NOW STREAMING
Catch Me A Killer S1
Stream now, with new episodes on Wednesdays
After Spinners made history as the first African series at Canneseries last year, Catch Me A Killer has just been named the first South African series to crack the equally prestigious SeriesMania, who call the show, “A female Mindhunter in the guise of a wonderfully-produced true-crime series.”
Charlotte Hope, who played Myranda in Game of Thrones and headlined Starz’s The Spanish Princess as Catherine of Aragon, stars in Catch Me a Killer as Micki Pistorius, South Africa’s first-ever serial-killer profiler.
Adapted from Pistorius’ memoir, the true crime series traces Pistorius’ quest, as a newly-qualified forensic psychologist in the 90s, to track down South Africa’s most feared killers. Each episode looks at another of her cases, from the Station Strangler to the Cleveland Killer to Stewart ‘Boetie Boer’ Wilken.
A co-production between Showmax and Germany’s Night Train Media, Catch Me A Killer’s directors include SAFTA winners Rene van Rooyen (Oscar entry Toorbos, Alles Malan, Summertide) and Brett Michael-Innes (Fiela Se Kind), as well as Tracey Larcombe (Silent Witness), while writers include SAFTA winner Amy Jephta (Oscar entry Barakat, Devil’s Peak, Showmax Original Skemerdans), Sarah Hooper (Shameless), Jessica Ruston (Harlots) and Oliver Frampton (Sister Boniface Mysteries).
Apart from Steven Ward (One Piece) and newcomer Donna Cormack-Thomson as series regulars, the supporting cast changes each episode. Look out for guest appearances from the likes of Lemogang Tsipa (Shaka iLembe), Waldemar Schultz (Die Byl), Ivan Zimmermann (Alles Malan), and Frank Rautenbach (Lioness, Summertide), not to mention Silwerskerm winner Carel Nel (Gaia), and SAFTA winner Louw Venter (Swartwater). SAFTA nominees Albert Pretorius (Spinners) and Sean Cameron Michael (Fried Barry) play Stewart ‘Boetie Boer’ Wilken and FBI profiler Robert Ressler respectively.
In his four-star review in Rapport, Leon van Nierop writes, “Showmax hits the jackpot again with a dark, creepy but highly realistic adaptation of Micki Pistorius’s Catch Me a Killer… It’s one of the best true crime series ever.”
Red Ink S1
Stream now, with new episodes on Tuesdays
Author Angela Makholwa-Moabelo exec produces and co-writes the Showmax Original adaptation of her bestselling debut novel Red Ink.
The eight-part thriller tells the story of a journalist turned publicist, Lucy Khambule, who is approached by an imprisoned serial killer to tell his story.
SAFTA nominee Nqobile Nunu Khumalo (Nqobile, The Herd) plays Lucy, with SAFTA winner Bonko Khoza (Mqhele in The Wife) as Napoleon Dingiswayo, nicknamed The Butcher of Soweto by the media.
Red Ink is a partnership between Makholwa’s Britespark Films and Bomb Productions. This marks the first Showmax Original from Bomb, who made DStv’s most-watched drama ever, Shaka ILembe, as well as classics like Venice winner Yizo Yizo, Oscar nominee Mandela, Sundance winner Amandla: A Revolution In Four-Part Harmony and SAFTA winners like Isibaya.
Red Ink reunites Khoza on screen with two of the other Zulu brothers from The Wife: DStv Mzansi Viewers’ Choice winners Kwenzo Ngcobo (Qhawe) and Abdul Khoza (Nqoba). The all-star cast also includes Outlaws’ breakout star Nirvana Nokwe-Mseleku, SAFTA winners Lorcia Cooper (Lockdown), Bongile Mantsai (Inxeba: The Wound), and Jo-Anne Reyneke (Black Tax), and the likes of Tsholofelo Maseko (Intersexions).
Youngins S1
Stream now, with three episodes every Thursday
Off the back of creating two successful Showmax Originals in 2023 (Adulting S1-S2 and Outlaws), Tshedza Pictures has just launched its third Showmax Original and first teen drama, Youngins.
Ayakha Ntunja (Thembi on MTV Shuga S3), Kealeboga Masango (Zinhle on Rhythm City), Toka Mtabane (young Tau on Five Fingers for Marseilles), Thabiso Ramotshela (Morena on The River) and newcomer Lebohang Lephatsoana lead the young cast.
Also look out for the likes of SAFTA winner Loyiso MacDonald (Kagiso on The Queen) as Principal Mthembu, DStv Mzansi Viewers Choice Award winner Sanna Mchunu (Zodwa on Gomora) as Matron Lulu, and Keneilwe Matidze (Petronella on Reyka) as Pearl “Miss SA” Buthelezi.
Thembi Mfebe (Adulting, Miseducation) is directing.
Wyfie S1
Stream now, with two episodes every Tuesday
From multi-award-winners Homebrew Films (Trompoppie), Wyfie follows four mismatched first-year roommates at Pantera res at the fictional Eike university.
With SAFTA winner Johan Cronje (Wonderlus, Nêrens, Noord-Kaap) as showrunner, the drama series stars Beata Bena Green (Arendsvlei, Die Spreeus) as Shay, Celeste Loots (One Piece, Trompoppie) as Amanda, Kristen Raath (7de Laan) as Kyla and Mienke Ehlers (Dinge van ‘n Kind) as Mia, opposite the likes of Marguerite van Eeden (Vaselinetjie), Elzet Nel (Trompoppie), Adrian Steyn (Die Onderonsie, Matilda en Matthys), and Chelsea Thomas (Amber in Spinners).
Listen out for the haunting soundtrack from Peach van Pletzen, including the last recorded song from the hugely talented Angie Oeh, who tragically passed away from cancer in August 2023, aged just 24.
Widows Unveiled S1
Stream now with new episodes on Mondays
Widows Unveiled follows five widows who were married to public figures. The reality series documents the journeys of each woman from pain to triumph as they navigate the drama and scandals that followed the deaths of their husbands.
The cast includes PR specialist and marketing professional Lerato Sengadi, the widow of Motswako legend HHP; businesswoman Mpho Tshabalala, the widow of kwaito legend Mandoza; businesswoman Sikelelwa Ngubane, the widow of SAFTA-winning actor Menzi Ngubane; businesswoman Fundiswa Molefe, the widow of businessman John Molefe; and businesswoman Lerato Maphatsoe, the widow of former Defence Minister Kebby Maphatsoe.
Widows Unveiled is produced by Passionlane Productions, the brains behind Mzansi’ Magic’s SAFTA-nominated hit show Uthando Nes’thembu.
The Real Housewives of Durban S4
Stream now, with new episodes on Wednesdays
The Real Housewives of Durban follows the lives of affluent housewives and professional women in the exclusive suburbs of Durban.
Season 4 of The Real Housewives of Durban includes two new Housewives who are both no stranger to the spotlight- fashion television host Zama Ngcobo, Ameigh Thompson and Angel Ndlela – who will fit right in with the OGs from the first season, Sorisha Naidoo and Nonku Williams, and returning cast members Slee Ndlovu and Maria Val.
Sam Kelly, executive producer at Let It Rain Films, says, “The new season of The Real Housewives of Durban is going to be bigger and better. We have the OGs you have come to know and love and we have three new women who are going to bring something different to the franchise. Over the past seasons, we have been aiming to tell stories that audiences relate to. The essence of the show is real and that is why viewers fall in love with these women, because they can see themselves in their personal stories, journeys, triumphs and struggles.”
Intlawulo
Showmax film | Stream now
The debut feature from SAFTA winner Thandokazi Msumza (DiepCity,The Wife), Intlawulo follows Bucks, who falls in love with his dead best friend’s sister while trying to make amends to her family.
Khojane Morai (Umbuso, Abumkhulu) and Kealeboga Masango (Rhythm City( co-star, with Momelezi Ntshiba (Silent Witness, An Act of Defiance) as the dead boy’s father, a pastor who invites Bucks to join his church’s choir. The likes of Phumzile Mlangeni (Lingashoni, Skeem Saam) and SAFTA nominee Thembekile Komani (Knuckle City, Blood Psalms) are also in the cast.
Intlawulo is produced by The Milton Empire (Mzali Wam).
COMING SOON
The Mommy Club S2
Mondays from 19 February
The Mommy Club,a reality series about Johannesburg’s glamorous moms who seemingly have it all, is an all-access inside look at the lives of the one percent and the people who help them build their empires and raise their heirs.
Season 2 introduces two new cast members who will be bringing the fabuloisty, class, glamour and wealth that viewers love to see: Nozipho Zulu and Jabulile Sande.
The new faces are set to join returning cast members Hermajesty, Mrs Mops, Nunurai and Ratile.
Matilda en Matthys
Stream from 14 February
In Matilda en Matthys, an ambitious young writer and a super-rational tech entrepreneur go on a series of fake dates as research for their novel and their dating app algorithm respectively. But even the smartest people can’t outsmart love.
Matilda en Matthys stars Emma van Heyn (Twintig Tone In ‘n Hangkas, Troukoors) and Adrian Steyn (Die Onderonsie, Wyfie) in the title roles, opposite the likes of Bertha le Roux-Wahl (7de Laan), Pietie Beyers (Die Onderonsie) and comedian Mojak Lehoko.
The romcom is the debut film from writer-director Bibi Slippers (a published poet and SAFTA-nominated screenwriter for Hotel). Industry legend Danie Bester is producing through Film Factory. Bester has produced 35 films in the last 15 years, including the box office smash hit Pad na Jou Hart, the SAFTA Best Film winner Fiela Se Kind, and South African Oscar entry Toorbos.
Forever Yena
Showmax Original | Stream from 14 February
In Forever Yena, social media “it” couple Penny and Kwanda accidentally live stream their relationship meltdown just days before Valentine’s Day. Can they get back “perfect umjolo” in time to save each other, their fans’ belief in love, and a lucrative brand deal with a dating app?
Thandi Make (Gomora, The Queen) and Aluve Mjali (How to Manifest A Man) co-star as Penny and Kwanda, opposite the likes of Sikelelwa Vuyeleni (Adulting, 1802 Love Defies Time), Simphiwe Ngema (The Queen, Rockville), Miss SA finalist Luyanda Zuma and multi-award winner Refilwe Modiselle (White Gold).
MultiChoice Talent Factory alumnus Charlie Sampson (Uzobuya) directs the Showmax Original romcom, which is produced by MECA and Warchild.
SHOWMAX ORIGINALS: NIGERIA
Cheta M S1
Showmax Original | Stream now, with new episodes Wednesday to Friday
Cheta M explores the extraordinary love story of Adanna and Nnanna, young lovers who must fight to protect their love in a world where tensions between the kingdoms of Mgberi and Ajaani have reached dangerous levels.
The epic drama series features an impressive mix of upcoming acts and Nollywood OGs, including newbies Oluchi Amajuoyi and Kingsley Nwachukwu, who play Adanna and Nnanna respectively. Ruby Okezie (Victoria from Agu and Nnenna from Far From Home) plays Mmesomma and Nonso Odogwu (Pius from Agu) takes the role of Ezeugo.
James Omokwe (Ajoche, Riona, Itura, Diiche) serves as producer and director on Cheta M.
Flawsome S2
Showmax Original | Stream now, with new episodes every Thursday
Flawsome follows the lives of four ambitious friends: Ifeyinwa (Bisola Aiyeola), Ramat ((Ini Dima-Okojie), Ivie (Sharon Ooja), and Dolapo (Enado Odigie).
The first season bagged five nominations at the 2023 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards, including Best Television Series and Best Actress (for both Ini-Dima Okojie and Enado Odigie). Flawsome was also named Most Fashionable TV Show of 2023 in Bella Naija Style’s The Definitive Best Dressed List.
Award winner Dami Elebe (Skinny Girl in Transit, The Men’s Club and Far From Home) is the head writer this season, while Tola Odunsi (The Men’s Club, From Lagos with Love) returns as director and executive producer.
Freemen
Showmax Original | Stream now
The Igbo Apprenticeship System has been a cornerstone of the eastern region of Nigeria for generations. The practice involves young individuals placed under the tutelage of experienced traders, artisans, or professionals to learn a trade or skill for a period of time, after which they gain “freedom”, typically including a cash settlement or seed money that will allow them to begin their own trade. In recent times, the business model has gained worldwide traction, and in 2021, Professor Ndubuisi Ekekwe’s work on the Igbo Apprenticeship System (IAS) was published in the Harvard Business Review.
The seven-part documentary series features prominent Igbo businessmen such as Dr Anene Okeke, Dr Cosmas Maduka aka Coscharis, Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, Ndubuisi Ekekwe, Okey Japan, Bartholomew Duru Nwanguma alongside his son Peter Nwanguma, and other notable entrepreneurs. These successful businessmen share their personal stories and reflections on how the Igbo Apprenticeship System shaped their careers and paved the way for their entrepreneurial success.
The documentary is structured in four parts, providing an in-depth overview of the Igbo Apprenticeship System. These segments include the Pick-Up and Negotiations Period, Trial Period, Solidification of Agreement and Work Period, and Settlement Period, each offering a unique perspective on the apprenticeship journey.
Freemen is co-produced by multiple-award-winning rapper Tobechukwu Ejiofor, aka ILLBLiSS (King of Boys), who also produces the soundtrack for the show.
SHOWMAX ORIGINALS: GHANA
ENO S2
Showmax Original | Stream now, with new episodes every Thursdays
Ghanaian drama series ENO returns for a second season where Abena Baafi is saddled with the responsibility of saving her daughters Tessa and Safowaa from the harsh realities of her own advice, having pushed them to make life choices purely based on money. However, the loss of one daughter and the arrival of another puts a dizzy spin on all her plans.
AMVCA winner Gloria Osei-Sarfo (The Perfect Picture: Ten Years Later) returns as Abena, alongside Emelia Asiedu (Errands) and Ghana Movies Awards nominee Esi Hammond (Roses and Daggers) as her daughters Tessa and Safowaa respectively. Africa Movie Academy Awards nominee and Ghana Movie Awards winner John Dumelo (The Agency), Michael Katahena (Sankofa), Godwin Namboh (Dede), Michelle Hammond (Roses and Daggers), Brian Angels (Inspector Bediako), Dela Seade (Famous), and Kabutey Ocansey also return, with Darlyn Adu-Gyamfi (Kotoka), Melvin D.K Asinyo (Terminus), politician and actor Kwame Dzokoto and TV and radio personality Amanda Jissih joining the cast.
Shirley Frimpong-Manso, Best Director winner at Africa Movie Academy Awards, Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and Ghana Movie Awards, returns to helm ENO S2 with her Sparrow Studio’s producing partner Ken Attoh.
