Multimedia company MultiChoice Group has announced plans to discontinue its streaming platform, Showmax, after eleven years of operation.
The decision was communicated to subscribers in an email sent on Thursday, informing them that the service will be shut down in the near future following a review by the company’s board.
“We’re writing to inform you of an important update regarding Showmax,” the message to subscribers read. “Following a comprehensive review, the Showmax Board has made the decision to discontinue the Showmax service in the near future.”
The company said the move is part of efforts to strengthen its broader digital strategy and ensure long-term sustainability amid growing competition in the global streaming market.
According to the notice, subscribers will continue to enjoy uninterrupted service for the time being. “Importantly, at the moment there will be no interruption to your current service. You can continue streaming as usual, and no action is required from you at this time,” the platform stated.
While no specific timeline was given for the shutdown, the company assured customers that they remain a priority and that further details will be communicated ahead of any changes.
“We understand that this news may raise questions. Showmax subscribers are a priority for us, and we are working on plans to ensure clear communication and a smooth transition when the time comes,” the company added.
Launched in 2015 in South Africa, Showmax expanded rapidly across Africa and operated in dozens of countries as a subscription video-on-demand streaming service.
The development comes amid major changes within MultiChoice following regulatory approval in South Africa last year for its takeover by French media giant Canal+, the parent company of StudioCanal.
The deal paved the way for Canal+ to acquire Africa’s largest pay-TV group, which includes popular platforms DStv and GOtv.
Under the agreement, Canal+ made a mandatory cash offer of ZAR125 (about $7.11) per share to acquire all outstanding ordinary shares of MultiChoice not already owned by the French media group.
Regulators approved the deal with conditions that include public interest commitments aimed at increasing the participation of historically disadvantaged persons and small businesses in South Africa’s audiovisual sector, while also ensuring continued investment in local entertainment and sports programming.
As part of the restructuring plan unveiled earlier this year, MultiChoice will separate its South African broadcasting licensee into an independent entity that will be majority-owned by historically disadvantaged persons in line with local ownership regulations under South Africa’s Electronic Communications Act.
