South African television audiences are entering an exciting new era. French media giant Canal+ has taken over MultiChoice Group, giving DStv subscribers access to more entertainment than ever before. Expect blockbuster movies, world-class series, and a wider range of African-language programming. This partnership combines the strengths of two leading media companies to transform how South Africans experience TV.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!A New Chapter for MultiChoice and DStv
Canal+, one of Europe’s top media companies, officially gained control of MultiChoice Group on 22 September 2025 after it met the last regulatory conditions of its takeover. The deal valued MultiChoice at R55 billion and gave Canal+ ownership of nearly 50% of the broadcaster’s shares.
For South Africans, this deal means more content choices, better streaming, and access to one of the world’s largest entertainment libraries. David Mignot, Canal+ CEO for Africa, confirmed that DStv customers will gain a “fantastic competitive advantage” with the combined catalogue of shows, films, and original productions.
A Massive Library of Content
DStv subscribers will enjoy the sheer size of Canal+’s library. The French company holds the largest collection of European content and licenses thousands of American movies and series. Mignot revealed that Canal+ offers 9,000 movies alone, alongside thousands of hours of TV shows.
MultiChoice produces over 6,000 hours of local African content each year in various languages. Canal+ adds around 4,000 hours of African content annually in up to 15 languages. Together, they will provide about 10,000 hours of new content annually in 20 to 35 languages.
This combined effort could create more than 100,000 hours of programming over the next decade. For viewers, that means far greater diversity in genres, languages, and storytelling styles.
More African-Language and Local Content
The Canal+/MultiChoice partnership will greatly expand African content. The companies plan to dub and subtitle more local stories to make them accessible to audiences across the continent. South African viewers will see more shows in their home languages and discover fresh content from other African countries.
From sports documentaries to telenovelas and family-friendly programming, this strategy keeps DStv competitive and culturally relevant while uplifting African creators.
Streamlined Streaming Services
Streaming will also change. Canal+ is reviewing the future of its three separate over-the-top (OTT) services – Showmax, DStv Stream, and its own Canal+ OTT platform. A more unified platform could emerge, giving South Africans an easier way to watch all their favourite shows and movies without switching between apps.
Leadership Changes to Drive Growth
With new ownership comes new leadership. Canal+ replaced MultiChoice Group CEO Calvo Mawela and CFO Tim Jacobs with its own executives. Both remain in senior roles within the combined group to help ensure stability during the transition.
David Mignot now leads Canal+ Africa as CEO, overseeing the MultiChoice Group’s operations, while Nicolas Dandoy serves as CFO. Byron du Plessis, previously CEO of MultiChoice South Africa, continues as CEO of PayTV South Africa.
Canal+ CEO and chair Maxime Saada has also become chair of MultiChoice Group. A refreshed board, made up of independent directors and Canal+ appointees, will guide innovation and sustainable growth.
Also check: Meet the New CEO Running DStv
What This Means for DStv Subscribers
For South African households, these changes promise a more competitive, affordable, and exciting DStv. Subscribers can expect:
- Expanded content choices: More movies, series, and sports coverage from local and international markets.
- More languages and accessibility: Dubbed and subtitled shows to suit South Africa’s diverse audience.
- Stronger African storytelling: Increased investment in African productions and local talent.
- Better streaming experiences: A potential consolidation of streaming services into a single, user-friendly platform.
By joining forces, MultiChoice and Canal+ aim to compete with global giants like Netflix and Disney+ while creating a uniquely African entertainment powerhouse.
Why This Matters for South Africa
DStv has been part of South African life for decades. This new phase reflects a trend of international media companies investing in African markets and recognising the continent’s creative potential. With Canal+’s resources and MultiChoice’s local expertise, South Africa can become a leader in content creation and distribution across the continent.
This partnership also creates more opportunities for local filmmakers, actors, and production crews. As demand for high-quality African content grows, more South African stories will reach global audiences.
Read more: DStv Announces Exciting New Updates for South African Viewers
The Bottom Line
DStv subscribers in South Africa are about to experience one of the biggest shake-ups in the country’s entertainment landscape. With Canal+ at the helm, the promise of more content, improved services, and a stronger focus on African stories is becoming a reality.
Whether you’re a sports fan, a movie buff, or a parent looking for quality children’s programming, the future of DStv looks brighter and fuller than ever before.
