MultiChoice Group has announced plans to shut down its streaming platform, Showmax, after 11 years of operation.
Gatekeepers News reports that the company communicated the decision to subscribers on Thursday via email, saying the move followed a strategic review of the platform’s future.
“We’re writing to inform you of an important update regarding Showmax,” the streaming service said in the message sent to users.
“Following a comprehensive review, the Showmax Board has taken the decision to discontinue the Showmax service in the near future.”
MultiChoice said the move reflects its strategy to strengthen its broader digital offerings and maintain sustainability in a highly competitive streaming market.
“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 company said.
Although no specific timeline was given for the shutdown, the company assured subscribers that they remain a priority and that further details will be communicated ahead of any transition.
“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 platform said.
“We will share further details well in advance, including timelines and any future steps, should they be required.”
Showmax was launched in 2015 in South Africa and expanded rapidly across Africa, operating in multiple countries as demand for online entertainment grew.
The platform offers a range of content including sports, movies, documentaries and television series streamed over the internet, competing with global streaming services.
The development also comes amid a major corporate shift involving MultiChoice Group.
Last year, South African regulators approved the takeover of the company by Canal+, the French media giant and parent company of StudioCanal.
Under the terms of the deal, Canal+ made a mandatory cash offer of ZAR125 ($7.11) per share to acquire all outstanding ordinary shares of MultiChoice not already owned by the company.
The agreement includes commitments aimed at increasing participation by historically disadvantaged persons (HDPs) and small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) in South Africa’s audiovisual sector, while ensuring continued investment in local entertainment and sports programming.
Both companies are also implementing a structural arrangement designed to comply with local ownership regulations under Electronic Communications Act.
The plan involves separating MultiChoice’s South African broadcasting licence holder into an independent entity with majority ownership by historically disadvantaged persons.
