French media giant Canal+ has officially taken control of South African pay-TV powerhouse MultiChoice Group Limited (MCG), marking a transformative moment for African and global media.

The Mandatory Takeover Offer for all remaining MultiChoice shares became unconditional on September 19, 2025, following approval from regulatory bodies including South Africa’s Competition Tribunal, ICASA, and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

With Canal+ directly holding 46% of shares and an additional 2.2% tendered during the offer, the French broadcaster now exercises effective control. This is Canal+’s largest-ever transaction, creating a global entertainment leader serving 40 million subscribers across nearly 70 countries in Africa, Europe, and Asia.

The combined entity, employing 17,000 staff, will manage major platforms such as DStv, GOtv, Showmax, and myCANAL, bridging Francophone and Anglophone markets. Canal+ has pledged public interest commitments, including supporting businesses owned by Historically Disadvantaged Persons (HDPs) and funding locally produced content and sports programming.

Leadership changes include Maxime Saada as Chairman of MultiChoice, David Mignot as CEO of Canal+ African operations, and Calvo Mawela as Chairman of African operations. Saada said the merger strengthens their ability “to invest in creative and sporting content,” positioning the new group as a global media champion.