Multichoice to launch new M-Net channels


South African pay TV operator MultiChoice is transforming its current M-Net Series channel into three new international series-based networks.

The channels – M-Net Series Showcase, M-Net Series Reality and M-Net Series Zone – are due to go live on July 9 and will be available to premium customers of MultiChoice’s DTH pay TV platform DStv.

The M-Net Showcase channel will feature US shows like Army Wives, Mad Men and Criminal Minds. Multichoice said most of the series will be seen on African TV for the first time, close to their US debuts.

M-Net Series Reality will feature reality shows like Junior MasterChef and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and will also air talkshows. Meanwhile, M-Net Series Zone will be available to subscribers of the slimmed-down DStv Compact package of channels.

“M-Net’s fantastic reputation in broadcasting is built on screening the world’s best movies and series. These new channels allow us to do it even better, with well-designed tailor-made schedules for every taste,” said Pierre Cloete, director of M-Net channels.

Earlier this month, MultiChoice also launched the Televisa Networks-owned TLN  channel. The Portuguese-language channel airs telenovelas, series and comedies, with MultiChoice adding it to portfolio of DStv channels in the main Portuguese-speaking African countries of Angola and Mozambique.