Choosing what to watch in South Africa has changed.

Viewers are no longer tied to one platform. Instead, they move between Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+ and DStv to find the best content.

This shift has accelerated in 2026 following a major change in the local streaming market.

Showmax is shutting down in South Africa

Showmax is shutting down on 30 April 2026, marking a major change in the country’s streaming landscape.

What you need to know

• Final subscriptions ended on 31 March 2026
• The platform closes on 30 April 2026
• Content will move to DStv Stream
• Showmax Originals will remain available through DStv

This is not the end of the content. It is a shift in where you watch it.

Quick picks: what South Africa is watching now

• The Bear
• Shōgun
• The Boys
• Spinners
• Die Kantoor
• Blood & Water

DStv: now central to local streaming

With Showmax closing, DStv becomes even more important in South Africa’s entertainment space.

Top shows

• Die Kantoor
• Die Oord
• Uthando Nes’thembu

Expect more local content to be integrated into DStv Stream.

Related Articles:

• What to Watch on DStv This April
• Why Die Kantoor is trending
• A body washes ashore in new kykNET drama Die Oord

Netflix: local content is winning

Netflix remains one of the strongest platforms in South Africa.

Top local and trending shows

• Bad Influencer
• Savage Beauty
• Kings of Jo’Burg
• Fatal Seduction
• Unseen
• Young, Famous & African

South African audiences are strongly supporting local Netflix content.

• What Everyone Is Watching on Netflix in April 2026
• Beef Season 2 Lands on Netflix This April With a Bold New Cast
• Love Is Blind South Africa Netflix 2026 Confirmed

Former Showmax hits: where to watch now

With Showmax shutting down, its biggest shows are moving.

Now expected on DStv Stream

• Youngins
• Shaka iLembe
• Adulting
• Spinners
• The Wife

Local content is not disappearing. It is moving platforms.

Disney+: premium and franchise content

Disney+ continues to grow.

Top shows

• The Mandalorian
• The Bear
• Shōgun
• Only Murders in the Building
• Bluey

• Disney+ Reveals First Look Images from The Testaments
• Disney+ renews Only Murders in the Building for season six
• Disney+ Brings ESPN Africa Channels to South Africa at No Extra Cost

Amazon Prime Video: high-impact originals

Amazon Prime Video is growing steadily.

Trending

• The Boys
• INVINCIBLE
• Fallout

Apple TV+: fewer shows, higher quality

Apple TV+ focuses on premium storytelling.

Top shows

• Severance
• Silo
• Ted Lasso
• Slow Horses

• Apple TV+ now available on Air France long-haul routes
• March 2026 Streaming Guide: What to Watch

Streaming trends in South Africa

Local content is growing fast. South African audiences are choosing local stories more than ever.

Platform consolidation is happening. The closure of Showmax signals a move toward fewer, stronger platforms.

Viewers choose content, not platforms. People move between services depending on what is trending.

Which platform should you use

DStv for local content and reality
Netflix for global and local hits
Disney+ for franchise and premium drama
Prime Video for action and originals
Apple TV+ for high-quality storytelling

What to watch tonight

Watch Spinners or Die Kantoor for local content
Watch The Bear or Shōgun for drama
Watch The Boys for action

FAQs

What is the best streaming service in South Africa?
The best streaming service depends on your preference. Netflix offers the widest range of content, while DStv leads in local shows and live TV.

What happened to Showmax?
Showmax is shutting down on 30 April 2026, with its content moving to DStv Stream.

Where can I watch South African shows?
South African shows are mainly available on DStv and its streaming platform, as well as selected titles on Netflix.

Is Netflix or Disney+ better?
Netflix offers more variety and local content, while Disney+ focuses on franchise content and premium series.

What is the cheapest streaming service in South Africa?
Lower-cost options include Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV+, while bundled services like DStv Stream depend on your package.

Read Inbound SA online