MultiChoice has announced that it will shut down its streaming platform, Showmax, after eleven years of operation. The company informed subscribers on Thursday via email:
“Following a comprehensive review, the Showmax Board has decided to discontinue the service in the near future. This move reflects our focus on strengthening our overall digital offerings and ensuring long-term sustainability in a competitive streaming market.”
The company reassured subscribers that there will be no immediate disruption to their service. Showmax users can continue streaming as usual, and no action is required at this time. MultiChoice did not provide a specific timeline for the shutdown but emphasized that subscriber experience remains a priority:
“We will share further details well in advance, including timelines and any future steps, to ensure a smooth transition.”
Showmax, launched in South Africa in 2015, rapidly expanded across the continent, offering movies, series, documentaries, and sports to compete with global streaming platforms.
Last year, South African authorities approved the takeover of MultiChoice by French pay-TV giant Canal+, the parent company of StudioCanal. The deal allows Canal+ to acquire all remaining MultiChoice shares through a mandatory cash offer of ZAR 125 ($7.11) per share.
The agreement also includes public interest commitments to boost the participation of historically disadvantaged persons (HDPs) and small, micro, and medium enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa’s audiovisual sector, as well as continued investment in local entertainment and sports programming. Canal+ and MultiChoice will implement a structural plan to comply with local ownership regulations, including creating an independent, HDP-majority-owned South African entity.
