StudioCanal to film biopic The Road Home about Paul Simon, Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba in Cape Town with Cynthia Erivo, Thabo Rametsi and Guy Pearce

by Thinus Ferreira

Canal+'s StudioCanal will start filming on The Road Home in June in Cape Town with Cynthia Erivo as Miriam Makeba, Thabo Rametsi as Hugh Masekela and Guy Pearce as Archbishop Trevor Huddleston.

Bill Condon is the director, with the screenplay by Michael Bronner and Zakes Mda and The Road Home's budget is roughly R300 million.

"This is a powerful story about art intersecting with activism, a friction that’s only become more complex with time. I'm honoured to be a part of this extraordinary team," says Bill Condon.

Michael Bronner was approached to write the screenplay by the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation and he did research for the script as well as in-depth interviews with Paul Simon. 

StudioCanal will distribute The Road Home in South Africa, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Benelux, Poland, Australia and New Zealand. 

"We are honoured to bring this South African story to the screen: a story of friendship and resistance, carried by the extraordinary journeys of Hugh Masekela and Trevor Huddleston, Miriam Makeba and Paul Simon,' says Anna Marsh, CEO of StudioCanal and chief content officer of Canal+.

"Our constant goal is to bring local stories to a global audience – rooted in South Africa’s identity, this story speaks far beyond its borders, showing how music can become a force for identity and change. That is also why it was essential to tell this story from within South Africa, working closely with the voices and talent that shaped it.”

Nomsa Philiso, the director of content for general entertainment, English and Portuguese-speaking at Canal+ Africa, says "MultiChoice Group has long had a strong and successful local content platform rooted in African storytelling".

"Our combination with Canal+ builds on this foundation, strengthening our scale and reach and enabling the production of ambitious films such as The Road Home."

"Through StudioCanal, we are further enhancing our ability to invest in premium content and take high‑quality African stories to global audiences, showcasing the best of the continent on the world stage."

The Road Home is set against the backdrop of Paul Simon’s 1986 album Graceland and principal photography starts in Cape Town in June.

Following exile from his native South Africa, trumpeter Hugh Masekela (Thabo Rametsi) is pulled between two worlds when the anti-Apartheid movement, led by his mentor Archbishop Trevor Huddleston (Guy Pearce), launches a boycott against Paul Simon, over his groundbreaking township music-inspired album Graceland, accusing Simon of violating the United Nation’s Cultural Boycott.  

Splitting from his mentor, Hugh Masekela – who sees their music as a powerful weapon in the struggle – joins forces with Simon and Hugh’s lifelong collaborator, Miriam ‘Mama Africa’ Makeba (Cynthia Erivo), to create the Graceland band - a super group designed to bring South Africa’s voice to the world.

The veteran music producer Hilton Rosenthal, who was instrumental in supporting Paul Simon during the making of the Graceland album, will serve as co-producer on the project with Sony Music also involved.

Hilton Rosenthal was also involved in script development and secured music rights to Paul Simon, Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba's work.

The Road Home will include new recordings from Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba’s catalogues of songs for the film’s soundtrack.

The Road Home will be produced by Laura Bickford for Laura Bickford Productions, Bronner for Smashing Dandelions, Greg Yolen for 1000 Eyes, as well as Anant Singh of VideoVision Entertainment.

"Hugh Masekela, Trevor Huddleston and Miriam Makeba were remarkable people," says Anant Singh.

"Hugh’s journey with Archbishop Huddleston was legendary, and it is thrilling to bring The Road Home to the big screen together with StudioCanal. We also wish to congratulate Canal+ on The Road Home being their first major production since the MultiChoice merger in South Africa."

M-Net and ITV Studios filming The Invisible wildlife poaching drama series in Hoedspruit based on Deon Meyer novel

Thinus Ferreira

ITV Studios is working with production company Scene23 and M-Net (DStv 101) in South Africa to produce a new drama series, The Invisible set in the Kruger National Park.

M-Net publicity gave the press release to the American trade publication Variety first and then sent the same press release to South African media to repeat the same basic information from the "exclusive" press release with nothing new.

The 8-episode The Invisible is based on Deon Meyer's novel Blood Safari and has actors Dougray Scott and Abbie Cornish in on-screen roles as well as co-executive producers, with Jozhua Malherbe as director.

The Invisible has been filming in Hoedspruit in South Africa's Limpopo province.

Deon Meyer created the TV-adaptation of his book with William Josef Schneider "taking the lead in writing the TV adaptation".

The rest of The Invisible cast includes Tim Theron, Tumisho Masha and Kim Engelbrecht.

One character is called Dekker who is a "former bodyguard with a haunted past" with no indication who this is - Dougray Scott or Tim Theron or someone else.

Then there is also an Emma character - again no indication from M-Net whether this is Abbie Cornish or Kim Engelbrecht or someone else.

Tumisho Masha obviously plays "local inspector Jack Phatudi".

According to ITV Studios and M-Net "In the shadow of South Africa’s Kruger National Park, a mysterious killer begins executing local poachers. As the body count rises, local Inspector Jack Phatudi is drawn into a dangerous manhunt to unmask the vigilante".

This "Dekker" is then hired to protect "Emma" a "South African expat who returns home to search for her brother who she believes is still alive, despite his disappearance 20 years ago. When Phatudi’s investigation collides with Emma and Dekker’s quest, they uncover a buried conspiracy reaching back to the political assassination of a pivotal African leader."

In the prepared statement first given to Variety, Deon Meyer is quoted as noting "To say I’m proud, grateful and excited about The Invisible as a TV series is a vast understatement".

"We've worked so hard for two years to put the series together, and now, it’s finally going into production with an excellent broadcast partner and executive production team, great writers, a stellar, international cast, a brilliant director and the best film crew in the world. How cool is that?"

Cobus van den Berg, Scene23 executive producer, is quoted as saying "Based on the work of acclaimed author Deoon Meyer, it’s about more than just a television series – it’s a chance to showcase our talent, our landscapes, and our storytelling on an international stage".

"We are proud to partner with BMG, M-Net and ITV Studios to bring this story to both local and international audiences."

Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice's director of content for general entertainment for English and Portuguese-speaking Africa - the new very long title following MultiChoice's takeover of Canal+ - is quoted in the media statement as saying"The Invisible is a contemporary South African retelling inspired by true events – including the mysterious plane crash that claimed former Mozambican President Samora Machel".

The part that ITV Studios contributed to the press release given to Variety first is Julie Meldal-Johnsen, ITV Studios executive vice president of global content, with this drop-in quote: "We're delighted to be partnering with M-Net, Scene23, BMG, and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), to bring this thrilling and action-packed drama to global audiences".

"The Invisible marks our first scripted project from a South African producer - hopefully the first of many."

And yet another superfluous quote - this one from Yu-Fai Suen of Berkeley Media Group, echoing what everyone already said: "We are proud and excited to be working with Abbie Cornish, Dougray Scott and a hugely talented group of creatives in South Africa on Berkeley Media’s latest international production".

"With our partners Scene23 and ITV Studios, we aim to bring alive this amazing African story to an appreciative global audience".

Blind Love and documentaries on Ernest Cole and Happy Sindane scoop top prizes at 7th Joburg Film Festival Awards

by Thinus Ferreira

Julian Chou's Blind Love won the award for Best Feature Film, while Raoul Peck was awarded with Best Documentary for his thought-provoking Ernest Cole: Lost and Found at Saturday night's 7th Joburg Film Festival.

Vusi Africa took home the prize for Best African Feature Film for his documentary Happy: The True Happy Sindane Story produced under his Trial by Media banner.

Film glitterati once again packed the Theatre on the Square in Sandton on Saturday night for this year's film awards ceremony sponsored by MultiChoice, capping a week of screenings, networking and its series of JBX Talks panel discussions that ran concurrently to the festival.

The Best Feature Film award on Saturday night went to Blind Love of Julian Chou - a touching coming-of-age story about a sensitive teenager who uncovers his mother's secret affair with a mysterious woman. 

As he grapples with his discovery, he begins to unravel the perfect facade of his seemingly happy family, with the searing film exploring themes of love, deception, and self-discovery.

Ariel Lin and Wu Ke-Xi star in this drama, which premiered in competition at Rotterdam's International Film Festival (IFFR), with Lin also executive producer.

The Best Documentary award went to this year's festival opener, Raoul Peck's searing Ernest Cole: Lost and Found, which had its African premiere at this year's festival.

The moving documentary honours the life and work of Ernest Cole, a renowned South African photographer who captured the harsh realities of Apartheid through his lens, with the feature offering an intimate look at his legacy and the enduring impact of his images.

Accepting his award, Raoul Peck said "We couldn't have a better welcome back to South Africa for Ernest Cole".

 

Happy: The True Happy Sindane Story from Vusi Africa snagged the Best African Feature Film award, with the film that explores the true story of Happy Sindane - shedding light on themes of identity, race, and the complexities of the human experience in post-apartheid South Africa.

Accepting his award, Visu Africa said "This belongs to Happy. At the time he was suffering the country kept quiet and nobody said anything to stop his despair until eventually he died a painful death".

"This is a restoration of his legacy. This is a restoration of his name. This is an affirmation that Happy lived and it's an affirmation that he walked among us." 

Vusi Africa said "we live in a crucial time where it's important to tell the South African story amidst all of these forced narratives. It's critically important that we are deliberate about funding the South African narrative".

The Best Short Film award went to the local African folklore tale Why the Cattle Wait from Phumi Morare. 

This poignant short feature delves into the complexities of unrequited love, set against the backdrop of a colourful African landscape, showcasing the emotional depth of the characters' struggles.

 

Sugar Land from Johanne Gomez Terrero, a Dominican Republic feature, won the Best Edit accolade.

This rich film follows the life of a Dominican-Haitian teenager growing up in a community surrounded by vast sugarcane fields, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the challenges faced by those on the margins of society.

  

The Jury Special Mention prize was awarded to The Shadow Scholar of Eloise King - a bold and thought-provoking film that sheds light on the often-hidden world of shadow education and exploring how it affects both students and society.

 

The Young Voices Award was presented to CheckMate. This compelling and innovative film tells the story of a group of young people navigating the complexities of modern life, identity, and the pursuit of dreams.

Aspiring filmmakers from across South Africa were invited to submit short films for the Young Voices film competition. The talented Mahatanya Mahatanya received a range of prizes, including a bursary and an internship.

Generations creator and producer Mfundi Vundla of Morula Pictures was presented with a Special Recipient award.

"I'm moved. It's not every day that you're recognised by your peers," Mfundi Vundla told TVwithThinus after the awards show. 

"I'm just over the moon. I feel vindicated in the choice's I've made."

Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice CEO of general entertainment, from the stage said "We all know that beyond this Joburg Film Festival the landscape is tough. Uncertainty lingers, yet if there's one thing this festival has shown us, it's that we are not alone. So never feel alone as a filmmaker, or an emerging filmmaker".

"The power of this community of creators, dreamers and doers remains unshaken. Over three decades MultiChoice has been deeply committed to this industry - to its storytellers, its creators and its future."

"We recognise the challenges that lay ahead but we also believe in the resilience of the talent and the innovation of the film community. Our commitment is not just to support but to collaborate, to adapt and to continue creating opportunities that help our industry."

kykNET's Old Righteous Blues chosen as South Africa's entry for the 97th Academy Awards

by Thinus Ferreira

The small-town drama around a young man's attempt to restore the once-glorious Old Righteous Blues Christmas choir band to its former stature is South Africa's official Oscars entry in the Best International Feature Film category for the 97th Academy Awards.

The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) announced that the South African Academy Awards Selection Committee chose Old Righteous Blues, set and filmed in the Western Cape province, as South Africa's official Oscars entry after an extensive judging process, which included scored reviews and in-depth deliberations.

The NFVF doesn't want to release the names of the panel of judges comprising South Africa's Academy Awards Selection Committee.

In Old Righteous Blues a young man confronts the long-standing consequences of a bitter feud started by his father two decades earlier which had split the choir in two and divided the community. 

For twenty years, street battles ensued, families were torn apart, and loyalties were tested as the two rival bands claimed ownership of the town’s Kerskoor with destructive and violent consequences.

Old Righteous Blues has already won 11 awards at the kykNET Silwerskermfees film festival, Romford Film Festival 2024 and Panther City Film Festivals. 

Some of the awards include Best Supporting Actor at the 2023 Silwerskermfees for Joshwin Dyson, Muneera Sallies snagging Best Director at the 2024 Romford Film Festival, Ayden Croy winning for Best Actor at the 2024 Romford Film Festival, and Stefan Erasmus winning the category of Best Supporting Actor at the 2024 Panther City Film Festival.

Distributed by Indigenous Film Distribution, Old Righteous Blues which was acquired by M-Net for kykNET (DStv 144) is based on an original idea by writer and producer Carol Shore.

Director Muneera Sallies says Old Righteous Blues is "an intense glimpse into the life of a young man, a family, and a community. More than that it is an intense glimpse into a journey and into the heart of brotherhood, tapping into immense stores of pain, love, dreams, and courage".

"I was drawn to this project from the very first moment I had first picked up the script. I was intrigued and captivated by the characters and their stories within this little community, so much so that I immediately decided to visit and experience the streets of Bo-Dorp Robertson."

Lebogang Mogoera, acting NFVF CEO, in a statement, says Old Righteous Blues "is a testament to the exceptional storytelling talent within South Africa".

"We are honoured to have Old Righteous Blues represent us on such a prestigious global platform, and we believe its universal themes of redemption, community, and overcoming the past will captivate audiences worldwide."

Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice CEO for general entertainment, says "Old Righteous Blues is a powerful reflection of the complex and often painful dynamics of community, legacy and redemption".

"The film's setting is truly local and the mesmeric writing offers a unique and poignant South African perspective on unity and hope amidst division".

"MultiChoice is dedicated to telling African stories – produced and told by Africans – and taking them to the rest of the world, where they stand shoulder-to-shoulder alongside other would-be Academy Award contenders."

Waldimar Pelser, M-Net channel director for premium channels, says "The world which unfolds in Old Righteous Blues is magical and unique to the rural Western Cape towns where the movie was filmed".

"The story highlights the richness of South African heritage, while also exploring universal themes of resilience and identity."

"These Christmas choir bands are vehicles for joy and hope which the film captures with grace, warmth and humour. We are thrilled for the teams involved that this beautiful movie will represent the best of South African film-making in the run-up to the Oscars in 2025."

The top 11 nominations in the Best International Feature Film category will be announced on 17 December 2024 and the final top 5 will be announced on 17 January 2025.

kykNET's Die Brug and SABC2's Takalani Sesame get 2024 International Emmy Awards nods

by Thinus Ferreira

The reality show Die Brug on kykNET as well as the educational children's show Takalani Sesame both got 2024 International Emmy nominations.

It means that South Africa got two International Emmy Awards nods this year, compared to three last year and is also kykNET's first International Emmy Awards nomination ever.

The two South African shows are part of 56 International Emmy nominees across 14 categories that are competing in the 2024 International Emmy Awards taking place on 25 November in New York.

South Africa's two nominees are part of this year's nominees coming from Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Thailand, Türkiye and the United Kingdom.

"Every year the international television community competes to be recognized on the International Emmys' much-coveted global stage," says Bruce L. Paisner, International Academy president and CEO, in a statement.

"We congratulate the nominees for their outstanding programs and performances, they are once again a testament to the universal appeal of great storytelling across all genres, countries and cultures."

Die Brug, produced by Red Pepper Pictures for M-Net's kykNET (DStv 144) channel on MultiChoice's DStv has been renewed for a second season and is a nominee in the category for Best non-scripted entertainment.

Die Brug, produced by Frederick Louw and Lindi Lucouw, is also a contender in the Best International format category for this year's 18th South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) organised by the National Film and Television Foundation (NFVF) taking place in October in Johannesburg.

In its International Emmy Awards category Die Brug is up against Me Caigo De Risa [Anything Goes] from TelevisaUnivision in Mexico, Restaurant Misverstand [The Restaurant That Makes Mistakes] from Roses Are Blue in Belgium, as well as The Summit from Endemol Shine Australia in Australia.

"Die Brug is a very special format and somewhat of an enigma to produce,” says Cecil Barry, CEO of Red Pepper.

"Working with kykNET on this wonderful format was indeed a great adventure and privilege. We are proud and excited about this Emmy nomination, especially because it brings international recognition to kykNET and Red Pepper."

Waldimar Pelser, M-Net director of premium channels, says "When Marguerite Albrecht, one of the commissioning producers at kykNET, suggested in May 2022 that kykNET adapt the international format Die Brug for our viewers, we knew something exciting was coming".

"The end product, produced by Red Pepper, provided our viewers with immense enjoyment. To receive international recognition for an Afrikaans production filmed near the picturesque Swellendam in the Southern Cape is immensely gratifying. And the second season will be airing on kykNET next year."

Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice CEO for general entertainment, says "Die Brug is one of those rare reality shows that come along from time to time that turn the genre on its head".

"We’re proud to have been able to adapt a top-notch international format for our local market – and produce such an amazing local version. Congratulations to our talented crew on bringing a uniquely South African flavour to Die Brug, which stands comfortably alongside versions produced anywhere else in the world."

The first season of Die Brug is currently available on MultiChoice's Showmax streamer.

Takalani Sesame which was also a nominee in the 2023 International Emmy Awards is again a nominee in the Kids: factual category.

Takalani Sesame on the South African public broadcaster's SABC2 and produced by the Sesame Workshop and Ochre Moving Pictures, is nominated for its Takalani Sesame Big Feelings special.

In the category, Takalani Sesame competes against De Mensenbieb [Living Library] from Skyhigh TV in the Netherlands, La Vida Secreta de tu Mente [The Secret Life of Your Mind] from Warner Bros. Discovery in Mexico, as well as My Life: Eva's Having a Ball from Fresh Start Media in the United Kingdom.

Incest and filicide: Inside Queen Modjadji's shocking debut episode decisions.

by Thinus Ferreira

In Queen Modjadi's first episode, a flawed king suspects his sons of plotting to kill him (he's right!), murders all 10 of them, and then has sex with his daughter - hoping for her to get pregnant with a daughter to fulfil a prophecy to appease the ancestors and raingods.

While first episodes of new TV series are usually scene-setting, forced to use the time to do basic character introductions and the setting setting for the audience before the plot starts, Rhythm World Productions on Sunday night disposed of the normal pleasantries and instantly went on a very bloody killing spree in Queen Modjadji.

Multiple just-established characters were brutally killed off during the first episode on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) on Sunday night, with several others in grave jeopardy, and some forced to flee from a crazy king.

While blood flowed, a daughter bared a boy instead of a daughter after having forced sex with her father the king, while the remaining tribe members wondered who else would live and who would die as they tried to stay alive in their drought-ravaged village.

For MultiChoice, M-Net's Mzansi Magic channel which is following up Shaka iLembe with Queen Modjadji, and for Rhythm World Productions, the scene-setting and jarring story is a calculated risk but one that they deem necessary to be authentic to the origin legend of the rain queen.

Although gruesome initially, MultiChoice and the producers took great pains not to be exploitative, to offend, or to drive away Sunday night DStv subscribers with lurid sex scenes and explicit murder and violence.

"We're in 2024. It's important for us to tell the Queen Modjadji story, as hard as it is, very, very respectfully," Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice CEO for general entertainment, told me in a sit-down interview.

"You'll see the scenes around the conception hut - the way that it is done - it's almost sacrosanct. They are preparing her. They are doing it in a way that is very respectful. You will not see any sex scenes, for instance. We do understand that certain things are spoken of. So how do you still tell the story but respectfully?"

"Of course we thought the incest storyline is going to be 'wow, wow, wow' with viewers but we cannot walk away from it because that is the genesis of Queen Modjadji. It's the story," she said.

"Queen Modjadji is the right thing to do for MultiChoice; the right TV project. If we say we are truly going to tell our own stories, we should not just be telling the easy ones."

Gersh Kgamedi, Queen Modjadji's creative producer, told me the biggest challenge right off the bat for MultiChoice and Rhythm World Productions "was how do you present the taboo of a father sleeping with a daughter, and how do we treat and approach that respectfully."

"For us that was the biggest, biggest challenge of the entire story. One misstep could have changed the story entirely."

The king's killing of his sons "is based on real events," Gersh Kgamedi explains.

"What we've done is mixed true events with partly fiction. The killing of the sons is important because that is the culmination of ultimately changing the kingdom from a kingdom to a queendom, so the sons had to be get rid of as well."

ALSO READ: Court dismisses Balobedu Royal Council's urgent interdict to prevent MultiChoice and M-Net's Queen Modjadji drama series from starting Sunday on Mzansi Magic.

ALSO READ: M-Net's Queen Modjadji for Mzansi Magic - first offered to SABC multiple times - starts filming in secret location.

Former MultiChoice, M-Net and Netflix exec Nkateko Mabaso dead at 43.

by Thinus Ferreira

The former MultiChoice, M-Net and Netflix Africa executive Nkateko Mabaso has died. He was 43. The cause of his death is not yet known.

Nkateko Mabaso leaves behind his wife Mathapelo, his son Tshimologo and his parents Xithlangoma Bob and Lizzy Mabaso.

According to insiders Nkateko Mabaso had been ill for a few months but recovered. Insiders say he collapsed at home yesterday and was rushed to hospital but didn't make it.

Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice South Africa CEO for general entertainment who replaced Nkateko Mabaso after his MultiChoice exit to Netflix, said "It is with great sadness that I share the news of Nkateko Mabaso's passing".

"Nkateko, fondly known to most as NK, was a maverick within the M-Net world where he held various roles and was instrumental in the implementation and growth of our mass and middle market propositions with the flagship being the iconic Mzansi Magic."

"We will always remember NK, he left an indelible mark with his work on iconic productions such as Isibaya, The Queen and events such as the Channel O Awards, DMVCAs and a whole host of others. May his family, friends and colleagues find comfort during this very difficult time."

Nkateko Mabaso who had travelled extensively through Africa, Europe and the United States attended the Naspers' Leadership Accelerator programme in Amsterdam - a city he would return to years later to work in as a Netflix executive.

He received several awards including one of the Top 40 Under 40 by Destiny Magazine in 2016 as well as being named in Mail and Guardian's Top 200 Young South Africans in the media category in 2013.

After graduating from the AAA School of Advertising, he also earned his MBA at Henley Business School and worked for Grey Advertising.

Nkateko Mabaso joined M-Net in 2010 as the marketing manager for the Vuzu and Channel O channels and was M-Net's general manager for local entertainment channels in 2013 before later moving to the director position in 2014 for M-Net's local interest channels, as well as group general manager for M-Net South Africa in 2016.

In October 2018 he became the permanent M-Net CEO after he was acting M-Net CEO since February 2018.

Two years later he was promoted to MultiChoice's group executive in charge of programming in October 2020 overseeing content commissioning for the wider MultiChoice Group. He only worked in the position for a year until he resigned.

He jumped to Netflix where he was appointed as Netflix director of licensing and co-productions for Africa. He was in Amsterdam in this position for a year and five months, after which he quietly exited and returned to South Africa.

Since June 2023 Nkateko Mabaso was self-employed, working in content curation and distribution. 

He popped up publicly at the South African public broadcaster's SABC Video Entertainment Content Fest 2024 programming upfront three months ago in March in Johannesburg, where he was a guest.

MultiChoice and Paramount to make its Paramount+ streamer available as a 'destination area' in South Africa on Showmax.

by Thinus Ferreira

MultiChoice in an agreement with Paramount Global is finally bringing its Paramount+ video streaming to South Africa but not as a streaming app and instead a "branded destination" as part of a licensing deal.

Paramount has been late to South Africa's video streaming party where MultiChoice just relaunched its own Showmax streaming service which is competing with the likes of Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, as well as services like SABC+, eVOD, BritBox and VIU.

Paramount+ content like the science fiction drama series Halo has so far resided on Showmax since Paramount+ didn't exist in the territory.

According to MultiChoice, Paramount+ is essentially a tile on the carousel within Showmax. To get to Paramount+, Showmax subscribers will have to open Showmax, scroll all the way to the bottom where there is a row of content offered by studio, for instance Warner Bros Discovery, NBCUniversal and others. Paramount+ will now have a space here.

Paramount says the Paramount+ "branded destination" is part of its strategy to expand Paramount+ in "more ways around the world, including making it available as a direct-to-consumer streaming service, through bundled partnerships in key markets as well as through branded destinations in local markets through licensing deals".

South Africa is now getting Paramount+ as a "branded area" as part of a licensing deal, with Paramount calling this branded destination "the debut of the Paramount+ brand in pan-Africa".

Paramount says DStv subscribers will "have access to world-class content from CBS, Paramount+ Originals, Showtime, Paramount Pictures, and they will find iconic films and hit television series such as Yellowstone, 1883, 1923, Poker Face, Special Ops: Lioness, Lawmen: Bass Reeves and upcoming new series Landman as well as returning series like Survivor".

Lisa Kramer, president for international content licensing at Paramount Global content distribution, in a statement says "The expansion of our long-standing relationship with MultiChoice from a traditional licensing deal to a fully dedicated, Paramount+ branded destination on the platform is a testament to the tremendous effort of Paramount Global to continue to build the offering from multiple content pillars".

"Consumers in the growing African market already equate Paramount with quality entertainment and we're thrilled to now offer them a devoted space in which they can both access their favourite programming and discover new hit titles."

Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice SA CEO for general entertainment, says "MultiChoice is excited to expand our partnership with Paramount Global to bring the Paramount+ brand to African audiences through our platform".

"This agreement reflects our commitment to providing our viewers with world-class entertainment options and expands our offering with iconic content. We are proud to offer African viewers direct access to a dedicated space where they can enjoy their favourite programming and discover new hit titles, further enriching their entertainment experience."

MultiChoice and M-Net's Mzansi Magic bringing rainmaker legend Queen Modjadji to life in new Rhythm World Productions drama series.

by Thinus Ferreira 

After its first epic historical series Shaka Ilembe, MultiChoice and M-Net is following it up with Queen Modjadji for Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) in a drama inspired by the Balobedu legend of rainmaker Queen Modjadji whose bloodline has ruled Southern Africa's Lobedu clan for centuries.

Produced by Rhythm World Productions and Duma Ndlovu, Queen Modjadji will tell the "story of a matriarchal dynasty, whose ability to transform the clouds and summon the rain has earned the Balobedu royalty a place among the most revered of African dynasties," Mzansi Magic says. 

 Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice CEO for general entertainment, says "Bringing Queen Modjadji to our audiences meets their desire for television entertainment drawn from our heritage and it also flows seamlessly into our plans to create a catalogue of drama series made in African languages". 

 "Queen Modjaji comes hot off the trail of Shaka Ilembe which was a global phenomenon and very much an expression of the MultiChoice strategy to drive home-grown, authentic African storytelling," she says. 

According to MultiChoice production on Queen Modjadji is "already well underway and the team behind the title has been researching and consulting with key stakeholders, tribal leaders and academic experts".

Scripting and casting for Queen Modjadji is nearing completion and principal photography will be starting soon.

Duma Ndlovu says "The earth, the elements, and the energy of humans connect in ways that are both physical and spiritual, both obvious and unseen. Queen Modjadji was a living embodiment of this, and so we will explore what this royal title, and the women who've held it, have lived, sacrificed, lost, and achieved".

"At the same time, we want to be very entertaining – with a strong episodic storyline and historical detail set under unpredictable skies, where rain or storm, echoes what is happening in the lives of those below."

Mickey remains on MultiChoice as Disney extends channels carriage deal with DStv to 2027.

by Thinus Ferreira

Mickey will remain on MultiChoice with Africa's largest pay-TV operator that has signed a new channels carriage agreement with The Walt Disney Company for its collection of TV channels to remain on DStv until 2027.

The new deal between MultiChoice and the Mouse House ensures that channels like The Disney Channel (DStv 303), Disney Junior (DStv 309), National Geographic (DStv 181), Nat Geo Wild (DStv 182), ESPN and ESPN will remain available to DStv subscribers for another four years. 

According to MultiChoice and Disney, National Geographic will remain available to DStv Family subscribers and up, Nat Geo Wild will be accessible to DStv Access subscribers and up, The Disney Channel will be for DStv Compact and up, while Disney Junior will be for DStv Access subscribers and up.

The sports channels ESPN (DStv 218) will be for DStv Access and up while ESPN2 (DStv 219) is for DStv Compact subscribers and up.

"This distribution renewal ensures that we will be able to continue bringing our six 24-hour channels to audiences across the continent and marks another proud milestone in our long-term relationship with the MultiChoice Group," says Christine Service, senior vice president and general manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa.

"With a strong foundation of creativity, story-telling, exploration and multi-generational emotional connection, we are proud to continue offering DStv viewers the very latest from our high-quality, premium kids, factual and sports content."

Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice South Africa CEO for general entertainment, says "Championing our mission to enrich lives and elevate entertainment experiences, we're thrilled to ensure our customers can savour their favourite shows and movies effortlessly, anytime, anywhere, thanks to our state-of-the-art platforms".

"Extending our partnership with The Walt Disney Company and the incredible linear channels on DStv elevate our offering and amplify the joy of entertainment!"

M-Net’s Recipes for Love and Murder renewed for second season.

by Thinus Ferreira

The murder mystery series Recipes for Love and Murder on M-Net (DStv 101) has been renewed for a second season which will start filming in April 2024.

Recipes for Love and Murder - a co-production between M-Net, Acorn TV and production company Both Worlds Pictures - will have a second season of eight episodes, bringing the total number of the series to 18 episodes. 

The first season with director Christiaan Olwagen was broadcast on M-Net in March 2022.

Recipes for Love and Murder is based on the novel Recipes for Love and Murder: A Tannie Maria Mystery of the South African author Sally Andrew with the culinary murder mystery that revolves around Maria Purvis (Doyle Kennedy) who is a recipe advice columnist for a small town newspaper.

"Recipes for Love and Murder has since its global distribution once again proven the appetite for our stories told through authenticity by Africa’s most-loved storytellers," says Nomsa Philiso, general entertainment CEO at the MultiChoice Group in a press release that was issued globally but not to South African media.

"We look forward to building on the success of this title through our international partnerships."

Catherine Mackin, managing director of Acorn Media Enterprises on behalf of Acorn TV, says "We are delighted to welcome our audiences back to the beautiful region of the Karoo in South Africa and the exciting but often dangerous world of Tannie Maria, led by the incomparable Maria Doyle Kennedy".

"There are still many investigations with shocking twists and turns to uncover, and with Tannie Maria leading the charge, justice is surely a small discovery of detail away."

Thierry Cassuto, Both Worlds Pictures managing director, says "We're overjoyed to announce the renewal of our beloved Recipes for Love and Murder for another season".

"This achievement is a testament to the dedication and talent of our creative team. To our partners, your support has been invaluable. To our fans, your love for the show has been the ultimate reward. And to Maria, we can't wait to have you back in South Africa and to cook up more magic together."

Veteran Carte Blanche anchor Derek Watts dead at 74 after losing his battle against cancer.

by Thinus Ferreira

The veteran anchor of Carte Blanche on M-Net (DStv 101), Derek Watts died Tuesday morning surrounded by his family after losing his battle against cancer. He was 74.

Derek Watts who was born on 24 November 1948 died on Tuesday morning after he was diagnosed with skin cancer last year which had since spread to his lungs. He is survived by his wife Belinda and his children Tyrone and Kirsty.

Derek Watts was part of the Combined Artistic Productions show since its inception in 1988 on M-Net and over decades became one of the country's most respected interviewers and investigative journalists. 

I'm told Sunday night's episode of Carte Blanche will be dedicated to Derek Watts.

After initially saying that he planned to return to Carte Blanche when he was feeling better when he told viewers about his cancer diagnosis, last month Derek Watts said that he will never be returning to Carte Blanche again.

His daughter Kirsty said "we are devastated, he was the most wonderful person we knew".

"He always thought of other people and yesterday evening he said he would like to thank all the viewers. He appreciated him and loved his work."

After privately battling cancer since 2022, with the support of his family and specialists, Derek Watts was able to continue presenting Carte Blanche.

In March however, he got a sepsis infection which complicated his cancer treatment. The sepsis led him to collapse and he ended up in hospital having to learn to walk again.

In June, Derek Watts made a taped recording from his Netcare hospital bed in which he revealed his cancer battle to Carte Blanche viewers for the first time and noted that he definitely planned to return to the show when he's better.

In a statement, Combined Artistic Productions says "It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of Carte Blanche anchor and icon, Derek Watts. He passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning surrounded by loved ones".

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife and children in this time of loss. He will forever hold a special place in the hearts and minds of his Carte Blanche family."

In a statement, Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice CEO for general entertainment, says "MultiChoice extends its heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and loved ones of the late, Derek Watts".

"We remember him as a dedicated investigative journalist and a longstanding presenter of Carte Blanche. His unwavering commitment to his work and his determination in the face of challenges were truly remarkable."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. May they find solace in the cherished memories they shared and may Derek's legacy continue to inspire us all."

ALSO READ: Carte Blanche anchor and 'patriarch' Derek Watts reveals cancer fight.

ALSO READ: Derek Watts: Done with M-Net's Carte Blanche and focused on cancer treatment.

Big Brother Naija already secured for a 9th season in 2024 as part of MultiChoice and M-Net's 2-season renewal with Banijay Rights.

by Thinus Ferreira

MultiChoice has picked up Big Brother Naija for two seasons, meaning that the Nigerian version shown across sub-Saharan Africa on DStv and its streaming service Showmax has essentially already been "renewed" for a 9th season in 2024.

The 8th season of Big Brother Nigeria, entitled Big Brother Naija: All Stars started on Sunday night on DStv and Showmax but before its debut, MultiChoice and M-Net have already signed for this 8th season as part of a two-season rights pick-up from Banijay Rights. 

Big Brother Naija: All Stars is produced by Red Pepper Pictures.

MultiChoice and M-Net's two-season pick-up marks their first two-season acquisition of the Big Brother format, meaning that another season which will be Big Brother Naija's 9th season, will definitely be happening in 2024. 

"Big Brother has earned the right to be called the most-watched, and followed, show across Africa," says Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice CEO for general entertainment, in a statement. 

"For us at MultiChoice, it aligns with our commitment to delight and entertain our viewers across the continent. This two-year partnership with Banijay ensures continuity and an uninterrupted delivery of Big Brother, which fans and our viewers are always eager to tune in to watch." 

Robin Pollok, vice president of sales for the Africa, Middle East, Greece & Israel region at Banijay Rights, says "After the recent finale of Big Brother: Titans, which notably featured contestants from both South Africa and Nigeria, this follows on as a fantastic double pick-up from M-Net". 

"Big Brother is a show that's consistently generated incredible ratings and entertainment value and we're delighted to be working once again with our Nigerian broadcast and production partners."

To date, Big Brother has had 66 adaptations, broadcast across 72 countries, with over 520 seasons and 35 000 episodes. Last year there were 33 versions of Big Brother done, shown across 26 markets. 

Big Brother Naija: All Stars will be shown for 24 hours a day on the Big Brother Naija pop-up channel on DStv channel 198, with various weekly highlight programmes on the Africa Magic Urban (DStv 153), Africa Magic Family (DStv 154) channel.

Big Brother Naija: All Stars is running for 10 weeks (70 days) until 1 October which is Nigeria's Independence Day, featuring returning contestants chosen from across season three's "Double Wahala" to season 7's "Level Up", with Ebuka Obi-Uchendu who is back as the host of the show.

ALSO READ: MultiChoice's Big Brother Naija: All Stars to run for 70 days on DStv from 23 July as entire season will also live-stream on Showmax.