DStv could lose up to 12 channels by 31 December

DStv subscribers have been warned that up to 12 channels could be removed from the platform starting 31 December, including Discovery, TLC, TNT, Cartoon Network, CNN International, and several Paramount-owned channels such as MTV Base and BET Africa.

The removals follow the expiry of distribution agreements with Warner Bros, Discovery, and Paramount, which decided to withdraw specific channels from global distribution.

Independent TV critic Thinus Ferreira explained that while some channels are being closed worldwide, others remain subject to ongoing carriage negotiations. 

He said that DStv and Warner Bros might reach an extension agreement for some channels, but at least four are confirmed to go dark, potentially impacting millions of viewers.

Ferreira also pointed out that although sports continue to be DStv’s main attraction, the loss of several lifestyle, news, and entertainment channels diminishes the platform’s overall range. 

With Canal+ now owning MultiChoice, he warned that viewers are unlikely to see any reduction in subscription fees, and a price increase could occur sooner than in previous years.

"It will be interesting to see how much more we're going to have to pay for getting less."

To listen to Thinus Ferreira in conversation with CapeTalk's Lester Kiewit, click the audio below: