Restructuring Coming For The Channels Of NBCUniversal International Networks Seen In Africa As NBCUI's Pay-TV Division Moves To Sky's TV Headquarters In London.

Restructuring, including people losing their jobs, is coming for the TV channels of NBCUniversal International (NBCUNI) seen in Africa like E! Entertainment (DStv 124), Universal TV (DStv 117), and Studio Universal (DStv 112) as NBCUI's pay-TV division must move to Sky's pay-TV headquarters at Osterley in London in the United Kingdom.

After Comcast's acquisition of Sky, part of the restructuring includes several organisational changes including to NBCUniversal International Networks for the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region, with Jeremy Darroch, Sky CEO, on Friday writing to staffers in an email that the restructuring is part of plans to "grow our audiences and bring our customers even better content" while working "more effectively and efficiently with our new colleagues".

Senior executives are expected to be a part of the staff that will be let go in the creation of NBCUniversal International's new channels business division for the region as NBCUI and Sky consolidate and integrate their programming departments.

NBCUI last restructured its distribution and network operations for the EMEA region in 2015.

"The first proposed change we have announced today is to combine NBCU's pay-TV channels with our own, basing them on our campus in Osterley. The second is to move NBCU's Europe, Middle East and Africa networks' London-based team to the same location," Jeremy Darroch told staff.

"In Germany, Sky will become the parent company of NBCU's Networks business and we plan to explore ways for both businesses to work more closely together, including possible co-location to Unterföhring."

"Finally, we are proposing that Sky's content sales and distribution activities, currently managed by Sky Vision, be operated by NBCU's Global Distribution business. We recognise that these proposals could have an impact on some of our colleagues within Sky and NBCU and, as always, they will be fully supported through these changes."

Kevin MacLellan, NBCU's chairman of global distribution and international, said in an email to staff that "Each of these proposals is the result of careful consideration from both NBCUniversal and Sky," admitting to it being a "difficult time" for some NBCU and Sky staffers.

"Affected employees are being spoken to in person today and will be fully supported with care, fairness and transparency over the coming weeks and months. Thank you for your sensitivity and support of your colleagues during this consultation period."

As part of the restructuring Sky Vision's 6 500 hours of programming will also be added to the catalogue of NBCUniversal International Distribution.

This division is responsible for sales of all TV and digital programming outside of North America for NBCUniversal with more than 120 000 TV episodes and over 4 000 movies as part of its catalogue.

Disney+ Announced New Non-Fiction Shows And Here Are All The Details

We can hardly contain our excitement because today we learned more about the extensive slate of shows coming to Disney+, Disney’s upcoming streaming service!

In recent Disney+ news, we learned about the upcoming live-action Star Wars series, The Mandalorian and Monsters at Work, a series inspired by Monsters, Inc.

Disney unveiled a list of some of non-fiction shows coming to Disney+, and we can’t wait to share it all with you. Get ready because we have a lot of details!

First, we’re thrilled to announce that some of entertainment’s biggest non-fiction storytellers have joined the Disney+ family! Emmy award-winning producers Supper Club — David Gelb and Brian McGinn (of Chef’s Table), and Jason Sterman (of 13th) — will bring their unique stories to the streaming service.

“The storytelling legacy of The Walt Disney Company had a formative and lasting impact on us growing up, and we are honored to be welcomed into this exciting new chapter of such a storied studio,” Jason said.

The original series that Supper Club will be working on include:
Marvel 616 (working title)
This documentary series explores the historical, cultural, and societal context that has become congruous with Marvel’s legacy stories.

Earthkeepers (working title)
In this documentary series, we will follow conservationists and the animals they spend their lives studying. We’re sure this will be a beautiful cinematic experience that shares the tough and tremendous moments of saving earth’s most endangered species!

SUPPER CLUB’S BRIAN MCGINN, DAVID GELB, AND JASON STERMAN
And now, let’s take a look at the rest of the Non-fiction series coming to Disney+:
Be Our Chef
Shot at the Walt Disney World Resort, Be Our Chef invites families from diverse backgrounds to compete in a friendly competition to create the next great Disney Parks dish. The show will challenge two families to come up with a dish that best represents their family’s Disney traditions, and guess what? —The winning dish will be served at Walt Disney World. How cool is that?!

Cinema Relics: Iconic Art of the Movies
(working title)
This series focuses on the props and costumes that are iconic in some of our most beloved Disney films. Among the first episodes are artifacts from Mary Poppins, Tron, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, The Muppet Movie, and Who Framed Roger Rabbit? We can’t wait to see what we’ll discover.

Encore!
The very wonderful Kristen Bell executive produces Encore! , a series about former castmates of a high school musical who are tasked to re-create their original performance in what we can only image will be a hilarious spectacle. We’re already in love with this!

Marvel’s Hero Project
Get ready. This one really pulls at the heartstrings! Marvel’s Hero Project shares the inspiring stories of young kids who dedicate their lives to being true Super Heroes and making positive change in their communities.

(Re)Connect
In (Re)Connect, families being torn apart by things like too much technology or workaholic parents embark on a unique journey to confront their problems and bring their families back together. We’re sure this will be inspiring!

Rogue Trip
In this series, Bob Woodruff and his son Mack embark on a father-son adventure. The two will journey to the overlooked corners of the world and we can’t wait to see where they end up!

Shop Class (working title)
This is an exciting competition show where teams of inventive students will be tasked with designing, building, and testing new contraptions.

Untitled Walt Disney Imagineering Documentary Series
Created by Academy Award and Emmy-nominated director and producer Leslie Iwerks, this docu-series covers the 65+ year history of Walt Disney Imagineering and will include exclusive interviews and never-before-seen Disney Parks footage.

Disney+, is the ultimate streaming destination for movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and more!

Coming Up In June 2019 On Real Time Africa

Forbidden: Dying for Love
From Saturday 1 June at 21:00
This shocking series tells the jaw-dropping stories of forbidden love: relationships that break taboos, cross boundaries, shock communities, and lead to extraordinary and shocking crimes. Each episode follows the escalating story of a relationship across a social and moral divide that culminated in deadly violence. Among the forbidden tales uncovered in this series is the single mum whose 18-month jail sentence led to a passionate relationship with a prison guard. But when she vows to leave him, will he let her go? When a strict father who forbids relationships discovers his 15-year-old daughter plans to run away with her boyfriend of four years, will he follow through on his vow to kill her? And when a single mum's new fiancé asks her to kill his ex-wife and children, will she accept his sinister proposal in the fear her family could be next? Anything is possible in the name of love - especially when that love is forbidden.

Expedition Mungo
From Sunday 23 June at 21:00
Known as one of the premiere adventure cameramen, Mungo has travelled to more than 90 countries to capture the world's wild, wonderful - and sometimes hostile - environments. Through his travels as Bear Grylls' cameraman he has heard amazing stories of the animal world. Now, it's his turn to explore them as he leads his own trusted team of adventurers into some of the most remote parts of the world in the hopes of revealing the truth behind the wildest stories and mysterious animals. In Peru they go in search of the 'Yacumama' - a 150 foot long snake that has attacked and killed villagers. Is there something even more dangerous than the anaconda lurking in the rainforest? Plus, in the Andes the team investigates the chilling stories of a bigfoot-like creature called the 'Ucumar'. In his quest Mungo will meet eye witnesses, search out vital clues - all to catch these creatures on camera for the first time.

The Crocodile Hunter: Best Of Steve Irwin
From Monday 17 June at 20:00
The legendary Steve Irwin, fondly remembered as The Crocodile Hunter, was a true original: from wrestling snakes and crocodiles in the wild to his incredible conservation efforts, he was a true adventurer. In this special collection of the classic series' greatest adventures, Terri Irwin, Steve's wife, and Wes Mannion, Steve's best mate, reminisce on the making of these timeless shows. From laying with dragons on his home turf, to surfing with snakes and rescuing crocodiles from a war zone, each episode displays Steve's love of nature, enthusiasm for conservation and mission to live as a wildlife warrior.

Coming Up On TLC Africa In June 2019

Dr Christian Will See You Now
From Monday 3 June at 22:00
Top UK GP, Dr. Christian Jessen opens the doors to his state-of-the-art health clinic in this honest and emotional series. In each episode five members of the British public with pressing health problems put their private lives in the hands of Dr. Christian and his larger-than-life, first-class medical team. Over the course of a single day, Dr. Christian helps each patient on the way to overcoming their life-changing conditions. Every step of their journey is captured on fixed rig cameras as they share their most vulnerable moments and intimate problems in a bid to get their health and relationships back on track.

Dr. Pimple Popper: The Poppy Bowl
From Sunday 7 April at 20:00
Bursting with pop-up facts and bonus scenes, this series relives the best pops, biggest lumps and juiciest lipomas that Dr. Sandra Lee - or Dr. Pimple Popper - has treated this season. From Matt's skin condition causing tumours to grow all over his body to Jennifer's unicorn bump on her forehead, to Taylor's lump on her backside, Dr. Lee has seen it all. These former patients, and many more are now living their best lives, thanks to Dr. Lee's treatments as the series revisits them to see the incredible transformations to their skin.

Outdaughtered
From Wednesday 12 June at 20:00
Texas couple, Danielle and Adam Busby, have a unique family. For years, they struggled to have a baby, but their prayers were answered when their daughter Blayke was born. Four years later, in a bid to give Blayke a sibling, Danielle became pregnant - and America's first all-female set of quintuplets was born as Ava, Hazel, Olivia, Parker and Riley entered the world! This series follows the hilarious and heartwarming antics of the entire family, including Danielle's zany mother, Michelle, and her older twin sisters and their families. There's never a dull moment as the family relies on its tight-knit circle to make the most out of this incredible lifetime adventure.

90 Day Fiance: The Other Way
From Thursday 20 June at 20:00
They say that love has no boundaries. However, for these international couples, their relationships are tested like never before as American men and women who fall in love with partners from distant lands then travel to home countries to begin their married life abroad. This compelling series follows them as they navigate married life in completely unchartered territory. From language barriers to cultural differences, will these couples' love be strong enough to withstand the challenges facing them as they embark on their new life together?

Coming Up In May 2019 On Disney Junior Africa

Fancy Nancy Clancy – New Eps
Weekdays @ 17:00, 13th May – 24th May
Synopsis: Follow Fancy Nancy on her adventures with family and friends as she finds the extraordinary in the ordinary, and with a little imagination, transforms the plain into the exquisite!

Vampirina – Season 2 Launch
Weekdays @ 17:30, 27th May – 21st June
Synopsis: The newest monster on the block is back with more batty adventures and surprises! She may be blue with pointy teeth, but she’s not that different underneath!

Mighty Mike Premieres In May 2019 On Boomerang Africa Along With Brand New Episodes Of Everyone's Favorite Cat And Mouse Duo

BRAND NEW SERIES
MIGHTY MIKE

 
Make way for Mighty Mike!

Mighty Mike is a brand-new series premiering on Boomerang this May! Meet Mike, the pet dog who wants nothing more than to be able to relax, while his family is away for the day (who wouldn’t?). However, this is not exactly an easy thing to do when the other pets are always trying to cause chaos in the household … But don’t worry - this adorable little pug has some tricks up his sleeve to get out of trouble, and even impress a certain ‘fetching’ dog he has his eyes on! Why not catch the first episode of Mighty Mike on Boomerang on Saturday, 25 May?

Premiere Date: Saturday 25/05/2019 @ 14:25 CAT
Tune-in: Saturdays and Sundays @ 09:00 CAT

THEATRICAL MOVIE
HAPPY FEET TWO 

To dance or not to dance?

The adorable penguins of Happy Feet are back! In this Happy Feet sequel special, the story follows the adventures of Mumble’s son, Erik, and his journey of self-discovery in the Emperor Penguin World. Refusing to dance, Erik embarks on a journey, making new friends along the way. Meanwhile, a new threat arises in the home of the penguins, and it will take everyone working together, in order to put a stop to it. Follow this exciting adventure by tuning in to Boomerang on Sunday, 12 May!

Premiere Date: Sunday 12/05/2019
Tune-in: Sunday @ 17:50 CAT

NEW EPISODES
THE TOM AND JERRY SHOW 

Beware of Jerry Van Mouseling...

The iconic cat and mouse duo is back for more, with all new episodes of The Tom and Jerry Show! In the endless plots against each other, Tom and Jerry entertain the whole family with their elaborate games. In these new episodes, you will see more of Jerry Van Mouseling, the infamous monster hunter, as he tries to foil Tom’s shenanigans. Make sure to tune in to Boomerang on Monday, 6 May for new adventures with your favourite cat and mouse!

Premiere Date: Monday 06/05/2019
Tune-in: Monday to Friday @ 15:35 CAT

Mother's Day Is Around The Corner And Cartoon Network Africa Is Gathering Your Favorite Shows To Celebrate This Monumental Occasion In May 2019 Along With Brand New Episodes Of Your Wacky Heroes

NEW EPISODES TEEN TITANS GO!
Teen Titans Go!: Uncensored

All new episodes of Teen Titans Go! are airing on Cartoon Network this month! Proving that you don’t need to be an adult to save the world, the Teen Titans are always ready for new comic and crazy situa- tions. On the plate this month, you will, for example, get to hear the real story of the Teen Titans, told by Raven herself. Make sure to tune in to Cartoon Network on Monday, 20 May and catch the latest adventures of Teen Titans!

Launch: Monday 20/05/2019
Tune-in: Monday - Friday @ 16:25 CAT

MOTHER’S DAY STUNT REGULAR SHOW & MORE
Mamaaa - oooo!

Celebrate Mother’s Day with Cartoon Network as we’ve put together a fantastic tribute in honour of all amazing moms out there! Bring on the popcorn, cosy up on the couch, and enjoy special episodes of Regular Show, Gumball, and OK, K.O.! Let’s Be Heroes, where mothers are the centre of attention. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate some mom-love and tune in to Cartoon Network on Sunday, 12 May!

Tune-in: Sunday 12/05/2019 @ 17:05 CAT

NEW EPISODES UNIKITTY
Prep yourself for a prank!

Your favourite sparkly, happy kitty is returning with all new episodes on Cartoon Network this May! Join UniKitty and her gang in their ever-exciting world of UniKingdom as they face new adventures, such as charging straight into a prank war. Will the friends be able to win against the prank master himself, Master Frown? Tune in to Cartoon Network on Monday, 13 May and catch all the latest episodes!

Launch: Monday 13/05/2019
Tune-in: Monday - Friday @ 15:40 CAT

New Channel Alert: Newzroom Africa On DStv Channel 405

Newzroom Afrika, which won a bid last year for a new channel on Multichoice's DStv platform, says it has started recruiting staff.

"Newzroom Afrika promises to be an innovative and interactive multi-media news service that is impartial, unbiased, unapologetic and disruptive," the news channel, which won the bid out of 111 contenders, said in a statement.

The channel is the brainchild of former news anchor and entrepreneur Thabile Ngwato and television production entrepreneur Thokozani Nkosi. It is looking to recruit for positions including a multimedia designer, senior news reporter and an assignments editor, as well as positions in business and production.

"We’re looking for journalists who share our commitment to the values of our magnificent Constitution and the highest standards of principled journalism," said Nkosi.

Ngwato added: "It’s been incredibly exciting to see our vision taking shape after months of hard work and we can’t wait to put a really strong editorial team together to put it all into practice."

Newzroom Afrika has an editorial advisory board headed by journalism stalwart and former press ombud Joe Thloloe and public advocate on the South African Press Council Dinesh Balliah, while former eMedia group executive for stakeholder management Malebo Phage and former Power 98.7 head of news Dianne Hawker will be among the editorial executives.

"We will work hard to develop a professional news service for South Africans which, while pulling no punches, will consider nation-building as an ultimate good," Ngwato said.

The channel is expected to announce its launch date soon.

HGTV Launches Soon In Germany And Possible Next Target Is EMEA

Discovery is launching HGTV, its home and lifestyle network – and the #3 most watched US cable network – in Germany as a free to air channel. The launch of HGTV will take place in June and marks the first European launch of this brand since the Scripps acquisition – with further launches to come.

HGTV celebrates the spirit of home and its expansion into Europe will give people access to content across six pillars; buying and selling, home renovation, flipping, home improvement and dream homes. As well as an extensive library of existing content, the HGTV audience in Germany will be able to watch more than 500 hours of content per year. Key programme franchises include Flip or Flop, House Hunters, My Lottery Dream Home and Good Bones. Discovery research has identified that 209 million people across EMEA are interested in home decoration, DIY and home improvement and billions of Euros are spent each year on DIY and home improvement.

Kasia Kieli, President & Managing Director, Discovery EMEA, said: “We are incredibly excited to be announcing the launch of HGTV in Germany and start using our scale and expertise across EMEA to expand HGTV and other key real-life entertainment brands into new territories and reach millions of new people throughout EMEA. Discovery’s strategy is to connect with passionate audiences across the Globe and the HGTV brand creates a very powerful opportunity to provide a dedicated home brand that fuels people’s passions, builds a community spirit and works across multiple platforms for audiences and commercial partners.”