MultiChoice confirmed earlier in the month that it is discontinuing the Showmax streaming service. The Canal+ app will eventually replace Showmax across Africa, while some of Showmax’s features will move to DStv Stream in the meantime.
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Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada says the company will bring its over-the-top (OTT) platform, the Canal+ app, to South Africa to replace Showmax.
MultiChoice announced its plan to shut down Showmax on March 5, 2026, ensuring that there will be no disruptions for subscribers during the transition period. At the time of the announcement, the replacement for Showmax wasn’t known.
Also see: The Showmax shutdown: what it means for South African viewers and local content
However, Maxime Saada said the Canal+ app will start rolling out in MultiChoice territories, as it has in French-speaking parts of Africa.
“As you know, this was a severely loss-making activity on which we saw no recovery, no matter what was done,” the CEO said.
Saada explained that Canal+ quickly came to an agreement with Comcast to shut down Showmax as soon as possible, but said he couldn’t share details on the negotiations.
“Now the priority is to make sure that the people who have chosen this offer end up on something that is an even stronger experience going forward.”
Showmax subscribers have until March 31, 2026, to renew their subscription or redeem vouchers. As of April 1, 2026, new subscriptions and renewals will no longer be available, but Showmax has revealed the first update on their new chapter and that viewers’ favourite shows will be getting a shiny new home on DStv Stream.
Also see: Helen Zille to be roasted in the 2025 Showmax Roast
Feature Image: Gettys
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