Introduction
DStv subscribers in South Africa are facing major changes to their television experience as MultiChoice continues to reduce and restructure its channel lineup in 2026. The pay-TV broadcaster has removed several popular entertainment, movie, lifestyle and children’s channels, leaving some customers questioning the value of their monthly subscriptions.
The changes form part of a wider strategy to streamline DStv’s services, reduce operating costs and respond to changing television viewing habits.
According to a report by MyBroadband, DStv is set to lose a total of 16 channels between January and November 2026. The removals have affected different subscription packages, including channels that previously attracted viewers interested in music, movies, local entertainment and international programming.
1. DStv Starts 2026 by Removing Four Popular Channels
The first major changes happened on 1 January 2026 when four channels disappeared from DStv.
The affected channels were BET Africa, MTV Base, CBS Reality and CBS Justice.
Their removal followed the closure of Paramount Africa’s linear television operations and changes to its distribution arrangements.
For many subscribers, the loss of MTV Base was particularly disappointing because the channel had been a familiar destination for music entertainment and international music videos.
BET Africa also had an established audience interested in entertainment, reality television and popular international programming.
2. More Channels Disappear During the Year
The channel removals continued in June when MultiChoice announced the closure of Cinemagic and Magic Showcase.
Both channels stopped broadcasting on 30 June 2026 as part of the company’s ongoing review of its entertainment offering.
In September, four additional channels were removed from the platform.
These included:
- M-Net Movies 1
- kykNET Lekker
- Mzansi Bioskop
- Mzansi Magic
The company indicated that some of the content previously available on these channels would remain accessible through other channels following changes to its packages.
However, subscribers who regularly watched these stations still had to adjust to the new television lineup.
3. Five More Channels Removed in October
The changes continued on 31 October 2026 when five channels from DStv’s specialist Indian television package were discontinued.
The affected channels were SET Asia, ZEE TV, SET Max, Zee Cinema and WION.
These removals affected viewers who enjoyed Indian entertainment, movies, television dramas and international news.
MultiChoice explained that it was refining its channel lineup to better match customers’ viewing preferences.
The broadcaster also indicated that it wanted to focus on fewer channels with stronger content offerings rather than spreading similar programming across multiple stations.
4. JimJam Set to Become the Next Channel to Go
Another change is expected on 11 November 2026, when children’s television channel JimJam is scheduled to leave DStv.
The channel has been available on the platform for approximately 13 years, providing preschool entertainment for young viewers.
MultiChoice says it continues to invest in children’s programming, pointing subscribers towards alternatives such as PlayRoom, Cartoonito, DreamWorks and CBeebies.
With JimJam’s planned departure, the total number of channels removed or scheduled for removal during the period reaches 16.
5. Why Is DStv Removing So Many Channels?
Several factors are contributing to the changes.
One important reason is the financial pressure facing traditional pay-TV businesses. Streaming services such as Netflix and other digital entertainment platforms have changed how people watch television.
DStv is also dealing with changing viewing habits, content licensing arrangements and the need to manage operating expenses.
The company’s new ownership under French media group Canal+ has also brought renewed attention to restructuring and improving the business.
MultiChoice says its aim is to create a simpler channel lineup that better reflects what customers want to watch.
6. What Does This Mean for DStv Subscribers?
The channel removals have raised questions about subscription prices and entertainment value.
Some customers may feel disappointed when channels they regularly watch disappear, particularly if their monthly subscription fees remain unchanged.
Others may welcome a simplified lineup if the remaining channels provide content they enjoy.
Subscribers should check their individual packages and the latest channel guide to understand which changes affect them.
Conclusion
DStv’s 2026 channel changes represent a significant shift in South Africa’s pay-TV industry. With 15 channels removed by the end of October and JimJam scheduled to follow on 11 November, the broadcaster is making substantial adjustments to its entertainment offering.
As streaming competition increases and viewing habits continue to evolve, MultiChoice faces the challenge of keeping subscribers satisfied while managing costs.
For South African viewers, the biggest question remains whether a smaller channel lineup will deliver enough entertainment value to justify their monthly subscriptions.