Editor's choice for documentaries
10 South African true-crime series, ranked
From The ABC Killer to Tracking Thabo Bester, these true-crime documentary series explore some of South Africa’s darkest crime stories – all available to stream on Showmax.
Made in South AfricaEye-opening homegrown documentaries to stream
These unmissable South African shows and movies deliver surprising insights on the country we’re living in today.
Wild Wild Space and 10 more titles to join your space race
We have liftoff! As new HBO documentary Wild Wild Space takes us into low orbit, mission control has 10 more titles ready for space junkies, from Apollo 13 to Interstellar.
Anatomy of Lies: Women who con
Grey’s Anatomy’s most shocking medical case took place behind the scenes. Find out how co-executive producer and writer Elisabeth Finch faked cancer and personal tragedy, and meet five more of the world’s most questionable con women.
Love sport documentaries? Check these out.
The Hitman: Ricky Hatton
This 90-minute film offers extraordinary access to boxing hero Ricky Hatton, exploring his life in and outside of the ring.
False Glory
A true-crime docuseries about stories that rocked the sports world, from cheating at the Comrades to rigging South Africa’s 2010 FIFA World Cup warm-up games.
Made in South AfricaEdge of the Earth S1
Four groups of extreme athletes embark on four never-before-accomplished missions, including big wave surfing on Africa’s west coast.
Ukuwela: The Crossing
An inspiring story following Sibusiso Sizatu’s journey from a carefree herd boy to leading his crew on a gruelling Cape to Rio yacht race – the longest continent-to-continent race in the southern hemisphere
Love Undercover S1
Follow elite athletes in this modern-day fairytale meets buddy comedy series about a group of international soccer stars who go on a secret quest for true love.
Chasing the Sun 2
A five-part series about the 2023 Rugby World Cup, when all of South Africa was ‘Stronger Together’ towards a historic fourth Webb Ellis trophy.
Chasing the Sun
Nobody backed the Springboks to win the 2019 Rugby World Cup. This is the incredible story of their journey to victory.
The Fastest Woman on Earth (2022)
A fascinating and tragic documentary about Jessi Combs, a professional racer and TV personality who set out to break new records in racing.
Light entertainment to binge-watch
Love Island UK S12
Gorgeous singles live in a luxury villa – with the added possibility of meeting their soul mate – in this fun and flirty reality series.
Matlock S1
Retired 70-year-old Madeline Matlock rejoins the work force at a prestigious law firm, where she uses her wily tactics to win cases and expose wrongdoing in this hit reboot.
Nelly & Ashanti: We Belong Together S1
Follow the electrifying journey of Nelly and Ashanti as the beloved couple reignite their love while navigating the ups and downs of being newlyweds and parents.
The Real Housewives of Atlanta S16
These sassy women of Atlanta’s entrepreneurial spirits are in full bloom as they juggle their personal and professional lives, along with their busy social calendars.
Love Island USA S5-7
The American version of the hit show moves the action to Las Vegas, but the premise remains: the most beloved couple will sashay away with $100 000.
Everyone Else Burns S2
This hilarious comedy series, which has drama and heart, follows a family devoted to a religious cult as they navigate modern-day life and prepare for the world’s end.
The Real Housewives of Miami S4
The ladies of the Sunshine State are turning up the heat and dialling up the drama this season.
The Real Housewives of Orange County S18-19
In The Real Housewives OG series, we follow the lives of some of the wealthiest women and their families who live in Orange County, California.
Made by Showmax, just for you
Win cash and rub shoulders with the cast of Youngins!
Enter the Showmax Fan Day competition to win the chance to hang out with the cast of Youngins, plus great cash prizes!
Jojo dishes on her Real Housewives of Durban journey
Now that Season 5 of The Real Housewives of Durban has come to an end, Jojo opens up about her relationship with Nonku, and which cosmetic procedure is most like RHOD.
Made in South Africa
Vaal Riviera
Vaal Riviera follows four Afrikaans families living in the heart of Vaal River society, where family, business, car racing and legacy all come into play. Stream from 22 August, with new episodes on Tuesdays.
Made in South AfricaMust-watch trailer: upcoming Showmax reality show Vaal Riviera
Watch the explosive trailer for Vaal Riviera, a reality series following four families from the Vaal Triangle. Premiering 22 August on Showmax.
Made in South Africa