
6 March 2018
6 reasons you should be watching High Maintenance
While HBO’s High Maintenance is a show that follows a bicycle-riding NYC pot dealer known only as the Guy, it is by no means a superficial stoner series. Most of the episodes focus more on clients than the dealer. And you’ll soon start to wonder what connects these strange characters and how the Guy really fits in?
Here are six reasons you should already be watching High Maintenance. Watch now »
1. Same same but different
The series is known as an anthology, in that the episodes don’t follow on from each other. So you won’t feel like you’ve missed out if you haven’t been watching with hawk-like precision. It’s an easy watch that doesn’t take away from the complex characters.
Instead, most episodes centre on the quirky and crazy clientele who buy weed from the Guy. From the very first episode you’ll realise that what you are expecting is turned on its head, which keeps you intrigued as you binge your way through this show. Watch now »
2. Gone viral
High Maintenance started off as a free web series, but it was soon picked up by HBO because of how awesome it was. Now the show has been renewed for a third season. So if you don’t know what the hype is about, start watching it from the beginning on Showmax right now. Watch now »
3. It’s unique

Image: HBO
The show is original. And while weed is the common thread that connects the characters, you wouldn’t say that this is a typical stoner series. High Maintenance is deeper and more nuanced than you expect, touching on themes like sexuality, tolerance and vulnerability, all delivered in a hilarious, easy-to-watch package. Watch now »
4. It’s unapologetic
High Maintenance has some graphic scenes. In the very first episode, there is an explicit sequence of two men having sex that could make conservative viewers feel uncomfortable. It’s in moments like this where the show stands its ground and explores themes that could be controversial without apology. Watch now »
5. No commitment
You’re not making a huge commitment when getting stuck into this show. The first season only has six episodes and each is between 20 to 30 minutes long. So it’s not like you’re gearing up for a 10-season marathon of, say, Friends.
In fact, by the time you get to the last episode of the first season you’ll wish there was more! Watch now »
6. High ratings
The show cleaned up with the critics and received brilliant ratings across the board. Check out IMDb, Metacritic and Rotten Tomatoes’ ratings.
- 7.8/10 on IMDb
- 97% on Rotten Tomatoes
- 81 on Metacritic
So what are you waiting for? Start watching High Maintenance on Showmax right now! Watch now »
Don’t have Showmax yet?
Original African stories by local talent

Empini S1-2
Empini is a high-stakes, action-packed drama set in the ruthless, corrupt world of private security. Season 2 is now streaming, with new episodes every Tuesday.

Youngins S1-2
Stream Tshedza Pictures’s first teen drama, Showmax Original Youngins. S1 and S2 are ready to binge.

The Real Housewives of Durban Seasons 1-5
Our eThekwini queens are back with a brand-new season. Stream Season 5 now, with new episodes every Friday.

Unfollowed S1-2
Unfollowed examines cancel culture in social media through real-life stories of South African celebs. Stream S1-2 now on Showmax.

The Mommy Club S1-3
The Mommy Club sees glamorous Jozi momfluencers navigating the the cutthroat world of “it” moms. Stream S3 now, with new episodes every Saturday.

Adulting S1-3
Four best friends go through the hoops of life, love and everything else. S3 is now streaming, with new episodes landing every Saturday.

The Chocolate Empire S1
The Chocolate Empire follows JB Mauzo, who was recently released from prison, as he rebuilds his life. Stream now, with new episodes every Thursday.

Breekpunt
Breekpunt is a tennis drama about a gutsy teenager fighting for the chance to compete in international tennis. Stream now, with new episodes on Mondays.
Wura, now streaming
Iyanu, coming to Showmax
The best of West Africa

The Real Housewives of Lagos S1-S3
Binge-watch The Real Housewives of Lagos S1-3 and catch the explosive reunions, streaming from 14 and 21 April on Showmax, express from Africa Magic.

Where to watch The Real Housewives franchise online
Showmax is the home of The Real Housewives, giving an inside look at the lives of these glam women from Durban, Abuja, Lagos, Joburg, Nairobi and more. Plus, go on vacation with The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip!

Kalu Ikeagwu on playing the “wild” Jideofor in Cheta M
Kalu Ikeagwu talks about playing the character of King Jideofor in the Showmax Original series Cheta M S2, now streaming. Catch new episodes on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

AMVCA 2025: Watch these nominated titles on Showmax
Showmax is setting the pace with 23 nominated titles at the 11th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, all available for streaming.