Showmax shuts down: MultiChoice ends streaming service amid billion-rand losses

MultiChoice has announced the closure of its Showmax video streaming service, ending an 11-year run that began in 2015. The decision comes after French broadcaster Canal+ acquired MultiChoice in September 2025 and reviewed the financial viability of the platform.

The closure reflects unsustainable annual losses, with MultiChoice reporting over R3 billion invested in Showmax in recent years. Despite the shutdown, the company has assured subscribers that streaming will continue temporarily while a smooth transition plan is rolled out.

Why Showmax Is Being Closed

In a statement, MultiChoice said the move is part of a broader focus on financial discipline and investment optimization. Showmax’s losses have proved unsustainable in the increasingly competitive global streaming environment, which includes rivals like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video.

“This decision reflects our focus on building a sustainable, competitive business for the long term,” the company stated, emphasising that no job losses would result from the closure.

Canal+ Strategy: Creating a Super App

Since acquiring MultiChoice, Canal+ has been exploring ways to consolidate video streaming services across its African operations. The group intends to merge various platforms into a single “super app”, combining DStv, GOtv, and other on-demand services for a more efficient, all-in-one offering.

The plan aligns with global streaming trends, aiming to compete effectively against international giants while providing a seamless experience for African consumers.

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Showmax Investment History

Showmax was relaunched in February 2024 with technology from NBCUniversal’s Peacock, backed by a 70%-30% joint venture between MultiChoice and NBCUniversal. MultiChoice and NBC invested over R3 billion in the platform to maintain its position as Africa’s largest streaming service.

Between April and September 2024, MultiChoice and NBC provided an additional $145 million (R2.6 billion) in equity funding, showing the significant capital commitment behind Showmax’s growth.

What Subscribers Should Know

MultiChoice confirmed that there will be no immediate interruption to the service. Subscribers can continue streaming while the company develops a transition plan to integrate content and services into its future platforms.

The company assured its audience that no action is required at this time, and communication regarding the new offerings will be shared in due course.

Implications for the African Streaming Market

The closure of Showmax underscores the challenges of sustaining large-scale streaming platforms in Africa, where infrastructure, content costs, and international competition create high financial pressure.

Industry experts predict that the move will accelerate consolidation, with more African viewers likely migrating to super app ecosystems or international streaming platforms.

FAQ

Q1: Why is Showmax shutting down?
A1: MultiChoice decided to close Showmax due to unsustainable annual losses exceeding R3 billion and increasing competition from global streaming services.

Q2: Who owns Showmax?
A2: Showmax is owned through a joint venture: 70% by MultiChoice and 30% by NBCUniversal, powered by Peacock technology.

Q3: Will Showmax subscribers lose access immediately?
A3: No. MultiChoice confirmed there will be no immediate interruption, and subscribers can continue streaming while a transition plan is developed.

Q4: How does Canal+ plan to replace Showmax?
A4: Canal+ plans to create a one-stop super app, integrating DStv, GOtv, and other streaming services into a unified platform for African and international consumers.

Q5: Will there be job losses due to the closure?
A5: MultiChoice has assured that no retrenchments will occur as part of the Showmax shutdown.

Q6: How much has been invested in Showmax?
A6: Over R3 billion has been invested in Showmax since its 2015 launch, with additional $145 million in equity funding from April to September 2024.

Q7: What does the Showmax closure mean for African streaming competition?
A7: The closure may consolidate African streaming platforms, pushing viewers toward super apps and increasing competition among international services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video.

Q8: Can I continue to use Showmax after the announcement?
A8: Yes, subscribers can continue streaming while MultiChoice plans a smooth transition to its new integrated platform.

Q9: When will Showmax officially close?
A9: The company has not announced a specific shutdown date but confirmed that a phase-out will occur as the super app strategy rolls out.