DStv is about to lose popular channels — Here’s the full list

DStv subscribers in South Africa are facing significant changes to their channel line-up as MultiChoice confirms the shutdown of several popular networks. At the start of 2026, four channels from Paramount Africa and CBS AMC will go off-air, while an additional twelve Warner Bros. Discovery channels are currently at risk due to stalled negotiations.

Confirmed Channel Closures

MultiChoice announced that BET Africa and MTV Base, both operated by Paramount Africa, will officially cease broadcasting on DStv and GOtv at 09:00 on 1 January 2026. Despite the closures, viewers will still have access to other Paramount channels, including Nickelodeon, Nick Jr., NickToons, Comedy Central, and MTV.

Meanwhile, CBS AMC Networks will retire CBS Reality and CBS Justice on 31 December 2025. MultiChoice thanked both Paramount and CBS for their ongoing partnerships while confirming the shutdown dates.

Warner Bros. Discovery Channels in Jeopardy

The situation is more uncertain with Warner Bros. Discovery. MultiChoice revealed that negotiations to renew their distribution agreement with the media giant have hit a deadlock. The current contract also expires on 31 December 2025, leaving the fate of several channels hanging.

The twelve Warner Bros. Discovery networks currently at risk include:

• Discovery

• CNN

  
  
  

• TLC

• Discovery Family

• Real Time

• TNT Africa

• Food Network

  
  
  

• HGTV

• Investigation Discovery

• Cartoon Network

• Cartoonito

  
  
  

• Travel Channel

It is not yet clear whether HBO content on DStv is affected by the stalled talks. MultiChoice stated that discussions are ongoing but no resolution has been reached so far.

“If no agreement is reached, some Warner Bros. Discovery channels may no longer be available on DStv from 1 January 2026,” the company warned.

Acquisition Rumors and Global Shakeups

The uncertainty coincides with ongoing interest in Warner Bros. Discovery from several global players, including Paramount, Skydance, Comcast, and Netflix. A recent report suggested that Netflix’s potential acquisition could face regulatory scrutiny due to antitrust concerns in the United States.

Warner Bros. Discovery is reportedly asking potential buyers to submit revised offers after an initial bidding round. Comcast and Netflix are said to be most interested in the company’s film and TV libraries, which include iconic titles such as The Sopranos, Bugs Bunny, and DC properties. Paramount, however, is reportedly considering a full acquisition, including cable channels like TNT and Cartoon Network.

Major Warner Bros. assets include Warner Bros. Entertainment, DC Studios, Turner Classic Movies, Cartoon Network, Discovery Kids, and HBO. HBO, a longtime DStv partner, hosts globally popular franchises including Game of Thrones, The Wire, The Sopranos, Sex and the City, Veep, and The Last of Us.

What This Means for Viewers

Even if MultiChoice and Warner Bros. Discovery reach a last-minute agreement, any acquisition could still disrupt South Africa’s television landscape. Viewers may see channels move, merge, or be replaced depending on how negotiations and corporate restructuring unfold.

For now, DStv customers should prepare for the confirmed shutdowns on 31 December and 1 January, while monitoring news for updates on Warner Bros. Discovery channels.

FAQ

Q: Which channels will DStv shut down at the end of 2025?
A: BET Africa, MTV Base, CBS Reality, and CBS Justice.

Q: Which Warner Bros. Discovery channels are at risk?
A: Discovery, CNN, TLC, Discovery Family, Real Time, TNT Africa, Food Network, HGTV, Investigation Discovery, Cartoon Network, Cartoonito, and Travel Channel.

Q: Why are these channels at risk?
A: MultiChoice and Warner Bros. Discovery have not reached a renewal agreement, which expires 31 December 2025.

Q: Will HBO content also be affected?
A: It is currently unclear whether HBO programming on DStv will be impacted.

Q: How could Warner Bros. Discovery acquisitions affect viewers?
A: If a sale goes through, it could result in further channel disruptions, content shifts, or changes to subscription packages.