partner e.g. Ngwato Nkosi Group.

Ngwato Nkosi Group already provides Movie Room, and Newzroom Afrika to consumers across Africa with Play Room in South Africa. All of which had proven to be favourable by DStv consumers and also cater to a local audience as seen with 1Magic.

The only thing missing from this line-up is a rival/complimentary offering to Mzansi Magic, MTV and Universal TV. If anything, my estimated guess is that if the group were looking to do another TV channel it would most likely take up the DNA of one if not all channels.

All Your Favourites, All New, All This Year On The HISTORY Channel Africa

The HISTORY® Channel Africa’s big hitters are back with the latest seasons throughout the year on DStv 186. The first half of 2024 is crammed with returning seasons of our viewers’ favourites, from mystery-solving in The Curse of Oak Island to the fascinating off-grid lifestyle of Mountain Men, the drama of Storage Wars and the cutthroat competition of Forged in Fire. 

One of the greatest treasure hunts of all time continues in season 11 of The Curse of Oak Island on Fridays at 20h15 (started 26 January). The Lagina brothers embark on their boldest plans yet to solve the 228-year-old treasure mystery. Their continued dig efforts pay off as they make several of the most historic discoveries ever unearthed in North America. 

Then in the return of Mountain Men, on Thursdays at 19h25 (starting 8 February), season 12 of the long-running docuseries shines a spotlight on the enduring spirit of the wilderness. In the furthest parts of North America, some brave men and women embrace a rugged lifestyle, away from modern conveniences and navigate unforgiving landscapes and battle the elements. Season twelve features a diverse set of pioneers with unique skills, knowledge, and expertise. From trapping and hunting to building shelters and crafting essential tools, these individuals possess an unrivaled connection to nature.

March sees the return of Storage Wars, this time for season 15. Catch the latest instalment of the fascinating reality series weekdays at 18h10 (starting 04 March). The much-loved cast members will once again head to storage units and wait anxiously for the big reveal of what is behind the door, before the frantic bidding begins with the hopes of finding a hidden treasure trove.

 

Then, in April the wildly popular Forged in Fire is ‘On the Road’ for season 10, crisscrossing America looking for the best blade smiths in the country. Every Monday at 20h15 (starting 22 April) the show heads to world-renowned blacksmith shops and blade smithing schools across the US. The contestants are slowly whittled down for the chance to compete against other smiths to determine who will win the ultimate grand prize. 

May brings with it the return of The Proof is Out There, as season three continues with brand new episodes on Saturdays at 20h15 (starting 4 May). From what is supposedly the greatest UFO photo ever, to hairy serpents and the discovery of a dead mermaid - journalist Tony Harris takes an in-depth look at jaw-dropping videos of unexplained phenomena. 

Fans will also be excited to learn that new seasons of some of the other most-loved shows will be coming to their screens later this year. From seasons 4 and 5 of Curse of Skinwalker Ranch from July through to November, to season 11 of Alone in August. September is jam-packed with exciting new seasons of Beyond Skinwalker Ranch, Pawn Stars and American Pickers. Finally, season 16 of Ancient Aliens will air in December.

Tune in to the HISTORY Channel Africa, on DStv 186, for these and other brand-new seasons of the top viewer rated shows. 

Development Alert: FUNimation Shutting Down Their Streaming Service By Early April

Funimation, one of the most popular anime streamers, has announced that as part of its merger with Crunchyroll in March 2022, its app and website will end service on April 2, 2024. The platform states that it's sunsetting to provide fans with "an exceptional streaming experience and access to the largest anime library in the world. The collaboration between Funimation and Crunchyroll allows us to continue delivering on that mission and bring you the best of anime content."

While Funimation customers may lament the news, this has been a long time coming for the streaming service. After its merger, Funimation has been slowly rolling back features, announcing in December 2023 that downloading content and offline viewing wouldn't be allowed going forward. They encourage users to complete the move to Crunchyroll and have already migrated most accounts over. Funimation subscriptions will be replaced by Crunchyroll ones, with fees following the latter's pricing, and measures have been put in place to transfer Watch History and queues to the new Crunchyroll accounts. Customers facing any issues with migrating are encouraged to contact Crunchyroll's customer support.

While the measures put in place are exhaustive, customers have been advised that account transfer may vary based on "specific payment platform, subscription type and region." Furthermore, differences between Funimation and Crunchyroll libraries mean that not all content will be transferred across. For example, Funimation Digital copies aren't supported on Crunchyroll, and users will thus lose access to these. The FAQ does not mention whether refunds will be provided. Canadian, Chilean, Legacy and Roku Pay subscribers are strongly encouraged to check the official announcement.

Crunchyroll remains one of the largest streamers in the world, revealed to have passed 13 million paid subscribers last month. The acquisition of Right Stuf means the company is also now among the top go-to destinations for anime merchandise. Crunchyroll's expansion over the last few years has seen it increasingly finance some of the biggest anime titles, such as Solo Leveling and Metallic Rouge. The debut of a new Crunchyroll podcast -- The Anime Effect -- later this month will be quickly followed by the Crunchyroll Anime Awards in March.

Nick Shorts: Erin & Aaron Cancelled After One Season On Netflix, Nick Jr. Enters The Splat Zone Globally And The Thundermans Return To Nickelodeon Africa With A New Movie

Another one bites the dust

Nickelodeon has unfortunately decided to cancel Erin & Aaron and not renew the network's live-action comedy series for a second season. It follows teenage stepsiblings Erin and Aaron as they navigate their new lives after their parents’ marriage, and find strength in their shared passion for music. 

The show's cancellation was announced by Jensen Gering, who played Aaron on the series, on the actor's official Instagram page.

Erin & Aaron premiered on Nickelodeon in the U.S. on Thursday, April 20, with season one featuring 13 episodes. It was available exclusively on Netflix internationally by November 2023. 

Nick Jr. finally goes Splat

Nick Jr.'s finally rebranded after failing to do so in 2023, aside from Africa it also includes Europe, the the Americas (Latin America and Brazil), Middle East, Asia, and New Zealand. The rebrand was also launched on the Nickelodeon Junior channel in France.

Based on Nickelodeon's recently introduced Splat logo, the rebrand includes new on-air graphics, such as lower-thirds, updated BUG/DOG, bumpers, idents, promo endboards, and Curriculum Boards. This only leaves secondary brands like Nicktoons which is also slated for 2024.

The Thundermans return to Nickelodeon

The Thundermans are back! Nickelodeon will premiere The Thundermans Return, a brand new movie based on Nickelodeon‘s hit live-action superhero comedy series, The Thundermans, across Africa on Sunday 31st March 2024!

After three years of fighting crime in their new city of Metroburg, The Thundermans are suddenly stripped of their assignment and sent back to Hiddenville. While Hank and Barb look forward to their return ‘home’, Chloe develops new friend groups, Billy and Nora enjoy a normal school life, and Max and Phoebe are determined to regain their superhero status.”

The film will also airing on various Nickelodeon channels across the world within March.

March 2024 On Nickelodeon, Nick Jr. And Nicktoons Across South Africa | New Movie Alert: The Thundermans Return | Returning Shows Including That Girl Lay Lay And Paw Patrol | More

Nickelodeon

BIG NATE

Episodes: #201-#210

Premiere: 10/02/2024-10/03/2024

Slot: Saturday-Sunday

Time: 11:00

ROCK PAPER SCISSORS 

Episodes: #101-#110

Premiere: 19/02/2023-01/03/2024

Slot: Monday-Friday

Time: 16:00

Rock, Paper and Scissors are three best friends who share an apartment together and compete over everything. Every week they always have problems that get out of hand.

THAT GIRL LAY LAY

New eps: 201-213

Timeline: 04/03/2024-20/03/2024

Slot: Monday-Friday

Time: 18:30

Lay Lay is the best friend anyone could ever want, but she is a personal affirmation. When Sadie wishes upon a star Lay Lay is magically brought to life. Now with Sadie by her side these best friends can accomplish anything.

THUNDERMARCH STUNT

Premier: 04/03/2024-29/03/2024

Slot: Monday-Friday

Time: 17:30

Movie Premiere: The Thundermans Return

Premiere: 31/03/2024

Slot: Sunday

Time: 12:00/16:30

THE PATRICK STAR SHOW

New episodes: 201-205

Premier: 11/03/2023-22/03/2024

Slot: Monday-Friday

Time: 15:00

Nicktoons

SQUEEZE THAT SPONGE STUNT

Premiere: 19/02/2024-15/03/2024

Slot: Monday-Friday

Time: 17:00

Including the newest episodes of SpongeBob SquarePants: 278, 280-283.

SpongeBob and Patrick are now best friends! How fun is their life? The squeeze that sponge stunt will reveal the answer!

TRANSFORMERS: EARTHSPARK

Episodes: 116-126

Date: 18/03/2024-01/04/2024

Slot: Monday-Friday

Time: 16:30

The Malto's Family world is upside down when the Terrans, the first Earth born Transformers robot, sparks to life. The Terrans will forge an alliance between the human Malto Family and the legendary Autobots, uniting them in a shared mission.

Nick Jr.

MIGHTY PUPS

New episode of Paw Patrol and sneak peek to Dora

Episodes: Paw Patrol Mighty Pups #1013; Dora #103

Premiere: 03/03/2024

Slot: Sunday

Time: 12:45am/pm

PAW PATROL

NEW EPISODES

Episodes: #1009-#1012, #1015

Premiere: 04/03/2024-15/03/2024

Slot: Monday-Friday

Time: 06:50am, 12:45am/pm, 05:00am/pm, 07:05pm

BLAZE AND THE MONSTER MACHINES

Episodes: #714-#719

Premiere: 18/03/2024-22/03/2024

Slot: Monday-Friday

Time: 12:00am/pm, 03:30am/pm

BLUE CLUES & YOU!

Episodes: #420-#426

Premiere: 25/03/2024-31/03/2024

Slot: Monday-Sunday

Time: 06:30am, 02:45am/pm, 06:45pm

ESPN, FOX And Warner Bros. Discovery To Launch Joint Sports Streaming Platform

Walt Disney’s ESPN, Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery plan to launch a joint sports streaming service this fall, giving consumers a new way to access marquee live sports for the first time, the companies said Tuesday.

The platform, which will be owned by a newly formed company with its own leadership team, does not yet have a name or a price. Disney, Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery will each own a one-third stake.

Consumers would be able to subscribe directly via a new app. Subscribers would also have the ability to bundle the product with the companies’ streaming platforms Disney+, Hulu and Max.

The product will be a skinnier bundle of linear networks than a standard cable offering, specifically tailored for sports fans. It will consist of all the broadcast and cable networks owned by Disney, Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery that carry sports, along with ESPN+.

From Disney, that includes ESPN and its sister networks, such as ESPN2, ESPNU, SECN, ACCN, ESPNEWS, as well as the ABC broadcast network. Warner Bros. Discovery’s networks that showcase sports are TNT, TBS and TruTV. Fox will include the Fox broadcast station along with FS1, FS2 and BTN.

“The launch of this new streaming sports service is a significant moment for Disney and ESPN, a major win for sports fans, and an important step forward for the media business,” Disney Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger said in a statement. “This means the full suite of ESPN channels will be available to consumers alongside the sports programming of other industry leaders as part of a differentiated sports-centric service.”

The launch of the product will not stop ESPN from offering a full direct-to-consumer streaming product, which Disney is still researching, according to a person familiar with the matter. ESPN has previously said it plans on releasing that product this year or next year.

The competitors expect to form the joint service at a time when the value of sports media rights is spiking, but viewers have moved away from watching on traditional cable.

Disney, in particular, has suffered from a shift away from its ESPN network, and sought new ways to revive the business, including searching for strategic partners such as the National Football League and the National Basketball League.