Insidus ZA: January 2025

Friday, January 31, 2025

TLNovelas To Debut New Series "Happily Ever After" In March 2025 Across Africa

TLNovelas, a Mexican based entertainment channel operated by TelevisaUnivision that distribute a variety of Portuguese telenovelas is set to rollout a new series titled Happily Ever After. Known in Mexico as Eternamente Amándonos, the series will commence on March 31st, 2025 replacing The Path Of Love once it ends.

Synopsis of Happily Ever After

Paula Bernal and Rogelio Iturbide, two people with very different lives, instantly fall in love upon meeting and marry without letting Rogelio's family know, especially the matriarch of the family, Martina Rangel. When Paula arrives from Mexico City to the Iturbide's home, her lifestyle ideas clash with those of Martina, a manipulative woman accustomed to controlling her surroundings. Martina has sacrificed her happiness to follow the customs of Morelia society and, feeling threatened, declares a war on Paula.

Based on the Turkish drama İstanbullu Gelin, the series stars Diana Bracho, Marcus Ornellas and Alejandra Robles Gil in leading roles. Those residing in South Africa would be familiar with its premise as eMedia Investments acquired and dubbed its Turkish counterpart as Deur Dik En Dun.

Happily Ever After premiered on Las Estrellas from 27 February to 11 August 2023 with 120 half hour episodes having being filmed.

In other developments, Fernanda Colungo will be starring in Telemundo's newest addition in February, The Count: Love And Honor. This will be the channel's second adaptation from The Count Of Monte Cristo following the successful debut of The Boss in the 2010s which starred Aracley Arambula.

Thursday, January 30, 2025

SABC Looking To Launch Openview Competitor

With the government set to turnoff (and delay) the analogue signals by 31 March 2025, SABC, e.tv and several provincial stations are set to lose under 5 million consumers. In the past year, SABC and eMedia's top shows experienced a ratings dip and with these turnoffs it will be hard for these stations to generate enough ad revenue.

So the public broadcaster is looking for an investor who will help kickstart their this DTT venture as seen with eMedia Investments whose Openview services have amassed 3 million households. They are hoping to fill up those households who are set to lose their signals and also attract potential Openview and DStv consumers.

They are looking to perform a trial run with about 10,000/100,000 and depending on the demand could seek to increase the supply.

This DTT venture that will come with a once-off fee will comprise of SABC 1-3 alongside additional channels SABC Sport, SABC Education, SABC Variety and SABC Lehae and their 19 radio stations. The public broadcaster was also said to be rolling out a service tailored for SABC+ on this platform.

If anything, there's a lot of mystery with the distribution of funds from what is known this investor will fork out cash for a million decoders. With the public broadcaster technically insolvent they could be more to this deal maybe even a partnership of some sorts.

MultiChoice has several shareholders in various African markets including Zambia's ZBC that holds a 49% stake in the company. Although, there's not much details over the roles and so forth usually whoever is managing the finances is in charge so they could as well commission more content perhaps through the SABC.

This is platform which puts SABC in the top position so there's no reason why it wouldn't be an unlikely scenario. If anything, with the analogue termination set to commence at some point I don't think this new venture can grow their audience if anything perhaps create some division.

When DStv launched, there were consumers saying "I don't use the SABC" as M-Net and SuperSport existed although SABC remained dominant, there was a dip in viewers. If anything, I'm kind of curious to see if this new venture of theirs will succeed in a market where DStv, Openview and streaming take a large chunk of their potential clients.

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

The Tom And Jerry Show Might Be Eyeing A Potential Rollout On Cartoon Network In Some Countries

The Cartoonito channel was launched in most parts of the world by 2023 after debuting on Boomerang years prior offering shows like Cocomelon, Thomas And Friends and Dino Ranch. At the time, Warner Bros. Discovery EMEA had stated that remaining shows from Boomerang would form part of Cartoonito

But that was never the case as Mr. Magoo was picked by Cartoon Network in Africa with the network possibly eyeing The Tom And Jerry Show. It had already been confirmed that the show will be airing in parts of Europe and if I had to guess this may not a complete integration of the franchise.

Prior to this, Cartoon Network (Italy and MENA) had been uploading several content to The Tom And Jerry Show on YouTube and it's too soon to tell when or if the same fate will await Africa. So far Cartoon Network Africa has only uploaded the classic Tom And Jerry (alongside Looney Tunes) so maybe they'll be eyeing those shows.

If I'm being honest, I don't think Cartoon Network Africa will license those shows for the foreseeable future if they hadn't prioritised their older collection of shows for a decade, why start now. Most people that watched the classic iterations aren't watching the channel especially in the era of streaming so again pointless.

Unless this was a reference to The Tom And Jerry Show and Looney Tunes Cartoons then that would make a lot more sense. As for Europe, Warner Bros. Discovery is probably cross promoting/marketing shows we've got plenty of that with Discovery's boutique of channels.

And now even the Warner part is looking to integrate as Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking is eyeing a debut on Cartoon Network in Africa. This cross promotion is probably Warner's way of giving these shows more exposure some people are like Cartoonito is for toddlers but there's Tom And Jerry so slotting that on Cartoon Network will make them reconsider.

Monday, January 27, 2025

SuperSport Schools Teasing Something Regarding The SABC

SuperSport Schools is a youth based sports brand operated by SuperSport, a division of MultiChoice following the acquisition of School Sports Live. Since it's inception, the brand had garnered a lot of traction offering a variety of sporting content ranging from football, netball, swimming and rugby.

Not long ago, the broadcaster had teased "Something Big Is Coming" and we can only guess by the font and letters incased in the picture that it relates to SABC. I mean a partnership with the SABC shouldn't come as a surprise as the broadcaster had been having on/off relationship regarding sporting rights.

With MultiChoice and SABC that have settled their disputes regarding sporting rights although remain silent on the conditions one has to wonder if SuperSport Schools was likely attached to this deal.

KykNet recently launched a news segment known as SuperSkole Sport and we can only assume that SABC forged a similar deal. SuperSport Schools could as well be launching a news segment under the SABC or better yet a block of some sort similar to BBC Primetime either on SABC 1-3 and Sport.

If there's one thing I find depressing about this deal is that Easyview consumers have to depend on public stations for weekly football matches and now SuperSport Schools. A similar thing with WildEarth as People's Weather (now People's Planet) distributed SafariLIVE only for that to get yanked and WildEarth offered as consolation.

Update: The announcement had been delayed until further notice

Zee World To Debut New Series "Secrets" For Consumers In The Rest Of Africa By February 2025

Zee World an English dubbed television channel offering a variety of Bollywood movies and series is set to rollout new drama titled Secrets from 9 February 2025. Known as Prema Entha Madhuram in India, the series is set to replace My Journey To You for consumers in the rest of Africa.

Synopsis for Secrets

Based on the Marathi drama Tula Pahate Re (known as Umfihlo on Zee Zonke), the show centers around the love story between a middle-aged businessman, Arya Vardhan, and a young woman named Anu, who is just starting her career in his company.

Despite the significant age difference, they find themselves drawn to each other as they work together, eventually falling in love. However, their relationship is complicated by societal scrutiny and personal secrets, particularly Arya's mysterious past, which adds layers of drama and intrigue to the narrative.

Secrets explores themes of love transcending age differences, the challenges of intergenerational romance, and the complexities of personal and professional relationships. It has been well-received, becoming one of the longest-running shows on Zee Telugu, appreciated for its engaging plot and emotional depth.

It was broadcast on Zee Telegu since February 2020 and had since surpassed over 1000 half hour episodes while it's Marathi counterpart wrapped production. This is the second of six adaptations to have been produced by Zee TV and is currently the only ongoing series.

February 2025 On National Geographic And National Geographic Wild Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Mutant Weather | Returning Shows Including Critter Fixers | More

National Geographic

MURDER IN THE SKIES: WHO DOWNED MH17? (3 x 60)

Sundays at 21:00, from 2 February (ends 16 February)

July 2014. When Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 crashes in Ukraine, killing all 298 people on board, the circumstances are shrouded in mystery. With a regional war beginning to rage around the crash site, disinformation is everywhere. Western governments are left scrabbling for detail while one civilian is leading the hunt for answers – Dad of two and amateur blogger Eliot Higgins. And with an unlikely team of online detectives by his side, he’s ready to fight all the way to the truth.

MUTANT WEATHER S1 (10 x 60)

Tuesdays at 19:40, from 11 February (ends 15 April)

“Mutant Weather” explores how weather patterns are changing and threatening life on our planet. The series explains why weather-related phenomena have dramatically transformed in the last few decades. Today’s weather events are growing in size, speed and intensity, producing very unusual and often catastrophic anomalies.

NO TASTE LIKE HOME WITH ANTONI POROWSKI S1 (6 x 60)

Wednesdays at 20:30, from 26 February (ends 2 April)

Antoni Porowski takes his adventurous spirit and culinary expertise on an international journey with a celebrity guest to rediscover part of their history and inject and authenticity into their modern recipes.

Returning shows include UFOS: INVESTIGATING THE UNKNOWN S2 on Fridays at 18:50 from 7 February and AIR CRASH INVESTIGATION S24 on Thursdays at 19:40 from 20 February. Continuing shows include ICE ROAD RESCUE S9 on Tuesdays at 19:40 from 17 December, COLOSSAL MACHINES S2 on Tuesdays at 18:50 from 21 January, MYSTERIOUS ISLANDS S1 on Thursdays at 20:30, from 23 January.

National Geographic Wild

PRIMATES STUNT

Saturdays from 18:00, 1 February (ends 22 February)

The new special is focused on primates, which will include documentaries and educational shows about monkeys, apes, lemurs, and even humans. The programming explore topics such as the behavior, social structures, intelligence, and habitats of primates, as well as their evolutionary connection to humans. They may also address conservation efforts, highlighting endangered species and the importance of protecting primate habitats.

Programming includes:

Nicobar Islands: A Monkey's Long Tale - Saturday 1 February at 18:00

A captivating exploration of nature's ability to adapt to millennia of gradual changes and a sudden natural disaster in a world few people get to see.

Kingdom of The Apes – Saturday 8 February at 18:00

The story of Titus, greatest of all silverback kings, known to science, as he battles to retain his crown. At 35 years-old, Titus may be reaching the end of his reign.

Madagascar's Legendary Lemurs – Saturday 15 February at 18:00

The island paradise of Madagascar from its towering limestone forests to its lush bamboo grooves provided the almost perfect competition free environment.

Freaks & Creeps – Saturday 22 February at 18:00

Lucy Cooke is on a one-woman mission to show why the ugly, weird and overlooked animals of the world can be cute, cuddly and deserving of attention.

BIG CAT MONTH 2025

Sundays from 18:00, from 2 February (ends 23 February)

National Georaphic Wild presents Big Cat Month 2025, a stunt dedicated to nature’s fiercest felines—big cats—creatures of magnificent strength, ferocity and beauty that are increasingly facing extinction. With visually stunning and powerful stories from around the world, get closer than ever before to lions, tigers, cheetahs, panthers and more, as you share in their triumphs, defeats, and epic struggles to survive.

Programming includes:

Jaguar Beach - Sunday 2 February at 18:00

On a remote stretch of beach, the sea turtle and jaguar form an unwitting alliance in each other’s survival, turning predator into protector.

Rare Cat Skills – Sunday 9 February at 18:00

Rare wild cats, like the Pallas’s cat, black panther and snow leopard, use unique skills and adaptations to thrive in challenging habitats.

Desert Lions: Surviving At Skeleton Coast – Sunday 16 February at 18:00

Dr. Philip Stander follows three lion cubs as they navigate Namibia’s deadly Skeleton Coast.

Tree Climbing Lions – Sunday 23 February at 18:00

Big cat biologist Alexander Braczkowski is on a mission. He's got 90 days to count lions in Uganda and learn how the population is doing.

CRITTER FIXERS 3

Mondays at 18:00, from 10 February (ends 28 April)

100 miles south of Atlanta, Dr. Hodges and Dr. Ferguson are two longtime friends who own and operate the Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital. Together with their loving staff, Drs. Hodges and Ferguson have treated and cared for over 20,000 patients. Between emergency visits to the office, and farm calls throughout rural Georgia - the Critter Fixers are constantly bombarded with unique cases you only see in the country.

Saturday, January 25, 2025

Play Room Live Is Back But There's A Catch

Forming part of the launch lineup in November 2023, Play Room Live was introduced as a teen focused interactive series where viewers could dive on into the latest trends or test their knowledge with quizzes. It currently serves as one of the only contenders for Hectic Nine-9 on SABC 2.

It was broadcast weekdays at 15:00 before moving down an hour later to 16:00 with highlights to past episodes on weekends in the same timeslot. Since December, Play Room Live was out of commission leaving the channel to air more repeat episodes of Henry Danger and Game Shakers.

At the time, it was stated the show had gone into production break with the series that will resume production in 2025. With schools that commenced a week ago, Play Room Live was nowhere in site which led some viewers to wonder the fate of the series.

According to Play Room, the show will return from 3 February at 16:30 hinting that it could be a half hour long as they brand it off as Play Room Live 2.0. The revamped show is also slated to introduce new hosts with further details to be made available in due course.

Below is a statement from the channel regarding the relaunch of Play Room Live

Reminder: Wizards Beyond Waverly Place Premieres On Disney Channel Across Africa

Prepare for a magical adventure as the highly anticipated series “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place” premieres on Disney Channel (DStv Channel 303) on Monday, 27 January at 17:00 CAT.

The series follows an adult Justin Russo, who has chosen to lead a normal, mortal life with his family, Giada, Roman and Milo. When Justin’s sister Alex brings Billie to his home seeking help, Justin realizes he must dust off his magical skills to mentor the wizard-in-training while also juggling his everyday responsibilities — and safeguarding the future of the Wizard World.

“The series cast includes “Wizards of Waverly Place” alumni David Henrie (as Justin Russo) alongside newcomer Janice LeAnn Brown (as Billie), Alkaio Thiele (as Roman Russo), Max Matenko (as Milo Russo), Taylor Cora (as Winter) and Mimi Gianopulos (as Giada Russo). Selena Gomez (as Alex Russo) will guest star in the first episode.

“Wizards Beyond Waverly Place” has Jed Elinoff and Scott Thomas serve as writers and executive producers, along with executive producers Gary Marsh, Jonas Agin, Selena Gomez

and David Henrie. Andy Fickman directed and executive-produced the pilot and will direct multiple episodes. Other Disney Channel alumni involved in the series are Raven-Symoné (“Raven’s Home”) and Danielle Fishel (“Girl Meets World”) taking on director roles for episodes in season one.

Leading up to the series premiere, you can catch a marathon of the original series “Wizards of Waverly Place” and the 2009 movie “Wizards of Waverly Place – The Movie” on Disney Channel on Sunday, 26 January at 10:15 CAT. In the film, Alex (Selena Gomez) is forced to go on holiday with her parents. Clearly reluctant to be on this vacation, she wishes her parents had never met - with disastrous results. Spells and sorcery abound in this fun-filled movie. This is followed by a marathon of Season 4 of the series from 11:55 CAT – 16:05 CAT.

Thursday, January 23, 2025

February 2025 On TNT Across Africa | Channel Premiere: White Elephant | Michael Bay Birthday Stunt | More

Channel premieres in bold

Rogue Warriors

Stunt

Rogue Warriors special on TNT brings you thrilling tales of rebellious heroes who take justice into their own hands with martial arts and high-octane action. Every Saturday in February, dive into double features of classics like Under Siege and Cliffhanger, plus channel premieres like White Elephant and Code of Honor.

Saturday, 1 February

20:00 White Elephant (2022)

21:40 Eliminators (2016)

Saturday, 8 February

20:00 Under Siege (1992)

21:45 Under Siege 2: Dark Territory (1995)

Saturday, 15 February

20:00 Code of Honor (2015)

21:55 Lady Bloodfight (2016)

Saturday, 22 February

20:00 Cliffhanger (1993)

21:55 Savage Dog (2017)

Buddy Love Day

Stunt

Celebrate Valentine's Day with a twist on TNT! On February 14th, enjoy a marathon of buddy films that highlight the special bond of friendship. Watch premieres like Cup Out and Get Smart, plus other beloved buddy movies.

Friday, 14 February

14:45 Shanghai Noon (2000)

16:40 Shanghai Knights (2003)

18:35 Get Smart (2008)

20:30 Cop Out (2010)

22:20 Die Hard with Vengeance (2010)

Bayhem Day: A Michael Bay Special

Stunt

Michael Bay's birthday on Monday, the 17th, and we’re celebrating on TNT with an action-packed movie marathon. Start with The Rock, then enjoy Pain & Gain, and finish with the Transformers saga. Prepare for a day of non-stop action and adventure.

Monday, 17 February

11:10 The Rock (1996)

13:25 Pain & Gain (2013)

15:35 Transformers (2007)

18:00 Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (2009)

20:30 Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011)

23:05 Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014)

Comedy Clash: XX VS. XXI Stunt

On TNT, COMEDIES CLASH: XX VS. XXI brings together the best comedic films from two eras. Every Sunday, enjoy double features of 20th-century classics like Home Alone and Beverly Hills Cop against 21st-century hits like Night at the Museum and Spy. Prepare for endless laughs and an entertaining clash of comedic titans!

Sunday, 2 February

18:15 Home Alone (1990)

20:00 Night at the Museum (2006)

Sunday, 9 February

18:10 Beverly Hills Cop (1984)

20:00 Johnny English (2003)

Sunday, 16 February

18:00 Coming to America (1988)

20:00 Meet The Parents (2000)

Sunday, 23 February

17:35 True Lies (1994)

20:00 Spy (2015)

AEW

This month, wrestling fans can look forward to new episodes of Collision on Saturdays and Dynamite on Sundays at 10am.

AEW COLLISION

Ep. 4 – Saturday 1st at 10:00

Ep. 5 - Saturday 8th at 10:00

Ep. 6- Saturday 15th at 10:00

Ep. 7 - Saturday 22nd at 10:00

AEW DYNAMITE

Ep. 5 - Sunday 2nd at 10:00

Ep. 6 - Sunday 9th at 10:00

Ep. 7 - Sunday 16th at 10:00

Ep. 8 - Sunday 23rd at 10:00

February 2025 On Food Network, Investigation Discovery, Travel Channel, Discovery Family And Real Time Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Rachel Khoo's Simple Pleasures | Returning Shows Include A Crime To Remember | More

Food Network

Rachel Khoo's Simple Pleasures S1

NEW SHOW

Rachel Khoo creates the mouthwatering dishes that

she loves to cook at home. The recipes aren't fussy or complicated and can all be made with simple ingredients found at the local shop.

First TX: 20 February

TX Day: Thursday

TX Time: 17:00

Last TX: 13 March

Returning shows include Magnolia Table With Joanna Gaines S8 on 6 February at 16:05, BBQ Brawl S5: Flay V. Anderson V. Voltaggio on 24 February at 17:00 and Beat Bobby Flay S36 on 24 February at 16:05.

Investigation Discovery

Fatal Affairs S1

Brand New

Sordid tales of love triangles turn into mysterious whodunits, when one of three entwined in a fatal affair winds up dead. In this risky game of illicit love and secret sex, who will end up paying the ultimate price?

First TX: 7 February

TX Day: Friday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 7 March

Feuds Turned Fatal S1

Brand New

Retaliation and revenge unfold when friendships turn into furious feuds. As each feud escalates, one-time friends, family, and partners go from minor disagreements to murder. People from both sides of the feud tell their story of revenge gone wrong.

First TX: 17 February

TX Day: Monday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 24 March

The Fall of Diddy

Brand New

Pull back the curtain on music mogul Sean Combs as allegations of long-hidden violence and abuse emerge to shock the world.

First TX: 9 February

TX Day: Sunday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 16 February

The Curious Case of…S1

New Series

Take a deep dive into strange tales, bizarre cons, and twisted motives, exposing chilling truths that stretch the limits of imagination.

First TX: 23 February

TX Day: Sunday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 30 March

Discovery Family

Garage Rehab S1

NEW TO CHANNEL

Richard Rawlings built the Gas Monkey Garage into a personal business empire. Now he uses his expertise as an entrepreneur and automotive expert to help save struggling shops from out-of-touch owners, lazy employees and bad business practices.

First TX: 10 February

TX Day: Monday

TX Time: 18:25

Last TX: 7 April

Returning shows include Street Outlaws: Memphis S2 on 19 February at 20:10.

Travel Channel

Mysteries at the Museum

Specials

Alien Encounters in Area 51 TX: 20 February

Don Wildman heads deep into the Nevada desert to

see if he can uncover the truth about what's been

going on at America's most top-secret base.

The Hindenburg Disaster TX: 27 February

Don Wildman investigates the horrific crash of the

world's largest commercial airship. He examines

historic evidence and questions experts in his quest

to discover the actual cause of the 1937 disaster.

First TX: 20 February

TX Day: Thursday

TX Time: 21:10

Last TX: 27 February

Returning shows include House Hunters International S11 on 11 February at 06:00.

Real Time

Returning shows include Houses with History S2 on 19 February at 15:50, A Crime to Remember S2 on 24 February at 22:30 and The Best Thing I Ever Ate S9 on 3 February at 11:15.

February 2025 On Discovery Channel, TLC And HGTV Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Into The Jungle With Ed Stafford | Returning Shows Including Body Bizarre | More

Discovery

Into the Jungle with Ed Stafford S1

BRAND NEW

First TX: 19 February

TX Day: Wednesday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 26 March

Explorer and former British Army captain Ed Stafford

sets up an extreme survival school that will put

struggling modern dads and their children through

the toughest challenges.

Harpoon Hunters S1

BRAND NEW

First TX: 10 February

TX Day: Monday

TX Time: 21:55

Last TX: 7 April

Off the shores of Cape Cod, generations of harpoon

fishermen made their living with nothing but a fast

boat, strong arm, and nerves of steel. Today, only a

handful of locals continue the centuries-old tradition, and their bounty is bluefin tuna.

Returning shows include Homestead Rescue S6A on 6 February at 21:00, Mystery At Blind Frog Ranch S4 on 15 February at 21:00.

TLC

Taylor Swift vs Scooter Braun: Bad Blood

NEW SPECIAL

The $300M feud between Taylor Swift and Scooter Braun made headlines. But is Taylor Swift standing up for artistry and fighting the misogyny, or has Scooter Braun been unfairly framed for what was just a business deal?

South Africa:

First TX: 23 February

TX Day: Sunday

TX Time: 21:00

Last TX: 2 March

Chris Brown: A History Of Violence

SPECIAL (NEW TO CHANNEL)

After an infamous assault, Chris Brown has managed a musical comeback, but a growing list of sexual assault allegations raises alarms. For the first time, an alleged victim speaks out, and experts delve into the surrounding issues of domestic violence.

South Africa:

First TX: 23 February

TX Day: Sunday

TX Time: 22:00

Last TX: 23 February

Africa:

First TX: 23 February

TX Day: Sunday

TX Time: 21:50

Last TX: 23 February

Returning shows in South Africa include Body Bizarre S8 on 14 February at 21:00 and 1000-lb Best Friends S3 on 4 February at 21:00 with The Family Chantel S3 on 1 February at 21:50 and My 600-LB Life S10C on 21 February at 21:00 in the rest of Africa.

HGTV

Breaking New Ground S1

BRAND NEW

Robert Hartwell takes on the challenge of transforming a 200-year-old house with a complicated history into a home filled with love. It's a renovation story that celebrates the resilience of

Robert's journey, as well as those who came before

him.

First TX: 4 February

TX Day: Tuesday

TX Time: 22:00

Last TX: 25 February

Flipping Out With My Dad S1

BRAND NEW

Designer Kristyn Patterson and her contractor father,

Pancho, aim to revitalize the neglected neighborhoods of Detroit. With six newly purchased properties in the same historic district, this duo looks to give these dilapidated homes a second chance.

First TX: 7 February

TX Day: Friday

TX Time: 22:00

Last TX: 7 February

Returning shows include My Lottery Dream Home S17 on 17 February at 21:00.

Wednesday, January 22, 2025

Why Some Consumers Haven't Lost Hope On SABC And MultiChoice Just Yet?

Through my years of online journalism, you do tend to come across criticism some of these are just troll comments while others come from a good place. This is something that SABC and MultiChoice has been battling with since their inception to the South African market.

As some may have already heard on several occasions, SABC is in financial turmoil relying on bailouts and sponsors to keep them afloat. With their money crisis, it has led to implement several cuts across SABC 1-3 with the government looking to change its funding model which could as well take several years to get into action.

For sometime, SABC has been trying to make an extra buck through MultiChoice by making them collect TV licenses or a household levy. This is because they offer the most watched channels in South Africa (including DStv) and MultiChoice opposes the deal as the broadcaster makes R500 million in advertising with just 4 channels.

MultiChoice is already going through a similar hurdle with its consumer base on DStv and are hoping to get a fresh start with Showmax and the Canal+ deal. Following its split from Vivendi, Canal+ and MultiChoice are hoping to complete this transaction in the beginning of a new financial year April 2025 to help them take on Netflix.

Although Netflix has over 200 million subscribers globally, MultiChoice has 19 million subscribers through DStv and Netflix doesn't have much consumers in Africa which reports estimating these consumers reside in 2 million households by 2023.

With Canal+ having 8 million subscribers in Francophone Africa with MultiChoice's existing figures it ensures that they are ahead of the competition in Africa.

While some consumers may feel SABC and MultiChoice's services should be rendered redundant these are companies that are helping shape up the local industry and come with history. The unemployment rate is edging close to 50% with 80% of these individuals being youth and their demise will only worsen the problem.

SABC News, eNCA and Newzroom Afrika will be nothing without the funds coming from MultiChoice and although Netflix has been investing locally they're not expected to bulk up to such capacity. In the end, Netflix was only able to garner relevance for its content produced in other countries even with Africa on the map not much would change.

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

How MultiChoice Is Tackling LGBTQ Following Same Sex Ban In Namibia?

Not long ago, a new bill has been making rounds in Namibia which prohibit same sex relationships basically LGBTQ after discussions were underway to legalize such as in South Africa. But unlike Namibia, some countries within Africa primarily Cameroon and Uganda had tightened restrictions to a point where legal action can be persewed.

This actions affected several channels on DStv particularly Telemundo in 2023 where Nurses was unexpectedly yanked from the channel leaving only reruns. According to Telemundo, it was due to a change in legislation although not mentioning Uganda and Cameroon led to the temporary suspension of Nurses.

Since last year, MultiChoice has been working closely with channel providers with localized feeds to TLC and Disney Channel launching in Southern African countries. These feeds resided in the Western and Eastern parts of Africa and with their inception has led Moon Girl And Devil Dinosaur and The Owl House to get exempted.

In previous years, MultiChoice had excluded such content from the Western and Eastern parts of Africa with Southern Africa being conjoined due to transponders. With these endeavours now making waves in more African countries, it has led to confusion amongst DStv consumers particularly in Southern Africa.

Some DStv consumers are wondering why Disney Channel suddenly appears on channel 315 and what's mind boggling is that Marvel's Moon Girl And Devil Dinosaur was announced as a new show for this channel despite it only being offered on channel 303.

Aside from TLC and Disney Channel, MultiChoice had been distributing localized feeds for M-Net, Nickelodeon, BBC Lifestyle and E! Entertainment. We can only assume that more of these feeds will likely integrate to Southern Africa with some exceptions like Zee World and SuperSport.

Harry Potter, Wizards Of Baking: Spellbinding Confectionary Creations Come To Life This February On Cartoon Network Africa

Cartoon Network viewers and legions of Harry Potter fans are going to have an extra special holiday season this year with the premiere of the brand-new series, Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking, on Monday, 3 February at 18:15 CAT on Cartoon Network Africa. Capitalising on the enduring love for Harry Potter – a global phenomenon that continues to captivate people of all ages around the world – the ground-breaking series blends legendary storytelling and fantastical edible creations in a never-before-seen competition that will have audiences at the edge of their seats.

James and Oliver Phelps (Fred and George Weasley) bring their exceptional charm and behind-the-scenes anecdotes as hosts of this most magical series, joined by esteemed culinary judges Carla Hall and Jozef Youssef. Across the six-episode season, they will also be joined by special guests Warwick Davis (Professor Flitwick), Evanna Lynch (Luna Lovegood) and Bonnie Wright (Ginny Weasley), who will help in evaluating the competitors’ showpieces and also share their own film stories.

The competition kicks off with a super-sized episode in which nine teams of pastry chefs and cake artists are tasked to craft massive, spellbinding edible showpieces inspired by moments and themes from the Harry Potter saga. Each week, the culinary artists will design eye-popping creations not only to tantalise the taste buds but also to offer surprising and enchanting visual elements. Fans of Harry Potter will recognise many iconically familiar places, as the series was produced at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, including amidst the backdrop of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, on some of the original sets where Harry Potter's journey was brought to life on screen. Contenders will have the unprecedented opportunity to present their creations in famed locations such as Platform 9¾, The Great Hall, Gringotts Wizarding Bank, Diagon Alley, The Forbidden Forest and more.

A group of lucky fans will have the opportunity to taste some of the competitors’ handiwork, and then, in the finale, the team that wins the competition will be awarded the first-ever Wizards of Baking Cup and will have the opportunity to appear in a new Harry Potter cookbook.

Harry Potter fans can follow #WizardsOfBaking on social to chat with fellow fans and watch tons of videos from behind the scenes in the wizarding world. Plus, hear from the Phelps brothers as they return to Hogwarts, meet all the special guests stopping by and get to know the teams competing in this magical baking extravaganza. Fans can also get Harry Potter-inspired recipes, like Sorting Hat Cupcakes and Invisibility Cloak Pumpkin Pie.

Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking is produced by Warner Horizon and theoldschool for Food Network. Warner Horizon’s Bridgette Theriault and Dan Sacks serve as executive producers with theoldschool’s Robin Ashbrook and Yasmin Shackleton.

Don’t miss the spellbinding magic of Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking when it premieres on Food Network on Monday, 3 February at 18:15 CAT. Tune in to see which team claims the first-ever Wizards of Baking Cup and takes home the ultimate prize!

Sunday, January 19, 2025

Could StudioCanal Africa Also Be On The Pipeline For MultiChoice Suitor Canal+?

StudioCanal serves as the production arm for the French broadcaster offering original films and series in US, UK, France and several parts of Europe and Africa. It is home to franchises like Paddington and Bridget Jones and also has co-produced films like Terminator 2: Judgment Day and Free Willy.

With its parent company Canal+ looking to complete it's acquisition of MultiChoice plans are underway to stretch StudioCanal's expertise through this transaction as seen with M-Net's Spinners. Last year, production began in Cape Town on a new film titled Huntington starring American actor Glen Powell.

They plan to utilize MultiChoice's resources to build on intellectual properties (IPs) to better combat against Netflix that too has curated local content such as Blood And Water. Prior to MultiChoice's inclusion, Canal+ already owned ROK Studios (Nigeria) and Zacu Entertainment (Rwanda) with Marodi TV (Congolese) likely to join the ranks.

Should this transaction with MultiChoice progress we can only imagine that StudioCanal Africa would be formed from all this. It would consist of MultiChoice/M-Net Studios, Zacu Entertainment, Marodi TV, ROK Studios and any future investment Canal+ plans to pursuit in Africa.

Right now, ROK Studios and likely Zacu Entertainment are part of StudioCanal's global operations but we have seen them launch regional versions in the UK and Australia. It would only make sense to have one situated in Africa considering that MultiChoice would make them a giant in the region.

At the moment, Canal+ had been distributing Africa Magic Epic and select content from M-Net onto their platforms in french overseas. With their stake in MultiChoice, we can only imagine that they'll seek to unite these markets and give their French endeavours more scale as seen in parts of Africa with Africa Magic and Zambezi Magic.

Friday, January 17, 2025

MultiChoice Zambia Dumps Camnet TV From The DStv And GOtv Platform

MultiChoice Zambia is set to claim it's first victim by the end of January as a channel termination noticed has been sent to various consumers watching Camnet TV on channel 274.

Camnet TV was launched back in 2017 alongside Prime TV on the platform and served as Christian based channel and was one of the few local channels on the platform with such genre. The channel was founded by Mrs. Pastor Victoria Chiluba who is married to the former president of Zambia, Frederick Chiluba.

Although the channel didn't have much controversy the founder embroiled in a scandal where she sought help from Hakainde Hichilema (Zambia's current president) in an attempt to save Camnet TV. And this was what prompted Camnet TV to lose credibility and also have a controversial history.

MultiChoice Zambia in a statement has attributed low viewership and possibly other strategic considerations regarding channel content and profitability. Camnet TV would basically be the third religious station to have gone off air on the platform and the second within this month.

A year ago, Emmanuel TV decided to exit various platforms across Africa after the channel's founder T.B. Joshua was involved in a sex trafficking/cult scandal. Prior to this, the founder was embroiled in numerous other scandals with one notable figure deeming him "the son of a devil".

Before that was ITV Networks, this was the only Islamic channel to have been distributed by MultiChoice in South Africa and also the only non-troublesome channel on the list. If anything, the channel's demise was part of an ongoing review between companies attempt to enhance viewer's offering.

Thursday, January 16, 2025

Could 1Max Be Over And Out On DStv As Canal+ Edges Closer To MultiChoice?

Based on the Showmax streaming service, 1Max serves as a promotional window to various originals and international content from the streaming service alongside reruns from M-Net. Despite Comcast holding a 30% stake in Showmax, 1Max is handled entirely by MultiChoice/M-Net who serve as a majority shareholder.

Last year, MultiChoice and M-Net decided to do away with Me and 1Magic with their deaths that were partially exaggerated as the offering merged to form 1Max. This received very little buzz from MultiChoice even for a repeats channel they would have been some type of promotion but not in this case with 1Max.

Since then, speculation had been going around that 1Max could be done and dusted once or if Canal+ managed to complete it's acquisition of MultiChoice. Firstly, the French broadcaster doesn't like this idea of Showmax posing as a threat to DStv and has even hinted at the two serving as contenders.

What I think this could mean is that Showmax gets spun off amongst shareholders within MultiChoice. Rumours had been making the round that MultiChoice had considered dividing DStv and Showmax and this grew further to even suggest a potential sale in their assets particularly DStv.

If this does happen to be the case, it would put 1Max in a very precarious position as this is the lifeline for Compact+. Most other channels like Comedy Central, BBC Brit and Universal TV are already viewable on much lower bouquets and with its cancellation there wouldn't be much value on the package.

Wednesday, January 15, 2025

MSNBC Will Not Undergo A Name Change Once It Is Spun Off From Comcast

MSNBC will retain its name after it is spun off from Comcast along with other cable assets.

Mark Lazarus, who is leading the new company, told network staffers of the plans at a meeting today to announce the departure of Rashida Jones as the network’s president and the naming of Rebecca Kutler as interim leader, according to a network source.

“I know there was some discussion with the MSNBC name, so you can take that off of your worry list on things,” Lazarus said at the meeting.

Kutler also will be hiring a head of newsgathering and head of talent, Lazarus said. Throughout its history, MSNBC has drawn on correspondents and anchors from sister network NBC News, which will remain part of Comcast.

Lazarus said, “The only thing I’ll say is the worst thing any leader can do is change something that’s working just because they can. So, if this is working, then there’s no reason to change it.”

The spinoff, announced in November, is expected to take about a year to complete. It also will include USA Network, CNBC, Oxygen, E!, SYFY and Golf Channel.

MSNBC launched in 1996 as a venture between NBC News and Microsoft. It had a heavy emphasis on the then-emerging internet, but its primetime eventually evolved into a progressive alternative to right-leaning Fox News.

What Was Me And 1Magic Replaced With On Canal+'s DStv English Plus Add-On?

Last year, MultiChoice decided to axe Me from the DStv Compact and Family packages as it merged with the premium channel 1Magic to form 1Max. The channel would comprise of shows viewed on the revamped Showmax streaming service which forms as part of a joint venture with NBCUniversal.

After Canal+ acquired a stake in MultiChoice and this was before the hostile takeover which is expected to conclude within the first half of 2025. The French broadcaster was able to license content from M-Net with DStv offering Africa Magic Showcase, Discovery and Telemundo through their platforms as an Add-On in French markets.

M-Net City and VUZU formed part of this lineup before merging to form Me alongside 1Magic. As seen with DStv's lower bouquets, these channels were ousted from Canal+ platforms and wasn't replaced by 1Max despite distributing 1Magic.

But rather Canal+ opted to distribute Universal TV in place of Me with E! taking over the spot formerly reserved by 1Magic. These channels are owned by NBCUniversal and as we mentioned sometime ago select content from Me and 1Magic can be seen on these brands including The Real Housewives, S.W.A.T. and NCIS: Los Angeles.

Of course, M-Net didn't think that the decision to remove Me will have rippling affects as Mzansi Magic exempts itself local shows like Recipe For Love And Murder and Legacy. Expanding on Me, it was also home to international franchises like The Amazing Race, Survivor and MasterChef now consumers have to turn to SABC or Showmax.

Despite the rippling affects of linear TV overseas there's still a lot of dependency for such platforms in other countries as Canal+ seeks to grow its operations with the acquisition of MultiChoice following its split from Vivendi. But in some way, the actions depicted by MultiChoice had been seen through rival broadcasters.

eMedia Investments' at one point had e.tv distributed a majority of programming from NBCUniversal, Disney and CBS Studios before folding that under Openview. SABC made a similar move with SABC 3 which proved to be controversial it even led viewers and content distributors to flee the channel.

How The MultiChoice Acquisition Might Worsen Things For DStv?

DStv serves as the largest entertainment entertainment platform in Africa by MultiChoice despite seeing a loss in consumers in recent years with its parent company undergoing a takeover by Canal+. It offers a variety of local and international content from Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery and BBC alongside the best in sports.

As reported in 2024, Canal+ is in the process of completing it's acquisition of MultiChoice with South African regulators. Should this deal move ahead, it would give the French broadcaster access to almost 50 million households with close to 30 million residing in Africa which would help them take on giants like Netflix.

Prior to the MultiChoice takeover, Canal+ already offered services in Europe through SPI International, Viaplay, Platforma Canal+ and the M7 Group with V+, VIU and Canal+ Myanmar residing in Asia. With Canal+ facing constraints in France viewed these markets as potential outlets for growth.

Similar to MultiChoice, most of these properties listed served as start ups for Canal+ before being placed under French control. That was because Canal+ didn't have the expertise or necessary resources to compete in these markets so the other way would be through corporate buyouts or partnerships.

In Francophone Africa, a market in which Canal+ remains the dominant player very similar to DStv has very little to be desired. When it comes to France and Europe, Canal+ has plenty to compare with DStv but in Africa that is all on MultiChoice if Canal+ is dominant in one area it would be local content.

A tie-up with MultiChoice would make Canal+ a dominant player and give them the scale as seen in France and parts of Europe. Canal+ has licensed numerous channels from DStv such as M-Net Movies, Africa Magic Epic and Zee World for these consumers in french markets and this transaction could lead to more content sharing.

As for DStv, there could be cuts when Disney+ was I pre-development stages Disney didn't have much content for adults and the FOX acquisition gave them that. But things didn't improve for FOX as the Disney takeover led to numerous FOX channels across the world and studios to close.

On the DStv side, some outlets had stressed about that 20% cap put on foreigners even if Canal+ acquired MultiChoice it's voting rights in SA are minimal. Majority of MultiChoice's services come from South Africa and some fear that part of these services could as well be reduced if not closed even with a third party managing it's licenses.

If you look at Canada, a majority of MultiChoice's content providers are handled by local businesses Corus Entertainment manages Paramount Global with Bell Media handling Comcast. Channels that have still been exempted from this lineup in the region include MTV, Comedy Central, BET, Nicktoons, DreamWorks Channel and E!.

Corus through the Disney Channel has been importing Canadian shows while the global part is still Disney. This could be the case for DStv, where Canal+ the employee or as the stake in South Africa handles various licensing agreements while it's partner handles the financial aspect and whoever handles the finances has more power.

This is what happened when StarTimes acquired a 20% stake in TopTV (now StarSat) even though On Digital Media held the 80%, StarTimes decided who they should do business with. On Digital Media in this regard would turn down some businesses that wound up being licensed to other parts of Africa.

Another hurdle awaiting DStv with this takeover is consolidation, when Discovery acquired Warner it was very similar to Disney they were only cuts nothing new or beneficial came out of this deal. Even with their Max streaming service, what they did was use it as a promotional window for Discovery+.

This is where DStv could be heading, Canal+ curated local content in Francophone Africa and with this takeover they'll probably try to give that more exposure. MultiChoice had already done that with Africa Magic and SABC News so it only seems fair if the French implement similar mechanisms.

Who knows maybe this takeover will see M-Net curate and license more content from StudioCanal as this was outlined in the company's prospectus.

Monday, January 13, 2025

More Turkish Dramas Rolling Out Soon In Africa: "Yabani" + "Kızıl Goncalar" + "Şahane Hayatım" + "Aşk Yeniden"

Below is second batch of confirmed shows for Africa (not rumoured) each whose broadcasters have yet to be announced for reasons beyond my capacity. The list is in random order so so there's no guaranteed timeframe on when each show will be released.

Yabani

Yabani follows the remarkable journey of Ali, who was abducted as a boy and ended up working for the gang that kidnapped him. After enduring years of hardship, Ali renames himself Yaman and escapes his captors to build a new, better life together with his three friends. Things are not easy for this new family, but they work hard and are able to leave their dark past behind. Through it all, Yaman somehow manages to keep his soul pure and never succumbs to the darkness that surrounds him.

Things get complicated when Yaman meets Rüya, a beautiful girl from the rich side of town.

Kızıl Goncalar

“Kızıl Goncalar” tells the poignant story of Meryem, who grew up in an Islamic sect and was married at 14. Now she is battling to prevent her daughter Zeynep from suffering the same fate as the bride of the sheikh’s grandson Cüneyd. They face a tumultuous journey, filled with tension and romance, as conservative and progressive beliefs clash.

The sheikh wants a morally pure bride for Cüneyd and the sect’s elders see Zeynep as a suitable candidate. Horrified by the idea, Meryem seeks guidance from her sister-in-law, a Koran teacher who was expelled from the sect. Given the sect’s power, they shy away from complaining officially and decide that they must flee.

Şahane Hayatım

The series focuses on the life of Sebnem Gümüşçü, an unfortunate woman who was born with great injustices and during her growing up journey began to work hard to overcome them and do everything necessary to forget the crimes that occurred in the past. More late in her criminal past he began to pursue her and she began to form part of her daily life, as long as she lived a wonderful life.

Aşk Yeniden

Zeynep is a headstrong and bold girl living in Istanbul with her Fisherman father Şevket, who loves his daughter unconditionally. Zeynep falls in love with a guy named Ertan, and later leaves her home to elope with him to America. In America, they live quite happily until Zeynep discovers of being pregnant, but Ertan asks her to abort the baby. Ertan leaves Zeynep after she refuses to do so. Zeynep breaks down and gives birth to a baby boy, Selim. But, she comes back to Turkey after 10 months as she unable to living with a baby and surviving in a foreign land.

On the other hand, Fatih Şekercizade, who belongs to a well-established and elite family of Turkey. He had been facing the pressure of being from an elite family from his mother who happens to be making his decisions from his childhood and has betrothed him to the girl of her own choice.

Sunday, January 12, 2025

Why Warner's Upcoming Restructure Will Serve As A Minus To Cartoon Network And Discovery Channel?

Warner Bros. Discovery is looking to fold most of its cable networks which comprise of Cartoon Network, TNT and Investigation Discovery under the division Global Linear Networks. This comes after Comcast announced plans to unbundle majority of its cable networks later in the year.

Cartoon Network, TNT and Investigation Discovery being spun off from Warner Bros. Studios won't improve anything there for the average consumer. For Warner Bros. Discovery, this brand split means they'll be able to reduce expenses and less being spent on new content for these brands means more revenue.

Internationally, Warner Bros. Discovery always felt spun off they have proven that on a number of occasions. Take for instance, Cartoon Network has relied on imports like Jade Armor and Hero Inside or regional shows like CN To The Rescue and The Amazing World Of Gumball to build up their schedule so that's unlikely to change.

So you could say with this change what this means for Cartoon Network is similar to that of Universal TV where their parent company will rely heavily on M-Net or Showmax rather than their respective networks for these shows. If you look overseas, the current executives are moving most of Cartoon Network's shows from Max to Netflix.

If anything, the lack of content for these cable networks could lead both MultiChoice and Warner Bros. Discovery to further streamline their portfolio. This transaction has a bigger effect on the factual part of the company which comprise of HGTV, Food Network and Travel Channel.

Unlike Cartoon Network and TNT, these networks had a lot of dependency on these properties and with the current state of pay-tv I expect for less to be invested towards these brands. Some channels like Discovery Family could get booted off while others like Food Network are either sold or turned into an import for Discovery+.

February 2025 On Universal TV, E! And Studio Universal Across Africa | Channel Premieres: E! Live From The Red Carpet (Grammy Awards) | Returning Shows Including Harry Wild | More

Universal TV

NCIS

Season 20 – Channel Premiere

Premieres Monday 3rd February at 8pm

Special Agent Alden Parker is still on the run while the NCIS teams up with the Hawaiian agents to try to clear his name. Main suspect: the Raven.

MAGNUM P.I.

Season 5 – Channel Premiere

Premiere Friday 21st February at 8pm

It’s the fifth and final season, with Magnum, Rick and Higgins taking down Hawaii’s most dangerous criminals and solving seemingly impossible cases.

HARRY WILD

Season 3- Territory Premiere

Continues Fridays at 8pm, season finale 14th February

Retired English professor Harry and Fergus take on more cases, including the apparent suicide of a singer, the replacement of a chef’s entrée at a restaurant and more.

Valentine Special

Weekdays in February from 3rd – 14th at 21:00

What better way to celebrate Valentine’s than to romance-up the schedule this February? Featuring: Dating No Filter.

E! Live From The Red Carpet: The 2025 Grammy Awards

Monday 3rd February at 19:00

Join E! for a night of glitter and glamour at this annual event celebrating the best in today’s music. See who’s wearing what as the stars strut their stuff in LA.

Studio Universal

Comedy After Dark

10th – 14th February

Mon – Fri @ 9:45pm

It’s the month of love, but here on Studio we do Valentine’s a little differently! Expect the unexpected: time travel, magical masks, and Eddie Murphy snogging Eddie

10th February: Knight and Day

11th February: Norbit

12th February: The Mask

13th February: Palm Springs

ACTION WEEKEND–JET LI

15th – 23rd February

Sat & Sun Double-bills from 8pm

Master of kung fu, Jet Li got his nickname “Jet” because of his speed and grace. In February we put our Action Weekends into his very capable and extremely fast hands!

15th February at 21:55: The Legend of Fong Sai-Yuk 2

22nd February at 21:35: Cradle 2 the Grave

23rd February at 20:00: Tai Chi Master

23rd February at 21:35: Romeo Must Die

Saturday, January 11, 2025

The Eclipse Of Traditional TV: eMedia And MultiChoice Navigate The Streaming Tide

With Comcast looking to offload its cable networks we turn our sites to both MultiChoice and eMedia Investments whose 2024 was somewhat dismal or dramatic at least for one of the two. MultiChoice ousted 11 channels while undergoing a takeover by Canal+ which is awaiting approval from South African regulators.

eMedia Investments has rounded another year with no additions despite promises to add a few more channels as Ultraview's future is being questioned after OUTtv and FUSE reverted to eVOD.

Let's face it, consumers don't prioritise TV as much in recent years as Netflix has become the hangout spot for shows like Squid Games and Wednesday. MultiChoice has been focused on everything from streaming, insurance and cybersecurity but saving the once dominant DStv platform.

Even the financially challenged SABC's top rated soaps are grasping through straws as their viewership continues to plummet. Uzalo that serves as the dominant player amongst the foe stood at 4.8 million in October 2024 which is a 21% drop from 6.1 million in October 2023.

This is the reason MultiChoice has been selective when it comes to sourcing content take for instance Zee Zonke. The only reason this channel was able to stay afloat is due to Zee TV's existing footprint in the market same goes for SuperSport Schools that established it's presence on YouTube as School Sports Live.

If anything things haven't been greener for eMedia's Ultraview offering as part of its offering had been merged with eVOD, consumers are curious on what's next for the brand. Since it's rollout, it was met with heavy criticism for its pricing and content offering while being compared to DStv so a majority are expecting for it to be dismantled.

When it was introduced, Eskom was going full force with power cuts although that withered DStv hasn't recovered and as for Ultraview it never had a fighting chance. Remember eMedia Investments hadn't disclosed consumer numbers for Ultraview but it's assumed to have under 500 subscribers.

In general, adding new channels has been more riskier in recent years MultiChoice had done that with One Freestate Televisual and NWTV which lasted for about 3 months. Even if the plan were to restructure, SABC has done that numerous times with SABC 3 and it still hasn't saved its fallen viewership.

Friday, January 10, 2025

Rumour: Universal Kids, The American Counterpart Of DreamWorks Channel Is Shutting Down

A major shakeup is happening to one of NBCUniversal’s linear channels. Universal Kids, a channel focused on children’s programming is shutting down later this year.

Cord Cutters News first learned that it will reportedly shut down on March 6, 2025, which is the day it’s also being removed from Spectrum TV.

Launched in 2005 as PBS Kids Sprout, the network changed its name to Sprout in 2009. In 2013, Comcast, the parent company of NBCU, acquired a full ownership stake in the network and fully rebranded it to Universal Kids in 2017.

Over the years, the network was home to popular children’s shows including Sesame Street, The Berenstain Bears, Where’s Waldo, American Ninja Warrior Junior, The Wiggles, and other NBCUniversal programming.

The network was aiming to compete with Disney Junior and the Nick Jr. Channel in the children’s programming space. However, Universal Kids struggled to maintain viewership in an increasingly competitive market with the rise of streaming services like Netflix, and Disney+.

This news comes months after it was announced that Comcast has officially spun off its linear TV networks, including USA Network and MSNBC into SpinCo. The Universal Kids shutdown and the spinoff are part of a larger strategy by NBCUniversal to streamline its operations and focus on more profitable ventures. The spinoff will take around one year to complete as NBCU tries to navigate through the ongoing transformation within the media industry.

NBCU hasn’t officially announced if the channel is going dark however, Cord Cutters News has independently confirmed that the network is shutting down on March 6, 2025.

This was originally published by Cord Cutter News.

Telemundo To Debut New Series "The Count: Love And Honor" Across Africa In February 2025

After rolling out in other parts of the world last year, Telemundo has announced the addition of the period melodrama, El Conde: Amor y Honor (The Count: Love and Honor) from Monday 17 February at 10PM CAT. It stars Fernando Colunga (Amor Real) alongside Ana Brenda Contreras (Por Amar Sin Ley), who makes her debut on Telemundo.

The Count: Love and Honor is a period drama that begins in the 1930s with the powerful love story of Alejandro Gaitán , a humble young farmer, and Mariana , a beautiful and rebellious young woman. But Josefina de Zambrano , Mariana’s stepmother, and Gerardo Villarreal , will conspire to turn their relationship into a living hell. Alejandro will be charged with a double homicide and without anyone knowing his fate, he will be transferred to a dungeon on a remote island in the Pacific Ocean. There he will meet Amador Guzmán , a Spanish nobleman serving a life sentence who will reveal to Alejandro that he has a hidden treasure, leaving him this fortune before his death.

Highlights

Monday, 17 February, While everyone wonders who the Count of Montenegro is, he welcomes them. They don’t imagine that he’s back in San Jacinto.

Tuesday, 18 February, Mariana ingeniously manages to show Alejandro that she doesn’t have a boyfriend. She surprises him with a kiss and then flees, embarrassed.

Wednesday, 19 February, A direct declaration from Mariana ignites passion; she tells Alejandro she’s in love. They kiss, and he proposes marriage, which she accepts.

Thursday, 20 February, Alejandro, upon learning that Mariana is sick, is unafraid to break the rules and sneaks into her room; she is his priority.

Friday, 21 February, Mariana confides in her father, revealing that she is in love and that her suitor wants to ask for her hand in marriage.

Saturday, 22 February, The murder of Don Gonzalo and his wife, the day before the elections, unleashes chaos in the city, and an innocent man ends up facing justice.

Sunday, 23 February, Gerardo Villareal controls the legal process against Alejandro, assigning him a defence lawyer and presenting Vicente and Rubén as witnesses.

Monday, 24 February, When Gerardo learns that Gallardo has discovered Alejandro’s whereabouts, he takes drastic measures.

Tuesday, 25 February, Mariana, overwhelmed by despair after losing the love of her life and forced by family circumstances, has no choice but to yield.

Wednesday, 26 February, Benjamín discovers Josefina’s secret when he finds her with her lover in the stable, disgusted, he throws her out of his house.

Thursday, 27 February, Josefina seizes the opportunity to get her way; when Benjamín faints, she covers his mouth and nose to help him die. She knows how to play the victim.

Friday, 28 February, After hearing the words of his fellow suferer, who encourages him to keep going, Alejandro finds a reason to stay alive despite the mistreatment.

Thursday, January 9, 2025

M-Net's Linear Offering Could Undergo Further Streamlining Once Canal+ Takeover Deal Is Completed

M-Net serves as a division of MultiChoice which comprise of shows like Carte Blanche, Summertide, Battleground and Umkhokha: The Curse. They also offer TV channels viewed across various markets such as Africa Magic, Mzansi Magic, KykNet, Maisha Magic and Pearl Magic.

As some may have heard, Canal+ is looking to complete it's transaction to acquire MultiChoice following its split from Vivendi in 2023. The deal is subjected to various regulatory approvals with both companies giving themselves until April 2025 to complete this transaction.

Should this deal move forward, we anticipate for MultiChoice to lose its license as broadcaster outside of South Africa it's likely that the remainder of MultiChoice could be focused on driving growth to Showmax. As for M-Net, SuperSport and DStv, those will all be under French control.

Despite being a French broadcaster, Canal+ has expanded its operations through Viaplay in Nordic countries, VIU in Asia and as already mentioned MultiChoice in Africa. With this transaction, there has been a lot of fear amongst the media that Canal+ will seek to scale back on content.

Vivendi already abandoned the broadcaster and left the window open for new investments meaning similar to Naspers abandonment of MultiChoice the money is limited. With MultiChoice already facing losses within DStv, cuts are inevitable and Canal+ had hinted on this.

With them already having operations in Francophone Africa, Canal+ could seek to reduce commissions coming to Africa Magic and replace them with imports from Zacu TV. Maybe even look to separate MultiChoice Studios from their cable networks and have cheaper programming filter their schedule.

Worst case scenario is folding Akwaaba Magic under Africa Magic as it minimises exposure and again reduces commissions. That's what happened when MultiChoice decided to axe ITV Choice it was only Coronation Street and Emmerdale that carried it on M-Net.

In the end, most sources are anticipating cuts to await this transaction cause from everyone's understanding Showmax is the main priority for MultiChoice and they can't be spending excessively. With DStv's current performance, it would make sense to shift the goalpost to Showmax and have DStv promote.

Reminder: Cartoon Network Africa’s New Local Sitcom, The Lembwas, Premieres on Saturday, 18 January!

The wildest family in Mzansi is crashing onto your screens in The Lembwas, a Cartoon Network Africa Original created and filmed right here in South Africa! Premiering Saturday, 18 January 2025, at 09h30 CAT, this fresh new live-action comedy is here to tickle your funny bone and have you rolling on the floor laughing. We’re talking 13 explosive episodes packed with crazy adventures, unexpected twists, and enough humour to leave you in stitches. Forget your chill Saturday plans — this show is going to be lekker jol!

Meet the Lembwas — They’re Like No Family You’ve Ever Seen!

Taps and Garcia, the dynamic duo of teenage brothers, are at the heart of this chaotic family. Taps is all about diving headfirst into adventure, while Garcia is a brainy genius whose science experiments have a way of going … um, very wrong. Their shenanigans range from accidental teleportation to some weird run-ins with interdimensional cockroaches (yes, there’s a talking roach living in their dustbin, but more on that later).

Joining them is Mama, the fierce queen of style and order, who juggles raising her boys and managing their madness with a “hold on to your hats!” mentality. Uncle Zeke, the ‘dodgy but lovable’ uncle, who claims to have been a rap star in Korea (still debatable), and Gogo, the silent mischief-maker with more tricks up her sleeve than we can count, complete the squad.

Oh, and let’s not forget Roach — a fast-talking, wise-cracking cockroach who hitched a ride to the Lembwas’ bin thanks to Garcia’s latest invention gone wrong. You’ll never look at trash the same way again!

This Ain’t Your Everyday Family Sitcom!

The Lembwas isn’t just another family sitcom — it’s a whole vibe! “We’ve created something entirely fresh with The Lembwas,” says Andr? Lembwa, the comedic genius who stars as every single character in the Lembwa family. “Imagine taking the chaos of live-action and mixing it with the unpredictability of animation — that’s the magic here. Plus, it’s proudly South African, with plenty of local flavour to boot!”

Born in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), before moving to South Africa, Lembwa has a knack for impersonations that span diverse nationalities — from Congolese to Nigerian to South African and beyond. His ability to embody different accents and personas brings a unique authenticity to The Lembwas, reflecting the multicultural fabric of South Africa.

Andr? adds, “As a performer, it’s been an incredible journey to bring these characters to life. From Taps’ wild energy to Garcia’s nerdy brilliance, each character represents a part of my experience growing up in South Africa. I can’t wait for audiences to join us on this hilarious ride!”

“We’re beyond excited to bring The Lembwas to our African audiences,” says Ana Gonzalez, VP, Kids Content for Southern Europe, APAC, and Africa. “It’s a celebration of family, hilarity, and everything unexpected. With its local cast, local crew, and loads of humour, it’s an absolute must-watch.”

Shot in the Vibrant Heart of Cape Town

The Lembwas was filmed on location in the buzzing neighbourhood of Brooklyn, Cape Town — adding a fresh local flavour to the show. Created by Howard Fyvie and produced by High Fyvie, a creative production company founded by Fyvie, who brings two decades of experience in crafting compelling content, The Lembwas is brought to life by this production team known for crafting stories filled with heart and humour.

“With The Lembwas, we’ve created a show that totally has a specific South African flavour, but with universal themes at its heart - so hopefully, it impacts people across the continent and beyond,” says producer Howard Fyvie. “As I and my team have been working on this show, we've often stopped and reflected on how crazy, zany, and unique this show is. I honestly don't know anything else with the same sensibilities and comedic instincts as The Lembwas. We hope you guys fall in love with this family like we have!”

Why You Can’t Miss This

If you think The Lembwas is just another sitcom, think again! This show delivers laugh-out-loud moments in every episode, taking everyday situations and turning them completely on their head. Think flying kicks that last for minutes, supercharged go-karts, and a cockroach with a serious attitude. It’s weird, it’s wonderful, and it’s wildly entertaining!

So, grab the whole family, set your alarms for 09h30 CAT on Saturday, 18 January, and make sure you tune into Cartoon Network Africa for the premiere of The Lembwas — the show that promises to be anything but everyday. Bring on the laughter, the chaos, and the talking cockroach!

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Friday, January 31, 2025

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