MultiChoice to Discontinue Showmax Streaming Service After 11 Years

By Chisom Adaeze Okafor

South African media giant MultiChoice Group has announced plans to shut down its streaming platform Showmax, bringing an end to eleven years of operation across the continent.

The decision was communicated directly to Showmax subscribers through an official email, stating that the company conducted a comprehensive strategic review before choosing to discontinue the service in the near future.

According to MultiChoice, the move reflects a broader business strategy aimed at strengthening its overall digital entertainment portfolio while ensuring long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive global streaming market.

“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 now,” the company assured subscribers.

Although MultiChoice did not disclose a specific timeline for the shutdown, it confirmed that users remain a priority and will receive advance notice regarding service discontinuation, transition arrangements, and future platform developments.

“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 statement added.

Launched in 2015 in South Africa, Showmax rapidly expanded across Africa, positioning itself as a major regional competitor in the online entertainment and streaming industry. The platform offered a wide range of content including sports programming, movies, documentaries, and television series delivered through internet-based streaming.

The platform’s growth was driven by increasing demand for digital entertainment across African markets, where internet penetration and mobile streaming consumption have continued to rise.

The shutdown decision comes amid broader corporate restructuring following the acquisition interest of French media conglomerate Canal+ Group in MultiChoice. The takeover process has involved regulatory approvals and financial restructuring agreements aimed at strengthening local participation in the African audiovisual sector.

Under previously approved transaction conditions, Canal+ proposed a mandatory cash offer of ZAR 125 ($7.11) per share to acquire remaining MultiChoice shares not already owned by the French media group.

The restructuring plan also includes commitments to support historically disadvantaged communities and small and medium enterprises in South Africa’s broadcasting ecosystem, while maintaining investment in local entertainment and sports content.

Industry analysts say the closure of Showmax reflects the intense global competition facing regional streaming services as international platforms continue expanding their presence in African markets.

As digital consumption patterns evolve, MultiChoice says it will continue exploring strategies to remain competitive in Africa’s entertainment landscape while prioritising subscriber transition and service stability.

Further updates regarding the shutdown timeline and service migration plans are expected to be released in due course.