20 March 2023
Monarch S1
Monarch is an epic, multi-generational musical drama about the Romans, America’s “First Family” of country music. With the curtain set to come down for the reigning “Queen of Country”, Dottie Cantrell (Oscar winner Susan Sarandon from Ray Donovan and Thelma & Louise), the dynasty she has spent her life building is in jeopardy. Dottie’s daughter, Nicky (International Emmy winner Anna Friel from Marcella), will stop at nothing to protect her family’s legacy. It’s finally her turn. But is it too late?
Monarch’s cast includes Grammy-nominated country singer Trace Adkins, singer Beth Ditto (On Becoming a God in Central Florida), and MTV Movie Awards, Mexico winner Martha Higareda (Altered Carbon, Queen of the South). Dottie’s vocals are performed by country singer Mandy Barnett, with Sarandon’s real-life daughter, Young Artist Award winner Eva Amurri (Mothers and Daughters, Californication) playing the young Dottie. Also look out for guest appearances from the likes of Grammy winners Shania Twain, Tanya Tucker and Little Big Town, Grammy nominee Martina McBride, and hit singer-songwriter Caitlyn Smith.
Monarch is nominated for Best Music Supervision: Comedy or Musical at the 2023 Guild of Music Supervisor Awards, while AV Club says this “Texas-set musical-drama has all the makings of a hit: a sudsy premise, a star-studded cast, and a silky soundtrack composed of original tunes and country classics.”
Original African stories by local talent
Die Tollie & Manila Show
A bold talk show where SA celebs join drag queens Tollie Parton and Manila von Teez for an evening of conversation and games… in drag. Landing 4 November.
The Station Strangler
The Station Strangler is a true-crime documentary investigating the serial killer who is believed to have killed 21 young boys and one adult from the late 80s to the mid-90s on the Cape Flats. Stream from 6 November.
Black & Blue S1
Black & Blue, a Showmax Original police-based mockumentary series, lands on 6 November, with new episode every Wednesday.
Ubuthe Uzobuya
Ubuthe Uzobuya delves into the lives of couples torn apart when one partner abruptly disappears without explanation. Stream from 29 October.
Princess on a Hill
Princess on a Hill is a compelling drama series that explores themes of power, ambition, and the cost of success. Stream from 7 November 2024 on Showmax.
Brasse Vannie Kaap
Brasse Vannie Kaap is a documentary about the iconic, game-changing 90s group who helped make hip hop South African. Stream now on Showmax.
Soft Life
Soft Life follows Owami who enters into the secretive world of high-society companionship. Landing on Showmax soon!
Style Magnate
Style Magnate is a Nigerian Showmax Original following 20 designers vying for a life-changing prize. Stream now, with new episodes every Friday.
Soft Life, coming to Showmax
My Brother’s Keeper S1 on Showmax
More Mzansi gold
How to Manifest a Man: The crazy lady watchlist
Dudu (Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa) brainwashes her man as part of her quest to “manifest” a perfect life. So we’ve found 10 women she can put on her vision board for inspiration.
Empini episodes 45-46: Thank you for your service, comrade
In episodes 45-46 of Empini, Ndoni numbs herself to the people around her following her outburst with Zenzele. Catch new episodes every Thursday on Showmax.
Law, Love and Betrayal episode 8: Personal reasons
In episode 8 of Law, Love and Betrayal, James suspects there’s more to Gatsha and Gugu’s professional relationship. Catch new episodes every Thursday on Showmax.
How To Manifest a Man S1
Duduzile refuses to accept that her husband wants to leave her. She takes drastic steps to ensure she gets a second chance.