Showmax, the streaming platform owned by MultiChoice, has announced plans to discontinue its service after more than a decade in operation, marking a significant shift in the company’s digital strategy despite heavy investments in the platform.
The decision was communicated to subscribers in an email sent on March 5, 2026, in which the company explained that the move followed a strategic review by its board. Showmax said the step was taken to refocus its broader digital operations while navigating an increasingly competitive global streaming market.
In the message to customers, the company wrote:
“Dear valued Customer,
We’re writing to inform you of an important update regarding Showmax.
Following a comprehensive review, the Showmax Board has taken the decision to discontinue the Showmax service in the near future.
This decision reflects our focus on strengthening our overall digital offering and ensuring long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive streaming environment.
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.
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. We will share further details well in advance, including timelines and any future steps, should they be required.
Streaming remains central to our strategy. We will continue to invest in premium content, technology innovation and partnerships to deliver the best possible entertainment experience to our customers.
Thank you for your continued support.
Kind Regards,
MultiChoice Team”
The shutdown will end the platform’s 11-year run since its launch in August 2015 as MultiChoice’s flagship streaming product aimed at delivering premium digital entertainment across Africa.
Showmax was initially developed to provide a large catalogue of African and international content, including original productions from MultiChoice studios. The platform also secured licensing agreements with major international studios such as HBO, giving viewers access to globally recognised series while offering African filmmakers a wider distribution platform.
In February 2024, MultiChoice attempted to revitalise the platform by relaunching Showmax in partnership with NBCUniversal, a subsidiary of Comcast. The new version utilised streaming technology from NBCUniversal’s Peacock platform and was backed by an investment estimated at about $300 million in technology upgrades and content production.
However, the revamped service reportedly struggled to meet subscriber growth targets despite the significant investment.
The future of the platform came under further scrutiny in October 2025 when French media giant Canal+ completed its takeover of the MultiChoice Group, acquiring a 93 percent controlling stake in a deal valued at approximately $3 billion. The acquisition handed Canal+ control of major African pay-TV brands including DStv, GOtv, and Showmax.
Following the takeover, the new owners reportedly began implementing cost-saving measures aimed at improving the company’s financial performance.
Earlier this year, Canal+ Chief Executive Officer Maxime Saada acknowledged during an investor call that Showmax had not achieved the commercial success expected of it, noting that the company would soon make a decision regarding the platform’s future.
The move to discontinue Showmax now appears to be part of those broader restructuring efforts as MultiChoice and Canal+ reposition their streaming strategy within the rapidly evolving global digital entertainment market
