
8 February 2023
Downton Abbey (2019)
Downton Abbey, the movie, continues the story of the beloved, multi-award-winning historical drama series (all six seasons of Downton Abbey are on Showmax) as the Crawleys and their intrepid staff prepare for the most important moment of their lives: a royal visit from the king and queen of England. But the auspicious occasion soon unleashes scandal, romance and intrigue, leaving the future of Downton hanging in the balance.
Written by series creator and Oscar winner Julian Fellowes (Gosford Park), and directed by Emmy nominee Michael Engler (The Gilded Age, Sex and the City), the film sees the return of much of the original cast, including the likes of Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Laura Carmichael, Raquel Cassidy, Jim Carter, Imelda Staunton and Dame Maggie Smith, with BAFTA nominee Geraldine James (OBE) and Simon Jones joining the cast as Queen Mary and King George V.
Nominated for two Critics Choice Awards, a GLAAD Media Award, and a Satellite Award, the film has an 84% critics’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes, withTimes (UK) calling it “utterly, ineffably, and often fabulously, Downton.”
Original African stories by local talent

The Mommy Club NBO
The Mommy Club NBO is the fifth instalment of the record-breaking Mommy Club franchise. Stream from 30 May on Showmax, with new episodes every Friday.

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.
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 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.