Nickelodeon Africa Premieres Original TV Animated Movie "Albert For The Holidays", Comedians Bobby Moynihan, Sasheer Zamata, Judah Friedlander & Rob Ringle Star In Heartwarming TV Movie

Nickelodeon (DStv channel 305) is giving audiences a gift this holiday season with the debut of Albert, an original animated TV movie about a tiny Douglas fir tree who goes on a journey to become the city’s most famous Christmas tree ever.

Premiering on Nickelodeon on Sunday 25 December at 11:10 CAT, Albert for the Holidays is a heartwarming holiday tale that stars the comedic voice talent of Bobby Moynihan (Saturday Night Live) in the title role alongside Sasheer Zamata (Saturday Night Live), Judah Friedlander (30 Rock) and Rob Riggle (21 Jump Street).
“Albert is in the great tradition of classic feelgood holiday stories, and we’re thrilled that it is the first original animated TV movie Nickelodeon has ever made,” said Tasania Parsadh, Senior Channel Director, Nickelodeon Africa. “Between the hilarious voice cast and the quirky animation, Albert is a great movie for kids and families to enjoy this holiday season.”

Albert for the Holidays is the story of a tiny Douglas fir tree named Albert, who has big dreams of becoming Empire City’s most famous Christmas tree. When the search for this year’s tree is announced, Albert believes he has found his calling and hits the road with his two best friends, Maisie (Zamata) - a persistently positive palm tree - and Gene (Friedlander) - an abrasive and blisteringly honest weed - to fulfill his destiny. With a few prickly situations along the way, and Cactus Pete (Riggle) out to stop him, Albert learns the true meaning of Christmas. The hour-long TV movie will also feature two original songs, “The Best Thing That Can Happen to Christmas” and “Christmasiest Christmas”, performed by the voice cast.

Additional cast members include the voices of: Cheri Oteri (Saturday Night Live) as a TV news correspondent; Brenna Yde (School of Rock) as Molly, Earth Mama’s granddaughter; John DiMaggio (Adventure Time) as Donny, Molly’s father; and Mary Pat Gleason (Mom) as Earth Mama, the owner and caretaker of the nursery.

Albert is directed by Oscar®-nominated Max Lang (The Gruffalo), executive produced by Will McRobb and Chris Viscardi (The Adventures of Pete & Pete), and written by Will and Aaron Eisenberg (The Massively Mixed-Up Middle School Mystery), and Joe Stillman (Shrek).

For another chance to watch Albert for the Holidays, tune into Nickelodeon on 31 December at 15:40 CAT and on 1 January 2017 at 09:30 CAT.

Keep in touch with all the latest news about Nickelodeon’s Albert for the Holidays at www.nickelodeonafrica.com, like us on Facebook at Facebook/NickelodeonAfrica or follow us on Twitter @NickelodeonAfrica.

About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon is one of the most globally recognised and widely distributed multimedia entertainment brands for kids and family. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company’s portfolio includes television programming and production around the world, plus special events, consumer products, digital offerings, recreation, books, feature films and pro-social initiatives. Nickelodeon's brands are seen globally in more than 500 million households across more than 130 territories, via more than 70 locally programmed channels and branded blocks. Outside of the United States, Nickelodeon is part of Viacom International Media Networks, a division of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc.

3 Of Your Most Loved TLC Programs Return In January 2017 Plus A New Series That Express The Little Ones

Toddlers & Tiaras
From Tuesday 10 January at 20:55
The sparkle and pageantry returns with more pint-sized hopefuls and their families on a quest for sparkly crowns, big titles, and cash prizes. On stages and in hotel ballrooms across America, parents bring their little girls and boys to be judged on their beauty, personality and costumes. From the hair, nail and tanning appointments, to numerous coaching sessions and rehearsals, each child prepares for a perfect performance that will blow away the competition and the judges. Watch the captivating drama unfold as each parent endeavours to prove that their child is the most deserving of the overall crown. Ava, Caitlyn and newbie Hailey compete for the greatest gift of Ultimate Grand Supreme at the Universal Royalty Christmas pageant in Austin, Texas. Meanwhile Glitz newbies Selena and Mackenzie face fierce Faithlyn at the Carolina Queen’s Pageant. Who will reign supreme?

Too Ugly For Love?
From Friday 13 January at 20:00
Dating and looking for love is often a daunting prospect for singles today - but finding that special someone can seem just about impossible for people who are also living with a physical affliction. The series is back to follow unique singletons who also happen to be living with unusual conditions and who have been struggling on the dating scene – if they’ve dated at all – and have agonised over the dilemma of how and when to tell their potential suitors. Coming up in this series, 28-year old Chris from Seattle, USA, lost over half his body weight but was left with excess skin, leaving his confidence at rock bottom; and 39-year old Claire from Birmingham, UK, has alopecia and has been on over a thousand dates to find someone to accept her and her condition. For most, living with these conditions can be hidden on the first meeting – but will they find a potential partner as well as the courage to reveal all?

TLC's Most Extreme
From Thursday 19 January at 20:55 Look back at the most incredible TLC moments and characters with TLC’s Most Extreme, all presented by the winner of the 2016 Next Great Presenter competition. This weekly show starts goes behind the scenes in a one-off special, Next Great Presenter: The Winner’s Story. TLC’s Most Extreme: Transformations looks back at small alterations like skin stretching and tattoos as well as extraordinary cosmetic enhancements such as breast enlargements and life-changing weight loss. TLC’s Most Extreme: Babies features extraordinary pregnancies, delivery room dramas, life after birth and extreme parenting. TLC’s Most Extreme: I Do’s is all about weddings, extreme proposals, top wedding kisses and the rules of wedding fashion. TLC’s Most Extreme: Love Lives offers a guide to extreme dating and looks back at the most unusual couples, TLC favourite couples and those looking for love. One thing is certain – there is nothing ordinary about these extreme shows!

Super Kids
From Wednesday 4 January at 20:00
Celebrate the amazing abilities of children in a special selection of documentaries that showcase the ways that kids use their bodies and imaginations to engage with the world. In Baby Bodybuilders, learn about the extraordinary and competitive lives of pre-teen bodybuilders whose ultimate goal is to achieve the perfect physique. Following three families with children, who eat, sleep and breathe bodybuilding fitness, discover what drives these kids and how their parents support them. In Kid Tycoons, child entrepreneurs drive themselves to build their family businesses to empires. But when your child is your boss, drama always ensues! My Kid’s Obsession looks at kids with a passion for collecting or odd objects, from antique fans to pet cockroaches! In Twirl Life, follow the lives of young baton twirlers, the Dazzling Divas, as they battle their way to the Texas State Championship. Along the way the girls will dance and twirl but can the team survive its ultimate drama – their parents?

[ED] No Longer Available On DStv

As from 1 December 2016, [ED] will no longer be available on DStv. The channel, which is currently on DStv Channel 190 and GOtv channel 65.

Station Manager for [ED], Roberto Carletti says, “Thanks to our loyal [ED] valued viewers and advertisers for their continued support over the years. Through our content, our viewers have remained curious and been inspired.”

[ED], which is managed and produced by Urban Brew Studios, will stop airing on both DStv and GOtv at midnight on Wednesday 30 November, 2016.

FAQs

Why is [ED] being discontinued?
The contract with the channel has come to an end and will not be renewed.

When will [ED] be removed from DStv?
On Wednesday, 30 November 2016 at midnight.

What will you be replacing the channel with?
At this stage there are no plans to replace [ED] with another channel.

Will you give me a discount now that I have fewer channels on my package?
We only review our DStv prices once a year at the end of our financial year – we don’t adjust prices mid-year for channels that have been added or taken away.

To Start The New Year Discovery Family Africa Welcomes 3 New Programs For The Whole Family In January 2017

Do You Know From
Monday 2 January at 06:00
Join presenter Maddie Moate in this high-energy series as she investigates some of the world's most pressing questions, such as how does a toilet flush, how are ice cream cones made, and what goes on in a dishwasher when you close the door? The series explores everyday objects and familiar places in a kid friendly way, while parents also pick up some intriguing watercooler facts. Using the latest camera technology and clever graphics to explain the technical process in simple terms, the series reveals fascinating details and offers children a unique window into the world around us.

The Carbonaro Effect
From Friday 6 January at 21:00 Michael Carbonaro is a magician by trade, but a prankster by heart. Michael performs baffling tricks on unsuspecting people in everyday situations, all caught on hidden camera. Everyone is left stunned and delighted, even though they have no idea what just hit them. Watch as a couple of unsuspecting teens are wowed by 'Astro Laces', which are 'self-tying'. Michael is patron of a bar that offers whiskey shots that come in a small folded bag for just a dollar, and demonstrates to a student the most humane way of trapping rodents.

Australia Smashes Guinness World Records
From Tuesday 17 January at 20:10
All around the world people are intrigued by the idea of breaking records for all sorts of events. Join presenter James Kerley as he travels all around Australia and meeting an amazing variety of ordinary Australians who are keen to set new and obscure records. With the help of official Guinness World Record adjudicators and timekeepers, he’ll meet people like professional wrestler, Crackerjack, who wants to break the world record for the most panes of glass smashed to pieces in just one minute. Plus, the team of rock climbers who want to break the record for the number of adults squeezed into a smart car. Can they beat the New Zealanders to take the record?

Baby Animals
From Monday 30 January at 20:10
With their big eyes and their wobbly first steps, nature's newbies are completely irresistible - it doesn't matter whether they come with feathers or fur. This informative series shows how animals large and small, aquatic or terrestrial, nurture their young as fuzzy little infants all eat, sleep and play their way to adulthood. Their playtime isn't just for fun as they learn the important life skills that would keep them safe and sound in the wild. Cuddly, clumsy and full of mischief, the babies of the animal kingdom certainly make up the wildest daycare you've ever seen.

Magic Mike Joins Studio Universal Africa's Wednesday Hollywood Hits In December 2016

WEDNESDAY’S HOLLYWOOD HITS
“The Bold and the Beautiful”
MAGIC MIKE
7th December at 20:00
A handyman by day and a stripper by night, ‘Magic’ Mike (Channing Tatum) takes promising young dancer Adam under his wing and teaches him the tricks of the trade. But when the new-found success goes to Adam’s head, his actions jeopardise Mike’s relationship with his sister. Also stars Alex Pettyfer, Matthew McConaughey and Olivia Munn.

THE BLING RING
14th December at 20:00
Harry Potter’s Emma Watson stars inthis Sofia Coppola directed drama based on actual events. Hoping for a taste of the Hollywood lifestyle, a group of teens rob the houses of LA's rich and famous. The gang secure the fame they crave, but not without consequences. Paris Hilton, who was one of the real-life celebs targeted, pops up in a cameo.

WHY DID I GET MARRIED TOO?
21st December at 20:00
In the Bahamas for their annual reunion, four couples are eager to relax andcatch up. However, when Sheila’s (Jill Scott) ex shows up to win her back, the ensuing drama forces the others to analyse their own relationships. Comedy starring Janet Jackson and Tyler Perry.

CHRISTMAS WEEKEND
THE SAPPHIRES
24th December at 18:00
In the 1960s, four young and talented Aboriginal sisters are billed as Australia’s answer to The Supremes. Discovered by kind-hearted scout Dave Lovelace (Chris O’Dowd) at a local talent contest, these unlikely entertainers get their first real gig when they travel to Vietnam to sing for the American troops. Thrust into a strange and dangerous new world, the girls learn about love, friendship, rivalry and war. Musical drama based on real events, starring Deborah Mailman and Jessica Mauboy.

FOOTLOOSE
25th December at 18:00
Cut loose this Christmas as Kenny Wormald stars in this remake of the beloved hit as Ren MacMacormack, whose life changes when he moves to the Southern town of Bomont. As he adjusts to a new town and a new school, Ren is shocked to discover that after a fatal incident a few years ago, rock music and dancing were banned by Reverend Shaw Moore (Dennis Quaid). When Ren decides to challenge the ruling, he finds himself revitalising the town and falling in love with the clergyman’s rebellious daughter (Julianne Hough).

THURSDAY’S FAMILY NIGHT
“Countdown to Christmas” - double bills all the way up to Christmas
CHRISTMAS SWITCH + THE NATIVITY STORY
8th December from 18:00
Would you choose redemption or riches? When gambler Eddie Bennett (Brian Krause) is offered this choice in The Christmas Switch for swapping his body with Sam, an ailing department store Santa who wants to play St Nick for another year, he chooses the cash. However, as Eddie goes through the holiday in Sam’s shoes, he begins to discover the true meaning of Christmas. Later, it’s back to the reason behind the season with Biblical epic The Nativity Story. After Mary (Keisha Castle-Hughes) receives a special visit from an angel, she and Joseph (Oscar Isaac) set out on an arduous journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem for the birth of Jesus.

THE PERFECT HOLIDAY + ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS
15th December from 18:00
Single mother-of-three Nancy (Gabriel Union) feels especially lonely over Christmas and wishes more than anything that she could meet a nice man in The Perfect Holiday. In an attempt to help her mother, Nancy’s daughter shares her wish with a department store Santa (Morris Chestnut), who sets out to make her dreams come true. The family fun continues in rambunctious comedy All I Want for Christmas, where young siblings Ethan (Ethan Randall) and Hallie (Thora Birch) embark on a hilarious festive adventure to get rid of their mother’s smarmy new fiancé and reunite their divorcedparents, just in time for Christmas.

A BRIDE FOR CHRISTMAS + FRED CLAUS
1st December from 18:00
Recovering from a broken engagement, Jessie (Arielle Kebbel) thinks she’s finally found her soulmate when she meets the charming Aiden (Andrew Walker). However, what Jessie doesn’t realise is that Aiden has made a bet that he can get A Bride For Christmas - which is only four weeks away! Next up is Fred Claus, where Vince Vaughn plays Santa’s fast-talking, troublemaker brother who gets bailed out of a botched scam on one condition: that he comes back to the North Poleto help with the preparations for Christmas. With no other choice, Fred begrudgingly returns home, but will his presence push the good-natured Santa (Paul Giamatti) over the edge just before the happiest time of the year?

FRIDAY’S COMEDY NIGHT
“Love Hurts”
NO STRINGS ATTACHED
9th December at 20:00
When childhood acquaintances and commitment-phobes Emma and Adam (Natalie Portman and Ashton Kutcher) end up having sex, they’re afraid it will ruin their friendship. Determined to keep things from turning into the usual string of complications, jealousies and awkward Friday night dates, the two of them make a pact to keep things strictly physical between them. With romance off the table and no promises or expectations to deal with, will Emma and Adam be able pull off the ultimate casual relationship without love getting in the way? Also stars Cary Elwes and Kevin Kline.

GET HIM TO THE GREEK
16th December at 20:00
Jonah Hill plays ambitious record company executive Aaron Green, who is charged with getting Russell Brand’s Britishrock legend Aldous Snow from London to LA’s Greek Theatre for the start of his comeback tour. However, what appears tobe a simple assignment spirals out of control when Aldous discovers that his ex-girlfriend is in California and sets off ona misguided attempt to win her back. With time ticking out and his career on the line, Aaron must pull out all the stops as he lies, coaxes, enables and bullies Aldous into making it to the concert. Also stars Elisabeth Moss and Rose Byrne.

FORGETTING SARAH MARSHALL
23rd December at 20:00
After his TV star girlfriend Sarah Marshall (Kristen Scott) breaks up with him out of the blue, a devastated Peter (Jason Segel) takes a Hawaiian vacation in an effort to get over her and move on with his life. However, much to Peter’s horror, he discovers that Sarah is staying at the very same resort – with her new rock star boyfriend (Russell Brand)! As he spends the rest of his holiday miserably watching them while a sympathetic hotel receptionist (Mila Kunis) tries to take his mind off things, will Peter finally realise that being dumped was the best thing that happened to him?

‘FRIENDS’ WEEK
“The bad news is, we don’t have David Schwimmer. The good news is, there are only five weekdays…”

THE BOUNTY HUNTER + DERAILED
30th December from 18:00
Bounty hunter Milo Boyd (Gerard Butler) is overjoyed when he’sasked to track down his ex-wife Nicole (Jennifer Aniston), a reporter skipping bail to follow a story. With Nicole constantly giving him the slip, Milo finds himself reluctantly dragged into her investigation and soon, they’re both on the run from some-one far worse! Next, it’s terse thriller Derailed, where married businessman Charles (Clive Owen) embarks on an affair with Jennifer Aniston’s Lucinda, a woman he meets on the train to work. When one of their trysts is brutally interrupted by an armed thug who proceeds to blackmail them, Charles must take matters into his own hands to save their families.

ACE VENTURA: PET DETECTIVE +SCREAM 4
29th December from 18:00
When a football team has their beloved dolphin mascot abducted, they call in zany sleuth Ace Ventura (Jim Carrey). Joined by PR executive Melissa, played by Courteney Cox, Ace stumbles through a series of misadventures on his way to nab the culprits. Things take a darker turn in Scream 4, where Neve Campbell’s Sidney Prescott returns to town to discover there’s a copycat killer at work. Before long, Sidney and Gale (Courteney Cox) find themselves caught up in the deadly game.

MARCI X
26th December at 18:00
After the public out cry over rapper Dr S’s controversial new single, the ownerof his record label has a heart attack, leaving his stylish, sunny and pampere ddaughter Marci (Lisa Kudrow) to step in. With no previous business experience, Marci decides to rein in their resident bad boy, with hilarious consequences. Comedy starring Damon Wayans and Richard Benjamin.

THE WHOLE NINE YARDS
27th December at 18:00
Matthew Perry plays mild-mannered and unhappily married dentist Oz Oseransky, who discovers that his new neighbour is a former hitman (Bruce Willis), now under witness protection. Oz’s plan toturn him over to the mob is complicated by his secretary’s fascination with the mafia and his wife hiring her own hit manto take out Oz. Comedy starring Rosanna Arquette and Amanda Peet.

LOST IN SPACE
28th December at 18:00
The 1960s sci-fi TV series transfers to the big screen with the Robinson family on a voyage to explore space. When their ship is thrown off course, the Robinsons – joined by fighter pilot Don West (Matt LeBlanc) – must not only find their way home, but also survive attacks from an organisation bent on stopping them. Also stars Gary Oldman, William Hurt and Heather Graham.