By Nina Guy
In March this year, MultiChoice announced that it would discontinue its streaming platform, Showmax, marking the end of one of Africa’s most ambitious local streaming services after more than a decade. The decision follows a strategic review of the company’s digital operations after its parent company, Canal+, acquired MultiChoice.
For audiences who prefer locally produced content, including many Afrikaans-speaking viewers, this could mean fewer accessible platforms showcasing South African narratives. Showmax has been home to a range of popular local productions, including the Afrikaans series Die Kantoor and Een Keer Om Die Son, as well as other popular South African titles such as Youngins, Adulting, and Devil’s Peak.
In an interview with Die Matie, Die Kantoor director and head writer Bennie Fourie, as well as Afrikaans actress Mila Fourie (née Guy), shared their views on what the changes could mean for the industry. Bennie Fourie noted, “For a long time now there haven’t been development contracts or new contracts issued. With the Canal+ takeover there are a lot of audits happening, so they basically paused everything. There is a big drought period coming. Even though there might be a light on the horizon, the current situation is just that people are sitting and waiting for work.”
Showmax’s shutdown comes after several years of financial pressure on MultiChoice. Although the platform attracted millions of viewers, it struggled to become profitable. In the 2025 financial year alone, Showmax recorded trading losses of around R4,9 billion, nearly double the R2,6 billion loss the previous year, according to financial reporting by technology publication MyBroadband.
When contacted for comment, MultiChoice said that interviews are currently not being conducted, but that more information about what will happen to subscribers and existing content will be released in the coming weeks.
The decision also reflects a broader shift in the global streaming industry. For many years, streaming companies focused on rapid growth and gaining subscribers. However, the industry is now moving toward financial sustainability.
Both Bennie and Mila Fourie emphasised that storytelling has always been central to South African creative industries, even during periods of uncertainty. Mila Fourie added,”Like Bennie says, we are resilient. South Africans make things happen. We tell stories, we hustle and we have an incredible culture.” Fourie agreed, adding, “We will always find a way.”
While uncertainty remains about what the restructuring of Showmax will mean for audiences and creators, many in the industry remain optimistic. As Fourie suggests, South African storytellers have repeatedly adapted to changes in the media landscape. Whether through traditional broadcasters or new local services, the demand for South African stories is unlikely to disappear.
