News Shorts: South African Artist Zahara Has Died At The Age Of 35, 2 Good 2 Be True Makes A Landing On Novelas E Plus And Becky G To Headline Upcoming Drama Series From Peacock

South Africa has lost another icon

Award-winning South African Afro-pop singer Bulelwa Mkutukana, popularly known as Zahara, has died, the country's culture minister announced.

She had been in hospital, reportedly with liver complications, and the government had been assisting the family "for some time", Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa said.

Zahara, who released five albums, won dozens of awards both local and international. In 2020, she was named in the BBC's 100 Women list.

Novelas E Plus to debut a new Asian drama, 2 Good 2 Be True

Eloy is a student and scam artist seeking the truth behind his father's imprisonment and Ali is a nurse working to become a doctor. Their lives intertwine when Eloy is led to a man who Ali works for. It airs daily on Novelas E Plus from 12 December at 20:40.

Becky G is making waves

Peacock is developing drama series Queen of Flow, a premium adaptation of Caracol Television’s Colombian telenovela, La Reina Del Flow. Jorge Reyes is attached to pen the script for the project, from Westbrook Studios and Universal Television. Singer and actress Becky G (Good Mourning, Power Rangers) is in early negotiations to lead the series, Deadline understands.

Queen of Flow is a revenge tale/music drama about a young singer-songwriter named Yeimi — the role Becky G is in talks for — who rises to fame in the music world and finds a star-crossed love with the superstar scion of a powerful family. But on her rise to the top, dark secrets are discovered about both Yeimi and the family she’s made her own that set them on a collision course towards a reckoning that could destroy them all.

The premise is described as a “Count of Monte Cristo-esque tale set against the backdrop of Latin music.”

Regular Nick Shorts: ALVINNN!!! And The Chipmunks Wraps Production On Nickelodeon, Classic 80s Game Monster In My Pocket Is Being Transformed Into A Live-Action Series And Toyline RoboForce Is Getting An Animated Series

ALVINNN!!! And The Chipmunks comes to a close

ALVINNN!!! and The Chipmunks has reportedly ended production. In a recent interview with Billboard, Ross Bagdasarian Jr., the son of the creator of Alvin and The Chipmunks, revealed that production on ALVINNN!!! and The Chipmunks officially finished "last year."

ALVINNN!!! and The Chipmunks is currently in its fifth season on Nickelodeon channels globally, with the show being renewed for seasons six and seven in 2019. It's currently unknown whether these seasons got produced before the cancelation.

Alvin and the Chipmunks was created by Bagdasarian Jr.’s father, Ross Bagdasarian Sr., in 1958 as a children’s music act. The Alvin Show began in 1961, featuring the three animated singing chipmunks — Alvin, Simon and Theodore — with sped-up voices to give them their trademark high-pitched sound. Several iterations of TV shows and films followed, including an Alvin and the Chipmunks movie in 2007 and three sequels. The current series is produced by Bagdasarian Productions - run by Bagdasarian Jr. and his wife, Janice Karman - in collaboration with Mikros Animation IP (previously Technicolor Animation Productions).

Monster In My Pocket is being revived

Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith’s Westbrook Studios and Altar Rock Pictures have teamed up to develop a live-action series adaptation.

The two companies are currently meeting with writers to turn the collection of over 200 pocket-sized, collectible monsters, drawn from global myths and legend, into a series.

The brand was launched in 1989 by former Mattel execs Joe Morrison and John Weems, and have sold over 500M units globally. It has been turned into an ABC animated TV special, comic books and a Nintendo game.

RoboForce: The Animated Series is in development

The Nacelle Company has partnered with Seven Bucks Productions, the studio helmed by Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia, to co-produce RoboForce: The Animated Series. 

Nacelle announced its intention to finance the development and production of RoboForce, which is based on an ’80s toy line from the now-defunct Ideal Toy Company. Nacelle acquired the brand from Toyfinity in 2021, and released a small line of adult-targeted collectibles last year (pictured) that are selling well online and in specialty retailers across North America, Japan, Europe and Australia. 

RoboForce: The Animated Series follows lead bot Maxx 89 as he tries to reassemble the heroic crew and battle against a rogue entity infecting the Earth’s robots with code that turns them against humans. 

DLife Is Being Revived In Japan As A Replacement To FOX From March 2024

Following Disney's acquisition of 21st Century FOX, they had been phasing out the FOX brand name across several of their properties. This has led the closure of numerous FOX channels across Europe, Africa and Asia with others being converted to Star or FX.

According to the FOX Network website in Japan, FOX is set to rebrand from 1st March 2024 to DLife. The new brand will continue to provide Japanese viewers with comprehensive global entertainment content, with a focus on high-quality foreign drama, including award-winning popular series. 

“Dlife” inherits the 25-year tradition of the “FOX” channel in Japan, and continues to enjoy shows such as “NCIS” and “Criminal Minds”, which continue to enjoy high ratings in the United States. Warner Bros. Discovery also trademarks a similar brand name in some countries.

From long-loved series such as ``Frontline'' and ``FBI: Special Investigations Unit,'' to works that have been broadcast for the first time in Japan, we have and will continue to provide high-quality works centered on the best dramas from around the world. 

Prior to the rebrand, Disney is set to phase out the remaining FOX channels in Portugal (including Angola and Mozambique) for Star by early 2024. They are also looking to close their remaining linear offering across Asia.

Moederhart: Another Brand New Dubbed Turkish Telenovela For kykNET&kie In January

The new year also makes way for a new dubbed Turkish telenovela which will start on 8 January 2024 at 17:30 on kykNET&kie (DStv channel 145). 

Moederhart tells the story of three sisters and their brother - Zeynep, Emre, Cemre and Aysun - who, together with their mother, Nefise, are left in poverty after the sudden death of their father. As a single mother, Nefise often feels powerless, but with the help of a family member, she starts working for a rich family in a mansion. The house is owned by Muzaffer and his brother, Onur, who also run a company together. 

To help her family, Zeynep starts working for Ahmet, who is in love with her. During a business meeting, Zeynep meets Onur, causing a complicated love triangle between the three. In another twist, Muzaffer begins to develop feelings for Nefise, but Emre does not approve of their relationship. Will love win in the end for this mother and daughter? 

Moederhart's original Turkish title is Kanatsiz Kuslar and the series was filmed in Istanbul, Turkey. 

The main characters are: 

Zeynep who is played by Melis Tüzüngüç. Zeynep is the oldest of Nefise's children and will give up her own dreams for her younger sisters and brother. Danielle Retief is responsible for her Afrikaans voice. 

Onur (Ümit Kantarcilar) is a young businessman with a bright future. Despite the fact that Zeynep's background is different from his, he will do anything to win her love. Tiaan Kelderman's voice is used for Onur. 

Ahmet (Ahmet Varli) has a big heart and although Zeynep does not feel about him as he does about her, he will continue to fight against his opponent, Onur. Donovan Petersen is Ahmet's voice in Afrikaans. 

Nefise (Deniz Bolisik) is a woman who will do everything in her power for her children and to see that they are always together. Being a good mother is the most important thing in her life. Natasja Jacobs is responsible for Nefise's voice. 

Muzaffer (Fatih Al) is a successful businessman and heads the wealthy family. However, his life is turned upside down when Nefise walks into his life. Anton Schmidt is Muzaffer's Afrikaans voice. 

Azime (Servet Pandur) has been working in Muzaffer's mansion for years and pretends to be Nefise's friend, but she is scheming and manipulative. Marijke Coetzer is Azime's voice in Afrikaans. 

Also in the cast are Gizem Gunes as Cemre (voiced by Monica Muller), Emir Ozden as Emre (voiced by Zach Mtombeni), Seda Turkmen as Tuba (voiced by Anré Bouguenon) and Yusuf Baymaz as Suat (voiced by Luan Jacobs). 

Moederhart starts broadcasting on kykNET&kie (DStv channel 145) on 8 January 2024 at 17:30.

New Series Alert: Game Of Lies To Make It's International Debut + Release Date On Telemundo Across Africa

During the year, Telemundo halted further production of newer content resulting in more rebroadcast for consumers. This was due to changing legislation in countries like Cameroon and Uganda which imposed anti-gay laws across linear channels which results in fines and revoking of licence.

Game Of Lies was initially set to be broadcast sometime in 2023 before it was delayed to early 2024. This would be the channel's first original show in over a year as the latter such as Nurses came from Colombia's RCN Television and Cennet: The Power Of Destiny from Turkey's ATV.

Game Of Lies (Juego De Mentiras) follows Cesar Ferrer whose wife disappears. As he becomes the prime suspect of her possible murder, he takes the investigation in his own hands and fights to keep custody of his daughter. The series was broadcast in the United States earlier in the year.

It starred Arap Bethke as César Ferrer, Altaír Jarabo as Camila del Río, María Elisa Camargo as Adriana Molina, Rodrigo Guirao as Francisco Javier del Río, Cynthia Klitbo as Renata del Río, Eduardo Yáñez as Pascual del Río and Pepe Gámez as Jesús "Chuy" Marín.

The series is set to replace Lord Of The Skies from 15 January at 22:00. Initially, the third and final season of Queen Of The South was set to premiere on the timeslot but it got delayed once again - we'll update if we recieve any details.

Development Alert: CBS Reality Will End It's Run In More European Territories Starting With Czech Republic And Slovakia From 31 December 2023.

After its closure in the UK, as AMC Networks International is streamlining/strengthening their portfolio. It had been mentioned by one of AMC Networks International regional managers that CBS Reality will stop airing in Czech Republic and Slovakia from 31 December 2023.

According to sources, AMC Networks International is looking to discontinue more of these channels in other countries. But they didn't disclose which feeds would be affected by these changes or how long the remaining CBS channels would reside across Europe.

Not long ago, AMC Networks International halted further original productions from CBS Reality in Poland. It was also mentioned that the channel will continue to operate in the market and the same might be said about the feeds in Africa following its recent expansion to StarSat.

Following AMC Networks International's removal of CBS brand name in the linear offering in the UK. It had been long speculated that they look to duplicating this in other countries. Whether this means a complete revamp to content or cease in operations.

In other developments, Warner Bros. Discovery is also looking to close Discovery Science and DTX from 31 December 2023 which would coincide with the demise of Disney's linear offering seen in Europe and this includes National Geographic and National Geographic Wild.

Recap To The Month: Stay Connected To DStv Access This Festive And Stand A Chance To Win!, Also Adds Some Holiday For Compact

Whether it’s TV marathons, family gatherings or much-needed solo time, there’s plenty to do in December.

 

Add reconnecting to – or signing up for – DStv Access to your to-do list and stand a chance to win one of 100 shopping vouchers valued at R5000. Be sure to pay your subscription before 17 December and add some pizzazz to your festive budget.

 

But that’s not the only reason to stay connected this festive: from shows to keep the little ones occupied, to the most heart-stopping of sports documentaries, we’re making sure that entertainment is one less thing for you to worry about.

 

“This year we have continually aimed to delight our customers on Access. They have enjoyed the launch of the PlayRoom channel for kids, key matches during the Rugby and Cricket World Cups and so much more. We’ll keep rewarding our customers on Access this festive season, as we are through bringing ESPN1,” says Yatish Narsi, Chief Marketing Officer at MultiChoice South Africa.

“For even more ways to keep the family entertained, BoxOffice continues to provide amazing access to the latest blockbusters from only R40, which is a lot cheaper than going to the movies! Add popcorn and you’re sorted,” he concludes.

 

Some of the highlights DStv Access customers can indulge in during the holiday season include:

 

Philly’s Games: The iconic grassroots soccer tournament taking place in Tembisa will be televised live on SuperSport PSL and SuperSport Variety 4.

Shaka Ilembe: The acclaimed megahit show is the coming-of-age story of Shaka Zulu, king, warrior, conqueror. Coming on 15 December.

Pulse of a Nation: A compelling four-part documentary series that charts the journey of South Africa and its relationship with football.

PlayRoom: A uniquely local education and entertainment channel carrying original South African and popular international content, including favourite animated titles dubbed into isiZulu.

TRACE Urban: The hip 24-hour music channel has your festive playlist on lock.

ESPN1: The best of American sporting leagues and international sports, including a selection of European soccer leagues.

 

Adding to your holiday viewing are the latest local shows including In the Dock, Isiphiwo, and Sibongile and the Dlaminis. Don’t miss out on an incredible selection of sport documentaries on SuperSport 3, including The Fall, The Last Rider, Citizen Ashe, and Bobby Robson.

 

Stay connected or sign up to DStv Access for R199 (this includes an HD Decoder, subscription and installation). Remember to pay before 17 December to stand a chance to win a R5000 shopping voucher.

 

For an additional R270 per month, you can also Add Indian – our range of Indian channels bringing you original Indian serials (express from India), Bollywood blockbusters and the best of Southern. It comes with full access to SuperSport Cricket until 10 May – so you can enjoy a Summer of Cricket, on us!

 

It’s more rewarding with DStv Access, your home of the best local entertainment and sports. Consider your festive viewing sorted – the only thing we can’t do is the cooking!

 

 

DStv Compact

 

DStv is leaving no one behind this season, as DStv Compact customers can indulge in some exciting content including:

 

Nick Jr and Nicktoons (mistaken for Nickelodeon): The channels will be available to Compact customers from 14 December 2023 to 7 January 2024.

Philly’s Games: The iconic grassroots soccer tournament taking place in Tembisa will be televised live on SuperSport PSL and SuperSport Variety 4. 

Her Story: A four-part docuseries spotlighting local female musicians and their incredible stories.

Uthanda Bani?: This emotive show assists couples looking to remedy their addiction issues by offering therapy and intervention.

PlayRoom: A uniquely local edutainment channel carrying original South African and popular international content, including favourite animated titles dubbed into isiZulu.

TRACE Urban: The hip 24-hour music channel recently returned to DStv, just in time to have your festive playlist on lock.

 

Adding to your holiday viewing are the latest local shows including My Brother’s Keeper, In the Dock, and Sibongile and the Dlamini’s.

Don’t miss out on an incredible selection of sport documentaries on SuperSport 3, including The Fall, The Last Rider, Citizen Ashe, and Bobby Robson.

 

Stay connected or sign up to DStv Compact for R599 (this includes an Explora Ultra, subscription and smart installation). Remember to pay before 17 December to stand a chance to win a R5000 shopping voucher.

Everyday Novelas Shorts: Skeem Saam Undergoing Timeslot Changes On SABC 1, Ratings Flop Nikiwe To End With 1 Season On e.tv, eExtra And Star Life To Hit A New Low With Respective Rebroadcast Of Weaving A Tale Of Love And The Evil Eye

Skeem Saam is being repositioned

Entertainment commentator, Mlu reports that the SABC1 soapie, Skeem Saam will be changed from 18:30 slot to 19:30 from 2024.

The soapie will be competing with e.tv’s most-watched soapie Scandal!, and Mzansi Magic’s latest telenovela, My Brother’s Keeper.

Viewers of the youth soapie are concerned the show will lose viewers as Scandal! owns the timeslot with an average of 5 million viewers per month and continuously changes storylines.

A fan-favourite is coming back to Star Life

The Evil Eye follows Mohana, a 250-year-old Daayan, lives off of humans' life-force to stay young. However, when she sets her evil eye on the Rathod family, trouble and misfortune follow them everywhere. It dwells on family, drama, romance, supernatural and horror.

It will broadcast on 18 December replacing Mismatched.

Nikiwe is getting canned on e.tv

"The show launched in April 2023 and filled the 18:30 slot. Unfortunately, the show has not continued to deliver anticipated ratings. The channel continually reviews programmes and storylines to ensure we give our viewers the best local entertainment. Further information regarding the replacement show will be shared soon."

It lost 500,000 viewers just a month after its debut.

Nikiwe which will end sometime in early 2024 on e.tv and its streaming service eVOD also starred Muzi Mthabela, Clementine Mosimane, Kenneth Nkosi and Israel Matseke Zulu.

eExtra is cutting down on new programs

A few months ago, eExtra in a bizarre twist added a primetime repeat of Annekan Die Swa Kry at 17:05 which comes 5 minute after it airs on e.tv. Now it will be airing a rebroadcast to one of their most recent shows Weaving A Tale Of Love from Wednesday 20 December.

The last time this happened was with the Zee TV line-up viewed on weekday afternoons and this lasted about a year before adding new episodes of Surrender In Love and Twist Of Fate. Now the channel appears to be following a similar route with the Asian line-up.

Development Alert: Play Room Acquired Broadcasting Rights To The Canadian Animated Series Total Dramarama, Undergoes Timeslot Changes

During the week, Play Room broadcast the first season to Total Dramarama currently viewed on Teletoon in Canada and various Cartoon Network feeds in other countries. It sets as another prequel to the Total Drama franchise and also crosses over to 6teen.

Total Dramarama re-introduces some of the original "Total Drama" characters in an alternate universe where they are aged down from teenagers to toddlers, being taken care of by Chef Hatchet. Each episode features dream sequences, visual jokes, confessionals, and flashbacks.

Produced by Corus Entertainment and Fresh TV Inc., it debuted by September 2018 and spawned over 3 seasons with a total of 152 episodes each consisting of 11 minutes. Play Room will distribute them as half hour episodes basically making it only 76 episodes.

Total Dramarama airs on weekdays at 17:00 a timeslot that was once reserved for Nickelodeon's live-action series Henry Danger moves to 16:30 while Game Shakers' will only air at 16:00 with Sanjay And Craig serving as a complimentary retaining its 17:30 timeslot.

Although, this came last minute Play Room was initially meant to distribute Game Shakers in a 30 minute timeslot and Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures and Enchantimals was meant to compliment Sanjay And Craig but for some reason the latter was moved to weekday mornings.