MultiChoice, the parent company of DStv and GOtv, has announced plans to shut down its streaming platform Showmax after 11 years of operation as part of a strategic shift in its digital business.
The decision followed what the company described as a comprehensive review aimed at strengthening its long-term digital strategy and ensuring sustainability in an increasingly competitive global streaming market.
Showmax, which launched in 2015 in South Africa, quickly expanded across Africa and became one of the continent’s most recognised streaming platforms.
Over the years, it built a catalogue featuring African originals, international films, television series, and sports-related content targeted at the African audience.
According to MultiChoice, the shutdown will not take effect immediately. The company assured subscribers that services will continue without interruption for now, and customers are not required to take any immediate action.
MultiChoice added that customer experience remains a priority, promising to communicate clearly with users ahead of any final shutdown timeline. Detailed information on transition arrangements and possible alternatives for subscribers will be released in due course.
Industry observers note that the move comes at a time when the global streaming sector is witnessing intense competition from major international platforms, prompting media companies to streamline operations and focus on more sustainable digital models.
The development also coincides with the recent regulatory approval for French media giant Canal+ to acquire MultiChoice, a move expected to reshape the pay-television and streaming landscape across Africa.
While MultiChoice has yet to disclose how the decision will affect Showmax employees or whether alternative services will be offered to existing users, analysts believe the company may be repositioning its digital offerings as part of a broader restructuring strategy.
Further details regarding the platform’s final closure timeline are expected in the coming months.
