The unique partnership will create a leading streaming service on the continent.
By Helena Olori
MultiChoice Group, Comcast’s NBCUniversal, and Sky TV – all major players in the global media industry – have announced a new partnership that will deliver some of the best content and technology to Africa.
Based on this partnership, which takes its wings from MultiChoice’s footprint and track record across 50 markets on the continent, MultiChoice will relaunch Showmax, powered by NBCUniversal’s Peacock technology platform, bringing on board global content from NBCUniversal and Sky. This move will see African audiences experience the best local and global entertainment, including live English Premier League (EPL) football matches, and top-notch international third-party content from Sony, Warner Bros, HBO, and other International sources.
Speaking on this new deal, Calvo Mawela, CEO, MultiChoice, said “We launched Showmax as the first African streaming service in 2015 and are extremely proud of its success to date. This agreement represents a great opportunity for our Showmax team to scale even greater heights by working with a leading global player in Comcast and its subsidiaries.”
“This partnership is an incredible opportunity to further scale the global presence of Peacock’s world-class streaming technology, as well as introduce millions of new customers to extensive premium content from NBCUniversal and Sky’s stellar entertainment brands,” added Matt Strauss, Chairman, NBCUniversal.
Although, the launch date and the pricing details are yet to be announced, the deal’s terms states that 70% of the new Showmax group will be owned by MultiChoice and 30% by NBCUniversal. (23.7% in Nigeria), and will ride on Showmax’s success to date, to create a leading streaming service on the continent.