MultiChoice launched Showmax in 2015 as Africa’s answer to Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+.
From the start, the platform promised a pan-African streaming service, combining local insight with global ambition.
Showmax’s Ambitious Start
For years, Showmax competed for viewers by offering both international hits and African content.
In 2024, MultiChoice partnered with NBCUniversal to relaunch the platform, leveraging Peacock’s technology.
Investments And Challenges
The companies invested over $300 million to upgrade the platform and expand its content library.
However, despite these efforts, subscriber growth fell short, and losses kept mounting, frustrating investors.
Canal+ Restructures Strategy
Last year, Canal+ acquired MultiChoice in a $3 billion deal, and now it will close Showmax.
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The company aims to cut costs and streamline operations across Africa through this move.
Earlier, Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada called Showmax “not a commercial success” and a financial burden.
Fortunately, the shutdown will not affect staff, as the takeover agreement protects employees for three years.
MultiChoice will support employees with transition arrangements and alternative options during the change.
Meanwhile, Canal+ plans to continue investing in premium content, technological innovation, and strategic partnerships.
It will shift focus to local content, sports broadcasting, and digital solutions tailored to African audiences.
Ultimately, Showmax’s rise and fall demonstrates the challenges of competing in the global streaming market.
Its story reveals how ambition, investment, and market realities collide in Africa’s fast-evolving entertainment landscape.
