Showmax subscribers across Africa received a surprising update on Thursday morning, 5 March 2026. MultiChoice sent out an official notice confirming the discontinuation of its streaming service.

The decision marks the end of an 11-year journey for the platform.

A Strategic Shift

The MultiChoice Board decided to shut down the service following a comprehensive review of its operations. The company stated that the move is part of a plan to strengthen its digital offering.

It also aims to ensure long-term sustainability in a market that has become increasingly competitive.

While the closure is confirmed, subscribers do not need to worry just yet. MultiChoice has clarified that there will be no immediate interruption to the service. Users can continue streaming their favourite shows as usual for the time being.

"This decision reflects our focus on strengthening our overall digital offering and ensuring long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive streaming environment."

The Financial Reality

Showmax launched in August 2015. It was designed to be Africa’s answer to global giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Over the years, it became a significant player in the African entertainment industry.

However, staying competitive required a massive investment. In 2024, MultiChoice partnered with US-based NBCUniversal to inject $309 million in equity funding into a full relaunch of the service.

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Despite this gamble, the financial results were disappointing.

The platform saw a significant decline in revenue. Trading losses reached a staggering 88%. Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada did not hold back when discussing the platform’s performance, describing it as not a commercial success and stating its failure was quite obvious.

Cost-Cutting Measures

The shutdown comes as Canal+ moves forward with its takeover of MultiChoice. The group is targeting 400 million euros in cost-cutting by the year 2030. In this climate, Showmax could no longer justify its high operating costs.

What Happens Next?

There is some good news for those working behind the scenes. Under the terms of the Canal+ deal, no staff members will be retrenched. Instead, Showmax employees will be reassigned to other roles within the group.

MultiChoice has promised to provide subscribers with clear timelines and future steps well in advance of the final shutdown. For now, the homegrown streaming pioneer is preparing for its final act.