The Impact of Showmax’s Closure on South Africa’s Film and Television Industry

The planned closure of Showmax, following the acquisition of MultiChoice by French media giant Canal+, is set to have profound effects on South Africa’s film and television industry. For local creatives, Showmax represented more than just a streaming platform – it was a space that allowed experimentation and career growth. Industry experts like Thinus Ferreira and Jack Devnarain warn that the platform’s disappearance will remove a vital source of funding and opportunities for actors, writers, directors, and production crews, who largely work on a freelance basis. Ferreira explains that Canal+’s focus on cost-cutting and global expansion means that expensive, experimental projects are unlikely to continue under the new ownership. Devnarain describes this dynamic as a form of modern media colonialism, with African markets treated primarily as revenue sources rather than cultural partners. He also stresses that South Africa’s lack of regulation and delayed copyright reforms have left local creatives vulnerable, enabling global corporations to control cultural content with minimal accountability. With other local broadcasters reducing production and only Netflix maintaining some investment in African content, the industry faces increasing dependence on foreign decision-makers. Both experts emphasise that building a properly regulated industry is essential to safeguard South African storytelling and ensure future creative growth.