17 May 2023

Why do shows leave Showmax?

It’s frustrating when a series or movie you’ve been watching on Showmax isn’t available any more. So why does this happen?

Like other streaming services (and like TV channels), Showmax licenses movies and series from studios and distributors. These licences comes with certain conditions, including how long we’re allowed to have the content on Showmax.

If a show you’re watching is marked "Last Chance", it means the show will be expiring and leaving the platform shortly. Our contract with the content provider is at an end, and unfortunately we’re no longer able to stream this show. We typically try to give two weeks’ notice for expiring content.

So why don’t we just renew all the most popular shows? Sometimes the supplier doesn’t want to renew the deal, or we can’t reach terms that make sense. Other times, we make the call that in order to bring on board fresh new shows we need to let others go. Often it’s a combination of all these factors.

Choosing content for Showmax is a delicate balance and we recognise we can’t always make everyone happy. But generally, if something is popular we’ll do our best to bring it back. It may take a little time, but we'll keep working at it.

Browse all series now

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.

OriginalMade in South Africa

The ABC Killer

The ABC Killer is a twisty true-crime documentary series about serial killer Moses Sithole. Stream now on Showmax.

OriginalMade in South Africa

Collage of images from Showmax's new ad 'Watch Us'

What if we believed the best can come from here?

Let's rewrite the rules of what it means to be local.

Untied S1

Untied explores the deeply personal and often complex experience of divorce, told through the voices of women who have lived it. Stream now, with new episodes every Tuesday.

OriginalMade in South Africa

Reckless S1

Reckless follows a pair of young brothers who find themselves at a crossroads when a tragic accident changes their lives forever. Stream now, with new episodes every Monday and Tuesday.

OriginalMade in Kenya

The Mommy Club NBO

The Mommy Club NBO is the fifth instalment of the record-breaking Mommy Club franchise. All episodes are now streaming.

OriginalMade in Kenya

The Chocolate Empire S1

The Chocolate Empire follows JB Mauzo, who was recently released from prison, as he rebuilds his life. All the episodes are ready to binge on Showmax.

OriginalMade in Kenya