DStv subscribers could lose access to 12 major Warner Bros. Discovery channels, including CNN, Discovery Channel, TLC, and Cartoon Network, from January 1, 2026, if MultiChoice and WBD fail to finalise a new distribution agreement.
The affected channels cover news, documentaries, lifestyle, reality, and children’s programming.
Others likely impacted include Cartoonito, Food Network, HGTV, TNT Africa, Investigation Discovery, Real Time, Discovery Family, and Travel Channel.
The dispute centres on carriage fees, payments MultiChoice makes to WBD to carry its channels.
Reports indicate WBD is seeking higher fees, while MultiChoice, facing cost pressures and declining subscribers, is cautious about agreeing to an increase.
Carriage fee negotiations between broadcasters and pay-TV providers in Africa have in the past led to temporary blackouts, disrupting viewers.
Warner Bros. Discovery says it values its partnership with MultiChoice and the millions of viewers who watch its channels, but a deal has not yet been finalised.
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MultiChoice says it is preparing to strengthen its line-up in 2026.
However, replacing twelve high-profile channels, particularly in news and kids’ content, may be challenging.
Subscribers may have to adjust viewing habits or explore alternatives if no agreement is reached.
As the December 31 deadline approaches, DStv viewers are left waiting for a resolution that could prevent a major disruption to their television experience.