Why is Canal+ closing Showmax?

Canal+ is closing Showmax after a review of its streaming activities, citing unsustainable losses and a shift in the global streaming industry towards sustainable economics and scale.

What is the impact of Showmax's closure on Africa's film industry?

The closure of Showmax is a significant blow to Africa's content ecosystem, removing a major funding pipeline for local stories and a platform for experimental and boundary-pushing content.

Which streaming platforms remain for African content creators?

Following the closure of Showmax and the exit of other streamers, Netflix is now the primary remaining platform for African original content creation, with other international streamers having limited or no presence.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Canal+ Pulls Plug on Showmax, Africa's Film Sector Fears

Canal+ Pulls Plug on Showmax, Africa's Film Sector Fears

6 Mar

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Summary

Canal+ is closing Showmax, impacting Africa's film and TV sector.
Producers fear reduced opportunities for experimental content.
Netflix is now the primary streaming platform for African originals.

Canal+ Pulls Plug on Showmax, Africa's Film Sector Fears

The African film and TV sector faces an uncertain future as Canal+ has announced the closure of its streaming service, Showmax. This decision has sent shockwaves through the industry, with producers expressing deep concern about the dwindling opportunities for commissioning new content. The closure, effective as of March 6, 2026, follows a review of Canal+'s streaming activities.

Showmax was seen as a vital avenue for creatives to produce more daring and experimental content, unlike the more conservative offerings on MultiChoice's linear channels. Its demise, coupled with Amazon MGM Studios' earlier exit from African originals and the limited presence of other international streamers, leaves a significant gap. This contraction has heightened anxieties among producers who relied on Showmax for funding and a platform for diverse storytelling.