14 February 2024

Essex County S1

Directed by Emmy winner Andrew Cividino (Schitt’s Creek), Essex County follows two interconnected families in rural Canada. The five-part series is adapted from the acclaimed Essex County Trilogy graphic novel by Sweet Tooth creator and Moon Knight writer Jeff Lemire, who is the showrunner here.

Emmy nominee Molly Parker (Mrs. Darling in Peter Pan & Wendy and Jackie Sharp in House of Cards) plays country nurse Anne, who’s caring for her uncle, Lou (award-winner Stephen McHattie from A History of Violence). Child actor Finlay Wojtak-Hissong plays Lester, who has to go live with his uncle Ken (Brian J Smith from World on Fire, The Matrix Resurrections), a stoic farmer.

Toronto Guardian praises the show’s “brilliant writing,” calling it “beautifully executed and perfectly cast… truly an event to watch.” Essex County was nominated as Best TV Series at the 2023 Venice TV Awards and picked up Directors Guild of Canada awards for its editing and production design.

Watch it now

More like this

Drama Drama series Series

The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa on Showmax

Jojo on The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa reunion, social media backlash and more

Jojo opens up about the highly anticipated reunion for The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa, coming to Showmax on 20 and 27 February.

Original South Africa

South Africa’s stories and storytellers recognised as SAFTA nominees announced

Mzansi’s boldest stories take centre stage as the 2026 SAFTA nominees are unveiled, with a wave of nominations across DStv and Showmax.

Made in South Africa

The ‘Burbs S1

In this adaptation of the 1980s Tom Hanks dark comedy, a couple moves back to the husband's hometown, only to face a cul-de-sac shrouded in mystery.

First

“You don't create something so powerful purely through military tactics” - Shaka iLembe co-creator

Shaka iLembe co-creator Desireé Markgraaff reflects on the vision, research, and importance of telling our stories. Stream Seasons 1–2 on Showmax.

South Africa

Where to see the cast of Shaka iLembe S1-2 on Showmax

From Nomzamo Mbatha as Queen Nandi to Lemogang Tsipa as King Shaka Zulu and Thembinkosi Mthembu as King Dingiswayo, see the cast of Shaka iLembe in some of their other acclaimed roles on Showmax. Binge now on Showmax.

South Africa