26 August 2020
Sex & Violence
Olympia Dukakis (Steel Magnolias) and Jennie Raymond drive the bleak, gritty Canadian drama series Sex & Violence as victim advocate Alex Mandalakis and Constable Maria Roach. It’s not bleak like the world is ending; it’s more of a raw type of bleakness, because each episode centres on a worldwide epidemic that’s close to home, especially in South Africa: breaking out of the cycle of domestic abuse.
The script is matter-of-fact. There’s no friendly banter. It’s straight to the point and the actors draw you in with emotive performances, playing characters who’re either being abused themselves, or trying to right the social injustice and crime.
This isn’t one for the kids or even teens – there are graphic scenes of nudity, sex and violence. Overall, Sex & Violence is in-your-face, dark, powerful viewing.
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 now, 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. All episodes, including both reunion episodes, are streaming on Showmax.

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. All the episodes are ready to binge on Showmax.
Ama Grootman S1 on Showmax
The Real Housewives of Durban S5, now streaming
More Mzansi gold

Binnelanders S8-14
Binnelanders, an Afrikaans soapie set in and around a fictional private hospital, follows the trials and trauma of the staff and patients.

Showmax announces The Mommy Club: Van die Hoofstad reunion
Leandie du Randt is set to host The Mommy Club: Van die Hoofstad reunion, premiering on Showmax in two parts on 27 June and 4 July 2025.

Summertide S1
An exhilarating South African multi-generational drama following the Field family and those who cross their paths – each with their own secrets and desires.

Eye-opening homegrown documentaries to stream
These unmissable South African shows and movies deliver surprising insights on the country we’re living in today.