MultiChoice to remove 16 DStv channels in 2026 as package overhaul continues

MultiChoice is removing 16 channels from its DStv bouquets in 2026 as it reshapes its offerings and cuts costs. The changes mainly affect South African packages, but they are drawing attention in Nigeria because they touch movie, music, Bollywood and family entertainment.

The shake-up began on January 1, 2026, when four channels disappeared after Paramount Africa closed and its partnership with CBS AMC Networks broke down. The affected stations were BET Africa, MTV Base, CBS Reality and CBS Justice.

Warner Bros. Discovery deal saved 12 channels

A last-minute agreement preserved 12 Warner Bros. Discovery channels, including CNN, Cartoon Network, Discovery, TLC and Food Network. Despite that deal, MultiChoice lost access to HBO programming, including House of the Dragon, ending a longstanding content relationship with M-Net.

Further cuts followed. Cinemagic, Magic Showcase and M-Net Movies 1 are scheduled to leave on June 30. Mzansi Bioskop and Mzansi Magic are set for September 16. SET Asia, ZEE TV, Zee Cinema, SET Max and WION are due to go on October 31. JimJam will close on November 11. The source table also lists kykNET Lekker among the 16 channels, without a clear removal date in the report.

New packages and R399 sports option

MultiChoice tied the reductions to changing viewing habits and efforts to simplify its channel offerings. In October, the broadcaster said concentrating similar programming on fewer channels would create a more streamlined viewing experience.

The restructuring came with the September 17 introduction of revamped DStv packages. Compact subscribers in South Africa moved to a new Sports package priced at R399 monthly for streaming access. MultiChoice also introduced Wethu+, combining programming previously spread across several local entertainment channels.

What Nigerian subscribers should check

For Nigerian subscribers, the concern is whether similar reductions could affect familiar channels or the value of existing packages. The South African changes do not automatically apply to Nigeria, where channel availability, licensing agreements and package structures may differ. Nigerian customers should check local DStv channel guides before assuming any listed station has been discontinued.

The overhaul comes as Canal+ seeks to strengthen MultiChoice's financial performance. On October 22, 2026, Canal+ reported that weaker DStv subscription income in South Africa contributed to declining like-for-like revenue at MultiChoice in the first nine months of the year.

The changes underline the pressure on traditional pay-TV as streaming competition intensifies. For Nigerian subscribers, the immediate issue is whether MultiChoice will keep the same channel mix and package value in a market where households are already watching costs.