23 April 2020
Child’s Play (2019)
Horror movie Child’s Play is stabbing its way onto Showmax. And not only can you watch the original 1988 version, but the grimy, scary, slicing, dicing 2019 edition as well.
Chucky the murder doll is back, but this time not as a toy possessed by the spirit of a serial killer. Instead, Chucky is a Buddi doll, the latest and greatest kids’ toy which has been upgraded to include artificial intelligence. A disgruntled worker at the toy factory disabled the safety protocols and now Chucky is jealously killing his kid Andy’s friends so that Andy only spends time with him.
It’s scarier than ever because in 2019 we’re closer to real artificial intelligence than back in 1988, while the independence of the tween characters is spot on as they go out at night without their parents’ permission. Make no mistake: this is not for kids.
While it’s scary, there’s also a subliminal message, writes Peter Bradshaw at theguardian.com: “This reboot is reconfigured around something more overtly and satirically absurd than usual: it is a movie that mocks the exploitative globalised conditions in which toys are made for complacent consumers in the prosperous west.”
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. Binge-watch Adulting S1-3 now on Showmax.

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

Nigerian Idol S10 premieres live on Showmax
Nigerian Idol S10 premiered on 20 April 2025 – and all the action will be screening live on Showmax.

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.