MultiChoice has confirmed that four channels on its DStv platform will cease broadcasting on September 16, 2026, at 23:59 South African Standard Time. The affected channels are M-Net Movies 1, kykNET Lekker, Mzansi Bioskop, and Mzansi Music, primarily serving viewers in South Africa. This move is part of a broader restructuring of the pay-TV operator's channel portfolio in response to changing subscriber viewing habits.
The shutdown follows a pattern of channel removals that began earlier in 2026, bringing the total number of DStv channels discontinued this year to 11. MultiChoice stated that content currently available on these four channels will continue to be accessible through other DStv channels after the closure, ensuring subscribers retain access to similar programming.
MultiChoice Streamlines Portfolio to Meet Viewer Preferences
A spokesperson for MultiChoice SA LicenceCo confirmed the closures, explaining that the company is streamlining its portfolio to align with shifts in how subscribers consume television content. Rather than spreading similar content across multiple channels, MultiChoice intends to consolidate around fewer, stronger channels that are easier for viewers to navigate. This strategy aims to enhance the overall viewing experience while reducing redundancy in the channel lineup.
The decision reflects a broader industry trend where pay-TV operators are adapting to increased competition from streaming platforms. By focusing on a more curated channel selection, MultiChoice hopes to retain existing subscribers and attract new ones who value simplicity and quality over quantity.
2026 DStv Channel Shutdowns Reach 11
Earlier in 2026, DStv removed BET Africa, CBS Reality, CBS Justice, and MTV Base after their owner, Paramount, announced it was winding down linear television operations across Africa. Additionally, Tlnovelas was pulled from channel 131 at the end of January 2026, though it was later replaced by Novelas+, which launched on July 1, 2026, and is available on DStv Access, Family, Compact, Compact Plus, and Premium packages.
Below is the full list of channels removed from DStv in 2025, as reported by Legit.ng, which provides context to the ongoing changes:
- Channel 446 - Deutsche Welle
- Channel 390 - Emmanuel TV
- Channel 264 - 1Free State TV
- Channel 266 - NWTV
- Channel 451 - B4U Movies
- Channel 180 - People's Weather
- Channel 127 - GinX eSports
- Channel 119 - 1Magic
- Channel 115 - ΜΕ
- Channel 183 - Wild Earth
- Channel 153 - Africa Magic Urban
- Channel 313 - PBS Kids
These removals are part of a wider effort by MultiChoice to align its DStv product with evolving viewer habits, reducing the number of channels that carry overlapping content. The latest round of closures underscores the company's commitment to a leaner, more focused channel lineup.
DStv Subscription Prices Remain Unchanged in 2026
In a related development, MultiChoice has decided to keep DStv subscription fees unchanged throughout 2026, breaking from its traditional practice of annual price reviews and increases. This decision comes as the pay-TV operator seeks to attract back subscribers who have migrated to competing streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, which have reshaped the entertainment market.
The unchanged subscription rates form part of MultiChoice's broader recovery plan following Canal+’s takeover of the company in late 2025. By holding prices steady, MultiChoice aims to demonstrate value to existing customers and entice lapsed subscribers to return, while the channel portfolio adjustments ensure the service remains relevant and competitive.
According to Legit.ng, these changes reflect MultiChoice's proactive approach to navigating a rapidly evolving media landscape, balancing subscriber expectations with operational efficiency.
