Could Canal+ Be The End Of DStv?

Canal+ is hoping to finalize it's acquisition of DStv's parent company MultiChoice by the fall of 2025. The deal is expected to bring in cash flow to help them invest in more sporting events and local content but for every action there's always consequences in this case with DStv.

As some consumers have already seen MultiChoice is bleeding DStv customers for sometime with its consumer base that plummeted from 22 million by 2020 to 16 million by 2024. Canal+ should it consume MultiChoice won't sit idly and watch these numbers deteriorate even further.

With MultiChoice operating at a loss, Canal+ could seek to make the acquired company reduce its operational expenses or DStv's case rationalise on things like channels if it means getting potential profit.

MultiChoice could for instance look at how much money is being invested into the BBC to see if it meets up to standards. Even opt to downscale DMX and Trace Urban as Spotify, JOOX and Apple Music have been snatching these consumers from those platforms.

They could also look to integrate/streamline more channels with M-Net Movies 3 and 4 dissolved with the focus shifted onto its premium offering. 

As for DStv, Canal+ could use it as an import for Zacu Entertainment and Marodi TV brands based in Francophone Africa with SPI International in Europe. In general, MultiChoice needed Disney, Paramount and BBC to compete on a global scale with Canal+ that dependence had reduced.

It does lead some to wonder if M-Net will undergo further restructuring now that it's operations would be combined with the legends that brought Paddington, Back To Black and Bridget Jones.

Rumour: Disney Channel To Debut A Bold New Look Across Europe And Africa In June

During the month of April, MultiChoice had announced the addition of Disney Channel to DStv Family consumers. It is home to animated shows like Phineas And Ferb and Marvel's Moon Girl And Devil Dinosaur alongside live-action series Coop And Cami Ask The World and Raven's Home.

Prior to this, there was reports of a potential HD feed of the channel in development for consumers in South Africa. Now it appears that alongside an HD feed, Disney Channel may be debuting a bold new look soon following its rollout across the United States in 2024.

Kind of strange really as Disney Channel updated its bumpers in March with "up next" and the logo's color was filtered to resonate with the program. Why go through all that hassle if the plan was to align this part of the brand as seen with Disney Jr.

But then again this is Disney Channel, they have been out of touch with reality for sometime promoting shows that were taken off air. To make it worse, they'll continue promoting content as channel premieres days or weeks after it had been aired.

Info on the rebrand

The new visual language blends gradients and negative space to create depth and a sleek, modern feel, while the repetition of iconic Disney elements like the "D," Mickey ears, and script reinforces the brand in fresh, unexpected ways.

 

This collaboration is a testament to our long-standing partnership with the incredible Disney Channel team—a team that continuously embraces innovation and trusts us to bring their vision to life.

Reminder: OCEAN With David Attenborough To Premiere On National Geographic On 13 June

OCEAN WITH DAVID ATTENBOROUGH is a feature-length documentary special that marks the first collaboration of its kind between Sir David Attenborough, the world’s preeminent natural historian, and National Geographic, a leader in exploration, science and storytelling. Presented by the celebrated 99-year-old broadcaster and produced by Silverback Films and Open Planet Studios, the film shares with a global audience the importance of the world’s oceans and the story of how we can, and must, restore the glory of Earth’s vast, interconnected waters. The film will premiere on National Geographic (DStv 181 and Startimes 220) across Africa on Friday 13 June at 20:30 (CAT) and will also be available on Disney+ in South Africa.

 

The film’s release on National Geographic is timed to World Oceans Day, June’s United Nations Ocean Conference 2025 in Nice, France, and midway through the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030). As decision makers ponder the future of our oceans, OCEAN WITH DAVID ATTENBOROUGH will amplify the marine protection solutions that can help turn the tide. The film draws upon extensive marine science and was supported by a team of scientific advisors, including National Geographic Pristine Seas founder, Dr. Enric Sala.

After filming the natural world for over 70 years, captivating generations of audiences worldwide with groundbreaking discoveries and advocating for environmental preservation, Attenborough delivers his most powerful message yet. In the feature-length special OCEAN WITH DAVID ATTENBOROUGH, he draws on his lifetime of exploration and knowledge of the sea to take audiences on a cinematic journey of wonder through the planet’s most spectacular undersea habitats. Attenborough investigates astonishingly diverse marine ecosystems, from bustling giant kelp jungles and mesmerizing coral reefs to towering seamount outposts within the open ocean, all of which are revealed to be intricately connected, vital to avoiding climate catastrophe, and in peril due to destructive forms of fishing. While Attenborough exposes the greatest threats to our oceans’ health as never seen before, he points to inspirational stories from around the world to reveal the most remarkable finding of all: If we take action now, the opportunity for marine life to recover on an unprecedented scale is well within our reach.

Attenborough said, “My lifetime has coincided with the great age of ocean discovery. Over the last hundred years, scientists and explorers have revealed remarkable new species, epic migrations and dazzling, complex ecosystems beyond anything I could have imagined as a young man. In this film, we share those wonderful discoveries, uncover why our ocean is in such poor health, and, perhaps most importantly, show how it can bounce back to life.”

Tom McDonald, National Geographic’s executive vice president of Global Factual and Unscripted Content, said, “I’m thrilled that audiences worldwide will be able to engage with Sir David’s signature storytelling and the inspirational message of this film through the power of National Geographic’s global platforms. There is no one better to deliver this landmark film than Sir David and I’m delighted that he’s working with National Geographic for the very first time on a subject that is timely and close to his heart.”

Through compelling firsthand accounts and stunning, immersive cinematography, OCEAN WITH DAVID ATTENBOROUGH tells the untold story of the importance and health of our ocean. Through spectacular undersea sequences and a reflection on Attenborough’s own lifetime of exploration and discovery, the film demonstrates the vital role the ocean plays in defending against climate disaster and sustaining all life on Earth. The documentary special zeroes in on the human actions leading to the oceans’ collapse and the effects of destructive fishing techniques, such as dredging and bottom trawling, on entire marine ecosystems, coastal communities, and the global climate. Breathtaking footage also exhibits the oceans’ incredible resilience and remarkable ability to recover when protected, showcasing the marine protection solutions already at hand and the action we must take to restore the abundance and vitality of the ocean and secure a healthier future for us all.

Educators can be part of the solution that inspires young people — the ocean stewards of tomorrow, by discussing OCEAN WITH DAVID ATTENBOROUGH in the classroom. Later this year, National Geographic Pristine Seas will make the documentary film available to educators at schools, universities, museums, and libraries, and for educational and charitable conferences and events for non-commercial purposes. 

 

OCEAN WITH DAVID ATTENBOROUGH is directed by Toby Nowlan, Keith Scholey and Colin Butfield and produced by Nowlan for Silverback Films. The film is a Silverback Films and Open Planet Studios co-production. Executive producers include Louise Pedersen and Rachel Job for All3Media International (the film’s global TV distribution partner), Tom McDonald and Janet Han Vissering for National Geographic, Jasper Smith for Arksen Ltd and 10% for the Ocean, Minderoo Productions Limited, Enric Sala for National Geographic Society and Pristine Seas, Kristin Rechberger for Dynamic Planet and Revive Our Ocean, Rolly van Rappard and Francoise van Rappard for Don Quixote Foundation, and Olivier Wenden for The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.

 

Reminder: Secrets, Explosive Revelations, Greed, Betrayal, Love, And Sacrifice Take Centre Stage In Telemundo’s Newest Telenovela, Premiering 26 May At 22:00 Across Africa

Immerse yourself in the irresistible taste of chocolate and the magic of cocoa plantations in Telemundo’s captivating newest telenovela, Cacau. The brand-new show premieres on Monday 26 May at 22:00 (CAT), exclusively on Telemundo (DSTV 118).

A talented chocolate artisan, Cacau dreams of earning an international diploma in pastry and chocolate, but her path seems blocked by financial obstacles. Faced with these hurdles, her father decides to reveal Cacau’s true identity to the powerful Justino Vaz Pereira, owner of the farm where they live. Justino discovers that he had a daughter with the great love of his life, a teacher from the ranch who had mysteriously gone missing years ago. This discovery marks the beginning of a series of events full of intrigue and dramatic twists and turns.

The revelation of Cacau’s identity will make her the centre of a whirlwind of lies and family disputes. Her life will never be the same again, and in the quest to uncover the truth about her past, she will cross paths with Tiago, a man who will do everything to help protect her.

Cacau is led by Matilde Reymão in the titular role Clara ‘Cacau’ Coutinho, starring opposite love interest José Condessa as Tiago Saavedra. They are supported by Alexandra Lencastre, António Capelo, Carolina Amaral, Fernanda Serrano, Paulo Pires, Diogo Amaral, Ludy Guimarães and Vitor Britto.

Cacau is a TVI and Plural Entertainment production, internationally distributed by Onza Distribution. Written by Maria João Costa alongside Edu Araújo and Rui Nuno Vaz Tomé, the series is directed by Edgar Miranda, Ricardo Carreira, Rafael Rahal and Letícia Veiga. Ana Almedia executively produces.

The brand-new series, Cacau, premieres exclusively on Telemundo on 26 May at 22:00 CAT, with new episodes airing every day until the season finale on 18 October 2025.

Hollywood Stars Join the Scotts In New Season Of 'Celebrity IOU' On HGTV

Sledgehammers will fly, walls will fall, and lives will be changed forever in a new season of HGTV’s smash hit Celebrity IOU premiering on HGTV Africa on Monday, 26 May at 22:00 CAT with six heartwarming episodes featuring Courteney Cox, Andy Garcia, Goldie Hawn, Rob Lowe, Kyle MacLachlan and Sarah Silverman. Celebrity IOU will spotlight the Hollywood A-listers who lean on HGTV stars and series’ executive producers Drew and Jonathan Scott to help them express their deep gratitude by delivering epic home transformations for their closest friends. With Drew and Jonathan’s renovation and design expertise in their toolbelts, the famous celebs will give their all to demolish dated rooms, choose modern finishes and gift personalised dream spaces to extraordinary people.  

 

The upcoming Celebrity IOU lineup will spotlight: 

• Courteney Cox—Golden Globe® Award, Screen Actors Guild Award® and Emmy® Award nominated actress, producer and director;  

• Andy Garcia—GRAMMY Award® and ALMA Award winning and Academy Award®, Golden Globe® Award and Emmy® Award nominated actor, producer and director;  

• Goldie Hawn—Academy Award® winning and Golden Globe® Award and Emmy® Award nominated actress, producer and director;  

• Rob Lowe—Screen Actors Guild Award® winning and Golden Globe® Award and Emmy® Award nominated actor, producer and writer;  

• Kyle MacLachlan—Golden Globe® Award winning and GRAMMY Award®, Screen Actors Guild Award® and Emmy® Award nominated actor and director; and 

• Sarah Silverman—Emmy® Award-winning and GRAMMY Award®, Golden Globe® Award and Screen Actors Guild Award®-nominated actress, writer and producer. 

 

“I tell people every day that Drew and I have the greatest job in the world,” said Jonathan. “We feel lucky that we’re able to give these Hollywood powerhouses an opportunity to share a side of themselves you don’t usually see, while also changing someone’s life.”

 

“Part of what makes Celebrity IOU great is that the stories are so unique and diverse,” said Drew. “The celebrities have known their loved ones for years, so there’s a lot of history there. They get the satisfaction of doing something for someone they love, and it feels amazing that Jonathan and I get to be the conduits for that.” 

 

In a heartwarming episode airing 2 June, Rob Lowe will knock on Carol’s door with a mariachi band and the Scott Brothers in tow to surprise his dear friend and assistant of 27 years, who he says is an integral part of his family. Although Carol has made some improvements to her home, Rob, Drew, and Jonathan will work together to give her the stylish and functional kitchen and living areas she’s always wanted. When Jonathan unexpectedly falls ill, the popular actor will step out of his comfort zone and go full throttle with Drew to lay new flooring, hang stunning white oak cabinets and install high-end porcelain countertops. During the emotional reveal, Rob will show Carol the many custom features in her new spaces, including a pass-through window to the backyard and a built-in banquette. 

 

Drew and Jonathan will tackle more superstar renovations throughout the season, including a detached garage turned California coastal living room and an outdated kitchen transformed with design elements like terrazzo and herringbone wood floors.

Has Cartoon Network Become Another Universal Kids?

With Google killing off the visibility for various websites I haven't been able to prioritize Insidus as seen in previous years. In my custody is several drafted or fully typed stories on MultiChoice, eMedia Investments and even some international brands we've covered in the last months.

As I've reported here back in 2024, it was announced that Warner Bros. Discovery would be spinning off its cable networks away from HBO Max and Warner Bros. Pictures into the division, Global Linear Business. Some inside sources hint at a potential split from Warner Bros. Discovery in a not so distant future.

Cable companies are losing revenue from Cartoon Network, TLC and HGTV all of which are packaged on DStv. This has led some channels to close in a number of countries or as we've seen with others a zombified lineup.

In a story published on Bloomberg, ad revenue from Cartoon Network plummeted from $668.3 million in 2014 to $133.7 million in 2024. This is the reason Warner Bros. Discovery hasn't prioritised it's original content slate and minimised it's portfolio opting to focus more on adult programming.

Even Adult Swim which serves as a side label to Cartoon Network for its mature offering is also seeing a dip in revenue and some do question the viability of the network.

When Comcast opted to spinoff it's cable networks under the handle Versant it led to the closure of Universal Kids. Very much like Cartoon Network, Universal Kids had garnered scale in other parts of the world with its equivalent DreamWorks Channel and this is where Cartoon Network might reside.

DreamWorks Channel despite being a success story serves an import to DreamWorks Animation's programming picked up by Netflix and Apple TV+. With Warner Bros. Discovery exploring a potential split shows like Teen Titans GO! are likely to follow the same route.

Upcoming shows like Regular Show: Lost Tapes and Adventure Time: Side Quests may take much longer to be made available on Cartoon Network if not prioritized as much. 

Warner Bros. Discovery wants to split it's cable business from studios and streaming and if one had to guess it will be similar to Comcast. Warner Bros. Discovery will want to align it with HBO Max and Cartoon Network very much like Universal Kids is the weakest link.a

CANCELLED!!! Cartoonito USA Is Reportedly Shutting Down On Cartoon Network

In not so shocking news, it appears that Cartoon Network will be booting off Cartoonito from their schedule in the coming weeks. As several viewers had spotted a batch of Looney Tunes shows like New Looney Tunes and Tiny Toons Looniversity airing at 8AM to 9AM.

As Cartoonito continued to garner traction in other parts of the world leading to the launch of a 24 hour network. In the US, Cartoonito had been struggling to find an audience what initially started out as a 4-6 hour block on Cartoon Network had been reduced to an hour and a half.

Warner Bros. Discovery had commissioned several original shows at the time with Tom And Jerry Time and Little Ellen that got booted off, and Bugs Bunny Builders cancelled. The only show that had seen traction on the brand was Batwheels which got renewed for a third season.

While some will cite low viewership in its demise as Cartoonito was rolled out in the US as later as the former Universal Kids. Warner Bros. Discovery is technically insolvent leaving little to no new content for Cartoon Network (aka Zombie TV) so in a way it was probably for the best.

The fact that Cartoonito is dying down doesn't mean that Warner Bros. Discovery is done with preschool just yet as they still have Batwheels. Besides that, Hey BMO and Foster's Funtimes have been greenlight so if anyone had to guess this will form part of Cartoon Network's lineup.

Internationally, Cartoonito will sit put but what might happen is that the brand will rely solely on imports to stay afloat. Not that's it's new or anything, Cartoon Network has been reliant on that in other parts of the world same with Boomerang before it's switch to Cartoonito.

Warner Bros. Discovery is prepping to spinoff its cable networks and I can only assume Cartoon Network (very much like HBO) will be aligned to Streaming & Studios in the US. If Batwheels forms part of its regular lineup it gives the show a chance to get more exposed.

Warner Bros. Discovery Looking To Spin-Off It's Cable Networks Ahead Of Restructure

Warner Bros Discovery (WBD) is moving towards a potential break-up, CNBC reported on Thursday, as media companies explore options for their struggling cable TV businesses and sharpen focus on their faster-growing streaming and studios divisions.

WBD shares surged more than 4% on the news, rebounding from earlier losses of nearly 6% that were triggered by a dour quarterly report.

The company missed first-quarter revenue estimates and posted a larger-than-expected loss earlier in the day due to a sluggish box office performance and ongoing declines in cable.

The media industry is going through what some executives have called a “general disruption” as millions of subscribers abandon once-lucrative cable TV for streaming. That has piled pressure on companies to consistently produce hit studio content and boost profitability in their streaming businesses.

WBD had laid the groundwork for a possible sale or spin-off of its declining cable TV assets in December by announcing a separation from its streaming and studio operations. It reported results under the new structure for the first time on Thursday.

A split will align the company with Comcast, which is spinning off most of its cable TV networks such as MSNBC and CNBC to position itself for growth in the streaming era.

Analysts have long speculated about a break-up of WBD, formed by the 2022 merger between Warner Media and Discovery.

“WBD would be leaner and have stronger growth potential without cable assets. But finding a buyer could be difficult. Linear TV is deteriorating and WBD has big debts,” said eMarketer analyst Ross Benes.

WBD, which has $38bn (R693.4bn) of gross debt, did not respond to a Reuters request for comment on the CNBC report.

Its CEO David Zaslav said on Thursday the company's programming strength was helping Max attract subscribers in a crowded market for streaming services.

WBD added 5.3-million streaming subscribers in the January to March quarter, more than the 3.1-million estimated by analysts, taking its total to 122.3-million. Its content slate in the period included the third season of HBO's The White Lotus and the medical drama series The Pitt.

However, its results were hampered by a weak showing at the box office as WBD struggled to replicate the success of last year's Dune: Part Two, which grossed more than $700m (R12,7-trillion). Its marquee release for the period, Bong Joon Ho's sci-fi dark comedy Mickey 17, earned only slightly more than its reported budget at the box office.

Studio revenue fell 18% to $2.3bn, missing estimates of $2.7bn, according to Visible Alpha.

The company has, however, made a strong start to the second quarter with Ryan Coogler's horror film Sinners and the blockbuster A Minecraft Movie, which has raked in around $900 million globally, making it the biggest release of 2025 so far.

Revenue at the TV networks segment, which includes CNN, Discovery Channel and Animal Planet, fell 7%.

Overall, revenue fell 10% to $8.98bn, missing analysts' average estimate of $9.60bn, according to data compiled by LSEG. Loss of 18c per share was also larger than expectations for a 13c loss.