During the day, it was reported that Da Vinci Kids would be exiting both DStv and GOtv platforms in November as the channel continues to be broadcast on StarSat. Prior to the termination, MultiChoice would be adding another kids channel to their platforms, Play Room.
Play Room is basically "an eToonz for Africa" featuring animated shows like CoComelon, Paw Patrol and Jabu's Jungle alongside live-action shows like Play Room Live and Game Shakers. It is operated by Ngwato Nkosi Group who manage Newzroom Afrika and Movie Room.
Da Vinci Kids was a factual based children's channel which like carried animated shows like Wild Kratts, Mily Miss Questions and Pincode alongside live-action shows like Operation Ouch, Horrible Histories and Odd Squad. It was described as the Curiosity Channel of children's television.
The minor setback with Play Room would be the programming despite catering for the same demographic none of the content match to that of History, BBC Earth or National Geographic but to the likes of brands like Cartoon Network, Disney Junior and JimJam.
In short, if you wish to view the content from Da Vinci Kids then you need StarSat and a similar offering can be found on as mentioned National Geographic and BBC Earth. Play Room competes with brands like Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and as mentioned Cartoon Network.
After almost cutting the channel back in 2022 for Moonbug, MultiChoice has decided to end the carriage of the factual and kids entertainment channel, Da Vinci Kids. With the channel set to go dark across various DStv and GOtv platforms by 14 November 2023.
Da Vinci Kids featured various animated series such as Mily Miss Questions, The Deep and Superhero Galore alongside live-action shows like Operation Ouch, Treehouse Stories and Bajilionaires. The latter which would now only be viewable on StarSat as MultiChoice makes space for Play Room.
Following the on/off relationship with eMedia Investments, MultiChoice has been battling with transponder constraints that often when a new channel would roll out on their platforms it would result in the termination of an existing channel as seen with Novela Magic and Maisha Magic Movies.
Play Room is described as an "eToonz for Africa" type children's channel featuring locally produced and international shows. The channel will go live from November 6 carrying live-action shows like Game Shakers and Play Room Live alongside animated shows like Jabu's Jungle, CoComelon and Paw Patrol.
We're awaiting confirmation on Play Room for the rest of Africa particularly on GOtv. We believe the channel could be made available to these consumers we're not sure if it will be made available to the rest of Africa at the same time due to the local dubs to some animated shows.
Considering that Da Vinci catered to Access consumers, Play Room will most likely be made available to the consumers of Da Vinci. Of course, a lot of channels to have exited DStv during the year were local channels making Da Vinci the first international brand.
In other developments, HONEY is also scheduled to be exiting the DStv and GOtv platform by the end of October which would coincide with the expansion of TRACE Urban to DStv Access. MultiChoice is also rumoured to be rolling out a new general entertainment channel from Zambezi Magic.
This series, which revolves around the semi-private school, Arendsvlei High School, managed by the Cupido family, made its debut on 1 October 2018.
Arendsvlei was initially planned for one season only. Due to popularity among viewers and two SAFTA Awards for the first season, it was renewed for a second season. As viewership numbers continued to grow, the show grew from two to four episodes a week - an extraordinary achievement for a show in this genre.
“From the very beginning, Arendsvlei blew our viewers away. As the first fully-fledged Afrikaans telenovela, it proved so popular that one season turned into six,” says Waldimar Pelser, M-Net Director of Premium Channels.
Three SAFTA Awards in six years is proof of the hard work and creativity of the production team and talent that made Arendsvlei a household name in South Africa. On 11 December 2023, the team will celebrate its 1 000 episodes milestone.
“The team behind Arendsvlei are incredibly proud of the rich storyworld that has become a part of our viewers’ daily lives. kykNET thanks Penguin Films, every actor, and every member of the production team who taught us to take Arendsvlei High’s motto to heart and ‘aim high’,” says Pelser.
Roberta Durrant, the creative producer of the programme, adds: “We are proud of what we have achieved with Arendsvlei over the past six years. It has resonated with many people across the country, and its storylines touched them deeply.
"Arendsvlei is not a soap opera - it’s a telenovela. It was always meant to come to an end. That the show still captivates viewers after six years is a remarkable achievement. We are grateful that we can end Arendsvlei on a high note.”
“We are grateful to kykNET for trusting us with the production of Arendsvlei, and we hope to work on future projects with the writers, actors, and production team after Arendsvlei comes to an end,” Durrant concludes.
kykNET is already planning more exciting content for kykNET&kie to launch early next year.
Prior to its cancellation, 7de Laan would be airing it's final episode on 26 December after its 24 year run on SABC 2. There's rumours going around that it might not be replaced with another soap opera meaning consumers would have to flee to kykNET and eExtra's Kuiertyd for more content.
As for kykNET & Kie, they rolled out their international slate in 2022 with Kind Van Die Noodlot and In Die Ysterhand Se Greep. Seeing as there's no mention of a replacement we presume that the cancelation of Arendsvlei will accommodate these shows as kykNET promised consumers an additional international telenovela.
Play Room (stylised as Playroom) is a children's channel operated by Ngwato Nkosi Group which offers fun and learning with popular animated shows dubbed in Zulu alongside live-action shows. The channel is set to go live on all packages from November 6 on channel 300.
From what we've uncovered previously, MultiChoice lent Play Room the frequencies formerly used by one of their other TV channels, VUZU. An HD/SD feed is currently being test run on their platforms with a few holding slides now reserved as Play Room and not Movie Room.
Bumpers/Idents/Promos/Banners
Similar to the ones already unveiled, Play Room doesn't mention any show within these teasers (including Play Room Live).
Schedule/Programming
Compared to previous schedules, the former Movie Room (now Play Room) holding slides had been adjusted with the remaining slide occupying only 1 timeslot within the week.
20 October
00:00 Oddbods
00:30 Jabu's Jungle
01:00 Bino And Fino
01:30 Animal Time
01:45 Enchantimals Tales From.Everwilde
02:00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures
02:30 Barbie: Magic Touch
03:00 Play Room Live
04:00 Game Shakers
04:30 Game Shakers
05:00 Henry Danger
05:30 Sanjay And Craig
06:01 Oddbods
06:30 Cocoland
06:40 Thomas & Friends
07:00 Paw Patrol
07:26 Jabu's Jungle
08:00 Jabu's Jungle
08:25 Bino And Fino
08:45 Bino And Fino
09:00 Animal Time
09:15 Enchantimals Tales From Everwilde
09:30 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures
10:00 Barbie: Magic Touch
10:30 Oddbods
11:00 Thomas & Friends
11:15 Animal Time
11:30 Jabu's Jungle
12:00 Cocomelon (IsiZulu)
12:15 Bino And Fino
12:45 Bino And Fino
13:00 Game Shakers
13:30 Game Shakers
14:00 Henry Danger
14:30 Sanjay And Craig
15:00 Play Room Live
16:00 Game Shakers
16:30 Game Shakers
17:00 Henry Danger
17:30 Sanjay And Craig
18:00 Oddbods
18:30 Cocoland
18:40 Thomas & Friends
18:55 Paw Patrol
19:25 Jabu's Jungle
19:50 Jabu's Jungle
20:20 Bino And Fino
20:50 Cocoland
21:00 Play Room Live
22:00 Game Shakers
22:30 Game Shakers
23:00 Henry Danger
23:30 Sanjay And Craig
21 October
00:00 Oddbods
00:30 Jabu's Jungle
01:00 Bino And Fino
01:30 Animal Time
01:45 Enchantimals Tales From Everwilde
02:00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures
02:30 Barbie: Magic Touch
03:00 Play Room Live
04:00 Game Shakers
04:30 Game Shakers
05:00 Henry Danger
05:30 Sanjay And Craig
06:00 Jabu's Jungle
06:30 Jabu's Jungle
07:00 Jabu's Jungle
07:30 Cocomelon (IsiZulu)
07:45 Bino And Fino
08:00 Cocoland
08:05 Bino And Fino
08:35 Jabu's Jungle
09:00 Animal Time
09:15 Thomas & Friends
09:45 Thomas & Friends
10:00 Enchantimals Tales From Everwilde
10:30 Enchantimals Tales From Everwilde
10:45 Oddbods
11:15 Oddbods
11:45 Oddbods
12:00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures
12:30 Barbie: Magic Touch
13:00 Game Shakers
13:30 Game Shakers
14:00 Henry Danger
14:30 Sanjay And Craig
15:00 Play Room Live
16:00 Max Steel: The Dawn Of Morphos
17:00 Sanjay And Craig
17:30 Animal Time
17:45 Jabu's Jungle
18:15 Jabu's Jungle
18:45 Cocomelon (IsiZulu)
19:00 Bino And Fino
19:30 Jabu's Jungle
20:00 Jabu's Jungle
20:30 Jabu's Jungle
21:00 Play Room Live
22:00 Game Shakers
22:30 Game Shakers
23:00 Sanjay And Craig
23:30 Sanjay And Craig
22 October
00:00 Oddbods
00:30 Cocomelon (IsiZulu)
00:45 Bino And Fino
01:00 Jabu's Jungle
01:30 Animal Time
01:45 Enchantimals Tales From Everwilde
02:00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures
02:30 Barbie: Magic Touch
03:00 Holding Slide (likely Play Room Live)
04:00 Game Shakers
04:30 Game Shakers
05:00 Henry Danger
05:30 Henry Danger
06:00 Bino And Fino
06:30 Cocomelon (IsiZulu)
06:45 Jabu's Jungle
07:15 Jabu's Jungle
07:45 Jabu's Jungle
08:15 Cocoland
08:35 Cocoland
08:55 Cocoland
09:00 Oddbods
09:30 Oddbods
10:00 Oddbods
10:15 Animal Time
10:45 Thomas & Friends
11:15 Thomas & Friends
11:30 Animal Time
12:00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures
12:30 Barbie: Magic Touch
13:00 Henry Danger
13:30 Sanjay And Craig
14:00 Game Shakers
14:30 Game Shakers
15:00 Play Room Live
16:00 The Lion And The Mouse
16:30 Sanjay And Craig
17:00 Sanjay And Craig
17:30 Animal Time
17:45 Jabu's Jungle
18:15 Jabu's Jungle
18:45 Thomas & Friends
19:15 Bino And Fino
19:45 Jabu's Jungle
20:15 Cocomelon (IsiZulu)
20:30 Jabu's Jungle
21:00 Play Room Live
22:00 Game Shakers
22:30 Game Shakers
23:00 Sanjay And Craig
23:30 Sanjay And Craig
Notes
• CoComelon is the only locally dubbed show on the list as mentioned through a press release and Akili And Me another dubbed series had been removed from the lineup.
• Noah's Park had also been removed from the lineup
• The Lion And The Moose and Max Steel serve as newcomers but only on the weekends. This would be the first time we've got word on their weekend offering which is tailored to only weekday repeats and Play Room Live appears to be an everyday thing similar to Zee World.
• Play Room Live's timeslot remains intact (including repeats) implying that this could be an accurate timeslot.
The documentary channel CBS Reality (AMC Networks International) resigned from the production of Polish programs. – With our viewers and partners in mind, we are constantly exploring opportunities to develop our programming strategy. We are currently not planning any new own productions for 2024, the channel's press office told us.
We broadcast and will continue to broadcast a number of true crime programs from CBS Justice, including British own productions such as: "Crown Evidence", "Living in Crime: Jackie Malton" or "Living in Crime: Donal MacIntyre".
Moreover, it was recalled that the CBS Reality channel also broadcasts foreign series on other topics, such as "Dirty Houses" or "Maniacal Hoarders". The last Polish productions were shown by the station in 2022. It was a two-part documentary "Always on Duty" and a five-episode series "Crime Without a Body".
According to Nielsen Media, in the first half of the year, CBS Reality had an average of 0.07 percent. share in the general group 4+ (no changes) and 0.05 percent in the commercial group 16-59 (down from 0.09% in the first half of 2022).
Still proud, with a new Edge
Reflecting the dynamic and inclusive nature of the content and programming on the channels found on the Edge Bouquet symbolizes a forward-thinking approach, pushing boundaries and embracing a variety of perspectives. The Edge Bouquet is our way of broadening our scope while staying true to our commitment to quality entertainment and representation.
The Edge Bouquet features two channels: OUTtv and Fuse.
Accompanying the revamped bouquet will be OUTtv first ever South African programme, The G-List. a captivating reality series that delves into the lives of three dynamic queer individuals navigating the vibrant world of South African entertainment and media – Kyle Clark, a charismatic media mogul and brand influencer; Mthaux, a bold, non-binary fashionista challenging norms; and Lula Odiba, a vivacious YFM DJ blazing a trail for women in broadcast.
Openview launched a satellite-first in SA with an added Pay TV option earlier this year. Viewers can experience a new world of curated premium entertainment using the same decoder, simply opting in for additional bouquets of content for a monthly subscription, whilst retaining and enjoying the free Openview content on their decoder.
This revolutionary new ‘freemium’ service is giving audiences viewing power by giving them the choice of free or paid content, at their discretion. Unlike other services, Openview allows viewers to find exclusive niche content, conveniently in one place, opting-in for stand-alone bouquets that satisfy their desires.
A Nambian based station is heading to the DStv platform
A cutting edge radio station broadcasting live from Windhoek ,Namibia. Desert radio is part of the Namibian Newspaper.
Desert FM is a popular radio station located in the vibrant and diverse country of Namibia. The station is known for its exceptional programming that caters to a broad range of musical tastes and preferences. With a diverse selection of genres ranging from adult contemporary, jazz, soul, pop, RnB, indie rock, gospel, amapiano, and house, Desert FM has something to offer for everyone.
Desert FM is a true gem of the Namibian radio scene. The station has become a household name, renowned for its exceptional music selection, in-depth interviews, and engaging personalities. Its programming is crafted to cater to both the young and old, with carefully curated playlists that are designed to keep listeners entertained throughout the day.
The station's adult contemporary programming is a perfect fit for the busy urbanites who love to unwind and relax to some mellow and soulful tunes. Desert FM's jazz programming is second to none, with a selection of classic and contemporary jazz that will delight even the most discerning listeners. Soul music fans will also find their groove on the station with an exciting blend of contemporary and classic soul that will leave them wanting more.
TRACE Urban, the leading destination for urban and contemporary music entertainment, is thrilled to announce a significant milestone for its viewers. From Wednesday, 1 November 2023, TRACE Urban will be available to DStv subscribers across the spectrum, from the Premium package all the way through to the Access package.
This move reflects TRACE Urban’s commitment to providing its audience with uninterrupted access to the best urban and contemporary music content, making it easier for fans to stay connected with their favorite music, artists, and cultural trends.
“MultiChoice is thrilled to bring TRACE Urban to our DStv Access customers,” says Georginah Machiridza, Executive Head of General Entertainment Channels at Multichoice Group. “We are constantly tuned-in to our viewers’ interests and keep abreast of their evolving taste as a means to enhance their experience. The addition of TRACE Urban strikes the right note to an already exciting lineup of entertainment on DStv Access,” Machiridza adds.
In addition to this exciting expansion, TRACE Urban is thrilled to announce the return of the highly anticipated TRACE Fest last held in 2019!
Music enthusiasts and entertainment aficionados, mark your calendars for Saturday, 2 December 2023, as TRACE Fest, Unlocked by Vodacom, is set to take the stage once again in Soweto, South of Joburg.
TRACE Fest has become an annual celebration of music, culture, and entertainment, featuring some of the biggest names in the industry, electrifying performances, and memorable moments. This year’s event promises to be even more spectacular, with a lineup that will leave fans eagerly counting down the days.
“We are delighted to make TRACE Urban more accessible to our viewers through DStv’s Access packages. Now, everyone can enjoy the channel’s exceptional content throughout the year” said Valentine Gaudin-Muteba, TRACE Southern and Lusophone Africa Managing Director. She added “Additionally, in line with the channel’s ongoing commitment to support local talent, we can formally confirm the return of TRACE Fest, taking place on Saturday, 2nd December 2023. It’s going to be an unforgettable experience, Unlocked by Vodacom!”
Prior to its expansion to DStv Access, HONEY would be going dark across the region by the end of October. In the following month, MultiChoice would have unveiled another kids channel on their platform, Play Room.
LGBTQ+ television and streaming service OUTtv has commissioned its first South African original series, reality format The G-List.
Produced by The Red Pill Productions, the unscripted series follows three of the city’s gay influencers, Kyle Clarke, DJ Lula Odiba and Mthaux, as they explore topics such as identity, love, friendship and fame.
The G-list will be released on OUTtv’s broadcast and streaming services worldwide and on Openview’s Ultraview service by the end of October..
Philip Webb, chief operating officer of OUTtv, said: “South Africa is an emerging market for us and also home to an incredibly rich, dynamic and culturally vibrant queer community which we are excited to be showcasing through The G-List.”
Dale Jacobs, production lead for The Red Pill Productions, added: “We will challenge preconceived notions, celebrate diversity and uplift the power of self-expression, creating a global platform for amplifying LGBTQ+ voices in South Africa.”
The Walt Disney Company Africa and LIFT today unveiled a co-branded celebratory aircraft livery to kick-off Disney’s biggest festive campaign to date in South Africa, “May Your Wishes Come True”.
The livery features some of the most iconic and memorable characters from Disney, MARVEL and Star WarsTM, including: Disney’s Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Moana, Black Panther, GroguTM, Elsa, Spidey. A brand new character also makes an appearance, Asha, from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ upcoming “Wish", which releases in cinemas nationwide from 22 November. The Disney inspired plane (tail number ZS-GAS) will appear in South African skies and at airports from 20 October and service routes between Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
On board, customers can expect special Disney and LIFT surprises, as well as kiddies activity packs to make flying with little ones a breeze during the busy holiday season, with giveaways and more treats. The excitement won't stop there, because LIFT has additional surprises between 1 and 12 December for lucky travelers on select flights, as South Africans get ready for the festive season.
Fans and travellers who spot or travel on the Disney-inspired Plane can share their pics on social media, using the hashtag #DisneyandLIFT and tagging @DisneyAfrica and @LIFT__SA.
Says Christine Service, Senior Vice President and General Manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa: "To mark our 100th year anniversary (16 October 2023), The Walt Disney Company is celebrating the fans and storytellers who have sparked the joy and magic that embodies Disney over the last century. We hope that this exciting and unique collaboration with LIFT will bring delight to travellers of all ages this holiday season as we mark this milestone anniversary.”
Says Luke Roberts, General Manager, Consumer Products, Games and Publishing, The Walt Disney Company Africa; “Rolling out in stores nationwide from November, “May Your Wishes Come True” is Disney’s biggest retail campaign to date. With the holiday season approaching and “Wish” releasing in cinemas nationwide from 24 November, we are inspired by the universal truth of wishing to be together at this special time. This collaboration with LIFT truly celebrates this togetherness with families and fans.”
Says Jonathan Ayache, CEO of LIFT.: “As a beloved family brand, Disney is a perfect fit for LIFT. With our new livery, together we celebrate the love, magic and family togetherness that signals the festive season. We’re proud to link arms with Disney, through this collaboration, our hope is to ignite a sense of fun, wonder and excitement for the whole family during the upcoming season of school holidays and family celebrations.”
Customers can visit www.lift.co.za to book flights and stand a chance of flying on the #DisneyandLIFT aircraft. Travellers aboard the airline will continue to enjoy all the perks LIFT has to offer including complimentary snacks, coffee from vida e caffè and extra-friendly service from the stylish cabin crew. LIFT has flexible flight changes with unlimited penalty-free changes and no cancellation fees up to 24 hours before departure.
From November, Disney’s “May Your Wishes Come True” will offer the perfect opportunity to stock up on those gifts for every member of the family – from stocking fillers, toys, apparel, books and so much more – featuring the very latest and greatest from Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars. With much more to share, this festive season is set to be an unforgettable one as we wish together for the holidays.
